Canadian VS Finland (and most of EU)

Yes I know, Canada lost the Ice Hockey World Championships and I didn't blog about it.  There - I just did.  (Finland didn't win either you know!)

Now, something that has come up recently, that didn't before - is getting my youngest son a guarantor for his Canadian Passport.
My first son, V�in�, did not have a guarantor because we didn't know anyone here long enough (minimum 2 years) and of a professional status such as:

• Dentist, medical doctor
• Judge, Magistrate, Police Officer
• Mayor
• Notary Public
• Practising Lawyer, Notary
• Signing Officer of a Bank

WHAT IS A GUARANTOR?
Oh, in case you have NO idea what I am talking about - a guarantor is someone that has known you for at least 2 years and is of a professional status (as mentioned above) and is willing to fill in your Canadian Passport application and sign one of your photos (the back of it) confirming your identity and the child's.
(Or in this case, my youngest - Ahti's, identity).
It is a major responsibility because if they're caught lying in any way, shape or form - pretty sure there are some consequences...and even though you might have been the mother (or father) and have endured a difficult pregnancy and a tough labour and lost a lot of sleep and have "technically" known the child since your honeymoon (or last date night away from the other kids) - you as a parent, CANNOT sign the paperwork as a guarantor.

So back in 2010, when we started applying for a Passport for V�in� - we didn't know anyone for at least 2 years (and obviously, neither did he) - so we went to the Magistrate and for a fee of 14� (may have changed since then) - they signed it as a Notary Public.  We had to provide our identification and that was all fine and done immediately.

Now, time has gone by and we have more friends and one of them is a practicing lawyer.
So when I asked her if she wouldn't mind being Ahti's guarantor - she asked me what she had to do.
Once I explained it all she said it was fine and we went over the paperwork and she filled it all in.

Afterwards, I asked her if it's the same for an EU Passport.
Nope.
Apparently they don't have anything like this system and they just ask about your parents birth dates and some other questions to confirm your identity and you of course, send in your photos and you get a passport.

I bet you're wondering why my kids don't have EU Passports now - aren't you?
My kids are yes, both born here, but because my husband and I are Canadians - they are automatically deemed Canadian.
If your child doesn't have any automatic ties to a particular citizenship once born, then I think you can apply for Finnish Citizenship.
There is a small possibility of applying for EU citizenship when the kids are older (and once we know what we're doing or where we are going!) and they could have dual-citizenship - which would be fantastic and open up so many doors for studying and travelling!!

So, if you have to go ask your colleague or friend to be your guarantor for your Canadian Passport - that's the kind of reaction you might get...because Finns simply don't have to do that.

For more information (direct from the source) on Canadian Passports - please check here.

And ONE SUPER-DUPER important thing!!!!!!!!!

If you are a Canadian applying for your child(ren)'s passport out of country and through the Embassy for example (Canadian Embassy is in Helsinki by the way) - you must use the form that says:

"Child Passport Application for Canadians under 16 years of age (abroad)"


"Abroad" is the key word and they WILL return the application to you as not filled in properly - or wrong form chosen...we've been there with V�in�'s application.
And yes, if you look closely enough - they're the same form numbers....just that stinking word "abroad" has to be on the front page, where you don't actually write anything on it.

And yes, another popular question is in regards to babies having their own passport (it lasts 3 years until the child is a bit older - then it lasts 5 years prior to needing a renewal.  The reason for this is because a baby's facial features change so much and so quickly.  However a Finnish police representative told me the EU passports last 5 years - even for babies because they measure different points than the Canadian system.)  It IS mandatory because that's how babies can get kidnapped or moved without the other parent knowing.
If you do plan on travelling without the other parent of the child - or even part ways and meet up later - PLEASE get the other parent to write and sign a letter for you to carry with you if you have the child.  Security/customs representatives WILL question where the other parent is and if you have that letter and explain what your plans are - it'll make it a much smoother trip for you and your child!!
We did this last year, my husband and I travelled to New York together with V�in� and he stayed in NY while I kept going to Canada and thankfully I had a letter because he drilled me with a few good questions about my husband's whereabouts and the status of our relationship!  (aka - "Are you two having any issues in which the child is involved?" - so in other words - you are fleeing to Canada so the hubby can't find you and the kid?)


And one more thing!  When I first filled in V�in�'s application - in 2010, I was required to submit a person to be my character reference.  They WERE contacted and asked a tonne of questions about me, my life growing up, my hobbies and interests, my previous jobs - pretty much anything and everything but my shoe size!  I don't think I have to fill anything out like that this time for Ahti - but be sure you pick someone that really knows you well - that is NOT a relative (if I remember correctly).
They contacted my reference by e-mail - so you don't have to worry about having a Canadian calling Finland on their own account!

Hope this helps and safe travels!

Neuvola

I was looking around today, while both boys were sleeping and realized there's a lot I can blog about.

This is the mother's card - or the prenatal booklet you bring with you when you're pregnant.  You get a new one of these for each pregnancy.

