Bidding Farewell to our hosts

Today was bittersweet, we got to see the boys again and continue on with our amazing trip, but sadly had to bid farewell to the Mantsalla families who took such amazing care of our boys over the last three days. 

My host family, Sari and Petre were amazing with sharing some photos.  They personally took in Will, Ben and Jack L.

Yesterday, the boys spent a couple hours at the rink playing shinny, mixing up the teams and having a fun game.  

This was followed by a BBQ of sorts at the local community center where they watched Finalnd play Slovakia.  The boys on our team exchanged some jerseys and got some nice T-shirts and pucks in return.

Life long friendships were born and I have no doubt that many will keep in touch.

We are now on the bus back to Helsinki where we will be taken on a three hour tour of the city. We have a 5pm dinner set at a local Viking Restaurant and then it is onto the World Junoir game tonight Canada vs Sweden and New Year's Eve in Senate Square in Helsinki.

The boys in their Shinny Game.

Alana and Sari our host Mom at the Canada Swiss game. New best friends.

Jani our main Finnish organizer in Mantsala on the right and another host Dad roasting sausage for the boys last night.

Sari and Petre with their new (used) NT jerseys. Many of the boys exchanged jerseys or simply gave theirs as a gift.

Last night the parents had a great night out at a local pub. 

Talk to you all again tomorrow.

Go Canada Go!!! Hope to be on TV tonight.