Sorting stuff out

Well I have to say I sometimes scare myself how efficient I can be...! I popped in Finland last week, to sort stuff out for our impending move and I have managed to not only secure a home for myself but also for Rainbow. The trip also included four days in Ruka, so I had to cram in some house-hunting, stable-hunting, bank matters, work networking, etc in about two days I had in Tampere itself. And I rather succeeded. Just proves that most things are possible if you just put your mind to it.

I will be returning to my home region of Tampere, so the stable had to be nearby. I visited about five places in one day, which I had shortlisted for appropriateness/value for money. (yes, I had made an Excel sheet...) The criteria I had was: 

- near-enough location to my new home (preferably not longer drive than what I have here)
- nice stables with good atmosphere for both the horse and the owner (friends/other horses)
- good care for the horse when I'm not around
- long all-day turnouts and possibility for field grazing during the summer months
(This was a biggie for me, as R doesn't currently get out long enough day-to-day in my opinion and I will be also busy establishing my business in Finland, so I need to know she's happy and not stuck in a stable.)
- nice surroundings and plenty of hacking
- a decent-sized outdoor school and an indoor school a definite plus (even though yards with maneges are usually v expensive) 

I found a place which looks very idyllic and has enormous areas for paddocks and fields, it's in the neighbouring town of Kangasala and its location is perfect for where I have found a place for myself, on the borders of Tampere and Kangasala. I timed my drive between the two and it was pretty much 10 min. It's about 15 km drive, but the roads in Finland take you from A to B very quickly. My current drive here is just under 12 km, so not a massive difference. 

The yard also has a small indoor school (prob ideal for lunging mainly), which might be improved in time... and the owner of the yard seemed very nice. The place had a peaceful atmosphere and the horses seemed content in their paddocks/fields.

Now I just need to pack my things and get the cats ready too!