State Sanctioned Hatred

This is long, but worth reading -

Bans in 3 States on Gay Marriage

SAN FRANCISCO — A giant rainbow-colored flag in the gay-friendly Castro neighborhood of San Francisco was flying at half-staff on Wednesday as social and religious conservatives celebrated the passage of measures that ban same-sex marriage in California, Florida, and Arizona.

In California, where same-sex marriage had been performed since June, the ban had more than 52 percent of the vote, according to figures by the secretary of state, and was projected to win by several Californian news media outlets. Opponents of same-sex marriage won by even bigger margins in Arizona and Florida. Just two years ago, Arizona rejected a similar ban.

The across-the-board sweep, coupled with passage of a measure in Arkansas intended to bar gay men and lesbians from adopting children, was a stunning victory for religious conservatives, who had little else to celebrate on an Election Day that saw Senator John McCain lose and other ballot measures, like efforts to restrict abortion in South Dakota, California and Colorado, rejected.

“It was a great victory,” said the Rev. James Garlow, senior pastor of Skyline Church in San Diego County and a leader of the campaign to pass the California measure, Proposition 8. “We saw the people just rise up.”

The losses devastated supporters of same-sex marriage and ignited a debate about whether the movement to expand the rights of same-sex couples had hit a cultural brick wall, even at a time of another civil rights success, the election of a black president.

Thirty states have now passed bans on same-sex marriage.

Supporters of same-sex marriage in California, where the fight on Tuesday was fiercest, appeared to have been outflanked by the measure’s highly organized backers and, exit polls indicated, hurt by the large turnout among black and Hispanic voters drawn to Senator Barack Obama’s candidacy. Mr. Obama opposes same-sex marriage. [bolding mine]

California will still allow same-sex civil unions, but that is not an option in Arizona and Florida. Exit polls in California found that 70 percent of black voters backed the ban. Slightly more than half of Latino voters, who made up almost 20 percent of voters, favored the ban, while 53 percent of whites opposed it.

Julius Turman, a chairman of the Alice B. Toklas L.G.B.T. Democratic Club, a gay political group here, said he called his mother in tears when Mr. Obama won the presidency, only to be crying over the same-sex marriage vote in a different way not much later.

“It is the definition of bittersweet,” Mr. Turman said. “As an African-American, I rejoiced in the symbolism of yesterday. As a gay man, I thought, ‘How can this be happening?’ ”

Proposition 8’s passage left only Massachusetts and Connecticut as states where same-sex marriages are legal, though both Rhode Island and New York will continue to recognize such ceremonies performed elsewhere. Civil unions or domestic partnerships, which carry many of the same rights as marriage, are allowed in a handful of states. More than 40 states now have constitutional bans or laws against same-sex marriages.

On Wednesday, five months of same-sex marriages in California — declared legal by the State Supreme Court in May — appeared to have come to a halt. “This city is no longer marrying people” of the same sex, Gavin Newsom, the mayor of San Francisco, announced at a grim news conference at City Hall, where hundreds of same-sex couples had rushed to marry in the days and hours leading up to Tuesday’s vote.

The status of those marriages, among 17,000 same-sex unions performed in the state, was left in doubt by the vote. The state’s attorney general, Jerry Brown, reiterated Wednesday that he believed that those marriages would remain valid, but legal skirmishes were expected.

The cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco, and Santa Clara County, as well as several civil rights and gay rights groups, said on Wednesday that they would sue to block the ban.

Some opponents of the proposition were also still holding out slim hopes that a batch of perhaps as many as four million provisional and vote-by-mail ballots would somehow turn the tide.

The victory of the social and religious conservatives came on a core issue that has defined their engagement in politics over the past decade.

The Rev. Joel Hunter, an evangelical pastor in Florida, said many religious conservatives felt more urgency about stopping same-sex marriage than about abortion, another hotly contested issue long locked in a stalemate.

“There is enough of the population that is alarmed at the general breakdown of the family, that has been so inundated with images of homosexual relationships in all of the media,” said Mr. Hunter, who gave the benediction at the Democratic National Convention this year, yet supported the same-sex marriage ban in his state. “It’s almost like it’s obligatory these days to have a homosexual couple in every TV show or every movie.”

Supporters of the bans in California, Arizona and Florida benefited from the donations and volunteers mobilized by a broad array of churches and religious groups from across the ethnic spectrum.

The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, a pastor in Sacramento and president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, said the campaign to pass Proposition 8 had begun with white evangelical churches but had spread to more than 1,130 Hispanic churches whose pastors convinced their members that same-sex marriage threatened the traditional family.

“Without the Latino vote,” Mr. Rodriguez said, “Proposition 8 would never have succeeded.”

Frank Schubert, the campaign manager for Protect Marriage, the leading group behind Proposition 8, agreed that minority votes had put the measure over the top, saying that a strategy of working with conservative black pastors and community leaders had paid off.

“It’s a big reason why we won, no doubt about it,” he said.

Proposition 8 was one of the most expensive ballot measures ever waged, with combined spending of more than $75 million. Focus on the Family and other religious conservative groups contributed money to help pass the same-sex marriage measures in all three states.

Forces on both sides viewed California as a critical test of the nation’s acceptance of gay people, who have made remarkable strides in the decades since the 1969 riots in New York at the Stonewall Inn, considered the beginning of the gay rights movement.

