Our New Adventures!!

Our New Adventures!! A whole lot of catching up for everyone but you have an idea of what our days have been leading up to today 8/12/11. Enjoy, we have so far... with a few bumps in the road but definitely nothing that we can't handle and have handled pretty good as a family, together. Love to you all.

Day One of the move:

July 13^th, 2011

The moving company came as promised, at 8:30 and began their process of moving in the boxes to begin packing. Troy and I just had to make sure everything went in it's proper box. We had three different shipments to worry about. The first being the important shipment of all because it's the one that would be coming to us a week or two after our arrival to Finland. It's all of our precious belongings, things we need right away. The next shipment is our household and that is pretty much everything else. Last one would be storage, anything that we'd like to keep, it would be in their warehouse facility in D.C. Needless to say, the day came and went by pretty quickly and not too bad I might add. It was a productive day and we were glad that they had gotten so much accomplished. We checked into a hotel that night and that was our last time as a family in the condo that we shared together for 3 yrs.

Day Two of the move:

July 14^th, 2011

The next day was easy for me. I just stayed at the hotel with the children while Troy managed the packing and moving again. Of course I couldn't sleep at 5:30 that morning, so I took advantage of it and went to the condo to do the last minute things I wanted to take care of. Got what I wanted done and went back to the hotel so that Troy could go back to meet the moving company. Troy and I knew that the moving company wouldn't need the extra day they always give themselves just in case they go past the second day but the more the day went on it looked like they might actually need it. According to Troy they were starting to pack the moving truck with all the boxes they had done but then he started to worry only because of the storage unit we had they still hadn't gone too yet. I guess all involved were determine to get the job done because by 3 o'clock that afternoon they were on their way to the unit and got it all done. We were finished, or so I thought.

Day Three of the move:

July 15^th, 2011

Still not sleeping, I got up again and went to the condo to get the rest of the stuff that was left to give to Frances and Evan, our wonderful friends that we made since moving to Sunrise, FL. They truly are the best thing that happened to us while we were there, well besides Troy Jr.

I met Frances there at the condo, it was going to be hard for me to open that door and I knew it would be before I did so. Knowing it was completely vacant was going to be difficult to see, because it was where I raised Chloe for the good part of her 4 yrs and of course, Troy Jr all of his entire 13 months. It was time to just let it out and I did, and that was that. We then preceded to move out everything that was left in the pantry, the refrigerator, freezer and the boxes we left for her upcoming move in August. Got everything taken care of and that was it until the afternoon to do the walk through with the property manager, Diane. Went back to the hotel, and we all waited for Sandy, Troy Jr's therapist to come over for his very last therapy session. It went well, it was a nice visit and we are very happy that we got to see her again. Although we were sad to see her go, we all told each other it wasn't goodbye, it was see you later. We will see her again.

Check out was 11, so we got our belongings and got out of there to get started on the last minute things that we had to do. We couldn't check into the hotel until 4 in the afternoon, so we had plenty to do until then. By the time we did finish up on all of our errands it was time to meet Diane and turn in the keys and button to the garage & gate. It was sad but a new chapter in our lives was about to begin. An ending to a great old chapter in our lives, to move forward to the new one that we were all looking forward to.

Day Three continue:

July 15^th, 2011

We left the condo for our last and final time. Of course you know I cried, Troy did have some tears in his eyes but didn't cry like I did. We headed to the hotel to check in, got there cleaned up a little and changed before heading out to Troy's uncle's house for crabs. They were delicious and we had a nice time. I must say for our last "American" (cajun style) meal, it sure hit the spot and was absolutely awesome. We got back to the hotel and just crashed. We had three long days of a lot of stress and it was time to relax and recoup before our stress came back for the beginning of our adventure on Monday.

