Finland VS Coronavirus/COVID-19

So as you probably are already aware there is a virus spreading like wildfire throughout the world called Coronavirus or COVID-19.

I've been watching via Facebook and the news how insane and quickly it spread via China, passengers everywhere around the world - even passengers on cruise ships being stranded and so on!
And the beautiful Italians who came together and sang from their balconies despite being on lock down due to the COVID-19 has also been going viral as well!

I have to admit that I did not think the lengthy line ups, obsession with hoarding and excessive purchasing of toilet paper would come to Finland but it has.

One of multiple memes

I am in the semi-high risk groups due to having asthma and working in a very public space - but have felt perfectly fine thus far.
I carry hand disinfectant with me anyway...wash my hands and shower regularly and try to rest and eat as healthy as possible!

I am also in the position where if I were to get sick - it would be highly unfortunate because I work in an airport restaurant and have a son with non-verbal autism...so I am truly screwed if he becomes sick since he is unable to express how he feels on a day-to-day basis.
And sad unfortunate fact - my contract got axed due to COVID-19 because so many flights are being cancelled...
Also my ex-husband has Crohn's disease - so he should try to remain as healthy as possible because while having Crohn's alone sucks a lot - so does being sick on top of it.

The interesting thing about all this hoarding of toilet paper -which took me awhile to understand to be honest...(it's in case one is strictly quarantined for a minimum of 2 weeks) is that Finland has bidets!!
You can find a bidet in any Finnish bathroom - even in public ones - with the rare exception of a cabin in the woods...

A bidet is a little hose attachment to your bathroom sink so you can rinse yourself, pat yourself with a towel and NOT use toilet paper.
What are some other uses for a bidet?

• Washing your bathroom floors if you have a "half bathroom" that does not have a shower in that particular bathroom (see photo to the right).
• Rinsing the toilet
• Washing babies bottoms - baby wipes aren't regularly used here unless travelling to be honest.
• Rinsing cloth diapers full of poop into the toilet
• Rinsing or bathing a small pet
• Rinsing your hair into a sink if a shower isn't close enough 
• It's incredibly handy to rinse yourself after having given birth - as my Canadian friends have advised me that they only had the option to shower after using the bathroom or using a squirt bottle!
• Fulfilling your sexual needs - but to each their own and it might not be for you. 

I will be honest - I don't use the bidet in the bathroom but am considering using it...not just because I can reduce my costs of toilet paper usage but it just makes more sense and also reduces urinary tract infections and so on.

So now as it stands - Finland is possibly closing schools and universities (a decision was to be made last week but it has yet to be released as of Sunday the 15th in the morning), many flights have been cancelled, swimming halls, orchestras, theaters and sport practices have been cancelled.  Visits to the nursing homes are also forbidden as well - this is all based on Jyväskylä anyway and my (former?) boss is a football player and her practices have also been cancelled completely in Turku!
Update: University of Turku and I am sure elsewhere will be cancelling their courses or having them done online so students and staff can stay safely home.

I am part of a board game group and although we have exchanged game pieces and cards already multiple times - we are possibly definitely cancelling our meet-ups for the next few weeks to assist in preventing others from getting COVID-19 or any flu of any kind.

A lot of people are being asked to work remotely from home - which is also awesome and a great step toward preventing the spread of COVID-19 and yes there are many cases in Finland of COVID-19 and people are being quarantined a minimum of 2 weeks too - and not just the elderly!

S-Market JKL

It IS possible to find toilet paper and grocery stores have been awesome at re-stocking their shelves as fast as they can - but hand disinfectant seems to be the hardest thing to find and while some pharmacies have it - they sell out very quickly as well.

I have not seen anyone wearing a mask thus far in Finland - although the ones that seem to be asking for it are primarily Asian expats and based on multiple posts and warnings from my nurse friends - they're perfectly useless - so I have not bothered with wearing one.

So keep your hands clean, keep your distance from people at risk (regardless of the age in my opinion) and be safe folks!

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: SAUNA!

Sauna is a huge part of Finnish culture!
I do not know many Finns that don't use sauna at all or dislike it completely - it's extremely rare at least!

The only experience I had with a sauna (prior to moving to Finland) was at the local swimming hall back in Nova Scotia - where you do keep your bathing suit on - it was open for anyone to use - and you were prohibited from splashing water onto the rocks!
Which every time I tell a Finn this - they laugh uncontrollably.

My first Finnish sauna experience dates back to 2009 after having my first son and I was very shy because I don't think I had a bathing suit that would fit and who in the world goes into a room to sweat while being naked with people you barely know?!

Apparently I do - along with millions of Finns and non-Finns alike - you learn to adapt.

So here are the bare basics about going to sauna with your friends in Finland:

1. You go totally naked - bring a sauna towel (size of a hand towel typically) to sit on and that's it.  
1. If it's the case of a mixed genders and open public sauna - then yes, you wear a bathing suit if it says so.
1. For example I have been to the public Smoke sauna at Kuusijärvi and we had to wear bathing suits. 
2. I have never once been made fun of or gawked at because of my figure or shape.
   While nudity is considered borderline shameful in other countries - in a sauna - it puts you all on even ground and frankly, nobody gives a crap what you look like - as long as you are clean, enjoy yourself and relax.
3. Plus a lot of Finns wear glasses or contacts - so most likely, they can't see much of you at all!  😂
2. Shower before entering the sauna - usually you'll rinse yourself before going into the sauna and have a cool down or a quick rinse in between your sauna session.  You should shower properly after sauna as well.
1. So bring your shampoo or body wash and lotion if needed!
3. Bring something cold to drink with you.  I always have a water bottle but of course - a proper Finnish sauna includes booze of some kind to cool you down!
1. It is easy to get dehydrated in the sauna - so definitely bring a drink with you!
4. If you've been invited to someone's home and they tell you there will be sauna - be sure to bring your own towel, shower stuff and change of clothes or underwear at least!
5. Swimming halls, spas and hotels in Finland typically have saunas as well.  There can be a variety - even a private sauna in the hotel room if available!
6. There are a variety of different kinds of sauna:
1. Electric sauna is the most common - especially in apartment building complexes.
2. Wood sauna is very common in stand alone houses and at cottages as well.
3. Smoke sauna is not so common but a very different and cleansing experience!
7. Almost all apartment buildings in Finland have a sauna.
1. Either you have one in your own flat - lucky you!
   
   or
2.  You have one in your building and you can either go during the open community times - usually gender-based, for example: Women from 9-10 and Men from 11-12 - or you might have your own private time slot every week.