Scholars were divided on how large a setback Tuesday’s votes would be for that movement. Andrew Koppelman, a professor of law at Northwestern University and the author of “Same Sex, Different States,” a study of same-sex marriage, said the outcome had a silver lining, namely that it was closer than in previous statewide measures.

A 2000 ballot measure establishing a California state law against same-sex marriage passed with 61 percent of the vote. That law was overturned in May by the State Supreme Court.

In Arizona, where same-sex marriage was already against the law, the victory for Proposition 102, which amends the State Constitution, was met with a shrug by some.

“I think the country was like, ‘Look, you get Obama, call it a day and go home,’ ” said Kyrsten Sinema, a Democratic state representative who led opponents against Proposition 102. “And frankly, I’ll take it.”

Jesse McKinley reported from San Francisco, and Laurie Goodstein from New York.

Back to the US?

If you are a US2CA expat who, with Obama's election, plans to move back to the States - or you know someone who fits that description - please contact me. I have a media contact who would like to speak to such an individual. Thanks!

Post-mortem

I've been reading others' posts, in blogs and on Facebook, thinking about the election results. Compared to many of my friends and acquaintances, I feel like a real "party-pooper."

I'm glad to see history being made. I'm relieved that we don't have to worry about Palin becoming the president. I'm thrilled that McCain lost. But, I don't really believe that change is coming. How will "change" be measured? Will the chokehold of capitalism, consumption, and individualism be lessened? Will we really be out of Iraq any time soon? Will all citizens of the US be granted the same rights and privileges regardless of sexual orientation? No, no, and no.

In California, a constitutional amendment to ban marriage for same-sex couples is winning 52% to 48% with 92% of the precincts reporting. That is incredibly disappointing. In Florida, one of the places I grew up, a constitutional amendment banning marriage and all legal protection for same-sex couples passed 62% to 38%. Not surprising, but still offensive. In Arizona, where I attended graduate school, a second attempt at a constitutional amendment banning marriage for same-sex couples passed 57% to 43%. And, in Arkansas, a ballot initiative banning adoption and foster care for all unmarried couples passed 57% to 43%. So much for truly caring about the lives of kids.

One acquaintance, on her Facebook page, wrote that she is "is disgusted in CA, AZ, AK, and FL. Suck it hatemongers." One of her "friends" replied via comment, "Not everybody has a problem with how AR voted." Ick.

To be fair there were some "good," imho, results (e.g., Massachusetts, Michigan, South Dakota...), but when it comes to writing discrimination into state statute or constitutions, bigotry prevailed. So sad.

I put off posting anything today because I just didn't know what to say. I don't want to rain on anyone's parade. But, I can't help but thinking that if I were still sitting in Minnesota, nothing in my life would really have changed, or even feel like it had changed. I would still be a second class citizen. My family would still not have legal recognition. And more people have expressed their belief that it never should. Sorry, but I just can't find it in me to be more joyous about yesterday's results.

Voting Problems?

November 4, 2008
Actor waged 5-hour battle to cast vote
From CNN's Mythili Rao

Robbins' name was missing from rolls.

NEW YORK (CNN) — When Academy Award-winning actor Tim Robbins showed up at his West 14th Street YMCA polling center in Manhattan to vote Tuesday morning, election officials told him that his name was missing from the register.

"I went to vote where I normally vote and I was not listed. I asked for an explanation; they had none," Robbins told CNN.

He said he has been voting in the same district since 1992. He has not missed one election, and has not changed addresses or political affiliations.

"The poll worker said my name was in the book for the primary two months ago, but missing for the general election," he told CNN.

Although Robbins was offered the opportunity to fill out a provisional ballot, he was set on using the voting machine instead.

"Refuse provisional ballots — they're throwing those out, they can throw those out," he told viewers of "Real Time With Bill Maher" last month.

"If that's your last resort, take it, but fight for your right to vote," he said. "It's your right as an American."

It took Robbins a total of five hours — and a judge's order — to do so today.

"I'm just waiting for an explanation. I want a real explanation, and I want that explanation for the hundreds and thousands of people in my district and throughout the city who are experiencing the same thing today," Robbins told CNN.

A New York City Board of Elections representative did not return CNN's calls.

Polling places nationwide have seen heavy turnout — and accompanying delays and glitches — for the presidential race between Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama.

********

How many people - without the tenacity, connections, or whatever - will have had this experience, and not the same outcome?

Four Years Ago

Four years ago last night, P and I sat up watching the election returns. But, what interested me was not so much the presidential race, but the results of the various ballot measures across the country. In particular, I watched as state after state, 11 in all, passed efforts to amend their state constitutions to "define marriage as between one man and one woman." The language varied and some were even more all-encompassing in their discrimination. I said, as we watched, "I think we need to get out of here." Now, four years later, we're "out of here" which has become "there." And, while it has not been without its challenges, I'm sooooooo glad to be in Canada.

I have had various folks ask why I'm not a big fan of Obama. Aside from the things that have been thoroughly addressed elsewhere on the US2CA blogs, the stick in my craw is his position on same-sex marriage. I routinely explain that I have no use for his "separate but equal" stance as separate is never equal. But, this article, brought to my attention by P, is a good one for answering the question. As she suggested, maybe he's taking a page from the Wellstone playbook. The late Paul Wellstone (D-MN) supported the Defense of Marriage Act, but later said that he had changed his mind regretted having voted as he did. Only time will tell.

