Michael’s diary: Week Two

Heatwaves, Rhubarb, and Rocks

Monday

A new start to the week. I wasn’t sure what needed to be done first, there was always something going on. My cousin had an entire list of things that he wanted to do. I hadn’t realised how many days it had been since I arrived but it was an enjoyable experience. Granted the days were exceptionally hot and my room on the second floor got all the heat! 

But it wasnt all bad. 

There was a patch of rhubarb that was overgrown and I was supposed to try and clear it out. It was a mess! How would I start on this? Mosquitoes were eating me alive. I needed proper attire but I was making due with what I had for the time being, I was still hesitant on everything, but I had told my cousin I’d help as best I could. I spent my time clearing and trimming everything and it was becoming clear there was something growing there! Just needed a bit more work. 

Tuesday

It was another hot day with the clouds seemingly choosing not to exist. Where were they?! I could use some protection from the sun right about now!

No matter. Two hours would go by quick enough if I focused on the things that needed to be done.

The rhubarb patch continued to be my investment for the day. Clearing around where it is growing and making more space for it to grow without other plants getting in the way. I finished relatively early and it looked good! Just needed some fertilizer and watering and hopefully it’ll start to grow! Not sure how much of a green thumb I have but it feels good to see progress around the place. 

Wednesday & Thursday

I spent these days clearing and trimming some patches that were around the property. Nothing that was a major priority but it made the place look nice and tidy. I was happy about the lighter change especially as some of the spots were under the shade of the trees which were around my cousin’s property. The sun remained consistent! Beating down and blazing. I thought Finland was supposed to be cool!? I suppose not so much in the summer and I’m sure I’ll regret thinking it when winter comes! 

Friday

The week was coming to a close and I continued to think of next Tuesday. It was my appointment with my citizenship application and I worried I missed something. I tried to push it from my mind as I focused on today’s task. Rocks.

I took the wheelbarrow across the road and travelled toward the forest. The lumber company had come and taken trees which uprooted plenty of good-sized rocks to pick from. They had to be of a certain size and I needed a good amount of them.

The two fire pits that were at my cousin’s needed to be surrounded by them, and it was a job and a half. I had almost gotten enough for one of them before I needed to call it a rest. It was tough but I knew it would look good once it was done. Progress! 

Saturday

I spent Saturday to myself with no writing work or hauling rocks.

Sunday

I returned to collecting as many as I could and was happy to see the end result. Each fire pit was surrounded and looked better than ever. We wouldn’t have to worry about unattended fires now and it might help keep some of the bugs away.

But Tuesday loomed. The citizenship appointment was on my mind again. Would I have to go back to Canada and reapply? Did I forget something important? I’d reached out to DVV and Migri, and things seemed fine — applying online helped. Still, I couldn’t shake the unease. I’d just have to wait and see.

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