The inside opens up with your blood type, details of each appointment (i.e. blood pressure, weight, size of the belly, hemoglobin levels, pH levels in your urine, baby's heart beat etc.)

On the other side there's info about your labour.
You also get a copy of your labour chart before you leave the hospital and the mid-wife or nurse will go over it with you.

Something else I've probably mentioned before but never posted photos of - was the kids' Neuvola booklets.
You're given one booklet per child at your child's 1-month Neuvola appointment.  Don't lose it and remember to bring it with you every time you go to the Neuvola.  It's a record-keeper of their vaccines, measurements and weight and any other notes that the doctor or care-givers (I refer to them as "nurses" personally but it's not the actual term when translated in Finnish) may need to make.
They do record everything on the computer as well - but if the electricity ever went out (which we have yet to experience) or if you went to the hospital - they may not necessarily have access to the Neuvola records immediately.
(I just keep mine in the diaper/every-day bag personally....)

The Neuvola provides little plastic booklet holders for your booklets.

The Neuvola booklet

A list of vaccines near the back ("KK" means months and is referring to the age of the child on the left-hand side).

The newer booklet holder

Only has 2 pockets...

The inside of the booklets are different too!
Left is the newer version and the right is the old one (2009)...first page is completely different.

In Canada - we don't get such things.  We just bring the child in (or your pregnant belly) and they have folders with all the information there.

The doctors and nurses do NOT have computers in their office to in-put your information and book your next appointment either...at least mine didn't.  I had to make my next appointment with the receptionist at the front desk.

Bank Card Blues

Oh it's not my card I'm having issues with anymore!  Thanks to the bank's fast and speedy service - I got a new one in the mail (slightly different in numbers) within a week as promised.

I'm referring to my husband's bank card.  He had forgotten it at the grocery store and they attempted to call him last night - however, because he didn't recognize the number, he ignored the call.  (Caller ID is included on all phones free of charge).
Then he got a text message from the grocery store advising him that his card was left behind and that he had to pick it up and bring ID as well.

I am assuming the grocery store contacted either the bank for his phone number or the police...seeing as it was a Sunday night - I can't see them being able to reach the Magistrate for his information!

AND the text was in English! YAY!

Thanks S Market!

In Canada, if a bank card is found - it's either returned to the cashier and they hold onto it for the owner to return.  Occasionally a cashier might contact that person's bank but most banks won't give you the information to call the customer to pick up their card.  By the time the customer realizes their card is missing - they often call the bank to cancel anyway and to order a new one.  (Or if they remember where they were last - they might be able to pick it up at the shop, with proper identification of course!)

Some Things From The Pharmacy

**Please note - I am not a nurse, doctor or pharmacist or any other kind of medical adviser.**

I thought I would show you some things from the pharmacy (over the counter aka no prescription required) that we have in our home - so you can see what is available in Finland.

Bepanthen - the equivalent of Polysporin! Good for cuts, mild burns, dry skin, eczema - very handy to have!

Canker-sore gel - good for little ones too (double-check with your pharmacist to see how old a child has to be before administering this!).

Ibuprofen

Pain-relief for little ones.  1 tablet mixed with a tablespoon of warm water until dissolved and feed with a spoon or syringe.  I find this stuff works faster than the liquid Panadol.

Liquid Panadol (more pain relief for little ones and for fevers too - over the age of 3 months and based on weight).  The one on the left is the old label and the one on the right is the newest design - no difference otherwise.

Breast feeding and want contraceptives?  Your doctor will give you the 1st three-months for free.  These are called Cerazette contraceptives or "mini-pills" by some people.  After that, you do need a prescription and have to pay. (Applies to most who have the Kela card and is covered by Finland's health benefits).

It's November! That means lots of clouds and no sunshine....here's some Vitamin-D3 drops for babies - there are also tablets for those that have teeth!  (It's also strongly recommended adults take Vitamin-D too!)

Aspirin....

Nose Frida is a snot-sucker for babies and kids - since they're not capable of blowing their nose at such a young age.

Don't worry - you won't get any snot in your mouth...that's what the blue sponge piece is for!

If I happen to need more things from the pharmacy - I'll try and remember to take a photo for you!

**Always ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you have any questions on how to use the above medications!!  Never leave medication un-attended and within a child's reach!**

Darn Chip!

I have a chip bank card and my chip is starting to wiggle loose! Oh dear!
I'm going to try and go to my bank and order a new card soon.

Why bother telling you this?

If this should happen to you, your card may not be able to make purchases because the machine cannot read your chip since it's on the brink of falling out of your card.  Even if you wipe it on your shirt sleeves a few times...trust me - I've done it a few times.

With that said, the magnetic stripe is still available to swipe but you need to provide identification AND your Finnish Social Security ID #.
Thankfully I've been carrying a larger purse and have my Passport and my Kela card in there...my Passport does not show my Finnish Social Security ID # - but my Kela card does.
So that's what I have had to provide the last 3 times I've made purchases downtown at the grocery store.
The cashier will write down your ID# on the receipt and then you sign it, like you would for a swiped card purchase.

FYI - hope this helps.