So, here it is, the eve of the US election - the outcome of which, I think, is not a done deal. And, while P is, physically, in Minnesota. "We" are here. The house is almost done, 7YO is settled into his new school, winter is approaching... And, to echo sentiments expressed elsewhere - [though I do want Obama to win] his presidency won't do anything to improve my life, or that of my family. We'd still be second class citizens. Oh, Canada! Oh, Canada!

Update on John McKendy

FREDERICTON - Police recovered a body Saturday they believe is that of a man wanted on a Canada-wide warrant in the killing of St. Thomas University professor John McKendy.

John McKendy, a 60-year-old sociology professor at St. Thomas University is shown in this undated photo from the university's website.

RCMP said they received a call just before 11:30 a.m. after the body of a man was discovered inside a car at a hotel parking lot in Moncton, N.B.

"We were alerted by someone in the region who called the RCMP in Moncton. We dispatched officers and discovered the body," said RCMP Cpl. Claude Tremblay, at a news conference in Fredericton.

"Police have determined that the car was rented earlier in the week by 27-year old Nicholas Wade Baker."

Police stressed that no positive identification of the body had been made.

They said it was found inside a silver coloured Chrysler with a Nova Scotia plate on it. It was a rental car from a company in Fredericton.

Just prior to the discovery Tremblay said the Mounties had laid a charge of first degree murder against Baker in the killing of McKendy.

The 60-year-old sociology professor's body was discovered in his Douglas, N.B., home early Friday.

Baker was identified as a suspect by police shortly afterward. They said he had no fixed address but had family in South Carolina.

Although police hadn't offered comment on family ties the Globe and Mail reported Saturday that Baker was married to McKendy's daughter and that she was found injured in the home and taken to hospital for treatment.

Canada Border Services were notified and police issued two pictures of the suspect, described as being about five-foot-eight with a slim build.

Despite what appears to be a major break in the case there are still more questions than answers. Police didn't release any further information, including how the man in the car died.

"We're not going to talk about that," said Tremblay. "It doesn't serve any purpose for the investigation, and out of respect for the family, they've gone through enough and don't need to see that."

Meanwhile, investigators still haven't revealed how McKendy was killed.

McKendy, a Quaker, came to the Fredericton school in 1974 and his research focused on social inequality and the sociology of religion and work.

On Saturday, Dawne Clarke, who teaches criminology at Saint Thomas, remembered her friend.

"He was kind and compassionate and gentle," Clarke said. "He never said a harsh word about anyone ever."

Her husband Stephen Pidwysocky, also a Saint Thomas professor, said McKendy was an example to others.

"We always talk about what a kind person or a nice person should be like. He was that, he was just a very nice, kind person," he said.

"John was a person who opposed all forms of violence."

University president Michael W. Higgins said McKendy's commitment to learning was exemplified by his passion for teaching.

Higgins said the campus ministry and grief counsellors would be brought in to provide assistance as needed.

A vigil was planned for Saturday afternoon in the university chapel.

Source

Homicide in Douglas/Fredericton

Some of you will likely see this story in the Canadian papers. Some of you may remember that we're building our house in Douglas. Others might remember that I'm a sociologist. Thus, I thought I'd post that I didn't know John McKendy, though, given his social justice work, it is highly likely that our paths would eventually have crossed. Anyway, I just thought I'd post this since some of you may "connect the dots" and wonder if his department is the one with which I'm affiliated (no, he was at St. Thomas), etc.

I was driving this morning and heard the report of a "suspicious death on Island View in Douglas." That's exactly where 7YO and I were going this evening. When I got to his school for pick-up at 1:30, they had the place in lock down. So, tonight we went to his friend's house, on Island View, and had to drive right by the street - it's actually off Island View - where you could see the police tape across the street. I haven't seen any coverage. What's particularly heartbreaking is that he was, apparently, a Quaker; had done volunteer work in Africa; was a great teacher, etc. He recently presented at an event called the New Brunswick Social Forum. The title of the session at which he spoke? Alternatives To Violence: War From Renous To Afghanistan.

May he rest in peace.

Miscellaneous thoughts...

CNN is talking about how "only" 13 US soldiers died in Iraq in October... and "only" 6 were combat deaths, or some such. WTF? I am so disgusted, offended, by the use of the descriptor "only." I know what they mean, but it still pisses me off. I can guaran-fucking-tee them that the families of those soldiers aren't thinking of them as "onlies."

I haven't been following much of US politics - and I use the term loosely - until recently. So, I just found out that in addition to anti-gay, anti-family initiatives in California and Florida, there's more hatred and stupidity out there. I didn't know that my former home of Arizona is trying again. And, in Arkansas, people will vote on prohibiting adoption by unmarried couples. Guess we know who that is aimed at.

And, in Colorado -
"The approved ballot title reads:
Shall there be an amendment to the Colorado constitution defining the term “person” to include any human being from the moment of fertilization as “person” is used in those provisions of the Colorado constitution relating to inalienable rights, equality of justice, and due process of law?

The proposed initiative says:
Be it Enacted by the People of the State of Colorado: SECTION 1. Article II of the constitution of the state of Colorado is amended BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION to read: Section 31. Person defined. As used in sections 3, 6, and 25 of article II of the state constitution, the terms "person" or "persons" shall include any human being from the moment of fertilization.