• Your rent will have an additional sauna fee should you wish to register for your own sauna time slot.
8. To make the sauna hotter:  you can turn up the stove on an electric type of sauna or splash water on the stones.   
9. If you have asthma like I do - it's also wise to bring your asthma meds with you just in case.
1. I also recommend sitting on a lower level or not as close to the sauna stove to reduce your chances of an asthma attack.
1. I find wood and smoke saunas easier to breathe in compared to electric ones - it also depends how much water you splash on the stones.
10. Yes ladies you can sauna while on your period - just use a menstrual cup or tampon and sit on a sauna towel accordingly.
11. When you leave the sauna - you should rinse the benches by splashing water on them and splashing water on the stove (don't forget to shut it off).
12. Remove your contacts or eye glasses before going into sauna - the contacts could cause irritation and you won't be able to see with glasses on anyway.
13. Don't bring your phone into the sauna - it's just common sense.  Leave it out in the shower or change room area.

Photo by "Pori Guy" aka PG.

The history of sauna goes wayyyy back - women used to give birth in a sauna, especially those living in the countryside without close access to a hospital because it was the most cleanest place to give birth!

It was my birthday - and I was at Havumäki Ranch & figured why not?
Photo by M.

Other fun things to know about the sauna:

1. It is totally normal to go outside (usually with a towel on) to cool down from a sauna.  
1. Yes, even in winter and in the snow!
2. It is also totally normal to roll in snow then rush back into the sauna or take it up a notch - if available of course - and swim in a lake in the winter time.
3. It is also socially acceptable to sauna daily after a long day at work.
4. Many Finns sauna all year long - including the summer months - with or without a lake to jump in.
5. Do not wear pure gold jewelry into the sauna - it'll melt and leave you with nasty burn marks.
1. Yes that's coming from experience... not sure what other jewelry could melt but at least - pure gold stuff is not recommended.
6. It sounds crazy but it is also perfectly normal to be beaten with a bundle of birch branches to increase the blood circulation in your body and to have the "ULTIMATE FINNISH SAUNA EXPERIENCE!"  
1. aka a "vihta" - if not made by hand from your Finnish host - you can buy them frozen in the grocery store.
2. I was advised it's best to dip in the bucket of water, toast them above the stove and then smack yourself silly with them.
7. It is pronounced "sou (like "sour") - na" - not like the way you've grown up hearing it as "saw-na".
8. A lot of people use their sauna as storage...yeah I wouldn't but some people just don't use their sauna much!
9. Children generally go into sauna as young as 1-year old, usually sitting in a tub of water at the bottom.
10. In case you're wondering - do people have sex in the sauna? - some do and some won't.  Mostly so people don't pass out from the extreme heat.
11. When I was close to giving birth - all my Finnish friends recommended the "3-S's: Sex, Siivous (cleaning) & Sauna" to encourage getting labour going.
12. Finns love sauna so much that there was a collection of postage stamps dedicated to the sauna culture back in 2009!

And there you have it - a crash course in sauna.

Photo by PG.

LAFA

LAFA Interviews: Rock'n Style

Today was no ordinary day for me...it was one in a million.
You see - I am a klutz.  A natural magnet for disasters and accidents...and it just so happens I fell down two steps while taking my dog out (while inside my building) and completely rolled over my left ankle...so for the first time in my life - I had actually sprained something.  I have come close many times but this involved a trip to the ER and some X-Rays and a couple hours waiting in the hospital...so yeah.  It's official - I badly sprained my ankle and came close to rupturing stuff in my foot the doctor said...but anyway...I am alive!

It also happened to be the day I had a hair appointment with Olli Teelmäki - owner of Rock'n Style hair salon and the interview was held afterward over some wings.

So needless to say - I was going to do this interview regardless of my ankle's condition!
I guess you can say I am fairly stubborn or determined!


I arrived quite early to Rock'n Style and was immediately warmly greeted by the other two hairstylists (whom I've never met before) and Olli.
I hobbled over to the bench and sat down while taking in the scenery...you see, I have only been inside once or twice to say hi to Olli but never really took in the environment or the vibes of the place.

Of course there was rock music playing, customers were engaged in conversation with their stylists and the place was clean and bright with the clear contrasting colour scheme of black, red and white.

My hair cut was simple - clear off the dead ends, leave it long enough for me to put up neatly for work and maybe add a bit of layers.  We skipped the washing since I did it in the morning and we chatted about my incident with my stairs in the morning and saved the interview bit for dinner afterward.



"What are your credentials as a hair stylist?
In Finland some of the older barbers will have their certifications up on the wall and framed but I don't.  I graduated from ammattikoulu in Loimaa and I have done some extra courses of course but I did not go to business school for the entrepreneurship part of owning Rock'n Style.
Of course there are some lessons in barber school about how to be an entrepreneur.

Is this something you had always dreamed of doing?
Actually - no.  I have never had any kind of "dream job" ever.  When I was a very small kid my grandparents said that I wanted to be a gardener and grow sunflowers and vegetables.

Olli living the dream at 5-years old with those sunflowers!

In elementary school my favourite subjects were art and wood-crafting class.  I am a person who learns by doing - not from studying via books.

So when it was time to decide what I wanted to study for my post-secondary education - my first choice was being a barber.  The second choice was carpentry.

Have you always been a hair stylist - or have you changed professions before Rock'n Style?
I have always been a barber/hair stylist.

What makes Rock'n Style different than all the other hair salons around?
The first thing that the customers seem to say is that "Rock'n Style looks like a 'man cave' and for me I think it represents or looks like me or my home.
The next thing is that the theme colours are my favourite colours: black, white and red - so there is quite a bit of contrast.  I like pure colours and I like having vivid bright colours with something contrasting - same with dying hair too!