Day Four of our move:

July 16^th, 2011

The day started out early as usual but it was OK, we had nothing to do but just relax. Troy & I took our children to breakfast. The hotel had a complimentary buffet which was nice and they all seemed to enjoy it. We ate and went back to our room, got ourselves ready for a wonderful day of rest and relaxation. That also was going to include our special and wonderful friends, Frances & Evan. They were coming over to spend the entire day with us and we were all so excited and couldn't wait for a very fun-filled day. They arrived a little before 11 and everyone headed out to the pool, except for Troy Jr and I because he was taking his morning nap. Whenever he did wake, I brought him to the pool to join the others, and then I took a trip to the nearest nail place to get my toes done before our long trip. I really needed it and I felt like I deserved it so I did just that. When I finished I met everyone back at the pool which at this point seem like it was time for a particular 4 yr old to take her nap. Her daddy took her back up to the room and then the four of us joined them shortly afterwards. After everyone was all bathed and dressed it was time to relax and do nothing for the rest of the afternoon. We certainly did that until it was time to get ready for dinner to meet some more friends to see them before we left. John, Frances's brother met us at the hotel a couple of hours before we left for dinner to join us. It was so nice to have them all with us. Turned out to be a really special day & evening. We had dinner at Flanigan's, and really enjoyed just being together. Then afterwards, we all went back to the hotel and visited for a little while longer before it was time for them to go back home. Definitely not something any of us was looking forward to but we knew it had to be done. We weren't telling each other goodbye, we were just simply letting each other know how much we loved each other and were so happy that God brought us into each others lives, and we'd see each other again soon. After they left, it was so hard for me to stop crying, I believe it was at this point where reality just slapped me in the face again. It was truly happening and I would be on a plane for our new adventure in two short days.

Day Five of our move:

July 17^th, 2011

Sunday, just like any other day. We took the children to eat breakfast again and it was really nice to just sit and talk about things happening at that present moment in time. We were at this point, just so ready for all of this to be done with and that we'd be in Finland getting settled in. We still had a few things we wanted to take care of before we spent the rest of the afternoon & evening with The Fontenots. After getting our errands done, we went to eat lunch at American Pie Pizzeria. It was nice, we enjoyed it but after we were done it was time to get back to the hotel for Troy Jr & Chloe's nap. While they napped, Troy & I took the time to inventory, repack and sort out all of our 12 suitcases. It's crazy how much stuff you have, but you really don't realize until you have that number of suitcases staring you in the face in a hotel room. You seriously feel like you are being swallowed up by them. It was very overwhelming but it's a task that Troy & I tackled very well. We were able to get it down to 11 because we placed a smaller one into a larger one and it worked out well. With all of our tasks done, the children up from their naps, it was time for my relaxing and time spent with the family. We left the hotel and headed to their house. We got there and to our surprise, the Noriega's were there to visit with us too. It was a special treat and we were so glad to see them and spend time with them. We hadn't seen them in a long time so we really enjoyed our time with them all. We ate our dinner and just sat around and talked for hours. When it was all said and done, it was time for us to get back to the hotel so that we could try and get a good night's sleep for the early morning we were about to embark on.

Day Six, the BIG DAY:

July 18^th, 2011

We had the bellhop come to pick up all of our bags before we went to breakfast so that would be out of the way. We went to breakfast and waited for Randy to pick us up and bring us to the airport. He showed up like he said he would and we all headed out. I wasn't even paying any attention to all that was going on around me because I was on the phone with my dear friend, and nothing else mattered at the time. When we got off the phone, it wasn't very long after that we were at the airport. We got out of the truck, got to the counter and checked in. What we thought would be forever with all the bags and getting all of our boarding passes, it took no time. We were off to security and wasn't looking forward to it but I can't knock it, it wasn't bad either. It looked like our day was going to turn out pretty good. We were flying to New York first and then our layover there was 3 hrs, and we were a little worried about that because of the children. The flight wasn't bad at all. Chloe sat with her daddy, and Troy Jr sat with me. Troy Jr slept the whole time and Chloe was occupied with music and playing with whatever toys we packed for her, in her carry-on. Things were going great for us and we were so happy that they were.

Arriving in New York wasn't bad, but it was the first for all of us. We had plenty of time so that's what we did, we took our time. Got off the plane and went to find the business class lounge so that we could get a drink and relax. Chloe and Troy Jr spent time in the kiddie room, played and had a great time. We ordered a little something to eat from the bar and before you know it, the time slipped right by us. It was time to head to our gate for our long plane ride to Finland. We were so pumped, it was time.