Because the amendment defines a fertilized egg as a person, even before being implanted in the uterus (a common definition for the beginning of a pregnancy), opponents suggest that the amendment may outlaw certain methods of birth control that focus on interfering with the egg's implantation."

California and South Dakota are at it, too.

In California, "'[t]he initiative would prohibit abortion for unemancipated minors until 48 hours after physician notifies minor’s parent, legal guardian or, if parental abuse has been reported, an alternative adult family member."

In South Dakota, "If the state's voters approve it, the South Dakota Constitution will henceforward ban all abortions in the state except for those performed because of rape, incest or to protect the woman's health."

Just my opinion, of course, but... WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?

Note: If any of these have, for some reason, been kept off the ballot at the last minute, I've not read about it. Feel free to post updates via comments.

Quebec Immigration

Immigrants must sign paper pledging Quebec values

"Quebec has introduced a mandatory declaration for immigrants requiring them to sign their commitment to respect the province's common values.

The immigrant declaration follows on recommendations issued by The Bouchard-Taylor Commission, a provincial public inquiry on the issue of so-called reasonable accommodation of cultural and religious beliefs."

What do you think?

Palin - A bitch, witch, and moron

Now, using such language to describe another woman is something I reserve for the exceptional. For example, people like Michele Bachmann. Add Sarah Palin to the list. The other day she said, while talking about the role of government, "I don't know what to think of having in my family Uncle Barney Frank or others to make decisions for me." I completely agree with this interpretation of that remark: "Barney Frank is a high profile Gay Democratic Congressman. In cases of child molesting, the term funny uncle is a derogatory term for a family member who molests children. Conservatives believes gays are predatory child molesters and what better way to make that point than to make gay Congressman Barney Frank the uncle." Source

For an interesting, imo, exchange on this comment, go here.

She is, or should be, a complete embarrassment to the Republican party. I don't know which is worse, the fact that she is truly stupid or the fact that she's a bigot. I guess in the role of vice president - or, worse, president - I'd have to go with the former. But, I am so tired of the degree to which people running for public office choose to wave the flag of homophobia as a badge of honor - and feel empowered to do so.

In talking with Andy Scott the other day, he echoed a sentiment I've heard from others. In short, politicians in Canada would be fired or run out of town for saying some of the things that in the US garner the bigots more support. Interesting.

Why, given the polls, do I even bother? Will anyone remember Sarah Palin in a year? For extensive discussion of why I think we should be concerned, go here.

BTW, in an earlier post I wrote about not being sure about voting. I do not like Obama because he thinks I'm a second class citizen. But, the thought of Palin in the White House should terrify the world. So, holding my nose, I did submit my vote for Obama/Biden. I'm so glad I'm here...

Harvey Milk

I can't wait to see this movie. I may have to drive to Halifax. I may have to drive to Boston. But, I really want to see it on the big screen.



But, for the real thing, check these out, too:

Andy Scott

For the past 15 years, Andy Scott has been a Liberal MP from Fredericton. He chose not to run in this last election. Rather, he is now heading up the Social Policy Research Network at UNB. His office is around the corner from mine. We met for the first time this morning. I had known that he once did graduate work here. I knew he was retiring from Parliament. I knew he was a Liberal. What I didn't know was his role in the issue of same-sex marriage. Read on.

While casually chatting about what brought me/us here, etc. I discovered that he, in fact, had at one time been the chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights. It was to this committee that, in 2002, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada directed the question of same-sex marriage. It was as chair of this committee that he broke a tie in a vote on the issue:

"The first signs of movement in Ottawa came on June 12 when the Standing Committee for Justice and Human Rights barely voted to recommend that Parliament accept the Ontario decision. The tie-breaking vote for equal marriage came from the chair of the committee, Liberal MP Andy Scott, in a process that included the replacement of opponents to same-sex marriage with more agreeable M.P.s.

While we watched Mr. Scott on live television, we applauded the New Brunswick Member of Parliament as he spoke about being "informed" by the recent court decisions and the testimony about marriage heard by the committee. Mr. Scott's public support was an important and significant step forward. Since Mr. Scott's lead, other M.P.s have been listening and learning, building consensus for the final approval of same-sex marriage in Parliament." Source

So, we're chatting away - talking about immigration, same-sex marriage, the fact that he was once attacked in his F'ton office over the issue, religion, the Charter, Section 2, Section 15... and he goes over to a stack of framed materials. He is just getting settled in his office and they were not yet hanging. Then, he pulls out a framed copy of the Charter and gives it to me. To keep. I had a copy on my chalkboard in Saint Paul. It's in a box somewhere. But, it isn't framed and it wasn't from Andy Scott. I am so tickled.

Then, I told him that I'd like to talk with him about the war resisters sometime. He responded by telling me that for a while he was sending one post card a day on the issue. He said there was a time that he thought, "Why should I keep doing this?" And, he realized that if, as a member of Parliament, he wasn't willing, why should someone not in Parliament do so.

This has been a very cool morning!

Need a reminder?

SAN FRANCISCO - A girl in pigtails bounds into the kitchen after school and asks her mother to guess what she learned that day. "I learned how a prince married a prince, and I can marry a princess," she exclaims to her mortified mom.

This television advertisement for a ballot initiative that would ban same-sex marriage in California urges voters to "protect children" by approving the measure.

