Aho Family ♥ 说说咪咪熊家 ♥ Perhe Aho

3 years old

2009-02-08T13:21:00.008+02:00

No excuse, it's time to update this blog...

Bobo is officially 3 years, 1 month, 1 week and 5 days old; or 4 years old in Chinese calendar :-) We decided to keep her in the same group which she has been belonging to for under 3 years old kids. Hopefully by this year we will be able to move to new house, so anyway she would need to switch to a new daycare.

The group daycare Bobo stays was converted to a normal daycare during last summer. This means with the same space, more kids and nursery staff are put in. It was said the community was running out of daycares, many children were not able to find daycare places.

As for the financial crisis which everybody is talking about, I have to say that I haven't experienced too much yet in Finland. Bobo's dad laughed and said to me "Because you are not unemployed, YET".

Nowadays everybody is on Facebook, I realised how small the world is. I can always pump into someone that my friends know... Haha :-D

In addtion to our new year trip to Shanghai, we made another trip to Stockholm to see Bobo's cousins' family. Of course another reason was for cheap candy in the ferry. Or not cheap let's say less expensive candy. And winter discounts in Stockholm. The exchange rate between Euro and Swedish krona has been favouring us to find bargains in Sweden. As I always say, "Shopping is one thing I can do really well". hmm, next shopping wish is to upgrade my camera.

Bobo and cousin

Baking

Cream tasting

Game moment

2008 Summer Part 5 (Beijing 2008)

2008-09-29T14:29:00.004+03:00

2008 has been a tough year for China, to show our support we decided to attend Beijing 2008 Olympic games. The ticket ordering process has been extreme long. From November 2007 ticket reservation, to July 2008 it took more than 8 months waiting. Finally we received the tickets the last day of July. Wau! Finnish Traveling Bureau indeed had kept their words in delivering the ticket in July :-)

Bobo has got her own seats! Very exciting...

We watched 8.22 Men's basketball semi final, USA-Argentina and Spain-Lithuanian. 8.23 Athletics.

Great games! Finnish Javelining team got bronze medal, where gold medal was taken by Norwegian team. Three Finnish players are listed at No.3, 4, 5... Well done!

Men's semi-final basketball USA-Argentina

Price list in food service point at WuKeSong Basket Stadium

Proud Bobo climbed The Great Wall (mostly on her own)

Meet the favorite mascot FuWa Nini

Bird Nest from far

Close look at Bird Nest

Inside of Bird Nest

Colorful Water Cubic

2008 Summer Part 4 (Moomin World)

2008-09-29T14:09:00.003+03:00

Bobo is a big fan of Moomins, the favorite character is Moomin Papa. Some friend once asked what is actually Moomin? They look like hippos, but they are not. The stories of Moomin Valley is not only educational for children but also for adults.

Finally we visited Moomin World. Unfortunately, there were too many kids during our visit in Nantali. Few pictures turned out good...

Moomin Mama

Bobo's favourite Moonin Papa

One more kiss

Play in the cool water

Typical Finnish summer with blue sky

Until next summer...

2008 Summer Part 3 (Party Time)

2008-09-29T13:42:00.006+03:00

This week's weather has been quite nice, though sun has not been shining the whole week, but less rain than I expected. Bobo's grandparents said Shanghai is still hot, sometimes can be about 30C. What a long summer starts in May, ends inSeptember. Is global warming to blame?

In Finland, summer always full of activities, such as summer parties, weddings, church confirmation, graducation, gatherings and so on.

August Maarit had her confirmation ceremony in Kurikka church, which symbols the start of her adulthood.

Big trampoline immediately attracted Bobo

A break after fun jump

Hard fun continoues

2008 Summer Part 2 (Machinery Exhibition)

2008-09-29T12:45:00.012+03:00

July we visited Daddy's friend's place in North Finland for local machinery exhibition. One weekend fare has attracted ten of thousands of machinery enthusiasts around the country. Hundreds of war time tractors, motorbikes, cars, farming equipment were gathering to show their glories.

Bobo tried an old sewing machine

Old fashion bike with solid rubber tires

Meet the GIANT teddy in the farm house we stayed

Widely used old tractor

Bobo had her first helicopter ride with Daddy and Daddy's friend

2008 Summer Part 1 (Mid-Summer in Sweden)

2008-07-03T20:55:00.003+03:00

Lazy Mammy is back to action... My evening study started few weeks ago, it's getting busy again :-(

Wet is typical Finnish autumn, so far this year we have been lucky that it hasn't rained too much. But this summer could be one of the worst summers. While winter is just on the corner, I started to think how did our summer go?

June: Mid-Summer we went to Sweden and visited Bobo's cousins living in Stockholm. It was the first time Bobo took big ferry.

Siljaline

Muumi Pap and Pikky My were on board too, what a surprose!

Skansen in Stockholm

Happy kids in Skansen

Happy faimily

Peacock

Old church in Skansen

Traditional Swedish costume

Festival mood even for horse

Royal guard changing in Stockholm

A week training in Oslo

2008-06-09T00:15:00.011+03:00

I am not sure my learning results in Oslo after a week staying there. Certainly I enjoyed the sunny days in a country so called the world's best living place on Earch ;-P

"Warned" Bobo, without proper teeth brushing, following will be the result...

(Vikings?)

The main church under rap, I wonder how many kilometers of plastic it used?

(Main church of Oslo)

Beautiful new Oslo opera house, bit like Beijing Olympic swimming hall?

(Inside of opera hall)

(Beijing national aquatic centre)

Children' exhibition April 2008 - Helsinki

2008-06-08T23:27:00.012+03:00

It was said over 55,000 people visited during 3 day of children' exhibition 2008 in Helsinki. It's quite a number in such a small country like Finland :-) Bobo and Atte (my schoolmate's son) certainly enjoyed it.

Wau! Mammy hasn't even got many chances to ride a motorbike, don't even mention a police motorbike. Envy!

(Bobo on "bike")

Pet exhibition is also part of children's exhibition. Lots of rabbits were on show, I didn't know they are such hot items for pet lovers.

(Bobo and Atte)

What a pity, we missed the dog show. It was the day before, today is the cat show. Indeed quite many of cats. Lucky we did find one dog who is the spokes-dog for one brand of dog biscuit.

(Kitty, kitty, kitty)

(Bobo, Atte and mens' best friend)

Isn't nice to enjoy some free juice after or?

Summer again

2008-06-08T22:26:00.007+03:00

Lazy, lazy and lazy...

My evening business study just finished last week, then realized how lazy I have been. It's been about 3 months since last blog update :-( Have to catch up...

This photo was taken in March at the lot where there were still lots of snow. "Happy Nut Bobo" is growing well :-) I shouldn't say this as Chinese custom may not like, but since our last December's Australia trip, Bobo hasn't been on a single sick leave. Her noses were running every now and then, but they came and went. Well done and hope she won't get sick soon either...

(March in the lot)

Bobo has been looking forward to reach her bike pedal, now she is able to do so. However it's still bit difficult to actually cycling. I have promised to get her a 14' bike this summer.

Though not moving forward with the bike, the hoses are quite nicely set :-)

(Beginning of May in the lot)

Otherwise a trip in Mammy's bike seems to be boring...

(Back seat of Mammy's bike)

Helsinki children museum

2008-03-19T10:14:00.019+02:00

The Easter is just on the corner, also means spring is getting closer and closer :-P Last Saturday Helsinki Children Museum had yearly Easter happening, where kids and parents came to make their own Easter decorations.

The museum is not that big with 5 rooms filled with some historical photos, farm animal models such as horse, cow, pig, birds, bugs and so on. Opposite of the museum there is a horse stable. In such a snowing day, horses were staying outside. I wonder whether they feel cold or not?

Bobo was extremely happy, "touch this and touch that".

(heppa)

(let me try)

(bird watcher)

(enjoy the ride)

Chicks, bunnies, eggs, green grass are typical Easter decorations. During the Easter season, people love to buy seeds and growing the grass, then put own favorite decorations. Or get Narcissus flowers eagerly waiting for its booming. Yellow and green are Easter's colors.

It's another marketing season for candy in the supermarket after the Christmas. Different kinds of chocolate bunnies, chocolate eggs filling the shelves. During the Easter weekends, kids would bring along Easter decoration made by themselves visiting door to door. While singing traditional Easter song they wave the Easter decoration branches to symbol getting rid of all evil spirits. After that they are expected to get candies in exchanging of their decoration.

