The Most Important Document: Your Passport

Did you know that your child's first (Canadian) Passport is the most difficult thing to get?
Not only did we have to prove our marriage (legalize it ....in order to get a "father" listed on the birth certificate) - but because we are in another country, but both Canadian, we had to get a different application that simply says on a front page (that doesn't have any writing space on it - just the cover page) "CANADIAN PASSPORT FOR CHILDREN ABROAD".
The word "ABROAD" is key.  Although the application is identical to the regular Children under the age of 3 application, the Canadian Embassy cannot process it if you are applying for a Canadian Passport for a child outside of Canada.  SO!  FYI - in case you're in that position like we are.

Now that we have the common sense (but not many people know - we sure didn't) part out of the way....it's considered a temporary passport, as in, it expires in 2 years.
Apparently, in Finland, the children's passport is good for 5 years - regardless of age.  (This tidbit brought to you by the local police).  Why is that?  Because your eyes, ears and nose do not change shape (assuming you're not into super heavy/rough sports or a completely klutz) - so they can do a scan based on that - to determine if you are/are not that person.

Also, because the child is under two years of age, and nobody has known him (we'll use my son as an example) for at least 2 years  - there had to be a character reference check done on ME (Tim didn't do the paperwork - I did).
I listed the two people that have known me the longest and that were not related to me.
Good thing I did....I asked a neighbour from my childhood days of growing up in Dartmouth and my best friend's mother, whom I also consider V�in�'s "honorary Grammy".
In no particular order - here are some of the questions asked (in an email internet survey):

• How do you know the applicant?
• How long have you known the applicant?
• What is/are their favourite colors?
• Do they have any pets?
• What are their hobbies/activities they enjoy doing?
• What is their favourite tv shows?
• Fav. music?
• Fav. foods?

Do you get the idea?  They wanted to know everything about me character wise to see if they REALLY know me....I'm surprised there wasn't anything listed about criminal records (I don't have one - I'm just surprised)