We boarded the plane and when we did, chaos ensued. This is the one and only time that the stress level increased, and pretty high I might add. Our assigned seats were great, pretty much up in front of the plane. Only problem is, the ones assigned didn't include a seat equipped for Troy Jr's car seat. The reason is because all of the seat belts on Finnair have an actual airbag inside the belt itself. That doesn't work with car seats. So, here is our dilemma, at first they are looking at Troy & I as if to say, you need to check in the car seat and I'm looking at all of them like they are crazy because I'm not sitting next to a 13 month old in a belted seat for 8 to 9 hrs. It's just not going to work. So, of course, Troy & I both start sweating because we are really having a time trying to figure out how this is going to happen. Then one of the ladies comes up to us and says by law he's too little to sit in the seat like that. Well we knew that already, who in their right mind would put an infant in an adult/child seat on a plane. Troy & I at this point wanted to pull our hair out. Troy was so mad that he didn't care and was attempting to put this belt on Troy Jr's seat when another lady came up to him and said that they are going to move us to the very front because that is where the only belts that they have on this plane have no airbags. Only problem is, the seat is assigned to someone else. I knew this was something that couldn't be prevented but I felt nauseated at that point. I was literally sick to my stomach knowing that there was someone about to get on this plane and would be very upset that someone else was in their seat and could do nothing about it. Shortly after Troy Jr was taken care of by his wonderful father, and I was belted in, a man came up beside me and says, I think you are in my seat. Right when he said there was a lump in my throat and I just swallowed so hard and started sweating. The lady, I guess she was the one in charge because she always seemed to be right there, came right up to him and explained the situation. He was of course, very upset. I wanted to throw up at this point. It was very overwhelming for me. I felt terrible for him because I hear him say to her, oh what I don't even get a window. Apparently the seats she had to offer him where in the middle isle of the plane. All and all, he did end up having a window seat and everything worked out like it was suppose to. I know it did, but it didn't make me feel any better at the time when it was happening. Now we're off for Finland. Our flight consisted of supper, then off to dreamland, then up again in the morning for breakfast before it was time for landing. It all happened so fast, well it seemed that way but we were glad that it was all over with. The children were awesome and no major issues dealing with them. They were really good (remarkable) for the entire 14 hours they had to endue and for the very first time. Chloe didn't want to go to sleep but if that was it, so be it. She did however end up going to sleep eventually because when Troy & I woke up for breakfast she was sleeping. We landed in Finland the morning of the 19^th, still the 18^th (evening) in the states.

Got our luggage and headed out to the two vehicles there to pick us up and bring us to our new home. It was a great ride to the house. The city is so beautiful, clean, and just simply amazing. I couldn't wait to get out and explore it all. I, first needed to get over the jet-lag. It was bad too because getting to the house and putting stuff away kept us busy for a while then all of sudden when you stop, everything stops. We were so exhausted that we all just passed out, while Troy went out to get a few things at the store with our sponsor, JP. He was awesome and took very good care of us.

When Troy got back we all started to get up and move around but it was still so hard because we were all so exhausted. Then with the summer time here in Finland being daylight all day until almost midnight, that certainly doesn't help your rest. Only in the summer does the sun stay up all day and then go down at around midnight but come right back up around 4-ish. Ask me, well Chloe too. We are experts already on that information because since Tuesday, we've been up every morning around 2 or 3 and aren't really getting back to sleep until either 5, 6, or 7. It's been crazy, this jet-lag thing but I know it will only take a couple of more days and we should be good as new. It's just been the girls in the house because the boys in the house don't seem to have a problem with it. Troy Jr did the first and second night but seems to be on track again. Troy had a issue too but he's sleeping better in the wee morning hours than we are. I know it will all work out eventually. Today is the 22^nd, my Mom's birthday and I can't even call her or email her. Along with everything else that has gone on, our cell service with AT&T ended on the 21^st. We still haven't gotten internet yet and aren't sure when that will be happening. The Finnish people have some sort of law that you must have an I.d. # to get service here for just about anything, so we have to wait for the Embassy to take care of it for us. Who knows how long that will take. I received yesterday, 21^st, my new sim card for my phone but it doesn't work because we have to get a pin # and Troy didn't have it so that's all we are waiting on for that. The television service here sucks, because they have one or two English speaking channels and it's not worth the money (Euros) to get it, so we have to figure out what we are going to do on that end. JP, our sponsor says there are ways to work around that. All in all, everything is coming along but slowly. It's OK, we are together and that's all that counts. Trust me, it could be a lot worse.