There are special food dedicated for Easter, such as mämmiä, lamb...

(I help you mammy)

(sweat chic family)

(decration branch)

(handwork)

Books

2008-03-11T09:04:00.006+02:00

It's our desires to let Bobo read more, since I haven't done that enough myself :(

Like most Finnish kids, Bobo loves Muumi World, Micky and Friends, Winne the Pooh, Maisy the Mouse and Hucle Cat and Lowly Worm (Mato Matala in Finnish) . Sometime I am amazed how creative the books are! They teach kids about almost every subject in the life, such as colors, shapes, numbers, words, objects, daily life activities, religious, scientific, natures and so on. I always believe it's the best way to learn by combing with books and real life. You can see how excited kids are, when they are reading something they love! It's also important to show your emotions (happiness, proud...) to kids once they have achieved something.

Bobo loves Muumi puzzle books, though she cannot yet finish the whole jigsaw on her own. One day we were in the book store, she pointed me those bigger puzzle games and said, "these are not too difficult to Anniina" :-P heheeee.

Recently, we have been reading a lot about Maisy the Mouse. Interactive books, you can drag, you can rotate. It is absolutely fun!

Check this book out! I bought it from a book sale... It's about Maisy's home, the whole book has only 2 pages which makes up 3 rooms of Maisy's house; the kitchens, the bath room and the bed room. You can tight the front and back covers to build a 360 degree room space. There are additional small paper objects, like plates, towel, clothes etc you can just put into the book slots. It's like a doll house but made of paper. You can play it connecting with daily life, isn't it a wonderful book?

Bobo seems to think Muumis should live there too.

(Kitchens)

(Bathroom)

(Bedroom)

别动 (don't move) !

2008-03-10T14:30:00.004+02:00

Long time no see...

I haven't forgotten my little blog yet, just because I have been SO busy. Gosh, finally it is getting better after February project manager exam. Now I am officially a certified international project manager (level C) :-P http://www.ipma.ch/certification/Pages/default.aspx

With my evening business studies have only 2 courses to go, I already can see the sunshine bursting out from the dark winter.

Bobo has developed dramatically on her language skill. She is able to communicate with Daddy in Finnish quite well. Chinese seems to be a big challenge. She hasn't been keen to speak in it. I have been encouraged her to at least say some simple words, like 苹果, 西瓜, 桔子, 葡萄, 芒果, 巧克力, 冰淇凌. These are the things she love to eat. I have emphasized if she says these words in Finnish in Shanghai, 外婆 won't understand so you won't get any of them. Usually after that she is happy to repeat them.

Our apartment is a four floor building, we live in the second floor. Each time going out and coming back, we are worrying about the stairs. Constantly I have been telling Bobo, don't move I will carry you. If you fell, you will get "Pipi" (hurt in kids slang).

Last Saturday coming back from library and shopping, Bobo suddenly said to me "别动" (don't move in Chinese). At first I wasn't sure what the word was exactly, then she repeated "别动" and started to climb the stairs. At the same time she looked at me to make sure that I don't follow her, what I always been doing while she climbs the stairs. I decided to let her have a go, though wasn't sure if she can make it. With one hand tightly holding on the railing, Bobo finally reached the second floor. "Jiippi!" I cheered. Bobo gave a happy big smile in return.

Some new year thoughts

2008-01-03T11:14:00.000+02:00

Another year has passed... I really feel after age of 26 time really flies.

Some "small" hopes or maybe call them as my 2008 desires.

Hope BOBO has another health and happy growth year. But don't grow too fast, Mammy misses your times between 0-2 years. Every one says this age is the cutest period of a baby.
Also hope my parents in Shanghai healthy and long life (very typical Chinese thinking). Do what ever they want, eat what ever they like! Daddy's business has a real development and achievements.
Today is the second day at new working place. Thought it is just an internal rotation, most of the new colleagues are unknown. The business areas are totally unknown too. Luckily the journey to office is shorter, so BOBO won't wait till the last to be picked. I miss the old office, because people there are really nice and I have been working there exactly 8 years. Hope all go well at new work place, get familiar with the work smoothly and quickly. Finally hope to get bit raise in the salary ;-P
Hope our Marathon house project is going end, or at least we will move in this year. I am dreaming of celebrating 2008 Christmas and Bobo's third Birthday next to our own warm fire place, decorating own Christmas tree and making a full Christmas meal.
Hope Tuomo gets his "Dream Position"!
Hope all the best with my studies. Easily pass Project Manager IPMA level C certification exam, receive evening business study diploma, continue improving Finnish skill and pass third level test!
Hope to get a decent car by the autumn, not dreaming of BMW, MERCEDES, AUDI, TOYOTA or MAZDA will just do.
Hope to get tickets to 2008 Beijing Olympic games.
Finally hope our home full of sweat loves! Forget all the unpleasant in 2007 and waiting all the best in 2008...

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-21T15:08:00.000+02:00

圣诞快乐!
Hyvää Joulua!
Merry Christmas!
God Jul och Gott Nytt År!
Selamat Hari Natal dan Tahun Baru!

Blue mountains

2007-12-20T11:43:00.001+02:00

Compare to mountains in China, the blue mountains are less spectacular. However it is still a wonderful get away from the city like Sydney. During the week people are busy for work and school, at weekend they can take 2 hours train to enjoy the nature.

Blue mountains are 300 meters above the ground level. It consist of number of tropic hiking tracks. There is also tourist hop on-off bus available. You can choose any hiking path you want deep into the mountains, the hiking may take from 45 minutes to 2 hours. If you feel tired, you can always hop on the bus to the next spot. The bus runs every 30 minutes intermediately.

The blue mountains are famous for its peak "Three Sisters".

(The three sisters)

There are 3 types of cable cars going into and across the valley. You can also access the mining location via the cable car.

(Water falls)

(Blue mountains)

A nice camping and hiking get away.

Melbourne

2007-12-20T11:11:00.000+02:00

Mammy's Malaysia exchange buddy Marie family lives in Melbourne. This time shall pay a visit to them too :-)

Melbourne locates at south of Sydney, 1 hour flight away. It is considered as the culture and sports center of Australia. Each year Australia Opens and F1 car tracing are held here. Melbourne and Sydney are called as "rivalries" ;-) Perhaps it is bit like Shanghai and Beijing? That's why Australia sets its capital Canberra out of nowhere but in the MIDDLE of Sydney and Melbourne to ease the tension :-)

(View from airplane to Melbourne)

Marie family live in new suburb of Melbourne. Car journey to the city center takes about 30 minutes. This living area is brand new, most of the houses are just constructed. There are still quite a few under construction. It is wonderful to have own house! Let me think of our own project, when will it be ready? Perhaps next Christmas???

(Australia style??)

For the first time in life, we tasted Kangaroo meat. Hmm, actually it tastes pretty much same like beef. What about reindeer's meat? Tuomo always says it tastes like wool socks (villasukat :-)

(Kangaroo dinner)

Any beautiful city must have water around, the same applies to Melbourne. High school canoe club is in action, very much British style.

(Melbourne "eye"?)

(City center runs through by the famous river)

It took 15 minutes for Bobo to get comfortable of the new thing "beach". This time it's real sand not play yard's sand box :-) In the end it was so fun and didn't want to leave...

(St. Kilda beach)

(Sea food)

As one of immigration country, of course you can always find China Town in each major cities of Australia.

(China town)

General to say, Melbourne is a city more European alike. It is much younger and newer and cheaper than Sydney. Melbourne's winter is colder too. Well, perhaps the only thing Sydney can be proud of is the weather.

Taronga Zoo

2007-12-20T10:28:00.000+02:00

Taronga zoo locates on one island near by the city center (same as Helsinki zoo Korkeasaari). From Circular Quay it takes about 15 minute ferry journey to reach. The zoo is designed that visitors walk from top of the island while enjoying the well kept animals. It has wild Australia, Asia and Africa etc. different parts. It's so well designed and brings lots of convince for the visitors, especially families with children. Cable cars are the fastest way to reach the top of the hill.

Because of the famous Koalas, Kangaroos and wombats, the entrance tickets are quite expensive. Even for a daily pass including ferry and cable car costs AUD44 (Euro25, RMB250) one person. It is good idea to plan for the whole day there.