There's not a word about education in Proposition 8, but what public schools will be required to teach about same-sex marriage has emerged as the central issue in the campaign...

Go here for more, if you can stand it.

I knew there was a reason I, as a rule, avoided US "news." And again I ask, what is wrong with these people? I mean, I have the academic take. E.g., It's really about gender; people aren't worried about same-sex relationships per se. They're worried about how it disrupts the gender binary. But, that just doesn't help when I try to imagine why people spend so much time and money hating/fearing/discriminating against people whose lives don't really affect them at all. Maybe these people - and those like the woman in the video over at Moved to Vancouver - just have to focus on something besides their lives. Maybe they're so freaked out about health care, the economy, mortgages, and so on that it gives them something to keep them distracted. All I know is that they piss me off.

Still here!

Well, we arrived just over four months ago. And what a four months it's been. Just to recap - we spent 16 June-30 September living in a sub-let in the heart of downtown Fredericton. Of course, the "we" varies as my mother was with us from our arrival until we went to Boston on 30 July. Then, quite unexpectedly, on 20 August P left for Saint Paul to attend school. So, 7YO - a real trooper if I do say so - and I have been hanging in, just the two of us. Well, three with our pup! On 1 October we moved to what we thought would be a short stay in a fellow expat's place in historic Marysville. It was a great unit, but getting up off the frameless futon and out of the camp chair was really grueling on my legs. I was getting more and more furious over the delays with the build.

Peppered throughout this time are the various dates that we were told we'd be able to move into our house - 15 August, 1 September, 15 September, 1 October, 17 October... If you're sensing a trend there, you're right. I've tried to keep most of the build info on the other blog, but I thought - given that I actually have some time to breathe - I'd post an update here.

So, on the 10th of October I had a major meltdown on PR, the builder's "project manager," though he hadn't been managing our project. I had been told that the septic was going in that afternoon and that the kitchen cabinets would be delivered. When I stopped by on a beautiful, sunny Friday afternoon... not a soul in sight. Nothing. Zero. Nada. And they were still saying 17 October. Yeah, right.

Well, PR and D, the builder's brother and business partner, were furious. Not at me. They had no idea that there had been so many errors, nor that I had been given the timeline(s) that I had. They were furious that things had been going so badly and they didn't know. On Monday morning I was told that they had rented an "executive suite" in downtown Fredericton for as long as we need it. The upside is that we have a completely furnished unit, including kitchen, cable, and Internet. The downside is that it's not dog friendly. So, our pup is spending a couple of weeks - and I hope that's all - at Foster's, the great dog hotel in Durham Bridge. Since we've also no yard here and I haven't been able to walk more than 10-15 minutes, I know he's better off. I swear when he comes back after being there he's depressed! The other night I received an e-mail that he was spending the evening in the owners' house watching movies with them and their pets. So, mostly "upside," with one major "downside."

P came to visit last weekend and, with minor chaos - again, see the other blog - we got all of our stuff out of storage and into the basement of the house. She had to leave before the crack of dawn on Monday and will be back five weeks from yesterday. That time she'll be here for two weeks, going back only for ten days of finals.

What else?

I bought my first set of winter tires today. Nobody I knew in Minnesota bothered, but with the kind of snow/ice here - and that fact that we'll be in the "country" up a couple of hills - everyone said it was a must.

Turns out that one of 7YO's classmates just moved here from Hudson, Wisconsin, a town within reasonable commuting distance of Saint Paul. Her father grew up here, went to the same school that his daughter and 7YO are attending, but, after spending about a dozen years in the US, has returned because of the downturn in the economy. 7YO also has a new classmate from the Netherlands. One of the parents I often chat with is from West Yorkshire, England. All in all, a nice mix of folks and nobody - yet - bats an eye when I explain why we came to Canada.

I've been spending a lot of time shopping for furniture as we didn't bring much with us. While this isn't my idea of fun, it's been even less fun because we have an awkward living room space. We're hoping that the sofa we've chosen fits okay, but if not, we'll probably swap it for the love seat. We're getting the ottoman - in the same red - too, with the idea that we can put a nice tray on it and have it triple as a coffee table, foot rest, and extra seat. And, we decided to go - in my view - a bit suburban and get a cushy, double reclining sofa for the basement/tv space. But, hey, it's all about the comfort. We're doing it in a chocolate brown microfibre. I'm so glad to be done with that! Now I'm on the hunt for a harvest table. I'd like to get one made from reclaimed wood, but I don't know if I can do so without going to Maine... Anyway, we're buying furnishings with the understanding that we will eventually have a house!

Tomorrow I'm having an engine block heater put in the car. It was 10 years old in August and it did fine in the Minnesota winters, but it was in a garage. Last year you could tell it had to make the extra effort on those below freezing days. Since our garage won't be ready before the snow flies - oh, yeah, 'cause that was today - I decided to keep it "warm" - and not think about the extra burden on my carbon footprint.

I am really glad we're here. I confess that, since my income still comes from the US, I'm thrilled with the exchange rate. I wish I had time to do more with the stuff happening locally re sustainability, peace, etc., but I'm just not inclined to get a sitter so that I can go off without 7YO. He's loving his swimming at the Fredericton Indoor Pool. I love listening to the CBC as I drive. It's been a hard move, but most of that has to do with the house and P's departure. I realized the other day that none of this would be easier if I had moved out of Minnesota, but within the US. And, had I moved to a less hospitable community it would be much harder.

