But that's how it is when you start wanting to have things. Now, I just look at them, and when I go away I carry them in my head. Then my hands are always free, because I don't have to carry a suitcase.

It is simply this: do not tire, never lose interest, never grow indifferent—lose your invaluable curiosity and you let yourself die. It's as simple as that.

I'll have to calm down a bit. Or else I'll burst with happiness

One has to discover everything for oneself. And get over it all alone.

...now and then a giggling trail of mermaids appeared in our wake. We fed them oatmeal.

It’s strange,” Moominmamma thought. “Strange that people can be sad, and even angry because life is too easy. But that’s the way it is, I suppose. The only thing to do is to start life afresh.

For a while she considered being ill, but she changed her mind.