(Ferry to Taronga zoo)

(Cable car to the top of the hill)

All the animals are fun to watch :-)

(Watching kangaroos)

(Baby giraffes)

(Chimps hiding under shades)

(Sleepy koala)

(Sydney city viewed from the zoo)

(Peaceful bay)

With lunch, snacks and resting stops, at the time the zoo is about to be closed we didn't even get chances to see newly comers - giant elephants. It is pity the zoo door closes too early at 6pm. Well, till next time...

Sydney

2007-12-20T09:46:00.000+02:00

Nini's mammy is my high school classmate and best friend, actually we shared the same table :-)
Few years ago, the whole family immigrated to Australia and settled down in Sydney. We seldom meet nowadays, the last time we saw each other was summer 2006 in Shanghai . Finally we are going to meet again...

Nini's home locates at Sydney north suburb area called Hornsby. It takes about 35 minutes by local express train from the city center.

Once you are in Sydney, of course you must visit the Sydney harbor. To my surprise, the opera house is actually yellowish. Often I saw pictures of it with white surface, perhaps because of the good lighting. I was told the outside surface is actually made of shells, that's why it is yellow.

(Bobo and Mammy)

Sydney city has very good rail system. You can access most of the places via metro and local railways. During rush hours they are packed with people for work. The ticket price is not cheap, rush hour ticket price is bit higher than other time of day. Therefore for travelers, it is the best to avoid that period time.

(Townhall's big Xmas tree)

David Jones is the biggest department store in Australia. During Xmas time, it establishes a Santa village for children to meet the Santa and take photos. But of course it is not free ;-) Since Santa lives in Finland, Bobo has many chances to meet him and receives gifts.

(Department store David Jone's Santa village)

(Street Kangaroo)

Sydney's city center is pretty much like other big cities with high skyscrapers, department stores, shopping complex and offices. And the city is not a cheap place to live either, a normal restaurant lunch menu costs about AUD30 (Euro18, RMB180). It is the most expensive city to live in Australia.

Summer sun is really strong, it is advised to apply UV30+ sun block before going out. Even the sun is behind the clouds, you still can feel the heat.

Little little traveller

2007-12-20T09:16:00.000+02:00

Less than 2 years old Bobo is already a pro-frequent flyer :-) Before she was born, Bobo has already traveled to France, Belgium, Holland and China (of course inside mammy's tummy :) Bobo had her first air voyage at age of 4 and half month. She went to Stockholm Sweden to visit cousins. In additional every year, Bobo goes to visit grandparents in Shanghai 2 to 3 times as well.

Mammy counted her passport's visas and stamps, hmmm... Bobo has already flew 16 times airplanes. Wooow, most of them were long haul cross continent flights.

Mammy recall her first flight was a short distance trip to nearby city via a propeller airplane at age of 12.

After this Christmas Bobo will turn to 2, Mammy and daddy decided to pay visit to Australia. Mainly to visit three good friends of Mammy, and enjoy some sunshine. As you know it is summer down there...

(little experienced traveler to AU)

Winter is here... Christmas is on the corner :-)

2007-11-13T22:31:00.000+02:00

Finally winter is here. We had some snow fall during the weekend, today's temperature is around zero degree. Hrrr... It is cold. Next time to enjoy light and warm sun will be in 5-6 months time.

Lately I have been busy with work and study, therefore didn't get much time playing with Bobo. Last Saturday was church holiday, our library session was canceled.

Suddenly Bobo found interests of listening Xmas kids songs. Muuma bought a CD as Christmas gift last year. Bobo has been requesting to play them. Tuomo said to Bobo "Anniina, you must be kind, then Santa Claus will bring you lots of gifts. " "Jooo, Lego!" Bobo replied. I wonder if she really knows who is Santa Claus?

Each Christmas I have to prepare many gift packages. It has not been easy, since there are quite a few similar age kids around us. Everyday birthday, nameday and Christmas, its the gift season. I am running out ideas what to buy? :-(

Soon Bobo will turn to 2 years old. Many people has said age between 1 to 2 is the best time for babies. After that, they develop their own wills. Wuuu, Mammy will miss this period of time...

(In the library)

(interesting...)

(little friend and Lego)

Name day

2007-10-22T19:07:00.000+03:00

Today is the name day for Anniina, Aniitta, Anja and Anita. Finnish people have a custom of celebrating of name days. To certain extend, it is even more important than a birthday.

Muuma (Grandmaa) has sent a package, Daddy bought a pack of sweat and a BIG drawing board...
:-P :-P :-P

Happy Name Day to Bobo!!!

F1

2007-10-22T00:08:00.000+03:00

Congratulations to Kimi!!!

Long time no see "Tontti"

2007-10-21T20:31:00.001+03:00

Another sunny day! After making some dumplings, I packed some of Bobo's playing gear (rain clothes, rubber pants and rubber boots) we headed to the lot. The weather is getting chilly, rrrhrrr, winter is surely on the way...

Bobo is quite happy that we are visiting the lot. Perhaps in her mind, its a land of adventure and lots of new things. Tuomo is currently working on the garage wall, once they are ready (hopefully before the first snow fall), he should concentrate on the main house.

Bobo was eager to to play her three wheel bike which was given free my Tuomo's colleague. Daddy has repainted bit. Hmmm, it seems still few more center meters to grow before she can reach the pedals. Anyway, you can see how happy she was! :-P

(Bobo on bike)

Very few lingo berries were still visible, Bobo was excited to discover them. Heeeheee, she fell down few times in the forest and even laughed by herself. You see with that much clothes on like a little little bear, it doesn't matter that much.

(Little little bear)

(Resting a bit)

Garage's chalk walls are up, just waited to put outside wooden panels. After that it is ready for this winter...

(Garage)

Hopefully till next weekend, we will see you again!

The first visit to local library

2007-10-21T00:39:00.000+03:00

Finally it's weekend! What a wonderful feeling to have a long sleep...

Tuomo has left to the lot in the early morning. Oh, I can not remember when was my last visit. Before Bobo was born, I was a valuable labor. I was always there no matter moving the bricks or mixing the cement. Now Bobo is aboard, I have less chance and time to go there.

After the lunch, I told Bobo "Let's go to the local library and shopping mall." Bobo was very excited and managed to put on her pants and hat, ready to go. Heheeeee.... "You still need to put on your jacket!", I said. After all set we dashed to the library.

Last weekend, I was planning to visit there as well. But after shopping, it was closed. In the end we were only able to hang in around in the book store. Though there is also kids reading area, I thought it would not be a good idea, then we left after a while.

Few weeks ago, I have checked where exactly do the kids book locate. Once we stepped in, we headed to that section straightly. Sitting on the stroller, Bobo was getting very exciting to see so many books. This is Bobo's first official library visit!

Bobo stepped on the ground, and started her expedition. After few minutes, she already got few books in hand. I had to follow her and put those back to the shelf :-) Few moments after the excitment, I told Bobo "Let's read some books!" "Joo...", Bobo answered and climbed onto the sofa. Suddenly, she noticed Micky Mouse and Pingiun in the toy box and demanded to have time. After all are set, we started to read one book I have picked. Just few pages later, she took my book and put her own book to my hand and said "Äiti otaa" (Mammy take it). It seems always other person's apple is sweater than own one :-)

There are other kids were reading CD books, Bobo wanted too. Once there is a computer available, I put her onto the high chair, she was cheering "Anniina paina, Anniina paina" (Anniina click, Anniina click)

Just like that 1.5 hours passed quickly. We left with few books in hand. The library closed at 4pm.

We continued our shopping. Bobo was treated with an ice cream. She was satisfied with it! Once we got home, it was almost half past 6pm. Another day has passed...

From Bobo's eyes

2007-10-14T12:06:00.001+03:00

Recently I have been very busy, often leave early morning and return late. Therefore feel bit "guilty" that haven't playing enough with Bobo. Knowing Bobo loves books, every now and then I bring back few books to make her happy :-)

In one of Bobo's drawing book, here comes the dialog...

Tuomo asks "What is this?"
Bobo answers "Papa's house"

Tuomo, "Hmmm, this one?"
Bobo, "Papa's airplane."

Bobo, "Anniina's airplane".

Bobo, "Papa and Anniina's car."

Bobo, "Puha Pete (Bob the builder)" :-)

(Bit like Bob the builder?)