Would you like to expand yourself as a franchise some day if given the opourtunity?
No because I feel that Rock'n Style is me and my place and that is why they come here and it would never be the same as the original.  So I think one place is enough and it is not my ambition to open many places or create a franchise or brand of Rock'n Style like that.

Metallica CD cover art

And the matching CD!

Could this be a Finnish cultural thing - not wanting to show off or have too many ambitious ideas?
I never thought of it this way but I feel having only one location is more relaxed and mellow.

What is the challenge of being an entrepreneur/hair stylist given the competition around?
I actually don't think about the competition because I am not a competitive person by nature.
I mainly think about if the customers are happy and that they go home happy after visiting us.
That is my main focus.

What is Finnish education like in terms of hair stylist school?  What is required to graduate?
Hair styling school is technically a 3-years long program but because I went to Lukio for 3 years - I was able to shorten my hair-styling education by a year and only did 2 years program.

We learned only the basics of hair cutting and styling - colouring hair, cutting it, washing it and perms...we also had to do some reading of course like about micro-chemistry.  But working with customers hair is the best teacher of course!

Were you able to experience working with different cultures' hair types?
No unfortunately not because Loimaa is a small place and our customers we worked with were mostly elderly Finnish people.

Later I have learned how to handle different cultured/styles of hair by just doing it.

What is something you wish people knew about being a hair stylist?
I wish people knew more about what it was like to be an entrepreneur.
Sometimes people are checking if I raised the prices a bit and then they get upset but there are so many factors and reasons why entrepreneurs have to do this.

What is something you wish people would STOP doing to their hair?
I wish customers would stop going from one extreme colour to another - or bleaching it at home then expecting a miracle from a hair stylist to correct it and make it the colour they wanted.
Going from extreme hair colour to another takes time and steps to do it successfully.

What is something you wish people WOULD do more of with their hair?
I think using appropriate products to maintain their hair especially after a new cut or style!

What are the pros and cons of your job?

PROS

• I have a very flexible time table and work schedule!
• I have weekends off!
• Being an entrepreneur gives me the freedom to make my own shifts
• Quite regular customer base so I have a comfortable work relationship with those customers.
• I get to socialize with people!

• I am very lucky with my co-workers as well.  
• Linda has been working with me for ten years or so.
• Petra rents a chair and has been working with me for about a year.
• Nelli has also worked many years with me but is currently away.

CONS

• I tend to work longer evening shifts.
• Because I am an entrepreneur I don't get:
• sick leave
• official holidays

But this is normal for an entrepreneur.

What are your earliest memories of cutting or playing with hair as a child that you remember?

Immediately Olli laughs and says loudly: "MY POOR SISTER!"

I was about 2nd or 3rd grade (about age 8-9) and my sister was as young as kindergarten or first grade (6-7 years old) and our mom was on the phone and we asked if we could "go play barber".  She was busy on the phone and said okay!

So I tried cutting my sister's bangs to create a new parting line in the middle because I was so young I didn't know you just needed a comb for that!😆

Of course, she had her school photos the next week...

If you ever made a mistake while doing someone's hair - what was the best mistake you ever made?  Did the customer notice it and how did they react?!

The customer wanted to have her bangs dyed bright purple from ear to ear and leave the rest a very white-blonde.
Well, during washing after dying it - the purple leaked and her white-blonde hair went to a pastel purple instead.

I was very worried she wouldn't like it but I showed her and she was really happy thankfully!

What is Rock'n Style's specialty - if any?

We have been told that customers say "We have a bold way to cut and dye hair."

But my method is - "If the customer want it - we do it."

Whatever could be considered "radical or extreme" hair cut to someone else is just a normal day for me.

What was your targeted age group when coming up with the Rock'n Style concept?

Actually - none.  We did not have a targeted age group - of course we don't get many kids but some of our customers are having children and now bringing them to us - so we do get some children in for their hair cuts.  We have hardly any grandpa customers - which is a real shame!  Because they are so fun!

We actually have some older women clients and they tend to be more open-minded, have a bit more attitude (in a good way!) and are more young at heart.

It's actually interesting that older people question if they are allowed to come inside because the company name is "ROCK'n Style"...and of course they can!

Do you find first-time customers come in knowing exactly what they want or is there a bit of a guessing game - or is it totally spontaneous with what they're willing to do with their hair?

All of it.  It can be all of those above and then I mix in my own spice to it and we together mix it up to get a hair cut or style the customer likes!

Can someone who is interested in donating their hair to cancer patients for wigs go to you?
What is the process that goes into this?

We can measure off and cut the hair off in pig-tails and also cut and style the hair afterward - but we are not providing the donating service.  

Customers can come with their washed already that day or we will wash the hair if it's dirty.

Customers have to mail their ponytail donations themselves.  One place is Little Princess Trust. 

There is no fixed price for this service - it is based on time spent washing the hair, cutting the ponytails then properly cutting and styling it.

How do new customers find you usually?  
Usually by word of mouth - which is the best and worst way because anything (both positive and negative) can be said - it is an extremely powerful way for new customers to find Rock'n Style.
Sometimes people just walking by and dropping in and also via Instagram & Facebook.

Some customers have said that random people sometimes stop them and give a compliment about their hair.  That kind of information feels good and let's us know we have done a good job! 😀

How big is your team at Rock'n Style?
We are a team of four altogether but one is studying another field so she may leave Rock'n Style for that career path after graduating.


It is clear that rock music has defined you and your business...do you think it has made any kind of impact on your job or career choice?
Well, for me - rock music is my own way of living.  In 2005 I worked at Funky Star (a hair salon and fashion clothing shop) and the music was everything I did not like - too much pop, rap, shit music - ALL DAY.
So I already thought to myself, 'If I ever have my own place - it will play rock music!!'

All trimmed! 😁

What did it take to go from hair styling school to where you are now?  Did you "rent a chair" right after graduation and what does that even mean?
I went straight to a salon after graduating.
So after I graduated from Loimaa in 2002 I went to work at a hair salon called "Hiusstudio Teija" in Ikaalinen, where I am from, and I moved to Turku in 2003.
I then went to ammattikorkeakoulu to study estenomi for about 12 months and then I quit.  It was like a play-school - I didn't learn anything I didn't already know.