July 22^nd, 2011

Still fighting this sleep deprivation. It's crazy how long it takes to get over it. We have also realized that we are not only getting use to the jet-lag but also the heat in the house. In Finland they don't put A/C's in their homes because there is only two months out of the year that are really hot and coming from Florida & Louisiana it's really not that hot, so everyone here opens up there house and let's nature do it's thing. It's great and all, and we would do that but the only problem with that is we have to wait until our 2 wk shipment gets here with our screen that we purchased before leaving the states. They don't believe in screens on their homes here either. That is definitely a problem for us. I guess that's what happens when you are from the good ole USA, the land of the spoiled. You tend to not like change too much from what you are accustomed to. I think we've adapted pretty well so far. We have been here 3 fulls days and it hasn't been too bad with the exception of no sleep so nothing more than that to complain about. Everything is going good and we all seem to love it so far. Can't wait to venture out tomorrow. We are going pick strawberries with a few others from the Embassy so that should be quite interesting.

July 25^th, 2011

Today is Monday, where do I start.

On Saturday we were suppose to go pick strawberries but Rebekah from the Embassy called us on Friday afternoon to tell us the farmer informed her that they weren't ready to be picked, so they would have to cancel. There is always next time. We decided to make a plan to go into the city and venture out and just go wherever our feet took us.

The day came like any other day so far here in Finland. Not a very restful night's sleep but it is getting better. The children were up during the night and of course so was Mommy, but we managed to get a little more sleep to keep us alert of the day ahead. We all got ready and we were out the door by 10am heading to our nearest Metro station, a 5 min walk from our house. We all got on the metro station and headed to the city. When we got there, we took a Tram (train), almost like a trolley car but closed up, to the harbor. Where there is an open market, shopping center and all sorts of interesting things to purchase. We just loved walking up and down the walkway next to the harbor where the boats were, watching the fisherman selling right off their boat what they just caught. The area also had 4 huge cruise ships docked there. It was all so much to take in but so neat and very interesting to us all. Chloe was fascinated as well. Especially with all the sites, smells and sounds everywhere. She asked us about a million questions but it was OK because we certainly enjoyed it all and just being together experiencing all these new things was certainly priceless. It was simply amazing. When all was said and done, we had a very long day in the city, walking everywhere. It was time to get some very tired children back home. We got home in the late afternoon, bathed, had supper and just vegged out on the sofa watching “Clifford the Big Red Dog”, probably for the 100^th time since we don't have television yet. We've been here almost a week and apparently the Finnish people do everything by social security number. We are diplomats so it takes longer to do anything or get any services done because they first have to go through the office of Foreign Ministries to get all of our passports checked and then go through a little more red tape, I guess, before anything can be done. So we sit and wait. The last week hasn't been too bad, but the little (simple) things in life, such as internet, television and phone when not available, or accessible to you, you definitely appreciate them a lot more and count your blessings when you do have them. It's another eye opening experience to you when you don't have something that you are accustomed to having. It makes you stop and think, that's for sure. We are hoping to have the internet this week, we pray.

On Sunday, we didn't go to the same spot but we did find a store equivalent to the Walmart/Target back in the states. It's called K CityMarket and it has just about anything and everything you need. We had to pick up a few things and a good thing it was a few, especially when you we're on foot and all we have for storage is the bag/net underneath the stroller. We managed and everything worked out well. It's been nice to walk around and see all the things we've seen so far. We can't wait to venture out more, it's going to be great to see more new and exciting things. Until then, we'll get back to you on updates.

July 26, 2011

Exactly one week today we've been in Finland. Not too bad for our first week but our sweet baby boy has been teething the last couple of nights so last night wasn't a better night of sleep but I really can't complain because at least I'm getting to sleep some. We were planning to wake up the 4 of us and all go together to the Embassy with Troy to work but when Troy woke up early, I decided against it because Chloe woke me up a little before that and I felt like I had just fallen back asleep. Then, I heard Chloe and her daddy talking so I changed my mind and decided to get up. Got myself ready and then the children and we were off and out the door around 7:30am.

For me it has been so interesting when going out and about when we do. We walked to the metro station and right when we got to the entrance, two security guards were escorting 5 men out from what seemed to be a night of drinking. That is one thing they don't tolerate over here. Drinking/disturbances on the metro. They will definitely kick you out quickly. I just told Troy the other day, I've read about the European way of partying/drinking, having fun, but this took it to another level for me. Every time we've gone out, no matter the time of the day, seriously no matter the time, you are bound to see a couple of drunks here and there. To me it was just not like seeing the same thing back in the states, like New Orleans/Bourbon St. It was actually a shocker for me but it's OK because it was just a moment in time and a very interesting one at that. We got off the metro and took a tram the rest of the way to Troy's work. While riding in the tram with it's open glass, it's so nice to be able to see the city out of the window and what beautiful sights to see. The waters of the harbor engulf the city, just a few steps in any direction it's within sight. It's really beautiful and very soothing.