Tuomo, "What about this one?"
Bobo, "Mammaa."

(Bobo plays slider)

Bobo's teech

2007-10-13T23:54:00.000+03:00

Teh once asked about baby teeth issue...

Bobo went for her second dentist check 2 weeks ago. Basically with 4 more teeth, Bobo's all milk teeth will be in position. Her bottom jaw needs to be monitored carefully, it may still be too early to tell. Perhaps once the adult teeth are in position, then can judge whether the bottom jaw goes bit front than the upper jaw. Anyway I am bit worried.

Lately Bobo had another ear infection, so she had to take some antibiotics. As a result, there is bit black stuff building up in her bottom teeth. That was dentist's speculation, and he requests us to brush her teeth carefully.

Dentist strictly orders that only give baby main meals, no snacks and milk given in between during the day. Try not to give juice but only water. We are not doing very well in this respect. Bobo likes snacks. Dentist also recommends to give 1-2 troche after each meal.

Today I went to buy a pair of MAM teeth brush for her, since Bobo has been biting the old ones. They are worn out. Well, these are not cheap teeth brush anyway, costs more than 7euro. Of course finally I bought correct troche, last time I accidentally bought kids chewing gum.

(MAM tooth brush)

This set of teeth brush is used for both parents and baby. Parents can use the longer one to brush while baby is using the shorter one. That's why there is a plastic ring to prevent baby put it too deep into the mouth. The other side of the tooth brush is mainly for baby biting. But somehow, Bobo is not interested in that but the brush head. :-( This set may not be the softest, since Bobo also has other brand of tooth brush is much softer, such as Jordan and Colgate.

(Jordan tooth brush)

I am overloaded

2007-10-13T23:20:00.000+03:00

I haven't been able to update my blog for 2 weeks. Mainly because I am too busy to do so. Actually I am overloaded.

My evening study's third course is over now, there is a exam coming on this Thursday. The teacher is very demanding, besides group assignment there are also individual 2 bonus assignments. In addition to her course materials there are another 5 chapters to read. So far I haven't got time to read them. I feel bit disappointed :-(

While company's project manager training is giving extra stress. I am hoping to get IPMC International Project Manager Certificate in next spring. I also started to study Finnish again, perhaps because the PM training was conducted only in Finnish. And at work, one project need to be done by the end of this month.

And of course dear Bobo and home stuff...

TOO many things going on... I don't know how long I will be able to manage all at the same time without "be burned".

Just to cheer myself, perhaps one day I will have similar collection :-P

10.1

2007-10-01T22:13:00.000+03:00

Happy Chinese Independence Day!

F1

2007-10-01T21:38:00.001+03:00

Weekend's F1 Japanese Grand Prix in Fuji was so exciting! For the first time ever in the history, two Finnish F1 drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Kimi Räikkönen stood side by side on the medals podium, as the second and the third fastest of the race. While blue white cross Finnish national flags were raised, even busy Bobo stopped her baby stroller pushing and watched it :-) Tuomo is wondering if the race organizer had to borrow the second Finnish flag just for this special occasion.

( Heikki Kovalainen, Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Räikkönen )

I still remember clearly, in the end of 1980's I attended the first F1 exhibition held in Shanghai. Back then I was just in middle school. That day I was carrying a heavy bag full of all kind of F1 merchandise and advertisements and enviably watching the beautiful red Ferrari racing car...

Until 2001 spring, finally I had chance to watch the Sepang race personally. I stayed in Penang for almost 5 months as an exchange student. Though due to the student financial situation, I bought an entrance ticket worth of 700 Finnish marks (bit over 100Euro). It was an fantastic experience to watching a numbers of fighter planes flew over your head and shake the world.

Nobody expected few years late Shanghai also held it's first F1 race... Tuomo has always been saying, if the Finnish drivers perform well he would like to watch the race in Shanghai too. Heheee, since the next race will be in Shanghai. I guess we have to see next year...

Mumimmama has returned...

2007-09-23T11:54:00.001+03:00

God has answered our pray...

This morning after getting up, I started Mumimmama hunting again. For some reason I looked again the same places I have been looking for many times. Suddenly, at the slot behind some dust I found Mumimmama :-) JIPPII!!!

(Mumimmama was found...)

(Family & friends portrait)

Bring you a eary Happy Moon Festival!

2007-09-23T11:53:00.001+03:00

Reminded by Susan, then realized the Chinese Moon Festival is coming soon AGAIN...

I almost forgot it :-( It's said and pity to tell, in last ten years, I had never spent a single Moon Festival in Shanghai with my parents.

However, bring a early wish to all of you:

Happy Moon Festival!

Where are you Mumimmama???

2007-09-23T11:48:00.000+03:00

"The story of Moomin valley" was created by Finnish author Tove Jansson. It took her 25 years to finish the whole book. In 1966 the book received the Andersen Award.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moomin
http://www.muumimaailma.fi/englanti/

Moomin valley lives Moomin family and their dearly friends. There is a meaning behind every Moomin story. It's not only for children but also for adults.

Moomin look like hippo, but they are not hippo. Children love Moomin characters, Bobo is no exception. At the beginning, I was not that interested in them, perhaps it was Bobo's influence, I started to like them too.

Bobo's grandma has been buying many Moomin books for Bobo. Thanks to Niuniu's mammy, she copied Moomin DVD.

Bobo has a set of Moomin characters. They are Mumimmama, Mumimpapa, Moomintroll, Little My, Sniff, Hemulen, Snufkin, Snorkmaiden, Snork. Because Little My is too small, Sniff has too sharp ears and Snufkin has a hat easily drop. I only allow Bobo to play all Moomins and Hemulen.

Bobo used to request Hemulen while she brushes teeth each day :-) Then there was occasion, Snork was missing. He was finally found under the carpet when I was vacuuming. Last week, Mumimmama disappeared as well, so far still no sign of her ;-(

Where are you Mumimmama? We MISS you....

New rain boots

2007-09-14T21:30:00.001+03:00

There is nothing better than coming back to home and hugging my princess Bobo :-)

(bobo wearing new rain boots)

Haikko Manor

2007-09-14T19:31:00.001+03:00

From Tuesday to Thursday I attended project manager training organized by the company. The training was held in famous Haikko Manor, which is 50 kilometers east north of Helsinki.

It was my first time stayed over night else where than at home after Bobo was born. I truly missed her :-)

The first known reference to Haikko Manor dates back to the year 1362, when it was owned by the Dominican priory of Vyborg. It was totally burn down on New Year Day of 1911. After a determined search the original drawings by Professor Armas Lindgern were found in the Museum of Finnish Architecture. The current Manor House was rebuilt since 1913 and completed on 1965. Today Haikko Manor functions as spa, hotel and conference center.

(Haikko Manor)

(famous yellow room)

(beautiful flowers)

(calm Gulf of Finland after rain - not lake)

(pond)

A special treatment Haikko Manor offers is the Super Cold Treatment -110C. Me and few of male workmates gained bravery to under take this treatment. We stayed there for 3 minutes. The world record was held by an Estonian for 18 minutes.

The best...

2007-09-09T21:46:00.000+03:00

Imagine one day someone asks Bobo "Anniina, who makes the best cake?" Bobo replies without any hesitation "Of course my Mammy!" :-)

(mammy's cake)

In our family, there is a "Pulla Hiiri". A Finnish joke, translated as "Sweat bum mouse". Tuomo doesn't like other Finns love coffee, instead he drinks tea with milk. Whenever he drinks tea, there always be some cookies, pies , sweat bum or cakes. I made pies and cakes more frequently before Bobo was born. Now there is hardly enough time for this hobbie of mine.

After a busy week, finally today I have some time of own.

(beat egg with sugar)

(beat flouer with baking power)

(bake in oven 175C for 20mins)

(leave it cool)

(cut the cake to 3 layers)

(moisture the cake add fruits fillings)

(layered with cream)

(repeat for the second layer)

(add top layer)

(coated with cream)

(more cream)

(put decorations on top)

Bye bye my leisure time...

2007-09-08T23:10:00.000+03:00

I started my International Business Acumen evening studies this week. IBA will last till next May. With everyday work, house work and Bobo, it won't easy to manage this study. I already feel exhausted this week with 2 evening sessions and today's full day workshop.

