This year marks the centenary of Finland’s independence. So, in keeping with the celebratory mood, I’ve compiled a list of top 10 things I love about my second home.
And so here they are, in no particular order:
- Silence is fun
- Education is a right, not a privilege
- Sauna
- Safe and peaceful
- Finnish cuisine; a gift from nature
- Friendships are genuine
- Finns live outdoors, there’s no such thing as bad weather here
- Gender equality
- Winter is a fairy tale
- Nature; a poem
This list doesn’t even begin to express how I love my life here. But, but…I’ve been putting together more thoughts, observations and gratitude in a language I know how – poetry.
A chapbook containing 10 pieces will hopefully be available (in limited edition) early next year. I wanted it to coincide with the celebrations but I unfortunately missed the deadline.
I hear you ask, “How can you miss a deadline? What kind of a writer are you?” Well, because I receive a “bribe” every month so that I can forget about my dream of becoming a full-time writer. 🙂
Last but not least, Happy Independence Day to my Finnish family and friends!
The only deadline in poetry belongs to the Muse…And she wears no wristwatch.
This post makes me want to move to Finland, Khaya. You are blessed.
And excellent news about your chapbook! <3
I did not know you were living in Finland. Wow!
“…she wears no wristwatch.” I like that. 🙂
Thank you so much, Diana! I am truly blessed, indeed. Of course, you’re always welcome to visit Finland.♥
Hi Celestine! I’m one of those people, who moved continents for love. 🙂 And yes Finland is my home nowadays.
I think I should come for a visit! Sounds wonderful!! Don’t worry about the deadline!! Big Hugs!
You’re most welcome to visit, Stacy. 🙂 Big Hugs!
Khaya, ten wonderful reasons and I have the feeling you could have continued with many more!!?? Ahh…Winter is a fairy tale – magical and I’m trying not to be envious! I like how described silence as fun – I find it so but many would not. How exciting about your chapbook (first I had to look up the term!) – good luck with this project and please, what was the ‘bribe’? I like this concept! Happy Weekend and enjoy your wonderful country! ❤️
It is so excited to read that you are working on a book (and that you, too, miss deadlines!). And the topic is fantastic, and so alive.
You’re so correct Annika, at first I thought of writing a list of 100 things I love but in the end decided on 10. I’m glad you could relate with silence as being fun; I know some people uncomfortable with, and would rather fill the quiet moments with small talk.
As for the bribe, I once read somewhere that “Salary is the bribe they pay you to forget your dreams.” ? I found that very true in my case. I rather be writing full time but I also need that day job at this point to support my art.
Thank you Annika for reading and well wishes.?
Thanks Maga, I hope readers too will find the topic fantastic.?
As for missing deadlines, I’m in constant struggle to meet my writing goals. I’ve got four writing projects going right now. I had to tell the muse thank you for the inspiration, but I’m not starting any more stories until I’m finished with editing and publishing what I’m working on already.?
Looking forward to the book Khaya! Also, I use Finland’s education system quite a bit as an exemplary “system” that seems to actually care about children’s learning.
Thanks Kathy!? I’m also glad to hear that you find the Finnish education system as an exemplary model. ?