A little history I learned on my own:

Most of the buildings in the city date back to the 1800's. They have that traditional rustic charm to them. Such character and you can tell that the Finnish people take very good care of their things. Everything is clean and upkeep is regular. The Finns are very quiet, shy people. They keep to themselves, and are very reserve. However, they don't hesitate to help when you are in need. Finnish is the language spoken, but most people here do speak English. Although, it's pretty funny but Troy & I have been spoken to in Finnish several times since we're here. We've thought it was because the blonde haired children we have but we were wrong, apparently we look like the Finnish people but I guess you could look like anyone over here. There is definitely just about every nationality you can think of here and an Embassy here from almost every place in the world. Just up the street from the U.S. Embassy, is about 4 that I was told about. The U.S. Embassy is an older building, it's the typical American red brick, colonial structure that sets them apart from the other Embassies and buildings in that area. The Ambassador's residence is beautiful and is among the gardens and parks of Kaivopuisto, and overlooks the entrance to Helsinki's south Harbor. From what I'm told the Embassy has a long and distinguished history and I can't wait to learn all about it. Also, Finland is Europe's largest archipelago and most heavily forested country. About 75% of Finland is covered by forests, 10% of it is covered by water. There are approximately 190,200 lakes and about 180,000 islands in Finland, which one of them we live on. (Kulosaari)

So after all was done, I had got a chance to get onto the computer, email family and pay some bills. A little catching up but far from it. It's going to be a while before I can really catch up. I did what I could and then Troy took us to lunch. We ended up getting some medicine for Troy Jr. after and then headed for the bus that has a bus stop conveniently near our house. Troy saw us off as we got on the bus and about 15 mins we were back home. It's been tricky trying to figure out the transportation system as it's in Finnish. If we had internet we'd be able to map out a trip planner and do it in English but that's not going to happen here at the house. Troy has been planning his trips to work, on the computer at work and all has been working for him so far. Another day down and another one well on it's way. Until then!!

July 27^th, 2011

Today was just like any other day. Got up we all had breakfast, got dress for our day and sat around and didn't do much of anything at first. The children both went down for naps after their lunch and I started laundry and cleaning up around here. Trying to get ourselves ready for the first of many days of unpacking. Our first shipment hadn't gotten here yet but we are expecting it this week sometime, no later than next week. We will unpack that shipment and then of course, get the house straight, clean and all ready for the rest of our stuff and have to do it all over again. The joys of a government job and living abroad. I definitely have been blessed that we haven't had to do much in the packing department. That has always been one less headache for us. We thank God for all of our many blessings.

July 28^th, 2011

We are having our first thunderstorm since we've been here. It rained a couple of nights back but it wasn't as hard as it's raining now. We were planning to go to the market to get a few things but I guess that will have to be put off for now. Not sure how long it will rain but I'm not taking any chances going anywhere on foot. Troy and I have decided more than likely we will be looking into getting a vehicle. Co-workers keep telling Troy that he'll probably want to get one because when winter comes it will be brutal trying to walk anywhere at long periods of time especially with the children. I hate that we might have to because I was looking forward to saving the money that we'd be saving. Troy said he figured it all out and it won't be too bad. Thank God we are reimbursed the VAT (Value Added Tax). It's a good part we'll be able to save because the Euro is so high right now and things are rather expensive.

Troy Jr seems to be feeling better, he's not lethargic today but was the last couple of days. He was very hard to comfort because we thought it was just one tooth cutting through but it was two and one on the way. I'd be upset too if I had that many at one time. My poor baby boy. He and his sister are playing right now as I type this blog. I love watching them together. They are so cute and adorable. You can tell that they truly love each other. They play well together and as any brother or sister, have their moments. It's Mommy time, time for me to get there lunch together and so I say, until next time.

Children fed lunch, Troy Jr napping now and CoCo is playing with her V-Reader while I watch a DVD on the computer. It's been one rather quiet, boring day.