Rent a chair means you rent a chair in a salon somewhere and you usually bring your own scissors.
Normally all the other products like capes, machines, dyes, water, electricity etc. - is covered by the owner of the salon.
For example, deducted from your pay is 40% to be paid to the owner to cover those expenses and then the worker gets 60% and from that is the regular expenses like your taxes and pension etc are deducted.
With rent a chair employees - you just do your job and it is less risk for the owner of the salon because they do not have to pay your sick leave or official holidays.

What do you want people to know about Rock'n Style?
Our customer base is primarily 20-50+ years old with more women than men.  And we really do welcome everyone of every age and gender.
We can also do big hair makeovers to little ones!
People are so fixated on the shop title name that they think they can only come in if they have that "rock star" look or personality - and that is not true.  Perhaps some people think "Rock Music" is for "really old people" and they're scared of the name and style of music - but we can do a variety of styles for a variety of ages.

We have an easygoing environment and attitude!

Where do you see Rock'n Style in 12 months, 5 and 10 years?  When did Rock'n Style open?
I don't think much will change in a 1, 5 or 10 years.  And we opened about 11 years ago.

Are you ever bored of your job?
No - sometimes maybe a teeny-tiny bit but really everyday is so different.  There's always different customers and different stories and many of our customers are like friends - so it's nice to see them at work!
I really like my job and after having a holiday break - I am totally fine going back to work whereas many people dread it.

If you could style any celebrity's hair - who would it be?
Michael Monroe for sure!! He is a rock dude.
He actually lives nearby and every time I see him walk by I hope he will come inside but it hasn't happened yet!

Did you design the inside of Rock'n Style?
Yes mostly and I built some of the interior as well.  Before Rock'n Style it was a painting/art and poster shop.

What product line does Rock'n Style sell?
We primarily carry Four Reasons."

You can find Rock'n Style on Facebook, Instagram and book an appointment on their website here.
And if you are a student - with a valid student ID card you get -10% off your hair cut (excludes colouring, perming etc - only the cut) and if you have the "Slice" student card app - you get 10% off the hair cut too.
But as a first time customer, using the Slice app - then you get 20% off everything - colouring included.
You can be served in English and Finnish.

I want to thank Olli and his team at Rock'n Style for meeting with me to have this interview and for the fantastic service for my quick trim too!

LAFA

If you're interested in being featured in my blog - please don't hesitate to contact me at:

learningaboutFinland (a) gmail.com

Questions from a Finn...

Whenever a Finn has the oppourtunity to speak English - they will gladly take the chance and I am flattered that a typical shy Finn will want to speak with me in MY native language!

Mostly it's a chance for them to understand a different English-based accent better or to simply practice their own language skills.

Of course Finns are introduced to the English language at a fairly young age whilst studying languages in elementary school but also on television, the radio and in popular movies as well.

Here is a list of questions that I get asked on a regular basis whenever meeting a new Finnish person for the first time and throughout the conversation of getting to know each other:

1. What brings you to Finland?
2. Isn't Canada and Finland the same - in terms of nature and weather?
3. What is your favourite ice hockey team?
4. What parts of Finland have you been to?
5. What is the best part for you - as a foreigner - about living in Finland?
6. Where are you from in Canada?
1. Is your weather similar to where you live in Finland?
7. What do you think of Finland?
8. What do you think of Finnish people in general?
9. Do you like Finnish winter?
10. Was it difficult to move your life and everything you knew to move here?
11. Was it difficult to move your dogs here?
12. What do you think of Finnish food?
13. Do you know any Finnish?
1. What words do you know?
2. Do you know how to swear in Finnish?
14. Do you watch sports?
15. Do you drink Finnish beer?
16. Do you like Finnish coffee?
17. Have you ever tried this Finnish Easter dessert called 'Mämmi'?
1. DO YOU LIKE IT?!
18. What did you do in Canada - work or study?
19. Why do your children have Finnish names?!
20. Have your friends or family visited you in Finland yet?
21. How often do you travel back to Canada to visit your family and friends?
22. What do you think of ___insert current political thing that is viral or ongoing in the world___?

Typically in a bar setting - where I am waiting for a friend to return from the toilet or a smoke-break - I will be approached by some older drunk Finnish man and these are the questions I usually get - in combination with the ones I had above mentioned!:

1. Where are you from?
2. No really, where are you from?
3. But ...*sigh* where are you REALLY from?
4. I mean, where are your parents from?
5. ...but where are YOU from - because you look a little Asian???

I never get offended by the repetitiveness of the questions - again as I said earlier - I am flattered that someone will ask me questions in my native language...especially when they realize that my Finnish language skills are absolutely horrible!!!

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: Meeting My 1st Finn

Believe it or not - my first experience meeting a Finn was back in 2006 and in Canada.
I had absolutely 0 intention of moving to Finland - why would myself or my at the time spouse bother?! -  so meeting a random Finn at the local pub was culturally exciting as it was.

I was the designated driver for my group of neighbours that wanted to go see the World Hockey Championship game on the bigger screen.  My (now ex) spouse was out of country at a conference and I had nothing else to do - so why not?

I went to hold down a table while the guys went to get a drink and there this guy approached me at my table...

"Hi, are you from Japan?" he asks boldly and cheerfully.
"Uh, no - I am from here...." I respond quite confused and mildly irritated at this possible drunk guy using a shitty pick-up line.
"Oh so you are a Canadian?! NOT from Japan?" - him genuinely confused.
"Yep...100% Canadian.  You're in my town," I say firmly.
"Oh okay.  Well, I *dramatic hand flaring gestures* am from ....Finland," he proudly announces.
This piques my interest and I inquire if he's a student or on exchange or what and he advises me...I kid you not -

"I am THE WORLD'S BIGGEST Ice Hockey Championship fan ever!"

By this point I am convinced he is plastered beyond belief as it was quite a bold statement (I have 0 interest in hockey actually) and who calls it "ice hockey"?!
Apparently Finns do - that's who.

