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August 02, 2007

737 and Counting

A few days ago I posted an article from the CBC relating to the recent increase in Americans emigrating to Canada.  I thought it was a thoughtful, but short peace about people like Mason and I (and others) who have chosen to explore the world outside of the United States.

However, today over at WMTC, L-Girl linked a similar article from the other side of the border from the US broadcaster ABC.  Want to see some true hate?  Want to see the reason why I left the United States?  Read this little gem of an article over at ABC and then click to read just a handful of the 700+ responses by ordinary American folk.  Some highlights include:

I think you get the drift....

Gods, the hate and vileness of these people disgusts me, and I think more then anything else I am saddened about the perception they have about Canada and its institutions.  There is more to Canadian culture then liberal policies, socialized medicine and civil rights.  You actually think I’m going to be scrambling back over the border because I have to wait a couple of days to see a specialist for FREE?!?  Sigh.

Wow, what a perfect time for me to head to the States.

August 01, 2007

August 1, 2007

Things have been up and down this week, actually the last couple of weeks; so the fact that today is August 1^st is quite settling as I feel this month will bring some much needed changes to my life as Mason and I close in on our 1-year mark since the move. You know what that means…bullet time!

1) The Move: The big part of the move (movers and a truck) is scheduled for August 18^th  but before then there will be plenty of little trips over to the house to clean and cleanse and move items room by room.  I’m becoming happier with this move and more comfortable with the home; I really like the neighbourhood, our landlord rocks and the house feels better to me then the one we are currently in on sooooo many levels.  I will feel at ease when it’s all done, have our deposit back and we can say C'est la vie.  As far as Asshole and Countess Cuntula, Mason and I have decided not to throw a “Fuck You” party and will instead focus on a housewarming one at our new place instead. He’s already taken up too much time in my writings and my life…

2) Between The Worlds: A festival that I have had the privilege of attending the last few years; it has given me a sense of renewal and peace every year spiritually, but this year I can’t make it.  There are a number of practical reasons; money, lack of time off, newness in our respective jobs, but I believe that things happen for a reason.  Riding that sentiment, Mason won a trip on the CBC this past winter and we need to use it before December, so we decided to use what little vacation time we have this year and use the trip to go here in Cancun, Mexico in November; just the two of us :-)

3) Work: Has been kicking my ass at some times, but leaving me bored out of my skull at others.  I can’t complain, I love my job but I seriously need a break from it and I think my side trip to California tomorrow is going to be just the thing.

4) Relationships: I’ve struggled with this one, both publicly and privately; some things have gone behind a my-eyes only filter.  To say it has been an easy year is laughable; Mason and I saw some depths that before now were uncharted and some peaks that were off the charts.  All the more reason for the trip mentioned in #2 and I am thankful every day that goes by that this man is in my life and that he has chosen me to be with for the rest of our lives. 

On the same note, I have had a good long look at the friendships in my life up to this point.  I’ve had the pleasure of meeting new friends, solidifying present ones, reevaluating old ones and struggling with some; in some cases leaving me scratching my head and wondering what happened.  It’s alright though, as I think I have finally figured out who counts and respects me as a true friend and treats me as such.  It’s sad but exhilarating at some times, happy and debilitating at others; regardless I consider myself a lucky man.

Part of me longs for the fall and for summer to be over, I always do best with the colder months and the waning half of the year.  I have a lot of goals and plans to accomplish before the year is out and starting 2008 with a running start.  Enjoy the ride.