I am trying to get some work done, but mostly I am shopping, chauffering, dealing with the build, and trying to keep up with the more mundane requirements of life - e.g., laundry, groceries, etc. I am now off to read to 7YO before he goes to bed. I will be so glad when we are in our own home, school is just down the road, and I can focus on things besides "the move."

More as it happens!

Hello, hello!

I've been without regular and reliable Internet access for two weeks... but, I am here in Fredericton - thought it was touch and go there for a bit... Right now I'm at a cafe downtown having my second bowl of the most amazing Spicy Pumpkin Soup and an Internet connection. Please check the building blog for a bit about what has been consuming my life.

I did want to post a few quick things. First, I received word just this morning that my proposal for teaching on-line during the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 academic years has been approved. That is huge! Second, the Gregg Centre at UNB has worked things out and I will officially be a "Visiting Fellow" for the year. Third, P arrives tonight for the weekend. Things are looking up all around.

I look forward to having regular Internet access again and getting back in touch. Hope all is well with everyone!

October?

How did that happen? Not much news. We're still waiting to move. One building nightmare after another. We're taking a couple of nights at a hotel so that I can get caught up on email and do some work while 7YO watches tv. And, we've had the good fortune to be invited to someone's home for Thanksgiving and then some apple picking. Sounds delightful. P arrives on Thursday. If it hadn't been so ridiculously expensive to have her change her ticket ($1000) she would have been arriving tonight. Earlier in the week I was in meltdown mode. Time marches on. I wish I had the energy to write more.

In all the driving I'm doing - to school, back, on errands, to school, back - I'm listening to the radio a lot and enjoying learning more about politics, etc. Just to give you an idea - our car was purchased in August 1998. Before leaving MN in June of this year, just shy of 10 years old, we had right around 97,000 miles on the car, or an average of less than 10K a year. We put 2,000 miles on moving out here and, since the odometer turned 100,000 on 1 July, we've logged another 7,000 miles. Whoa! Glad to see that gas dropped 8 cents a litre this week!

Hopefully once we get settled I can get back to more regular - and interesting - posting. I'm also missing keeping up with others' blogs. Fingers crossed that within a couple of weeks I'll be writing from our new digs in beautiful Douglas, NB...

Countdown

In less than three weeks we should be moving into our new house. It won't yet have siding or a garage, and the "yard" will be largely mud, but as long as we have a bathroom... That, of course, is up in the air because the government people who inspect septic systems, etc. are, apparently, taking their own sweet time.

P arrives on the 16th for a long weekend - just in time to help with the aforementioned move. We can't wait. Other than that, fall is upon us. I hope the leaves hold on for another two weeks so that P can see them in real time. Here's a sample taken from the highway out to the house.


Off to make dinner for a little boy...

Whoosh!

That would be the sound of time flying by. It's weird. On the one hand, time is really flying because I'm constantly busy with house stuff. On the other hand, it's dragging because we're counting the days until P arrives for a visit.

I do have a great "serendipity" story. We have been renting a small place in downtown F'ton since 16 June. The owner saw this as a great opportunity to spend the summer at his "camp" - as they say here - and not have his house sit empty. It's been great in many ways (e.g., proximity), not so much in others (e.g., cost). Enter one of our fellow expat bloggers. She and her partner have a townhouse here - they're moving north later this fall - that has been rented out. But, their tenant is moving out this weekend. So, in a real win-win, 7YO and I will spend our last 2-3 weeks there and their place won't sit empty. I guess the rain this weekend means I don't have an excuse not to start packing and cleaning...

What else is happening? Before leaving Saint Paul, P bought 7YO a Game Boy so that he would have something to play with on the long, 2,000 mile, drive east. He had only recently seen and played his first video game. A friend of his had received a Wii for Christmas. We said firmly, we will not be getting a Wii. Never say never. As I mentioned in my last post, we broke down and have purchased one as a Christmas gift. But, lately, 7YO has been wanting a DS because there are some newer games not available for the (so old school) Game Boy. Well, I came up with a plan/plot. First, I wanted to do something for 7YO because he has been such a trooper through all of this. Second, I wanted a carrot.

7YO, for whatever reason, has not wanted to remove his training wheels. He tried once, fell, and decided that was that. So, we had a chat about video games, exercise, etc. E.g., unlike some of his classmates who bring their portable game systems to use at recess, this mean old mother says no, recess is for running around. We struck a deal that, if he would work at riding his bike, he would get a surprise. So, on Thursday, we removed the training wheels and he manage to ride about 10 feet or so on his own. Doesn't sound like much, but it is. He then got his - are you ready - limited edition Pokemon Nintendo DS. Woo-hoo. Yesterday's riding went well, too. So, from no-gaming to three gaming devices in a matter of months. Hey, whatever it takes.

And while I'm on the subject of parenting, kids, and bribery... he desperately wanted a hamster. After a little research, and talk with several of the kids - and I mean kids - who work at the pet store, we decided that gerbils were a better choice. If anyone reading has an opinion on the selection and care of small rodents, do chime in.

Well, since it's a miserably rainy day - and I don't want to clean and pack just yet - I'm off to actually sit and read the paper. You remember, large, paper, primarily black and white, gets on your hands? I didn't manage to stay awake for the debate, so I'll have to see what those who write for the Globe and Mail have to say.

As I say, more as it happens. Be well.

