The most striking difference, of course, is the lack of sunlight in winter. In Vietnam, we rarely think about taking vitamin D every day during winter. It’s a stark reminder of how much our bodies rely on that natural sunlight. I’ve found myself reaching for supplements and even a SAD lamp to keep spirits high. But beyond the initial shock of the darkness and cold, there’s a unique beauty to the Finnish winter. The crisp air, the snow-laden trees, and the quiet stillness that descends upon everything create a truly magical atmosphere.
My biggest mission in winter in Finland has been to ensure that my daughter experiences it to the fullest, turning what could be a dreary season into a wonderland of activities. Back in Vietnam, snow was something we only saw in movies. Here, it’s our playground.
We’ve embraced ice skating. My daughter anticipates winter coming sooner every year to see the snow and go ice skating again.
After ice skating, we proceeded to try skiing. I must confess that my daughter is learning much faster than I am. I actually gave up on the first day. That is the beauty of moving to a new environment: it opens up doors to new “firsts” that we never expected. The long winter in Finland is no longer a fear, but an opportunity for discovery and family bonding.
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