Sometimes You Just Need to Bite the Bullet ⛓️‍💥

I wrote a blog article this spring about my experience with Finland's climate, and now that I'm back in Paris, I have to congratulate myself.

I managed to find beauty in Helsinki's endless winter-spring limbo even though it was really rough.

I was only there for half the winter, but it felt like an eternity. Spring never really comes in Finland—and when it finally does, it shocks you with its sudden arrival.

Reading my own article now feels like watching someone convince themselves they love a relationship that clearly isn't working.

Here's what I've realized living in Paris again: sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what you need.

I try to remind myself that happiness doesn't depend on external circumstances. I can be content wherever I am if I decide to. I can adapt to whatever climate and environment if I have to.

All true.

But sometimes it's just worth making the arrangements to live somewhere that matches your vibe.

I know some people thrive in Helsinki's dramatic seasonal shifts. They love the cozy darkness, the surprise of sudden spring, the brief but intense summer light.

I'm just not one of those people.

I like different seasons, but it’s very hard to keep life elegant during the winter in Finland.

Last year in Paris I relished the fact that I didn't need to wear thick and heavy winter boots ONCE during winter. I could just wear normal shoes and trust that my fur coat would keep me warm on the damp days.

I’m just a bit tired of suffering through a climate that drains my energy just to prove I can adapt.

While our happiness might not be tied to external circumstances, it's certainly influenced by them.

And that's perfectly human.

What's your secret dream place to live (at least temporarily)?

Bisous,

Elle

P.S. If you decide to read the article, you've been warned about the perils of a Finnish winter and spring if you ever decide to move there. 😜