Daniela Garcia
“For the past two years, we’ve called Sweden home. I’m writing this from Puerto Yeruá, Argentina, as my family and I take a vacation. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on our journey and hopefully inspire you. Returning to Argentina after two years reminds us how life continues for everyone, no matter where we are."
A New Rhythm in Sweden
We moved to Sweden after my husband received an unexpected job offer in Lund. At the time, I was in my second year as a floral entrepreneur, and he was starting a fairly new role in Uruguay. Shortly after, life surprised us with news of a baby. In the span of a few months, we packed up our life in Argentina, sold everything we owned, and moved to Sweden—me, seven months pregnant.
Navigating our New Life
Our first weeks in Malmö were filled with paperwork, housing searches, and midwife visits. We quickly adjusted to Sweden’s systems and were impressed by the support provided during our pregnancy. We prepared for our baby’s arrival, though we wish we’d known about second-hand options like Loppis back then!
Adapting to Swedish Life: Dark Winters and Learning Swedish
Adapting to life in Sweden took time. The dark winters were challenging, but the city’s calm, picturesque streets offered comfort. Learning Swedish through SFI has been both rewarding and frustrating. Språkcafés became my favorite activity, and two years later, we feel confident enough to hold conversations and connect with others.
Parenting in Sweden: Support, Community, and New Beginnings
Raising a child in Sweden has been a challenging but beautiful experience. We are very thankful for Sweden's strong family support systems. Our BVC nurse connected me to a group of moms, and I found friendship and community through parenting activities.
During my maternity leave, I started a blog to share my experience as a new mom in a new country, among other topics that I enjoyed writing. By the time my son turned one, I explored job opportunities and eventually became a part-time HR contractor while balancing family life and language studies.
Embracing Change and Opportunities
This past year has been one of growth, including completing a Digital Marketing course at ReDI School, volunteering with International Citizen Hub Lund, and meeting expats. Connecting with others has taught me that, like rivers, our lives flow and change, crossing paths and creating new opportunities.
As expats, we carry with us our cultural inheritance while embracing the chance to grow in this Nordic country. Sweden has brought challenges, growth, and gratitude—a new rhythm we’ve come to enjoy.
/Daniela Garcia
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