Moving back “home” became something new. Surprises at my new life in a new country.
Surprises? Canadians like sweet iced tea. Ick.
No pennies in circulation. They round up to the nickel.
I’m sorry it’s taken so long to post this update for my friends who may have wondered what happened to me. You don’t realize how time and energy-consuming it is to set up the basics of life in a new country, life as we know it in the 21st century. Life for me includes an Internet connection, smartphone, and TV. A bank, credit card, drivers license.
Here’s my new digs in Ottawa. Not the downtown high-rise I wanted, but it’s really nice inside. Moving back “home” became something new. Surprises at my new life in a new country. The front is an ordinary suburban street. The back faces an old apple orchard and miles of walking/biking paths in the Britannia Conservation area.
My new digs
Because public transportation is so good here, I decided to try and live without a car. I’m within minutes of a major bus hub and through a field out my back door where there is a community garden.
Here’s a photo of the mighty Ottawa River which drains into the Great Lakes. I know I make it look like a creek.
View from the stately Parliament buildings
Did I mention I can’t get Verizon to work here after 3 visits to the phone company? I did get a new account with Rogers, a major Canadian company, and new phone. Steep learning curve on both.
Fireflies in the grassy field full of flowers behind my townhouse. Fireflies at night. Thunder and lightning.
More. Much more to follow. A new novel? Slow progress. My email is now [email protected]. Let me know if you want my phone number.
Thank you so much. I was eager to hear this. Looks as if you’ve landed on your feet. Although OTTAWA!!!! We southerners just don’t get it. Greetings from the shore of Lake Ontario – well I can just make it out on a clear day from the 14th floor. Like today.
I know Ottawa has long and cold winters. I spent last winter here to see if I could stand it. This winter will be much better. I’m coming back mid-winter to Pine Mountain for a long visit with my friend Judith Cassis. When’s your next California visit, Joyce?
A wonderful post, Mar. Will you come back to California to visit? Elaine Ash
Yes, indeed. Next winter. I’ll stay in touch Elaine.
I take my iced tea sans sugar. Your walking paths look wonderful
As does your beach walk. Another visit this fall, Gil.
All sounds great, Mar. Except that bit about the shovel….shivered my timbers!
I’m coming to North Bay in September, Ursula, going out to the cottage to do some work. I hope I can stay with you again. These visits sustain me.
Off to a good start!
Indeed. The first weeks I just hunkered down in my empty place waiting for the moving van. I brought the wrong pieces of furniture from my California house, but who knew? The rooms in this condo are so small! My health plan goes into effect 9/12 or 12/9/2019 as it’s expressed here. I hope you’re well and thriving.
Sounds like you’re settling in well, eh?!
Ah, Patrice, I miss you.