Silvia Nguyen: August 2025

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Lyrics Explained S1E4: Sadepäivä (Rainy Day) by Mutaveijarit

Today is a rainy day in Lahti. Perfect occasion to share this new children's song I just discovered.

Sadepäivä (Rainy Day) performed by Mutaveijarit was randomly included in my "laulut lapsille" playlist on YouTube. I was mesmerized by the beginning melody. A whimsical world opened up.

I'm Amazed by Finland’s Worker Support System

Yesterday I joined "Newcomer Information Session about Working Life" organized by International House Helsinki (IHH) online. In 2 hours, we went through 6 sections covering many aspects of work - from job search, labour laws, to retirement pension. What impressed me was that workers in Finland have such a strong support system at any stage in their working life. At least on paper.

Following are my favorite slides.

1. A sweet reminder to take breaks during job hunt by IHH Employment Coach Salli

It's so nice to see how much Finns value mental health. Even in job seeking phase, residents here get solid support from local Employment Services. Job hunting is indeed stressful and getting help from the local authority feels so much more encouraging. The well-know Integration Training for immigrants is a part of these services.

2. Useful list of places to seek help for workers in Finland

What To Do After First Week In Finland As Trailing Spouse

This time last week Hubby Pig and I were up in the sky.

A busy week of moving has come to an end. Full of emotions. Full of walking, heavy-lifting, and cleaning too. A busy yet beautiful week.

Now, 254 days left until I can apply to renew my permit. I remind myself everyday why I'm here and that time is ticking.

I'll register as jobseeker on tyomarkkinatori.fi as soon as I get my personal number at DVV, an ID card, and a bank account. That allows me to join integration training, which gives me a community, Finnish classes, and support to find a full-time job.

Below is a detailed guide provided by Employment Services about the integration program:

There's also a recent interview answering some FAQs about this program here. The interviewee has completed her training with satisfaction. Will I be the next happy client? Let's see.

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Forget Rolling! Pack Clothes Tightly for Travel with Pocket Method

I've been testing all clothes folding methods in the last two weeks to pack for my big moving trip. And I've discovered Pocket Method, my new favorite way to fold clothes for travel and moving.

How to Fold Clothes with Pocket Method

Why Pocket Method is better than other ways

Goodbyes Don't Have To Be Sad

There're 5 days left to my flight for Finland and thinking of someone shedding tears scares me. I want to keep it cool.

I've never cried at farewell parties. I find tearful farewell awkward and demoralizing. It's not that I'm emotionless, I'm just more excited about the future than nostalgic about the past.

On top of that, I'll be anxious as hell about keeping an eye on our luggage already. I don't need more emotional turbulence.

Anything is possible and goodbyes can sound cheerful. You don't have to tell them if it feels cheesy, they're helpful even when just kept in mind. With positive thinking, you'll be able to put on your brightest smile when going through security and no one would feel the need to cry!

Let me show you my cheerful/neutral goodbyes:

Bye Zin

Me and Barbie Zin Zin Poo Poo before Tết 2025

Bye bye Zin. How can I explain to you that I won't come back tonight or any time soon? All you understand are commands to eat, go out, go home, wash your feet, shower, and go to bed. Also "come hug" but you often don't cooperate.