July 29^th, 2011

Very cool crisp morning. We were planning to go into the city to venture out by ourselves, but Troy left this morning for work with his cellphone. He's been leaving it with us because I still don't have a cellphone and I'd rather have one before the children and I venture out by ourselves. I just have a feeling that I will get lost a couple of times before I find my way around. I guess we are going to find something to do around the house like going to the park or playing in the yard. Compared to yesterday, today is such a beautiful, sunny day. We ended up getting some more rain in the afternoon so there was no going outside today. It's OK because Troy Jr was still not feeling well and we were just exhausted from have such a long boring day that all worked out, I guess.

August 2^nd, 2011

The last couple of days have been absolutely gorgeous. Sun is out shining and it's been cool & breezy. We've thoroughly enjoyed the weather here. The house has been opened up and it's been so nice to have such a change from the humidity back in FL that we endured for so long. A great change.

Today seems to be a quiet day for us so far. Troy Jr still hasn't been feeling well so I decided to go to the Embassy yesterday to have the nurse check him out. We ended up having to get an appointment at the local clinic there because the nurse wanted him to see a pediatrician so that he'd get the proper care. Troy went back to work, so Chloe, Troy Jr and I hung out around the Embassy grounds to kill time until his appointment. We got to the clinic and I was really nervous because he'd been sick for so long, I just thought it was going to be bad, like bronchitis or pneumonia but my worries were for nothing at all. Thank God!! He just has a really bad cold, and he's congested. The pediatrician didn't give him anything because he said his body just has to fight off the infection by itself. It could take a while so I guess he'll be better soon because he's been sick for a while now. I certainly hope so. I just hate it when my children are sick. I'm sure he like the rest of us are all trying to get accumulated to this country and he just so happened to get sick right before we got here. Today is exactly 2 wks we've been here. WOW!! It just flew by. It's really been a great 2 wks so far. We've already learned a lot and it hasn't been too bad traveling on the buses, metro and trams. It's actually been fun and exciting to see new things and just ride around the city seeing all the sites. We are just going to lay low today and not do too much. We had a rather long day yesterday and I'd rather stay close to home today. We'll send more updates later on. Until then, have a fabulous day.

August 4^th, 2011

Today was like Christmas for the Fontenots here in Finland. We got our first shipment (UAB) out of customs and it was delivered to us today. It's the air freight that comes two wks after we've arrived and then our household shipment will be here in another 4 to 6 weeks. That would be the rest of our household things. I was so especially excited to see the diapers, because we were down to our last 5, boy did we cut it close. I was so glad that we didn't have to buy any here, at least not for a while. They are really expensive here and I'd like not to have to buy them here but I know that day is coming soon enough. We also set up the playroom in the open area on top the stairs. It worked out awesome and of course Chloe & Troy Jr loved it the minute they started playing. We had most of their toys in this shipment so you know they were really excited about that also. Everything seems to be coming together pretty good and we are settling in one day at a time. I told Troy just the other day, we will feel all settled and comfortable, and then boom, here is the rest of our house to organize all over again. LOL!! We laughed because this we know as our life. It's wonderful too. We are all in good place and all seems to be well now.

August 5^th, 2011

The children and I went into the city to meet Troy, and some of his co-workers for lunch. We went to the bus stop on time and of course the bus was late. There was another bus that showed up so we took it but I knew it would stop at central station where we could catch a tram the rest of the way to meet them. I was so proud of myself, did all that on my own without having to call Troy and bother him at work. I know he says it's no bother but I seem to be calling him a lot lately. LOL!! We have gone out a lot on our own but still no pictures because my camera isn't with us here. It was one of the things that we shipped and I so wish I wouldn't have made that mistake. I still can't believe I didn't bring it with me, I'm so mad at myself for that. We have taken a few pictures here and there with our cameras on our old phones but as for better looking pictures, of course we are going to have to wait until we get our good camera. We met the guys, had lunch, then the children and I went for a lovely, long stroll down the street, passing through a beautiful park, lots of window shopping, and then off to the park that I brought them to the other day in the city. It's a huge park that is beautiful and has a lot of sand for the children to play with and in. Chloe had fun just piling up lots of sand in some buckets she found. She told me it was her special “ice cream” that she was making. That kid has an imagination and it's wonderful too. We stayed there for about an hour and then off to another bus stop that I wasn't too familiar with. I called Troy to get the time and off we were to the next stop. OMG!!!!!!!!! What a nightmare. We got on the bus, it was just the three of us, well of course the bus driver too. So that should have told me something there, but it didn't. We got to the end of the road near the water and the bus stopped. The doors open, and then the driver looks at me and says something in Finnish and I respond to him by saying, I only speak English, and then he puts his hand out, as if to tell me to get off of the bus. I was a bit surprised, so I asked him, I have to get off, and he shakes his head, yes. Then all of a sudden, I began to get scared. I had no idea where I was, I was with my children and no where to go. I hadn't really gotten use to the bus schedule, only the ones that went from central station to the house. Troy and I knew it was the bus to take us home but had no idea that was the end of the line and they parked themselves at the end of the road and just hung out for “time catch up” to stick to their scheduled times. I just so happened to get on the bus that waits about 10 mins and then starts up the route again. OMG!! I called Troy freaking out and almost in tears but I calmed down and realized that this would probably be the first of many. I think I was more upset because it look like we got dropped off in the middle of no where, it mostly looked like the warehouse district of Helsinki. We were surrounded by lots and lots of huge warehouse buildings and a few looked vacant. The buses were down the road so I felt a little safer but there for a minute is when I felt out of place. I felt better when I called Troy and we figured all this out. I just wasn't in a comfortable place and needed help to find it. LOL!! I did get myself straight again and we were back in business, getting back on the same bus that drove us to the bus stop near our home.