Neuvola "Etiquette"

So in Canada when you take your children for their routine vaccines and check-ups (and if you're expecting) - you take them to the doctor.
Well, in Finland, you take them to your local Neuvola.  They are mostly staffed by nurses - but if you call them that - they're not technically considered "nurses" because of the different education programs required to obtain that "status and title".  A friend of mine is a "Health Care Provider" (or loosely translated to that) but I always think of them as nurses...they provide health advice, check blood pressure and provide vaccines....
You do and can see doctors at the Neuvola for your child and for you (during pregnancy and after you deliver) but it's not often.
Doctors can write your prescription and it would be best to make sure you have your previous copy of your prescription if you have it!

So when you enter a Neuvola - here's some things to keep in mind:

• Leave your strollers/prams outside.  The wheels carry a lot of germs and bacteria - so the Neuvola requests you leave them outside.
• You can bring in baby car seats or carrying bags for little babies.
• Remove your shoes and coat, and your child(s) as well.
• If for some reason you do not want to remove your foot wear (i.e. it's too hard or you have a sore back etc.) - there is usually some blue plastic slip-on covers and just make sure to dispose of them before you go.
• Disinfect your hands and your family's.  
• There's always somebody who is sick in the Neuvola - that's why they have it...so prevent your family from catching a cold and prevent yourself from spreading more cold-germs....
• If your Neuvola has a play area - remember, kids pick their nose, and stick their hands everywhere!  So make sure to wipe or disinfect little hands before you leave too!
• If you are pregnant - weigh yourself and remember the number (remember it's in kilograms!) to tell your nurse.
• As well, go to the bathroom and you do your own urine test (the pH level one with the white strips that change color).  If there's anything odd - then you tell your nurse when you get in to see them.
• When weighing a baby - as long as they don't give too much of a fight, they'll weigh your baby completely naked.  So be sure to bring a clean diaper...you'll probably need it.

That's all I can think of and I hope this helps!!

Furnished or Not?

Last night we had our friends over for dinner - whom we happen to be renting from.
We discussed a wide variety of things, ate an awesome dinner (if I do say so myself!) and a delightful dessert! (Am I being too honest??)
(In case you're wondering, I made a roasted chicken and vegetable dinner with mashed potatoes, cheesy garlic bread and a blueberry/raspberry/cinnamon cheese cake with a butter cookie crust and topped with dark chocolate).

We learned a few things during that chat and I thought I'd share with you!

The biggest thing we learned (this is entirely based on where you live and whom you rent from) - is that if an apartment you're renting is not furnished - it's usually more expensive!  As opposed to having a partially or fully furnished flat - it's cheaper!  How odd.
In Canada - or at least in NS for sure, typically something that is fully furnished is a bit more expensive - because it acts as an extra fee for any potential damage to the furnishings (i.e. dishes, furniture, bed sheets etc.) - on top of the security deposit - which is typically for the flat itself.
I love learning about stuff like this - because it helps to prepare us for the next time (if there is a next time - we'd love to live here long term) we have to move.
Our last flat was partially furnished with furniture, but we needed to get our own dishes and silverware etc. (near the Central Hospital in Jyv�skyl�) and because it was significantly smaller - the rent was much lower.  It was a 1-bedroom flat, 51 meters squared.
Now we have a 2-bedroom flat, 71 meters squared, if I remember correctly.

Another thing you should note when apartment hunting!!! 
When it lists the total amount of rooms - usually the bedrooms are listed with the living room.  So what looks like a 2-room flat - may really be a 1-bedroom with a living room!  Just a very important FYI!

Okay, and onto what else we learned.
There's some apartments that you can own, as long as you have the 15% deposit.  (15% of the total cost of the flat).  So with you owning the flat - you can have pets, parties, decorate it whatever way you'd like - and when tax-time comes around, you can claim some of the interest on your loan or mortgage.
Oh and if you decide to sell that flat - the 15% you had deposited kind of ensures you are able to get another place.  Instead of getting a guarantor to sign for you, this 15% deposit acts like a guarantor!

There's straight-forward renting agreements too (like what we have had since moving here) - and then there's another tricky one - I'll try and explain it the best way I can.

You can invest into an apartment, live there - do as you please...and when you leave, you get a portion of your investment back!
So lots of people pay into their flat (either rent or ownership - I think it can go either way), and when they sell or move, they get a portion of the money back - because the flat is considered an investment, or like a stock!

A security deposit is typically 1.5-2 months worth of rent...very important to know.  If you trust the person, you can put it straight in their account.
However, we have had issues with our first landlord when we first came here - the landlord tried to keep our security deposit and find any way possible to not give it back to us in full.  It involved a month's wait, which was awful as it was quite a bit of money, and we needed it to make a deposit onto our current flat.  We ended up threatening legal action (in which if we won the case, which we surely would have - she would have to pay our legal fees as well!).  And a friend had suggested in future, to set up a separate bank account with your landlord - so that the money can not be touched unless both parties are present at the bank.

Happy flat-hunting!!!  (September is the worst time to flat-hunt, just like any other place with a university or college nearby....so start a bit early if you can!)