So he advises me he is here for the championships and I am blunt with him in the nicest East Coast Canadian way possible...

"So you traveled all the way from Finland to Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada to watch the hockey game...at a bar on a television screen?"
"Noooo I have tickets for X games and finals of course!"

That makes more sense.

My friends are approaching and he quickly darts off and before he does leave - he does suggest I visit him in Finland.

No Whatsapp number, Facebook friend request or even a name.

I laugh and shrug it off - honestly why would I move to Finland?!

"Thanks buddy but I have no reason to go to Finland.  Enjoy your stay though!" I cheerfully wave him off and that's it.

3 YEARS LATER....

I am absolutely 26 weeks pregnant, confused and arrive to Finland and am mortified I will meet that guy from Cheers who said I should visit him in Finland...I don't really remember what he looks like but what if he popped up out of nowhere and called me a liar for not coming to Finland?!  LOL ridiculous I know but the thought still runs through my mind - 10 years later.

Anyway 6 years later...
I am on a Tinder date...yeah not what you think.  I am divorced and meet a nice father of 3 who is - obsessed with hockey.
Ice hockey - obviously.

And I share this story about the first time I met a Finn and while we are eating pasta - he says, "Yeah - I know that guy."

You know how in movies the stunned actress (usually) is eating and begins choking or food falls out of her mouth and she doesn't look so graceful anymore?! Yeah...that was me - not choking but food falling out of my mouth....realllllly classy.

"WHAT?!" I begin flipping out.

Tinder Date confirms the description of the guy and location because Hockey Dude IS the biggest fan and travels anywhere the International Ice Hockey Federation championship games (IIHF) play.  He has been to my city....Tinder Date and Hockey Dude happened to be good friends so he messaged him and inquired if he remembered me...

"Well, good thing is he probably lives in a larger city like Helsinki, Tampere or elsewhere.." I mumble as I try to eat my pasta like an adult instead of a toddler with no teeth.

"Nah - he lives in Jyväskylä actually..." - Tinder Date continues to eat like it's no coincidence or big deal.

I begin to alternate between "OMG" and "SHUT UP!" and "NO WAY!" and internally trying to think if my subconscious had tucked the images of Hockey Dude so far away that I may have walked past him in the last few years and had no idea....and he probably thought I was just another exchange student or the other popular stereotype - a Thai married to a Finn. 😂

And there you have it ladies and gentlemen...the tale of meeting my 1st Finn.

And there's no sequel to that Tinder Date because we magically never met again...gee I wonder why? LOL

The End.

LAFA

LAFA Experiences: The Jyväskylä City Library

Photo credit to my 8-year old

Today is a super snow filled day and because my children and I are a group of 4 (ages are 6-10) - we decided to get an all day ticket for the Linkki bus on their app and do some shopping about.

One thing we did was going to the Jyväskylä City Library.  It is free to get a library card with proof of identity and a Finnish Social ID number.
I actually have forgotten to bring my library card with me a couple of times and have provided my Finnish ID card at the desk and was able to still borrow a library book.

You also get a PIN code for your library card that you can choose yourself - so when checking out books you can confirm your identity by punching in the code.
Library books are good to borrow for 4 weeks at a time unless otherwise noted.
Movies are good for 1 week (as far as I know but it has been awhile) and the JKL City library has actually been under some renovations and re-designing recently!

There is a children-friendly area, along with a newly designed gaming area (the game on display to play was chess), lots of comfortable seating areas and you are also able to have snacks in designated areas as well.
There are rooms to rent to play musical instruments and they now have a "Self-Service Library" (Facebook link for info in English).

A new digital map

Of course the JKL City library does not compare to the newest Helsinki addition "Oodi" but it's still quite nice to be in with plenty of events and things to do!
And I can most certainly recommend the Oodi library if you ever want to see a not so typical tourist attraction while visiting Helsinki!

Board games to play!

The library is easily accessible by most Linkki buses or by foot depending where you live and very high tech in terms of returning books, checking books out and even renewing books online!

Here is a list of all the Central Finland libraries "Keski Libraries" available for you to access via Facebook and yes, you can use the same library card along with returning books to the other linked libraries.

Little tablets can be found to help you search for books in the aisles!

Returning items to the library

It is also worth following them on Facebook for any last minute updates or cancellations there may be - along with general knowledge of local events happening at the various libraries throughout Jyväskylä!

The primary one that I visit is the downtown location for convenience in terms of location.

Upstairs in the children's area are a collection of fish tanks!

My son's library card! Mine is in Turku in a different wallet!

Libraries are not just full of books these days - they seem to be evolving with the changing of the times and keeping up relatively well with the modern technology as well.

And if you didn't know already - Finland is one of the top countries that uses their library services the most!

Comfy seating in the board game area!

A community puzzle anyone can contribute to!

Going to the library for me brings back fond memories of going with my parents on the weekend - returning my borrowed books and borrowing new ones to read!  I am hoping to instill the same fond memories for my children and let's face it.  Books in the shop are expensive and being able to have access to a very well stocked library is one of the greatest gifts one can have!

Just FYI - during the winter months - you cannot enter the library with metal studded footwear or metal grips to prevent slipping on the ice inside!

Thank you for reading!
LAFA

LAFA Experiences: Havumäki Ranch

I had the greatest oppourtunity to visit Havumäki Ranch - outside of Jyväskylä, Finland this past weekend and WHAT AN EXPERIENCE IT WAS!
I had not planned on going there but a dear friend of mine was visiting from abroad and invited myself and 2/3 of my kids over (third kiddo was at his respite care - I will blog about that later) for the night.
We quickly packed our bags and jumped into the car and it is about a 20-25 minutes ride from Jyväskylä with a very bumpy and long-winding dirt road to drive up to.  It is in a very secluded area in the woods and extremely peaceful!




The ranch is a large three floor house with spacious everything!  You can find all the information about the home itself here on their official site in English.

I was blown away by the spaciousness of it and the outdoors was lovely as well because we were able to drive the snowmobile - an old giant Lynx and did some sledding down a hill using reusable shopping bags...sounds ghetto but we did not have time to grab the kids' sleds unfortunately! 
Also, my kids don't ski/didn't have their skis with them or snowboard - so - reusable shopping bags it was!