Tuomo had to stay at home of caring Bobo, which turns out to be an excellent experience for him. Bobo has strengthen the bound with him :-) Pity for our house construction.

Next week will be another busy week, I will be out of town 3 days for company training :-( I will miss Bobo, this will be my first official business trip after Bobo was born. I feel bit "jealous" that she turns to Tuomo more often lately ;-)

Here comes soup!

2007-09-02T19:15:00.000+03:00

Susan recommended this soup. It is easy to make and tastes good too...

(egg sheet, prawn with vegi soup)

Ei ei ei

2007-09-02T18:28:00.000+03:00

Before babies start to speak, you often wonder when they will do so. Once they do open the mouth, you often "complain" that they speak too much :-)

Bobo just learned to speak not a while ago. To recent, she was able to speak mainly some simple 2 to 3 words. Living in a multi-language envirnoment, babies do take bit longer time to get used to, digest and learn what to speak. Since Bobo goes to daycare, she has used to hear and speak Finnish in the daytime. Therefore it makes bit more difficult to learn Chinese. The only way is through me.

Matias's mum noticed that Matias is interested in Chinese TV ads, since then she turns the TV on very often. She found Matias understand way better Chinese recently. Well I guess the only trick is to practice everyday.

This morning Bobo was playing with Tuomo in the living room. Suddenly she discovered there is a little hole on Daddy's sock. She immediately said "ei ole Anniina sukka riikki" (not broken Anniina's socks). I realized that she just has said perhaps her first 5 word sentence.

After getting up in the morning, Tuomo brought Bobo to wash teeth. Bobo knows that I don't like her bring teddy to the washing room. She handed over her favorite sleeping teddy and said "nalle katso" (teddy watch).

During the daytime nap, Bobo was jumping in her bed and saying "nalle läntää, nalle läntää" (teddy fly, teddy fly). At the same time, she was waving the teddy up and down like an airplane :-)

Daycare lady recently mentioned that Bobo has entered so called "No" period. Which means, she most time replies only No for every request.

"Anniina let's change dipper." - Ei (no)
"Anniina let's go to eat." - Ei (no)

Even when I go to pick her "Anniina let's go home. " - Ei (no) Bobo replies.

Heheee, she is developing her own strong will now. Since she is able to express herself step by step, at the same time she noticed people around her can also understand her.

(little friends of Bobo)

What to cook and what to eat

2007-09-01T18:27:00.001+03:00

"What do cook and what to eat" has always been a headache issue for me :( For me and Tuomo, it is bit easier. Now Bobo is aboard, I have to think all the time what to cook for her. Thank GOD, she goes to daycare, which saved 2 meals in a day ;-) Finland has so few Chinese, therefore there is no such thing called China town. Really envy Susan, my best friend who lives in Sydney. She says there is a little Shanghai, where you can find almost all the foods you can find in Shanghai...

There are plenty of Chinese restaurants in the capital areas, however most of them have lost original Chinese flavor. Their tastes are more or less Finnish Chinese style. For me a person loves sea food, it has been tough life living in Finland where people love eating meat and potatoes. Of course there are plenty of fish here as well. Most of them I hardly can call their names, the most famous is Salmon. But I feel it's too oily and fatty for me. I miss the sea foods in Shanghai, Hongkong, Penang and Barcelona...

This morning I dragged Bobo and Tuomo to visited the Asian shop in Helsinki downtown. The owner of the Asian shop comes from Malaysia, she used to have a small warehouse type of shop in nearby city Espoo. Till recent years, the business has been so good that she opened today's shop in downtown.

Saturday's Asian shop is packed with customers. After spending over 100euros and querying for 15 minutes at the cash counter. We were able to leave with full loads of shrimps, squids, shells and vegetables. Luckily today I even found famous "Zhejiang Shaoxing rice wine". Due to Finnish law, only special alcohol shop ALKO can sell any alcohol is stronger than beer, Aisan shop can only sell it "off the shelf". Now Tuomo can not laugh me using Koskenkorva (Finnish well known strong viina) cooking any more.

While Bobo is taking a nap, I rushed to start cooking. First is barberque shrimp, then some local Shanghai dishes. While almost everything is done, Bobo is awake too. It is time for lunch.

(barbeque shrimps)

(some Shanghai local dishes)

After Bobo eating two and half strings of shrimps, I have to admit Chinese food is the best in the world.

(Bobo eating barbeque shrimps)

Lunch after, the same question popped up "What to eat tomorrow?"...

Fruit cake

2007-08-28T08:06:00.000+03:00

If I am going to change professionals, I would like to be either a painter, a chef, an interior designer or a zoo keeper :-) Saturday's party cake "forced" me to make one of mine own.

This fruit cake differs from usual cake, it doesn't require any baking. Instead it is mainly formed in the fridge. The process is not complicated, just takes few steps. We need following items:

Bottom

200g wheat cookies (kokojyväkeksejä) 麦子类的饼干
100g melted margarine (sulatettua margariinia) 溶化的黄油

Filling

4 agar (liivatelehteä) 洋菜
2tlk quark/curd cheese (rahkaa) 凝乳
1/2dl sugar (sokeria) 糖
1tl vanilla sugar (vaniljasokeria) 香草糖
200g white chocolate (valkosuklaata) 白巧克力
2dl whipping cream (kuohukermaa) 奶油
2rkl lemon juice (sitruunamehua) 柠檬汁

Top

4dl berries (marjoa) 浆果
3dl any suitable reddish juice (punaista sokeroitua ja sopivaksi laimennettua mehua) 红色的果汁
5 agar (liivatelehteä) 洋菜

Put agar into cold water, let them fully soaked. Add one piece of baking paper at the bottom of cake module.

Crash the cookies, put melted margarine, mix throughly. Lay the mixture into the module, press to a flat and even surface layer. Place the module to the fridge.

Melt the white chocolate with low temperature. Squeeze agar to remove unnecessary water. Put them into melted chocolate. Add few table spoons of hot boiling water, slowly mix with chocolate and agar. Once finished, leave it cool to room temperature.

Beat the whipping cream to foam. Mix throughly with sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon juice, curd cheese, and chocolate mixture. Insert the filling to the module. Remain in the fridge for few hours.

(berries on top)

Finally place berries on top of the filling. Boil the juice with agar leaves, leave it cool. Pour the juice mixutre onto the filling. Place the cake into fridge for another few hours.

...
...
...

Whuallaaa... Here it comes!

(final result)

If you have done any cheese cake, the process is pretty much the same. Hmm, I believe I will put bit less berries or more fillings next time.

It's time to have a cup of tea!

Perhaps one of the last summer parties...

2007-08-25T20:06:00.001+03:00

Summer is quietly fading away... We can sense the chillness of autumn mornings and nights. Time to time, it falls bit rain. Such days are just so typical for Finnish springs and autumns. Soon darkness and coldness will follow, it will be until next May sun starts to shine warmly again...

We went to perhaps one of the last summer parties of the year. Bobo's step cousin has finished university study and becomes a psychology. Enjoy the nature...

(good to be out)

(through the kid's cottage window)

(plum in hand)

(this is better)

(pretty flowers right?)

(nice to meet you)

10 years on...

2007-08-22T13:10:00.000+03:00

Exactly the same day but 10 years ago 22.8.1997, a young girl stepped onto Finland this unknown land.

Time dashes like flash! She wouldn't think that she will spend next 1/3 of her life span in this Nordic country.

Yes, that girl is ME :-)

Potty training

2007-08-19T22:19:00.001+03:00

It has been continuously few days for Bobo to pee in potty before taking shower. She is very excited and happy for it. It's another step forward. In the daycare, kids are put to potty each time after the meal. It's said to be quite effective. I was told that it's baby's nature instinct to know to hold the pee. When the time comes, it will come. Still many parents suggest to start potty training at latest of age 2. We haven't been intentionally training Bobo, usually she demands to go to use potty by herself. And most of time, there is nothing come out :-)

We start to have bed time reading for 3 weeks, Bobo loves it. I have been telling myself to read more books, but failed to keep this promise. Perhaps I should cut the time spending on the net. Reading is important...

(Bobo reading)

Today after a rain shower, the sky turned blue. We went to the lot. I decided to walk to check nearby stable, luckily horses are outside.

(check horses)

Very disappointing bean harvest year, I was only able to pick very few of them. I miss the year before that I got over 3 kilo of them.

