Going Dutch

Even though we have been in Canada for only 6 months, finding a job which would suit my education felt sometimes impossible. I have been working part-time in a Portuguese restaurant and two different pediatric offices for the last six months, but I have also been applying constantly on full-time jobs. Most of the time I did not even get a reaction back and by the day I got more frustrated. Although I liked working in the restaurant and the pediatric offices, it was not something I wanted to do for the rest of the time we would stay in Canada.

Then, as some weird sign I googled on the right time the words Dutch jobs and Toronto. Guess what.. I found a job posting for an immediate position at the Dutch Consulate-General in Toronto. Finally a position which was right for me and where I had all the right requirements for. After I had sent them my resume, they invited me for an interview at the Consulate. The Consul-General himself and the Consul interviewed me. It was not a typical interview where they asked me questions, but more a nice chat, where they told me everything about the Consulate. I had to confirm them how motivated I was and that the job would be excited enough for me. The position which I was applying on was for the General department and would consist mostly of financial administration and internal affairs. However, because it`s a small office I would need to help with consular an economic affairs as well. A very diverse position, which is what I like.

Then the waiting started.. they said they have two other candidates and that they would let me know within a week. The longest week of my life, with a roller coaster ride of emotions, thinking one minute I am perfect for the position, the other minute being sure they won`t hire me. Finally on Monday I got the call.... and they wanted me!

I can`t even explain how happy I am, or we both are. It secures a lot for us and makes our stay in Canada much easier and fun. I will start my new job on Tuesday and then I will see what I`m exactly going to do.

Here`s another sign... A few days ago I found stroopwafels (Dutch syrup cookies) in the store.

Daylight saving

Tonight Canada clocked on Daylight Saving Time, which means longer days and more light. Like a miracle, the weather changed into its spring mode as well. It was already 10 degrees in the morning and for the afternoon the forecast shows 14 degrees. The wind is very mild as well and in the sun it feels like summer :)
We have had a very mild winter in Toronto or actually no winter at all. Which has been nice for a change, after various years of cold, snowy and long winters in Finland.

The coming week will be very warm as well, with double digit temperatures and on Thursday even 20 degrees. Let the spring begin!