I wish we were able to stay longer - but due to my friend's work schedule and my travel schedule - one night over and about half a day was a fantastic sampling of a visit to the Havumäki Ranch!

We did not bother with the extra sauna hut outdoors, the outdoor hot tub or any of the ramps built in that could be used for downhill skiing or snowboarding!  We kept the house warm with the old wood oven and felt comfortable and cozy.

I slept upstairs alone while my children shared a room and my friend had another room.

The view from my window was pretty and snow-filled and if given the oppourtunity, I would definitely go back and try to fit in some hiking as well - since skateboarding is not my thing and "accident prone" is my middle name! 😆

And if you are not aware of Finnish sauna culture - it is a sort of rite of passage to go rolling about in the snow during the winter months after having sauna or even swimming in a nearby lake!!
Of course you go back in the sauna to warm up and repeat this process as much as you like!
I admit - I have been here for 10 years and have not done such a thing other than to stand in the snow and dip my toe into a hole in the lake.  That was PLENTY for me!
However, since it was my birthday weekend - I decided to take it up a notch and borrow my friend's sandals and step into the snow, quickly remove the towel for a few photos!
Yes I do have 2 arms but one hand had to hold the towel! And there was no lake nearby for me to dip a toe in!

My goal with this blog was to have more experiences - and I don't mean just interviewing new people whichever city I am in - but experiences from a foreigner's perspective!
And I feel that getting naked outside in the snow post-sauna did just that for me.  It was of course SUPER cold but - you do what you gotta do!

And of course - having this experience of going to Havumäki Ranch is just another one in a million experiences in Finland!
If you are able to go and rent it for a night or even better a weekend with your friends or loved ones - DO IT!  You will not regret it!

Be sure to pack your helmets, snowboard or skateboard, other protection gear if needed and have a GREAT time!

And I know this sounds really weird but the water there is SO pure and fresh!  It's much softer than city tap water as I believe their water hook up is from a well and it is just fantastic!

Thanks again to my dear friend M for inviting us, feeding us and transporting us to and from Havumäki Ranch.  It's an experience none of us will ever forget!

LAFA

LAFA Interviews: Red Chopsticks Restaurant

I have been to the Red Chopsticks Restaurant before - shortly after they opened because I love hot pot.  I grew up with it - we did not have it often but when we did - it was a huge family affair!
I even remember after having my wisdom teeth removed - it was thanks to my grandpa having a hot pot that we were able to cook anything because the electricity had been blown out due to a hurricane!!

I had written my review via Instagram back in April of 2019 shortly after they had opened.

If you don't know what "hot pot" is - it is a way of cooking food together with your friends and loved ones - Asian style.
You are given a pot of broth, a selection of meat or fish and vegetables with noodles (and perhaps rice on the side) and you cook the food yourself.

Why in the world would you go to a restaurant that will have you cook your own food?!
Because it's delicious and it's a cultural experience and it is best shared with friends!  It can also take up quite a bit of space as well and can be quite costly to get all the ingredients yourself - plus the hot pot and induction heater can be costly and in my case - not easily found in Finland!

I was very fortunate enough to sit down with Zhihua Peng - owner of the Red Chopsticks and with the help of her son Sampo, acting as translator for us - got down to our interview.

"What brings you to Finland - specifically Turku?
My husband is a chef and he moved to Finland 1.5 years prior to us in 2003.  He chose Finland because he has some friends here.

Was it difficult to propose the business idea of having a hot pot-style restaurant?
There was no difficulty in proposing the idea but Finns and locals don't really have an idea of what hot pot is.
And due to the language barrier - it makes it hard to tell the customers what the concept of the hot pot is.

What can customers expect when visiting here for the first time?
We of course want to provide good customer service, give a new experience because hot pot is a very different way of enjoying a meal.
There is one other hot pot restaurant but it is in Helsinki and we are not affiliated with them.

You can be served in primarily in Finnish and Mandarin - occasionally in English depending on who is working!

Other than hot pot - what else do you serve to customers?
We serve authentic Chinese food whereas many other Asian restaurants serve more Western style Asian food.  We have another restaurant in downtown Turku called Tsing Tao and in Kaarina of the same name "Tsing Tao" but this is the only hot pot restaurant in Turku.
The Tsing Tao restaurants are more of a mix of authentic Chinese and Western Chinese food.
Tsing Tao in downtown Turku opened in 2010 while the one in Kaarina opened earlier in 2008.

Do you find majority of your customers are Finns or expats?
Typically more Finns and many of them don't know about the other two restaurants we have.

What is the customer's general reaction or feelings toward trying the hot pot culture here?
At first customers seem quite nervous and it is a challenge for Finns to try something so new and unheard of.
But once they do - they really enjoy it and are very happy and we think of hot pot as more of an experience than a dinner.
We have had 100% positive feedback about the hot pot dining experience!

How do customers find you - online or through word of mouth?
They usually find us online through social media.  But the thing is we do have a video in the restaurant on a large television screen on how to use the hot pot and nobody seems to watch it.  Of course we can explain it as best as we can but if someone is a native English speaker and doesn't speak Mandarin or Finnish - there may be a language barrier.

What are the PROS and CONS (or challenges) of having an expat-based business in Finland?
The PROS is that we are able to offer an alternative choice in dining and food, we are spreading our culture and customers with Asian experiences (from travelling or via family/friends) can experience hot pot and our food locally.

There are not really any CONS because we started the businesses over ten years ago and when we started - there wasn't any competition.  The only competition out there now is a lot more sushi restaurants or sushi being offered with lunch buffets.

Would you be interested in expanding your business within Turku or elsewhere in Finland?
There is an interest in expanding the Red Chopsticks in the future - maybe in a few years but for now, no.

Is this a franchised business or 100% local?
It is a 100% local business.

Do you offer catering services for customers?
If held here - yes we can set something up in advance.  For example we have had Christmas parties here and graduation parties too.
Unfortunately we cannot cater outside the restaurant due to potential language barriers.

