Living life as a white immigrant in Dar es Salaam. Mother of two beautiful boys. A wife. Someone who has found happiness in living a simple life and following minimalist principles.
I can't believe Julius is five. FIVE. Five.Five. It's been such a hectic two months that this post is long overdue and actually he is already way more than that. Time seems to have that habit, or has been having that habit for the past five years.
I remember when Julius was born, and the older and wiser told be to savor every moment because all too soon he won't be a baby anymore. I'm glad to say that while getting more and more independent and strong he still enjoys a cuddle with äiti and baba. Handsome, cute and kind. But within this year he has become even more confident and is not afraid of defending himself. His sense of justice is beyond his years. If there is any incident at school he is not afraid to bring it out and confront the people doing wrong. For this I couldn't be more proud of him. I guess he is our little Mandela.
My sweet sweet Julius. I am so proud of you. Proud of the little man you are becoming. Proud of the confidence you are finding. You astonish me with you memories (of things that happened when you were two) and you incredible language skills. Your kindness and loving care makes my heart melt. Always stay strong, confident and kind. That combination doesn't come by very often. Rakastan sinua - äärettömän paljon.
He got the most amazing party with Aaron and Alex. (Hey, why not?) The boys didn't ask even once why are they sharing the party, and because the joined effort the party was all the more fun. Swimming, food, treasure hunt and cake. What else do you need???
Older. Wiser? No idea. But happier and happier every day. Even though pretty much every night I fall into the bed exhausted from the days activities, oh God how I am happy. Content. I guess 33 is a good time to find that path.
What makes me happy? Regular pedicures and beach.
FRIENDS
As incredible it sounds I have new friends. Real friends that I can count on and trust. Kids just know how to do it. Adults not so much. But I am here. I am thirty three and I got to share my birthday with my new friends.
I also have THE friend. You know the one that I have shared 30 years of my life with. She is the one that I can call and no time has passed. She is the one that sends me a mindfullness book, apologizes for adding clutter (honey, you didn't) and shares a Anja Niskanen song with me. Knowing it will make me laugh and tear up at the same time. These bonds are just too strong to be broken. Ever.
WORK
I think I have found balance. I think it was about a year ago when I figured that there is no perfect job. Especially A job, that would satisfy me and my goals and dreams in every way. But slowly I am building two very different businesses that equally give me a sense of giving, teaching, and offers me a creative outlet. For this little epiphany I am truly grateful.
The beautiful Mbudya Island. Just a 20 minute boat ride from Dar. Heaven on earth.
FAMILY¨
Oh god I miss my family in Finland. They are opinionated, hard headed and out spoken, but that is how I am too. They keep me on my track and make me prove my point. I can't wait to see them at Christmas.
And our little family unit of four. (Although this is Africa, there are days when I am lugging around quite a few extra kids with mine). It is so precious to be together in Tanzania. We have way more freedom and more time to each other. We love it here.