We stopped in at the park on the way home. Chloe played for a little while in the big sand box, then a girl about Chloe's age came over and started talking to her in Finnish. Chloe just talks back in English and her mother & I from two different benches just watched as our children played together. This is when I learned that between children there is no language barrier. They understand play no matter what. The two of them had a ball. They laughed together, played on the slide, and swung on the swings, and enjoyed each and every moment they had together. It didn't matter what language they spoke, they knew what the deal was. Our day ended up being a really nice one.

August 7^th, 2011

It is 9am here in Helsinki and I've been up and down since 4:45am. Our son just didn't want to sleep for some reason this morning but after a little fight here and there, he's still sleeping now. As a matter of fact, so is his big sister. She woke up early this morning too and I told her it was too early to be up and to go back to bed, and she did. That's our morning so far.

We had some people over yesterday that Troy works with. John, JP, Hunter, and Hunter's girlfriend, Alyssa. They are very nice and we had a nice time. Troy wanted to barbeque on his new pit that we had shipped out here, so we decided to invite a few people and we are so glad that we did. It turned out to be a nice visit with everyone and despite a little rain the barbeque pit did the job. Everything was delicious and Troy also cooked a jambalaya, so we had plenty of food but the best part about it was that we didn't have a whole lot left. I hate having a lot of leftovers, so it worked out very well.

When we first got to Finland almost three weeks ago, we discovered that there was a pretty nice size sandbox in our yard. The sand was dirty and the wood closure needed to be worked on a little, so yesterday afternoon before our guests came over, JP came over to pick Troy up and they took off for the hardware store to get some more sand, and a shovel. They came back with the sand and a few other items, problem when they got back, it was raining pretty hard, so Troy had to hold off on doing anything with the box. Chloe still didn't know that was what her Daddy was going to the store for. We knew she'd be waiting for this day forever, so we decided to wait and tell her when he had gotten it all cleaned up. Later that afternoon in between cooking, and the rain stopping, Troy went laid out the new sand after cleaning the old, and weeding it also. It came out so good and Chloe was so excited when he was finished. She stayed in it for a while and had a ball. The weather has been awesome, with the exception of the rain yesterday. We certainly have been outside more than we've been inside. It's not cold, it's just cool & breezy. All else is well and I believe today will be another outside day.

August 8^th, 2011

WOW!!!! Troy Jr is 14 months today, and it still seems like I just had him. He's growing really fast before our eyes. Since getting to Finland, three more teeth have come out. He's on his way to walking any day now. He just doesn't want to let go right now. He's still growing to trust himself but he's so cute and adorable doing it.

We had some rain come through early in the morning, so that's why it's so much cooler than usual. I know I've stressed this through my journal entries a lot but we absolutely love this weather. I know we probably won't be saying the same when the snow gets here but the cool, crisp air is definitely a nice change from the hot, sticky humid weather back in Florida. Troy rode his bicycle for the first time to work today and he said it was great. It only took him 18 mins and that was shorter than his normal bus ride there. He said he definitely did enjoy his bike ride and can't wait to do it all over again tomorrow.