Welcome and Update

Please extend a warm welcome to a new US2CA blogger over at Alice in Canada! And, another Maritimer - yea!

I've been remiss in posting, largely due to exhaustion. Last Friday, 7YO and I drove to Portland, Maine, where we met P who had picked up a priceline ticket to Boston and driven up for a quick visit. We spent the brief time we had shopping, eating, and attending a Green expo. I felt so, well, Canadian - picking up my birthday present, the new iPod touch, and a Christmas present for 7YO, a Wii. On the way back I filled up the tank at the border - gas in NB had gone up to about $1.39 a liter - and picked up a gallon of milk - $3.52/gallon instead of $3.58/two liters. Normally I wouldn't go out of my way to shop down south, but since we were there anyway... The savings paid for the gas for the trip and then some. Unfortunately P had to leave at 3:45 am on Sunday to head for the airport and was back in St. Paul before we were out of the country.

This week has been a whirlwind of decisions regarding the house - outlet placement, lights, change of tub, change of part of the flooring - and major stress about the whole thing. We should be moving in on 15 October - delayed because of the finishing of the pine flooring. P arrives on 16 October for a long weekend so it's almost - almost - good timing. I would much rather be in at the first of the month, but that's not going to happen. Once we're in, we still have major work to be done - e.g., the siding and the garage. But, at least we'll be in.

I've started writing in earnest. I have an office at UNB so that I can work there. I'm doing some work for our realtor on the side. But, my day consist mostly of this: get up at 6, feed the dog, shower, get 7YO up, fix breakfast, make his lunch, dress, drive 7YO to school at 7:30 - about 9 miles, stop at the site, run errands (i.e., groceries, house-related stuff, walk dog), pick 7YO up at 1:30, stop at the site, come "home," snack, homework, email while 7YO watches "his" shows, make dinner - Kraft Dinner, hot dogs, spaghetti, ham, pizza - get 7YO in the shower - coerce him into using soap, argue over toothbrushing, read, get 7YO in bed, email/web stuff, let the dog out, and in, and out, and in, go to sleep, lather, rinse, repeat. Yes, I'm exhausted!

So, I'm off to bed! But, I swore I was going to get something posted today and the new blog was the perfect catalyst! Hope all is well with you and yours!

Chasing the Maple Leaf

Anybody in touch with the women of "Chasing the Maple Leaf" and know that they're okay? In my click through my US2CA blog list, I see that their blog is no more. ??

Postings on Palin

I just wanted to share these postings that appeared on an academic listserv I read -

". . . I was also appalled by Palin's speech. The line that struck me--and which hasn't received much coverage--was this:

"Al Qaida terrorists still plot to inflict catastrophic harm on America, and he's [Obama's] worried that someone won't read them their rights."

I was astounded to hear the whole horrible Bush-Cheney defiance of laws of war and slighting of American ideals echoed in that line. And the enthusiastic response of the crowd was also horrifying. The authorization of enhanced interrogation measures and the loosening of
the laws of war have wrought havoc on our soldiers (as we saw at Abu Ghraib). Soldiers are being encouraged to transgress moral and legal boundaries. But it is these young soldiers who have to live with the memories of what they did and who are also legally liable for these
transgressions!

Wasn't it John McCain who took a stand against the Bush administration regarding interrogation measures? How sad to see McCain condone this kind of rhetoric."

Another wrote: "There are reports that she is a Christian Dominionist, apparently a Pentecostal offshoot group/collection which was involved in the appalling evangelizing and sectarian biased religiously intolerant activities at the Air Force Academy and Naval Academies in recent years. I have nothing polite to say about the Dominionists, who basically want the USA to be a theocracy and are also I think an end-of-days type group. There is lots of scary stuff around about them. One of the bloggers at dailykos has links up involving the churches that Gov Palin belongs to."

And, another: "Isn't America a wonderful place? Where even poor white trash can dream to become Vice-President? No wonder Palin likes guns--she needs them to facilitate shotgun weddings. . .I maybe have more guns than she does, and I, too, don't kill things for sport (I eat what I hunt and field dress myself and haul out myself on foot, not from a helicopter).

Did the list know that she slashed funding for Special Needs programs by 67%? Now that she has a Special Needs child, I have been trying to see if funding has been restored.

I wonder how the Republicans might have responded if one of Obama's girls had become pregnant? Considering how the Republicans treated Clinton, I think there's more than enough hypocrisy to go around. Why is one family's business private and another's, not?

God help us, if you believe in a Creator, if she were to become president."

Just thought that some of you might find their thoughts of interest.

Miscellany

Things with the house are coming along. Our metal roof - yippee! - is on the back of the house. Check out that blog for some recent photos.

7YO is enjoying school. This is partly because it's the shortest "day" he's ever had and partly because he likes having school in English. He also likes his teacher. It was interesting that my name - the second mom listed - somehow disappeared off his enrollment paperwork and P's remained, but the secretary was very good about making a correction. Everyone I've met has been just terrific.

I went through a big pain in the a*** with Home Depot/my bank/Visa this morning. I can't bear to reprise it here. What it came down to is that Home Depot won't let me use a US Visa bank card in Canada. I ran into the same thing with Air Canada. Allegedly it's a security/fraud prevention issue, but I wonder...

