many of the students i meet in tallinn are studying abroad through the erasmus program. erasmus is a european exchange program that allows students from 31 countries to study abroad for a portion of their degree. the academy of art has one dormitory where most of the erasmus students live while studying in tallinn. last night i attended one of their weekly potlachs. it was a great way to meet people studying in the arts from all over europe. below is a picture of the music and singing that took place after our dinner.

during the meal i was able to taste my first smoked herring which was prepared by an estonian student named uulo. he had caught and smoked the fish himself! i was a little aprehensive to try this delicacy; the head, bones, etc. were still intact. however, the taste was amazing, like nothing i have ever had before. maybe i'll be able to learn how to make this dish while i'm here.

i'm still in the process of obtaining necessary equipment to set up a small work space in my apartment. i am able to use the school's studio for specialty equipment but there is no room for me to have a bench there, many of the students even share a workspace. today i was able to obtain a much needed drill, not exactly what i'm used to working with at home but it will meet my needs. now i just need to figure out where i can buy tanks of acetylene gas! when my bench is set up i'll be sure to include a picture.

thanks to everyone who has been visiting and commenting on this blog. even if you are not a member you can always post as "anonymous" just be sure to leave your name at the bottom of the message! i appreciate all of the warm wishes and helpful suggestions, keep it up!