Are customers able to order meals via take-away, Wolt or Foodora?
Yes they can but not with the hot pot.  Even if the customer has a hot pot at home - we do not offer the hot pot ingredients take-away in case a box of ingredients gets mixed during transportation, for example,  then there is a strong possibility of a food poisoning risk.  We don't want the customers to get sick so we only offer the a la carte menu food for delivery and take-away.

Do you participate in the SYÖ Turku! events?
Yes this is our second time participating!

Because you are listed first in the SYÖ Turku event on their website - do you feel that participating in this event has benefited you for an increase in customer flow or not so much?
After the first time we participated - a lot of people saw the listing and found us - so then it was a benefit.
But now we do not see any huge increase or decrease in customer flow because of SYÖ Turku.

Do you find customers easily learn and adapt to the idea of the hot pot?
It can provide a challenge over all if it's their first time having hot pot but if they know someone with experience of having hot pot then they adapt easily.

A variety of sauces

Do the regular customers come to dine for hot pot or your alternative menu?
It is 50/50 because at lunch we have a hot lunch buffet between 11:00 - 15:00.  We offer a variety of warm dishes and sushi.
We do not offer hot pot as part of the lunch buffet but you can get the hot pot and choose your 5 vegetables and 5 protein choices for the same price as the evening hot pot buffet for 24,80€.
We will serve you the hot pot at lunch time and provide you your selection because we have limited space - this is why we do not offer a hot pot buffet at lunch time.

Is hot pot more popular with those who are familiar with hot pot already (i.e. Asians) or moreso with those that have learned about hot pot as something exotic (without an Asian background)?

I love the little play area for kids!

There is not a big difference because someone who does not have an Asian background (or heritage) will bring their friends and they can experience it together.  Or they will bring an Asian friend along to help them out with the hot pot!

In Asia when you are having pot - everyone has their individual small hot pots to cook in and it is more hygienic this way.  The Western style is more about sharing.

I shared that I have been to China twice and in both instances have dined in Chinese restaurants where we shared a hot pot (usually one had a spicier broth side of the pot and the other not so spicy - like what is served in the Red Chopsticks) and they said yes that is also common as well for large groups or families.

What would you like your customers to know about yourself and your business?
We have been open since the end of March 2019 and we are a restaurant that doesn't want to only provide you dinner but the main point is to provide a new experience for our customers with good customer service!

Where do you see yourself in 12 months, 5 years and 10 years time with the Red Chopsticks Restaurant?
In twelve months - probably not much change to be honest.
In five and ten years - that is a challenge to predict as it is a challenge to run this place due to Finnish immigration.  It is very difficult to get chefs that have experience in authentic Chinese food that are very skilled as well.
So due to this - we have very limited staff and cannot market ourselves too much due to the limit of staff."

I want to thank the staff of the Red Chopsticks Restaurant for providing me with very precious time for this interview, a translator to ensure everything was understood correctly, the oppourtunity to enjoy their delicious hot pot and excellent customer service!

I felt warmly welcomed from the moment I said hello and felt very relaxed in a peaceful environment with the aroma of fresh, hot food being prepared consistently.
The decor reminds me of home a lot and I felt very comfortable being there and also bringing friends there as well!

If you do get the oppourtunity - please do visit the Red Chopsticks - it IS an excellent oppourtunity to try something delicious and new, share a cultural moment with friends and if in doubt - look up at the large television screen for the video on how to do hot pot! 😋

You can find them on Facebook here and Instagram here.

LAFA

If you are interested in being featured in my blog and being interviewed - you can reach me at:

learningaboutFinland(a)gmail.com

LAFA Interviews: Americana Cakes & Sweets

This interview is a bit longer than average I suppose because we had SO much to discuss!

The owner of Americana Cakes & Sweets is an American from Minnesota which is quite close to Canada!  So we had a lot of common ground to discuss and you would be surprised to hear that this interview was nearly 2.5 hours long!

It was just such a wonderfully easygoing interview - I truly felt like I made a dear friend at the same time - and those kinds of social interactions these days (IN PERSON!) are extremely rare!  At least for me!

Anyway, we decided to meet at Bokachá for our interview and sitting down with Nichole and doing this interview felt honestly more like sitting down with a friend and catching up!  It was THAT relaxed and exciting!

So here we go!

"What brings you to Finland from the USA?

I met my Finnish boyfriend in the USA and we moved over here together.

How long have you lived here and have you always lived in Turku?

Yes I have lived here for about five years and we spent about one year in Joensuu.

Do you visit the USA often and do you miss home?

Yes I really miss home a lot and on average I travel back about twice a year - especially recently with some family celebrations that have occurred.

What's something that you had to adjust to since moving to Finland - aside from the language?

We have this saying in Minnesota called "Minnesota Nice" and it's pretty much all about the small talk and Finns just do not greet strangers in passing or get really chatty with people and have that random small talk at all!
I have lived here long enough now that when I go to Minnesota - I am sure people passing me think I am weird because I am the one looking at the ground or avoiding eye contact like a Finn would.

What are your hobbies?

Baking, working out and also hanging out at home and enjoying Netflix!

What is the inspiration behind "Americana Cakes & Sweets"?

I absolutely LOVE baking! There's a lot of similar Finnish-style bakeries and I feel I have something more unique to offer and I recognized a hole in the market.
Thanks to social media like Instagram - American baked goods are becoming more popular!

You currently operate from your home - is there a plan in the future for an on-site location for customers to try your confectionary like in a café setting?

Yes - I am in between wanting to have a café or just a catering service.
For now - operating out of my home works best because it includes the flexibility I need if I need to travel abroad.  If I have a shop - I simply cannot close up for 3 weeks to do that.

Have you considered selling your baked goods to various local cafés?

Yes it is something I would be interested in doing!  It's just a matter of finding the cafés interested in this!

What differentiates your cakes from the standard Finnish cakes and sweets?

American style goodies tend to be taller and have more layers, and I use buttercream - compared to Finnish cake using mousse or whipped cream.

When was Americana Cakes & Sweets born and how often do you get orders?

