I took the advise of a few of my hostel companions in Latvia which recommended I visit Tallinn, Estonia. It was about a 5 hour bus tour so I decided to go early in the morning and return the following afternoon in order to catch my flight.

The only way to describe Tallinn is that it is a story book town with a fortress, bridge roads, a town square, tall skinny buildings with painted walls and wooden beams. Since I arrived on a weekend, there were vendors lined up on the cobblestone streats selling art, dolls, hats and other hand made items. Each had on a custome from historical times, wool shawls, pointy shoes, peasant dresses and silly hats. With no cars allowed inside the wall gate it was easy to walk aimlessly through the streets and enjoy the storybook atmosphere.

On my second day in Tallinn which was also my departure day back to Riga, I wanted to get an early start in order to visit more of the town. I woke early and headed to the breakfast room of the hostel to catch a quick bite before heading out.

As I sat making my toast and getting ready to walk out the door, two women walked in. One younger than the other and in my mind I thought they must be mother and daughter. Both shy and reserved, not wanting to disrupt me. I encouraged both to sit down, the younger one had on a beautiful green shawl and I commented on this. She thanked me in a shy, reserved way but I imagined that she was right around my age.

As we sat, she encouraged me to try a grain cereal with yoghurt that was provided. I did so and tried to talk to the two women but the older one left not understanding. Although timid and with broken english, the woman my age talked. I learned her name was Galina and we laughed at the similarities in our names. She was Russian and in town for the fair, she was selling dolls, had 2 girls, a yard with flowers and she sang in a choir.

Galina fit Tallinn, both were beautiful with a tender charm, timid expression and soft wisdom.

We both exited in a rush after a few minutes, each going in a different direction...but with a new friend....ever after!