(poor harvest)

Garage is ready for outside wall, it might take few more weeks before Tuomo is able to continoue working on the main house.

(garage is ready for wall)

Beauty of sanding playing

2007-08-18T10:15:00.000+03:00

In every community playing yard, it must equipped 3 items: a swing, a slider and a sand box. I have always been wondering what's the beauty of sand playing. I didn't play it when I was a child. Obviously here in Finland it is a daily business.

Everyday in daycare, children get twice outdoor activities. The first time in the morning 9:30-11:00, the second time in the afternoon 3:00-parents pick the kids. Of course it always depends on the weather condition. Every now and then, they also have a forest "expedition"...

Sand box plays an important role in daily outdoor activities. However, I am not a big fan of it, since everyday it makes Bobo so dirty, as well brings loads of sand back to home :-(

(Bobo playing sand in our lot)

Just lately I read that sand playing is extremely helpful in developing children's mathematic skill as well as creativity. It also calms down children. Perhaps that's why it's been party of children playing in the western countries.

http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/AngelUnits/OneHour/Sand/SandLessonA.htm l

In June while we were visiting Shanghai, to our surprise, we even found a sand box playing ground in a local shopping mall "世纪联华". The mall is happen to be a part of an international
grocery market chain. Kids in every age seemed enjoying so much there :-)

(Bobo playing sand in Shanghai shopping mall)

Child early education

2007-08-18T09:55:00.000+03:00

I found following recommendation about child early educations from the net, they sounds very interesting.

***

孩子不需要太聪明，太锋芒毕露，我觉得那不是好事；关键是良好习惯的培养；
环境很重要，自己要做得正。
不要轻易养成一个坏习惯，那样你会发现，纠正一个坏习惯的时间会是2倍，3倍于养成习惯的时间；不要因为一时眼前的短暂利益妥协，随便就给孩子引入新的不良习惯，比如因为孩子不吃饭，就开电视让孩子看，来达到多喂几口饭的目的。
尊重孩子，习惯换位思考；
说真话，当你发现有些真话说出来可能会效果不好，那就注意说话的技巧，宁可说一半，说的外交辞令些，也不要说瞎话；
说孩子听得懂的话。习惯于讲道理的妈妈要说得简洁明了，忌讳像唐僧。
教育孩子注意技巧，循序渐进，不要一口吃成个胖子，一步步来；了解当前孩子的特点，不拔苗助长。
有预见性，明明知道这么做可能会引起孩子强烈抗争并且自己还可能妥协，那么就不要去干预孩子，否则最后结果只会更坏不会更好。
吃，注意比较均衡的配比即可，无需太精细；1岁以前孩子保证奶量；一岁以后注意三餐即可；一天中的饮食做不到各类搭配均衡，那么一周中的饮食搭配一下，都兼顾一下，也是可以地
孩子不会饿死自己
吃饭一定要在餐椅上吃，不吃请离开
外出玩不可能像家中吃得那么放心的时候，也没必要太担心，能力范围内稍微注意下，比如选家干净的饭店；其他比如菜中是不是有味精，菜是不是绿色食品等，就没必要太担心了。
补钙什么的做到心中有数，不缺不补；多晒太阳
穿不讲究。不刻意
穿的和妈妈差不多多。
给孩子穿衣服，少一件比多一件要好。孩子运动量大，玩出汗风一吹更容易感冒，还更不容易好。
孩子流鼻涕了，加一件衣服。
判断冷热，摸孩子后脖子；
不给孩子经常，动辄吃小药。天冷季节，不定期给孩子吃点vc，或者每天吃点富含vc的水果。
感冒症状轻的时候，比如只有流鼻涕，不需要刚开始就吃药，可以多灌水；感冒大多数是病毒性的，病毒没有特效药，吃药14天好，不吃药2个礼拜好；很多时候都是大人自己心理安慰。
感冒发烧去医院的话，尽量要求验血；
一个人可能不生病吗？不可能；所以孩子感冒的时候，小病的时候，不要惊慌失措，辩证地想，得一次感冒相当于打了一针预防针。对这种宏观上不可避免的事情，没必要太在意。
玩不怕脏
不影响到自己安危，不影响到他人利益，就不要对孩子的行为举止干涉太多
放手让孩子玩，摸爬滚打，不头破血流就可以
不是所有危险的东西都禁止孩子走近；可以控制的范围内，教孩子危险在哪里，怎么避免。
尽量多给孩子自己体会的机会，不直接告诉结果；让他去摸索，去磕碰，去失败；
教孩子学会等待；
教孩子对自己的行为负责；
教孩子付出和回报是双向的，学会感恩
睡觉尽量陪孩子入睡
注意保护孩子的注意力和兴趣
寒冷训练
社会上很多“早教”的方法，当不知道怎么做的时候，就不做，有所为有所不为；信奉宁缺勿滥'过犹不及。
孩子是社会的孩子，不要把自己太当作孩子的救世主，唯一；
不要过多纠缠在自己育儿细节上的为什么，理论依据。做就做了，既成事实，没那么多讲究。
每天尽量保证父母中的一方能够陪伴孩子玩耍一定时间。
每天想办法让孩子大笑狂笑若干次。
生活游戏化，游戏生活化
最重要的一句，我只需要一个70分的孩子，所以我也只要当一个70分的妈妈；不对自己严格要求，马马虎虎过得去就可以，我毕竟也是第一次当妈啊。
教孩子直面失败，我可以不服，但是我输得起，我可以选择放弃，也可以选择再次冲击，但是我不能在对手面前大哭
有小朋友进攻，学会审时度势，先正告一次，然后的基本原则就是，打得过就打，打不过就逃；在幼儿园的时候，可以大叫吸引别人的注意力
不先出手打人
无论谁先动手，你都不可以第一个哭
你对自己的东西有决定的权利；
计划3岁以后，我会给孩子引入每周零用钱的机制----要开始学有限的钱来办自己最想做的事，学开源，学节流。
常带孩子去远足，去郊外；不惧怕风雨
争取每年都能回一次乡下老家，过不一样的生活
不把工作的烦恼带回家。

***

Teeth

2007-08-16T08:11:00.001+03:00

Bobo got her first tooth around age of 9 months. So far 8 front teeth are in "position", the first molar teeth started coming out in June and July. They are still growing like spring bamboo shoots "coming out of the mud". I have to say her teeth are growing relatively slow. Many same age babies have already got all milk teeth.

(2006 Xmas with visible two bottom teeth)

Bobo had her first dentist check in last September. Back then she hasn't got any tooth yet, the dentist checked her jaws and gums and confirmed teeth would come at any time. One year after this September, she will have her second dentist check, since I have been concerning about her jaws. She quite often puts her the button jaw more front than the upper jaw. I was told by the doctor, babies at this age upper and bottom jaws should be in same line. Normally adult upper jaw is more front than bottom jaw.

(June 2007 with front upper & bottom teeth in place)

We brush Bobo's teeth everyday, but it is not an easy task. She prefers to bite the tooth brush and suck the water than brushing. We started to use a little bit tooth paste when her molar teeth started to be visible. She seems to like it because of it's sweatiness. However teeth brushing is still a headache task...

(kid's teeth)

Linnanmäki

2007-08-10T20:40:00.000+03:00

Finally we find today is good for everybody, and the weather is warm and sunny. As well as to avoid weekend's crowds, we (Allu, Päivi, VP & us) agree to visit Linnanmäki - Helsinki amusement park.

Alisa (Allu) was born 8 months earlier but the same year as Bobo. Their future house is just about few kilometers west from our new house, which means Bobo and Allu will go to the same school in the future. We hang out quite often before me and Päivi both returned to work. Päivi is a flight attendant at FinnComm airline. :-)

It was then Allu's birthday party in April, we met last time. Yeah, it's been a while. So great to see each other again!!!

Today is extremely warm, actually hot under the sun. We dashed to the park 30 mintues after the gate was open (11am). It's perfect, the park is not yet packed with people. We were able to enjoy most rides for under 100cm without queuing. Both Allu and Bobo have a day pass which allow one adult accompany for free. There are totally 9 rides for children under 100cm height.

(Hmm, what about have this Pooh at home?)

(a big hug for Tiger)

(one more...)