I created Americana Cakes & Sweets in November 2018 and I have to say I haven't been around long enough to see a distinct pattern of popularity in sales. I am happy to say that I am mostly booked through to March!

What is your specialty?

Layered cakes are my biggest sellers.  I DO other things like pies for example and maybe I can advertise those better!  I can bake a lot of different things.

Do clients - especially Finns - have an open mind when ordering from a non-Finnish baker?

I think so.  Most of my customers are non-Finns though - about 75% so far.

Do clients know what they want to order in advance or is there often a creative process involved?

It is about 50/50 - many have an idea and then I am able to guide them.
It is actually more difficult if a customer doesn't have a preference or are indifferent! So I have to really guide them and ask what their preferences are so they are truly satisfied with the end product.

How long have you been baking for and what or who got you into baking?

I have been baking for as long as I can remember.
My mom was always baking and still does! So it's something that I got interested in from a young age and just kept going with!
When I was in university I was referred to as "Mom" because I always made a birthday cake for someone's birthday in the dorm and I truly believe - you have to have cake on your birthday!

What is your opinion of the various cooking and baking competition shows on television these days?

I like them!
Well, I have a love/hate relationship with them.  Things like "Nailed It!" I have to wonder how are they THAT bad?!  If you can follow a recipe - it should turn out quite alright!

But I really do love baking and cooking - it's what comes naturally to me and everyone has different talents!

Have you ever competed with your baked goods before?

Nope! I have heard of the Finnish version of the "Great British Bake-Off" so maybe some day?

What is your favourite thing to make?

In general - I love when I can be creative and try new techniques or decorating trends!
But I prefer eating pies over cakes but now that I am making mostly cakes - I find myself eating cake more often!

Is there a more popular season than another or a more popular event for cakes and sweets?

Late winter and early spring seem to be the most popular!

Are the ingredients locally sourced?

Yes I go for really high quality ingredients like real butter and Fazer chocolate for example.
The thing is custom cakes are always going to be more expensive than something from the store because I am using high quality ingredients and I make all my fruit fillings fresh from scratch.

When in season - I prefer fresh berries and some decor I do get from the USA.

Since Finland has its fair share of celiac and/or lactose-intolerant population - has it been difficult to provide just as beautifully crafted and delicious goods for them?

Actually all of my cakes are lactose-free!  The only thing is I cannot find lactose-free white chocolate.  But otherwise that is simple enough to do.

I have done a few gluten-free cakes, so they are something I do offer. However, my kitchen is small and I am also making regular cakes that have gluten in the same space. I try to make sure everything is
clean and there is no contact between the gluten and gluten free cakes/tools, but if an allergy is really severe, I recommend ordering from a purely gluten free bakery.
The cakes I make are for a minimum of 10 people or portions and they are very generous servings as they are more "American sized portions" which tend to be bigger than European portions. Something I do offer as an add-on item a small gluten-free cake (usually about 6 servings) with the order or a bigger regular cake. For bigger parties, people like to have at least a small gluten free cake to offer in case someone needs to have that.

Do you have any vegan options available?

I have also done vegan yes but of course there are some things that I cannot do vegan like certain chocolate fillings and vegan buttercream frosting will have a different consistency of course.

And I have had really good feedback from my dietary restriction delicacies!

What is your fondest memory of a cake to be made for a particular occasion?

I did a Frozen cake for one of my few Finnish customers and she happens to be my hair stylist!
I admire her so much as a business person and her passion for what she does as a career - she was just thrilled with her Frozen cake!  It made me really happy to make that for her.

When will your official website be completed?

It is a work in progress! Most of my contacts have found me through Facebook and I cannot put a price on a cake online because every cake is different.  From the decorations to the fillings - there can be different varying prices for the same sized cake.

What is the private catering competition like in Finland?

It is quite niche in Finland.  It hasn't really been an issue (competing) because people hear about me through word of mouth usually or a friend of a friend.  And it's so nice when people you actually know support your local business!

How are you getting yourself out there and to the top of your specialty?

Mostly Facebook and Instagram.  Because I am currently working from a small space, I am getting about the amount of orders I’m able to handle at the moment. However, I would like to start also marketing more to companies/corporate events, because at the moment, most of my orders are for parties people have on the weekends, and filling orders for companies would help bring more business during the week days.

Where do you see yourself in 12 months, 5 and 10 years?

I would hope in 12-months that I have a more regular customer base and can expand wholesale into cafés but that is a major goal!
In 5-years I would like to expand into a bakery or café and in 10-years it is really hard to say because maybe I will have a family then - and kids can really affect any kind of business.
My boyfriend also has a marketing degree so perhaps we can do business together? Who knows!

What do you want people of Turku to know about you and your bakery?

I am a legally registered business, I do have a marketing degree and while I may not have gone to pastry school - I do spend a lot of my free time looking at Instagram for inspiration, online for techniques and recipes.  

This is not work - I genuinely enjoy this!

That being said, it usually takes a minimum of four hours to finish a cake—usually more. So the prices I charge for my cakes are very fair, please don’t ask for discounts. For my cakes or really for anyone other person who makes a living off of something they make themselves, asking for discounts makes us feel like you don’t value the time and skills we have put into our products.
However, I often try to go the extra mile for customers, whether that be by adding something special to the cake I don’t charge for, offering delivery if someone is unable to come pick the cake up themselves. And I also include a hand-written thank-you note with each cake, because I understand that people could spend their money somewhere else, but have chosen to support my business, and I really appreciate that.
In regard to ordering, cakes should also be booked well in advance - minimum a week's notice and this is because of all the planning involved. The more notice I have the better, and it also ensures that I won’t be booked up already for the date you want.”

I am so grateful I got to meet Nichole of Americana Cakes & Sweets and I hope if you ever need a custom baked good - you will be able to support her beautiful works of art!
She is SO friendly and really creative and clearly quite passionate about her cakes and goodies!  It was an absolute joy to work with her on this interview!

You can find her Facebook Page here and also her Instagram here. 
*All photos of her cakes and herself were posted with her permission and photographed by her.*

Thanks for reading!
LAFA

If you are interested in being interviewed and featured in my blog - please reach out to me!:

learningaboutFinland(a)gmail.com