Canada

Okay, I have now been in Canada for a week. First in Calgary and now Edmonton, Alberta. Been in Edmonton since Friday night. I'll spend most of the next 3 weeks in Alberta. The first 2 days were quite enjoyable as we were just planning a class and being trained on some new systems. However, it became quite clear Wednesday afternoon that this is not going to be an easy task. Please wish me luck. I shouldn't go into details as much as I'd like to. The best thing so far has been working with a fabulous group of people. This will be the biggest test since the beginning of my career.

Yesterday I spent most of the day watching the Obama Express coverage on CNN. I was obsessed. So inspiring.

I love the fact that when I get money from the ATM Elizabeth of Windsor's face pops out at me. Trying so hard to get used to the Loony ($1.00 coin) and the Twooney
($2.00 coin). The coins made for an frustrating time at the laundry mat this morning. I couldn't figure out what slots the quarters went into versus the Loonies. This was compacted by the fact I had really no idea where I was at as I had to take a cab. I almost cried and the extra stress of the week didn't help. I went a decade without a vehicle and now not having one after 7 years of the luxury I feel lost and immobile. Ya know? It's very difficult being a smoker up here. First, cigarettes cost $10.00 a pack (I knew this way ahead of time, but didn't plan accordingly). Hardly any place sells them. I spent a half hour on Friday night walking around looking for them. The supermarket next to my hotel didn't sell them as there is a law up here that doesn't allow stores where there is a pharmacy attached to sell cigarettes. Then I walked to another supermarket, much like a Bi-Mart, that didn't sell them either. I ended up at a fuel station that did sell them, but not my brand. There is absolutely no advertising up here and all the cigarettes are hidden in drawers, or curtains, whatever one can find to hide them. It's the law. Nothing like what we find in the states. This is fascinating to me as in the US you can find and buy them anywhere. I wonder why this is? Is it because they don't have the lobbyists like we do, or is it because of National Health care?? It's time to quit, yes it is. With all this you can find a liquor store at every corner, literally. What's that about??

I have some great news. My sister is pregnant again. Can you imagine having 4 children?? Oh my. I am hoping for a girl, as is she. I just want to play with some barbies and have it be okay, you know.