(sweat Allu)

Us, parents also had chances to enjoy few best rides of Linnanmäki, for example, the space shot and the wooden roller coaster. The wooden roller coaster was built 1951, it is by far our favorite ride. Each time we would go for a number of rides. It's up and downs and nice wooden smells make it the best! It's said some young girls would wait to ride only with their desired drivers. Since each drive has different driving style and controlling speed and make them special.

(walking in the "rain")

(bit rest)

(Helsinki city view)

(Linnanmäki, space shot and wooden roller coaster etc.)

It is a fantastic day! We will do it again soon...

Environment

2007-08-09T08:03:00.000+03:00

Just one year to go for the 2008 Beijing Olympic game! Tuomo has been telling that we should go to see the game next year. It's a rare occasion and the first time for China to host the game. Before Finnair started its direct flights to Shanghai, we had to fly to Beijing instead. It was very inconvenient for us. I wonder what would happen, when the game starts? Millions of people rush to the capital. Since most Chinese airlines have rather poor service reputation, will they live up to the expectations? Then how will be the weather? Boiling hot with sandy storm and heavy pollution?

A sad news to hear that Chinese Yangtze dolphin 白鱀 is now believed to "extinct" due to changes of natural habitat. What a sad story!

Extinction is happening right now with us. What have we done to the environment? When will we wake up and take responsibilities to our behavior? The most important is when and how super powers will stand up for some actions to make up the damage they have done?

Turn on the work mode

2007-08-08T09:30:00.000+03:00

While people are heading back to office step by step, the weather turns warm 25C and sunny. "Damn, why amt I on vacation now?" people have been asking themselves. Heheheeee, I can only laugh in behind that I have escaped Shanghai's boiling hot.

During last 2 weeks I haven't yet gotten over with my vacation mood. Finally it's time to turn the work mode ON. Back to business! At moment, I have one important internal development project to be finished a.s.a.p. Then I am looking forward to starting my PPS2 (Project Management Professional Programme) training and IB (International Business) study. Autumn and winter schedule will be BUSY!

Language development

2007-08-05T22:27:00.001+03:00

Bobo started to say "Mama Papa" when she was about 12 month old. Till few weeks ago, she was only able to speak single words. "S" and "X" seem to be one of those most difficult alphabets to pronounce. They are usually missing in the pronunciations. For example, word "Istu" (sit) becomes "itu"...

Linguist suggests in a dual language family, parents should ONLY speak their native languages in order to express their feelings well. It doesn't matter how well parents are able to speak a foreign language, it still could hinder while expressing their motions. Children intend to be lazy and unwilling to speak a language if it is not used frequently. We have agreed to follow linguist's commendation; that I only speak Mandarin Chinese (not Shanghai dialect), Tuomo speaks Finnish and we both speak English between us. Meanwhile, we can freely speak any languages while talking to a third party. Linguist also points out, a young child is able to learn 3 languages easily from their early age. However if a forth language is introduced too early, it may cause confusing in their language development. We hope Bobo can learn Finnish, Chinese and English through our daily conversation, then later on she can take 1 or 2 foreign languages, such as Swedish, Spanish, Germany or French :-).

Bobo learns Finnish at daycare and home. I have been trying to speak Chinese to her. To my surprise she understands quite much Chinese. Even though she speaks more Finnish than Chinese. One reason I believe is that Chinese is much harder to say, since one single word has 4 tones. Till now I speak quite many double tone words, such as "兔兔, 鸟鸟, 熊熊 etc." instead of "兔子, 狗熊".

Until 2, 3 weeks ago, Bobo started to say double words. And she started to speak triple words last week. Besides, she starts to express herself and copy more often what we say.

She is able to speak istumaan (to sit), nukkumaan (to sleep), bobo nalle (bobo teddy), kuppi riikki (cup broken) and so on. Last night she demanded us to sit next to her playing wooden blocks by saying "iskä istumaan, äiti istumaan" (daddy sit, mammy sit). She would even drag my hand, says "tule" (come) to draw my attention.

How fascinating children's language development is! I can not wait to start a proper conversation with Bobo. Hopefully, in near future she will be able to make sentences. As a result, she is able to express her feeling better.

Today was another sunny day. We went to our lot and picked some blue berries. Later Bobo played bit sand, and made her own "stone sand cake" :-)

(Bobo helped to "pick" blue berries)

(what a great builder)

("Pisa" tower)

Korkeasaari - Helsinki zoo

2007-08-04T19:42:00.001+03:00

After a week of rainy and cloudy weather, finally GOD shows bit "mercy". Weather is promised to be warm and sunny during the weekend. Certainly we are not going to waste it. We decided to go to the zoo.

(on the way to kauppatori)

Helsinki zoo locates on an island called Korkeasaari. The ferry journey from market square to Korkeasaari takes only 15 minutes. This is bobo's second time to Korkeasaari; she has also visited Shanghai zoo last December.

(famous Urho and Otso ice-breakers)

If you visit Helsinki, the market square is a must go. In the summer, it's full of stands selling fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and Finnish souvenirs. The square is packed with people in such a wonderful weather like today. Hundreds of people are queuing for ferries to Suomenlinna, Korkeasaari and Helsinki sight seeing.

(kauppatori - market square)

(people are waiting for the ferry to Suomenlinna)

Many animals are shied away, we didn't see many of them, only bears, monkeys, reindeer, deers, camels and some birds. A day in the nature is the best get away. We love it!

(let's try sea water)

(flowers)

(yeah...)

(what are those? flying ants, hrrrr...)

A young male donkey was found dead after a conflict with an old camel on Wednesday evening. The camel drew a big crowd :-)

(the "killer" camel)

Sailing Yacht

2007-08-02T21:58:00.000+03:00

During lunch time, me and my colleagues went to Helsinki downtown. We ate at a small Chinese restaurant called "Dragon Phoenix". One of our little passion is to find out the best Chinese restaurant in the town :-) "Dragon Phoenix" is run by my fellow Shanghainese. It locates right next to the market square "kauppatori", opposite to the market hall "kauppahalli". It's not big, has only about 30-40 seats.

We find dishes here have it's unique flavor. Compare to many other Chinese restaurants, which most are run by either HongKongnese or Cantonese, "Dragon Phoenix" is definitely on top of my list; not because it's run by Shanghainese.

After lunch, we had a relaxing walk along the sea. The sky starts turning blue, the sun finally comes out. A huge "Perini Navi" sailing yacht is docking on the harbor. I couldn't tell from which country it may come from. A British flag is flying on the tail. In addition, German, Finnish and "unknown" nation flags are hanged on the pole. Such a huge sailing yacht may cost up to 30~40 million euros.

("Perini Navi" sailing yacht - taken by my mobile)

(what might look like in action )

Back to group family care

2007-08-02T10:59:00.001+03:00

After 12 days temporarily staying at Riitta's family dagcare, Bobo returned to her own goup family daycare yesterday. Most of kids are not yet back from summer vacations. Only 4 including Bobo were presented; others are Venla, Tuomoas, Sandari.

Bobo was very quiet during the whole morning. She must be wondering what is happening, why she is moved to another place. I believe she does remember her own daycare, but she is yet to understand why? Tuomo has been telling her on the way that she is returning to own daycare, but Bobo kept silence...

According to Eija, one of the daycare lady, Bobo resumed her aliveness in the afternoon. Obviously she is happy; perhaps will forget Riitta soon. I hope she won't. Riitta has promised to visit her sometimes.

In the evening, I made my first apple pie. It was a sucess, Bobo requested twice more icecream with warm apple pie. She also learnt to say "pirakka pirakka" (pie pie). Daddy loves it as well :-P.

The weather turns sunny today! It welcomes Rolling Stones' concert in Helsinki... 35 000 rock fans showed up. Finns do love rock music, last month was Metallica, 45 000 joined them at Helsinki Olympic stadium.

End of Bobo's breast feeding era?

2007-07-31T08:24:00.000+03:00

Another raining day... Today is Bobo's the last day at Riitta's place, and tomorrow she will return to her own group family daycare. Yesterday I was given some photo memories of her 12 day staying. It seems she enjoys it.

During our staying in Shanghai, breast feeding is such important in her daily routine. Perhaps because of the hot climate, she intended to find great comfort. Neighbors in SH are often shocked after hearing that Bobo is still on breast feeding. On the other hand, it's quite natural thing here. Many babies are breastfed untill age of 1 or 2, even later. United Nations recommended to age of 3. It seems not an easy task to accomplish for many working mums. I was breastfed till age of 18m. Thanks to MUM :-).

