Beyond the silver rainbow: Aluminum foil and toes - the beginning of a wonderful relationship?

My obsession for Northern lights has reached a new level. For a while I have pondered if I should go to Lapland for a few nights. I stumbled over a photographer's web page with incredible shots of the auroras. My urge to drive up North was unbearable and after a restless nights seeing Northern lights in my dreams, I left towards Muonio two days ago.

On the way I had the joy of witnessing a lovely sunset with the crescent moon, Jupiter and Venus visible. Of course there was only one thought in my mind. Clear sky means a better chance to see some lights later on - if there is a show. Once in the cottage I monitored the web pages for aurora alerts. Was there ever a better reason to use the Internet? I don't think so :)

After hours of waiting finally a few web cams showed some activities. I packed my photo gear and the thermos filled with hot tea. All I needed now was to find a nice spot with an open field and a place to leave the car. This proved to be quite challenging because lots of snow was piling up on each side of the road. Eventually I got lucky and stayed there for two hours to take pictures of a very nice show. It simply magical. Two pair of thick socks did not help and I had to leave. The temperature was -26C and I decided to go buy some aluminum foil the next day.

Today I went first shopping (the foil) and then searching a couple of good viewing spots for the coming nights. I found a lake near Pallastunturi (a famous fell). I went to the middle of the lake and could look far into all directions, including a breathtaking view of the fells. Nearby was a small creek. I was surprised to see and hear the water running, which is not very common during this time of the year. The scene was beautiful and calm, I stayed to listen and think. I'll remember this day and the nature images in my mind for a long time.

I'm writing this entry on Friday night here in the cottage with a nice roll of foil next to me. So far I haven't tried it out, the sky is cloudy tonight. I gladly take the opportunity to get some sleep in advance for the next two nights. No clouds during that time in the forecast. Hopefully there is some solar wind coming this way as well, let's see :)