Tomorrow, the big day, we've been waiting 3 long weeks for it, we get our internet hooked up, hopefully. LOL!! We'll see sometime tomorrow, not sure how the Finns do it, but they are suppose to come out here and hook us up. Until then, we'll hopefully be up and running, and able to keep updating you all on our lives here in Finland. Talk to you all again very soon.

August 9^th, 2011

The big day is finally here, and it's 2:20pm here in the afternoon, and of course we aren't up and running yet. Don't suppose it will happen until late, they work very slow around here. I guess we'll see soon enough. I will go for now but not for too long.

I'm back later in the evening jotting down a few things to say about the day that has passed before I'm off to bed. The internet didn't come on as planned, and no one showed up like they said someone would. Not a huge surprise to me, oh well, what's one more day when you've been waiting weeks. Then Troy had to work late this evening so he's still at work and it's almost 10pm. I'm definitely not waiting up for him, he could be a while still. They have important visitors coming in soon and they have to get everything in tip top shape so they are going to be busting a little butt before then.

I just need to go to bed because I want to definitely sleep this day away. It was too long and nothing seemed to go right today. I'm going to bed, say my prayers and pray that tomorrow is a better one. Thanks for listening. Goodnight

August 10^th, 2011

At approximately 3:30 this morning, I was awoken by the loudest and most powerful thunderstorm that I believe I've ever heard in my life. It was so loud that I thought it was in our room. It didn't last very long but the rain has been non-stop ever since. It is 10:30 and it's still raining. I can only assume this is Finland's rainy season because it's rained every day since Saturday afternoon. We still don't have internet and Troy is suppose to be taking care of that today at the Embassy. Hopefully we'll have it this evening or tomorrow. I guess it's just playing the waiting game again. The children and I are up watching the rain fall outside and some DVDs on the computer. Nothing too exciting today until something changes, have a wonderful day.

August 12^th, 2011

Two more days have past and still no internet. We are just playing the waiting game right now because the company, Sonera says they are working on the problem because apparently there is a glitch in the system and they are trying to correct the problem as best they can and as soon as possible. I look at it this way, we've had no internet for 3 wks and 3 days, what's a few more days, or weeks. Who's counting.... me, I guess. LOL!! At this point I'm just trying to stay positive and keep an open mind about it all. I just think of others out there that don't even get that luxury in life and thank God that we are able to get it at all. I will just be very grateful when we do get it.

With all the rain we've been having since Saturday, it's been rather frustrating with all that is going on, having to stay home, with both children and nothing much to do. CoCo and I have been playing some games and we've been doing that while Troy Jr takes his naps, all three of us have had some cabin fever. Yesterday we took advantage of a break in the rain, and took off for the bus stop to go into the city. We were told of a place that had the bounce houses for children underground and have been wanting to bring them but never had the chance so I took the opportunity to do it while we were out. We got off at the metro station that we were told we should and that we'd find it pretty good from there. I had a little trouble because of course I had to collect myself, because I had no clue where we were. Then after a phone call to Troy at work and a stroll down the block, I started to recognize where I was and then here came the rain. Luckily it was lunch time and we were near a McDonalds, we zipped right in and didn't get but a few drops before the downpour. We were lucky and had a nice lunch while watching the rain come down outside. We finished and the rain didn't seem to be letting up, so I took a chance that we'd find the place pretty quickly. We had to cross the street and a few tracks where the tram passes and then across a cobblestone lot that lead to the place where we were headed. Of course it's still raining and I'm trying to keep Chloe and Troy Jr dry while steering the stroller and holding the umbrella. It was difficult but I did it and we were out of the rain in about 10 mins. Then we took the elevator down to the bounce house place. Chloe had no idea because I told her it was a surprise. Her face was absolutely priceless whenever we opened the doors to get in. She was so excited and we actually spent over 4 hours there. It was great, the place was huge and wasn't crowded at all. Another great find for the children. The day ended up being really nice, the rain had stopped, and we got to the bus stop, and only had a few minutes to wait for the next bus and was back home in about 10 mins from getting on that bus. I'm so glad that we got out of the house. What a great day it was.

The internet company just came by and they are working on the cable line, phone line and whatever they need to work on to help us out. The Finns are really wonderful people even though they are slow as molasses. We should be up and running very shortly and I am so excited. Thought this day would never get here. LOL!! Until next time.... see you online. ;)