Bobo wasn't eating well as I hoped in SH. I was told that perhaps she is addicted to breastfeeding; and refused to eat main food properly. I was constantly told by daycare ladies; Bobo eats rather well. Since I never seen, I am not sure who shall I believe? My eyes or their words.

I was skeptical about ending breast feeding. So I thought to give a try after we returned to Finland. Weather is way cooler. Bobo feels more comfortable. During the first few days, I missed the moment. Be honest, I feel strong bound with Bobo during breast feeding. I know she has to quit one day, it's just matter of time. 19m of breastfeeding is not bad. Bobo calls "奶奶", when she gets sleepy or anxious. I have to distract her with her favorite teddies or toys. Just finding something interesting to let her forget breastfeeding.

Today is the 12th. day after I stopped breastfeeding. Reality proofs she has managed it, and managed very well. I am glad the thing turns out smoothly...

(Bobo my dear darling... the happy nut)

Tontti visit

2007-07-30T08:24:00.001+03:00

It's time to check our lot again...

There are plenty of wide blue berries, lingonberries and raspberries. Bobo enjoys finding them, "Tällä tällä" (here here) she says. Of course she didn't forget eating them either, heheheeee, and ended up dark mouth and blue spotty sweater.

(raspberries)

(blue berries)

Soon it will be mushroom picking season. Since there has been much more rain this year, I speculate it will have a good harvest. I find it's hard to believe how slowly my beans have been growing. Perhaps it's because I used another brand seeds. Or somebody else (rabbits) have payed a visit to my beans? Besides beans, my pepper remains only 15cm tall since April. No signs of any peppers...

(some small beans are coming)

(bean flowers)

Our car garage has got its roof, after some wall job. Tuomo can continue main house work. Hopefully we will move in before Bobo's 2nd. birthday. What a Marathon project!

(two-floor car garage size of a city house)

(main house)

(busy ants have created own highway along the stick)

Finally nothing better than having some fried dumplings for a treat! Forget diet...

(fried dumplings)

Busy sick leave

2007-07-24T12:21:00.000+03:00

I am sick :-( throat ache with coughing and voice is down. I decided to stay home one day, since the law permits one day sick leave without doctor's prescription. It's one of few days, I am "left alone" after Bobo's birth. It's quiet...

House with young kid is hard to be tidy. I call Bobo a "little tornado". Usually it just takes less than five minutes for her to mass toys around the living room. Luckily she does obey my instruction to collect them back. Hehehe...

My sick leave day was a busy day as well. Poor me! :-( :-( :-( Plenty of laundry to be washed, tided up Bobo's clothes and my closet, cooking. Rrrrrhhhh... After everything was done, it already passed 4 o'clock, time to pick up Bobo.

It started to rain. Weatherman says this summer has got more rain than usual. I am worrying my beans. They have grown about 15cm since June, most likely this autumn's harvest is poor.

Daycare

2007-07-20T08:09:00.000+03:00

Till today Bobo has been her temporary daycare for 5 days. In the first 3 days, she cried in the morning when we dropped her, but stopped crying on Thursday morning. Bobo's own daycare is closed throughout July, since most staff and kids are on summer vacation.

To my knowledge, there are at least four types of daycare in Finland.

1) ordinary daycare, usually hosts the most amount of children; grouped in different ages. The number can vary between 20 and 100.
2) group family daycare, takes care bit over 10 kids
3) family daycare, takes care maximum 4 kids
4) private daycare
Of course there are also special daycares which run 24h to take care of those parents need to work during evening.

The maximum number of children one daycare staff can in charge is four. I was surprised to learn that there are over 20 daycares within 1km from our apartment. Working mums in Finland can have maternity leave up to 10 months. Quite often many mums remains at home after that 10 months, so it's called parenting leave. The first three months of maternity leave you get 3 months full salary from your employer. During the rest months, you get 60-70% of salary based on your previous year income. Tax office does the calculation. If you continue parenting leave, you get much less money from the State. In addition, each child receives at least 100euro per month (depends on how many kids in that family), until turns to age 18.
You can imagine where our tax money go...

Bobo's own daycare is a group family daycare, it has 12 kids, aged from 1 to 5. Sometime some kids from neighboring daycare would temporary stay there when their daycare's staff is sick.

At the first place we applied for a ordinary daycare. Pity, there were not enough places, so we decided to let Bobo attend group family daycare. We think it's better for a kid to attend daycare with more kids, so she can start to socialize with others from early age. Call it group family daycare, but actually it's not a family but a real day care. It locates in the first floor of one apartment building. It has all necessary facilitates, including a big playing room, a kitchen, few bed rooms, 2 toilets, 1 big dinning room, 1 storage room and 1 office. Most of time, younger kids are playing in the big playing room. Older kids have more freedom, since they need less attention.

Bobo was sent to daycare bit over 1 year old. She was the youngest then. During these 2 weeks, she stays in a family daycare which has 4 kids. Family daycare, as from its name, it is in staff's home. Perhaps it's nicer place to go when a kid is young.

Once Bobo is used to her new friends, she will have to return to own daycare in August...

Toys

2007-07-19T08:49:00.000+03:00

Yesterday I was reading an article about how useful the toys other parents have bought for their kids.

Hmmm, what about Bobo's toys?

We usually buy some toys when we visit Shanghai. As you know, most of toys in the market nowadays are Made in China. Daddy bought 2, mumma Kati and grandpa OB bought a few, and some we got from friends...

One of Bobo's favorites is book. She has always been enjoying "reading" them, both fabric and hard paper books. Fabric books are fun! They are colorful, draggable, and quite often even make sounds. Lately she has more interests on paper books. I have joined one of my favorite Finnish children book writer Mauri Kunnas's (http://www.maurikunnas.net) book club. Each month we receive one of his books. God! They are funny and I love those drawings. I wish I could be that talented. One of my dream profession is being an cartoon painter. Damn, books in Finland are expensive. Matter in fact, everything is expensive! I don't dare let Bobo "read" real paper books yet. You know, she intends to destroy them quickly. Daddy sometime reads for her. Lately he is so busy with work and our house project, hasn't got much time for a while. Bobo would drag her book and demanding we read with her. Those paper books have thick pages, it's not so easy for her to tear. However every now and then, she still gives few bits.

Fisher-price walking monkey is not interesting to Bobo. She played bit while she was half year old crawling around. Now she dislike the noise that monkey makes, and push it away. I have to hide it under the kitchen table.

Bobo likes Lego. I bought Duplo zoo series from the net. I find it's the best let her learn new things via book figures and real objects. She calls zebra "Hepa", heheee.

Wooden intelligence box which helps to learn shape and color is not her favorite either. She gets angry and frustrated after few times fail to put right block through the hole. Then she would make angry voice and throw it away. I don't know if most kids in her age are impatient. At least Bobo is. I hope she will become a patient person like her Daddy, since I am not.

Waving horse and waving chair have brought more fun lately. Bobo is able to climb by herself. Though I shall not let her do so. She might fell down and hurt herself. Almost each daycare and community playing yard has a swing. I guess she finds the excitement of swing from there.

Bobo has too many toys. Compare to my childhood I would say she is bit spoiled. She calls her name and points to the object she likes. So far she hasn't behaved so badly in a toy store. I am not sure when she would refuse to put down one toy and scream "I want that"...

Start blog

2007-07-18T14:33:00.000+03:00

I have been keeping my eDiary for Bobo (my little 18 month old baby girl) most of time before she turned to 1 year old. I didn't think blog is my thing, until many of my friends have done theirs.

I guess that I am bit lazy... But on the other hand, I have been kept busy by my little fellow, my excuse again? heheee...

Finally I decided to reopen my blog, which was created over a year ago with only a "test" message nothing else.

Now let's see how long I would keep this going...

So where to start? 博客

... ...

Finnish summer is too short to bear. Bobo's daycare is closed thoughout the whole July, since all the staff are on summer vacation.

On the other hand, Shanghai summer is too long and hot to stand. Bobo and I went there for a 3 weeks visit, just returned last Sunday. This is the forth time Bobo has been there. Can not imagine that an 18m old baby has been other side of world that many time already. For myself, it was until age of 23, I had my first oversea trip. Gosh, the world is changing.

2006-04-20T12:11:00.000+03:00

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