Things that I absolute love about Finland (so far!)

I know it's only month 2 - but here's a list (no particular order) of things that I really love and appreciate about Finland.

- It was easy getting into Helsinki. Even leaving or entering Canada isn't as such a smooth process as it is here.

- It doesn't rain for weeks.

- You weigh your own veggies and fruits (and some baked goods - bulk section). I hate having to guess how much something weighs and then figure out how much it costs. I find with this method I am more careful with our money. Because if you print the sticker and figure you don't need that much or don't want to pay that much - you can just stick get a different item and re-price it.

- The internet banking is complicated at first - but it's wonderful. In the sense that any items that are due to come out of your account are put on a "reservation" so that you can't spend that money. This way - you're guaranteed to have the funds available.

-The banking overall - you can pay someone online, at the ATM or at the bank and put money into their account if you have their account #.

-The Kela program - unfortunately I'm not completely familiar with it - but if you read my previous posts about the Maternity Package (which I do not qualify for this time round) - it's a pretty sweet deal.

- The cheap cell phone plans. The monthly fee is under a Euro. The monthly fee in Canada is $6.95. As well the cancellation fee per line is 100 Euros - compared to $400.

- The library...it's beautiful. And their system for checking things out.

- Their "Every Man's Right" rule - where within reason, one can camp anywhere or go onto someone's property without getting in trouble. Great for berry picking!

- The safe environment here. I have no problem walking around in the dark if I had to - with or without my dogs (who are not very scary - but in the dark - maybe).

- Despite a language barrier - the attempt of various staff to assist you in anyway possible. Either by getting someone else who speaks English or by patiently explaining things with hand gestures.

- No humidity.

-The promotion for outdoor activity (bikes, walking trails etc) and healthy living

- The pastries and sweets

I am sure there is much more to discover and many things I am forgetting - but the connection has been awful for the last hour and a half. So with this - I say goodnight!