There was some other good - no, great - news today. P is on break for US Thanksgiving from 26-30 November. It occurred to me, with Thanksgiving being so late this year, that there couldn't be much time between break and the end of classes. Indeed, as it turns out, her last day of class is Tuesday, 2 December. Now, this is heresy, me being a professor and all, but - with her only in-class final being on 17 December and all others being self-scheduled - I suggested that she might want to skip the last class, stay longer, study here, etc. So, she arrives on the evening of 26 November and will return on 10 December. She'll take exams and then return to NB on 22 December. Woo-hoo! So, she'll arrive on 16 October, six weeks from today, for a long weekend. On 20 October she'll return to St. Paul for two and a half weeks, come back on 26 November for two weeks, be gone for less than two weeks, and then back for good.

Onward and upward!

New Brunswick Health Care

I thought that on this, the day in which I am officially covered by NB Medicare, I'd write a more comprehensive post about my experiences with health care thus far. I've mentioned this stuff in passing elsewhere, but here's where things stand at the moment.

The day before I left for F'ton in May I had a cortisone injection in my left knee. My knees have been bad for a while, but the left - in particular - was really acting up. I think I did more damage when I laid vinyl in the basement last spring, but I'll never know. The day after I arrived in May is heard a loud "pop" when I turned in my seat. After seven hours at Chalmers' ER, I was told what I suspected, torn meniscus. If I'd had a brain I would have asked for an orthopedic referral then. But, since I was leaving a week later... While back in MN I chose not to follow up because I didn't think that anything they could/would do would have been done within the time I had left there. I was only going to be there for two weeks and then we were moving.

I arrived in F'ton on 16 June with my knees and one shoulder an absolute mess. By mid-July it was so bad that I went to the after hours clinic; the only option for those of us without a family physician. What an experience. When that window opened it was like fish to the food. For $50 - a bargain - I saw a very nice physician who said that I should continue to take ibuprofen, stay off of it as much as I could, and she would enter a referral to orthopedics. And, my shoulder, well, just give it some rest. Okay.

In early August I decided to call the doctor to whom she had written the referral, just to see how many weeks or months I would have to wait. When the woman on the other end of the phone said, "18-24 months," I just about fell over. I know that's what they say for knee replacements, but just to see the doctor? I was flabbergasted. She asked if I had a family physician and I said, "Of course not." She said something like, "Yeah." Then she advised that I go back to after hours and see if I could get a referral to physio. Now, I would have asked for that back in July, but I didn't think physio would do anything without diagnosis from the physician. I swear I contemplated having P take a baseball bat to my shin. I know I'd be seen then. Since I was just a few weeks away from not having to pay the $50 I decided to wait. I'd waited this long...

I was beyond furious with the doctor I had seen at after hours. Had she not known that she was telling me to take ibuprofen for two years and live with it? If she had told me right then what the situation was to even have it looked at by a specialist I might have flown to MN then, when my mother and P were still here. So, what to do? I called an orthopedist in Calais, Maine and one in Houlton, Maine. The latter, with whom I had to leave a message, never returned the call. I have an appointment on 15 December with the guy in Calais. Meanwhile, my one knee is swollen and "bulgy" at various points. I'm learning to live with the shoulder and my right knee is, well, not as bad as the left.

As for a family physician - we've met a nice couple who have a great relationship with their family physician. Having just taken a group of new patients from the waiting list, he said that if we hadn't found anyone by the next time they see us to let him know. So, I'm hopeful. It sucks that something like getting a family physician has to be accomplished by who one knows. But, I'll take it.

I think the "takeaway lesson" here is to not talk about "Canadian health care," but "[name your province] health care." Things in New Brunswick are absolutely terrible when it comes to more routine things. There simply aren't enough doctors to go around. I know someone dealing with a potential MS diagnosis who has had her MRI, her spinal, etc. and is really happy with her neurologist. For something of that seriousness, I think she's had great care. But, for the things like gnarly knees, that won't kill you - unless I really do fall down the stairs - forget it.

Let me add two things. One, I know I'm very privileged that going to Maine to get looked at is even an option. And, two, I'm still glad that I'm in a place where everyone has some level of access, even if it means I'm unable to deal with this situation in a timely fashion. I just wish some of the more routine things in daily life - use your imagination - weren't so painful while I wait.

Car Importation Question

A new permanent resident who has visited our blogs, but doesn't blog herself, has landed with her partner! Woo-hoo! They will be making the "real" move as soon as they sell their house in Massachusetts. Here's the question - they have a relatively new car that is financed. Thus, the bank holds the title. All the information regarding US/CA export/import, including conversation with the border folks, suggests that you must hold title to export/import the vehicle. Surely someone out there has come to Canada with a vehicle that you didn't yet own free and clear. Advice for these newcomers? Thanks!

Okay...

I have found another reason to keep McCain out of the White House. Not a reason to put Obama in it, mind you, but another reason to keep McCain out. Scary, just scary.

Coming Out

Yes, I'm coming out... as someone who, if she votes for Barack Obama will do so holding her nose. I have been having trouble with the idea for ages. Thus far, the Obama-lovefest isn't persuasive. It's very simple for me. And, no, it's not a matter of being a "one issue voter." It's not the "issue" of same-sex marriage; if there's an "issue," it's the "issue" of second class citizenship.

Like many of you, I've invested a lot of money and time in coming to Canada. And, while my motivation wasn't just family recognition, that was the catalyst and the primary motivator. Having left the country of my birth because I was a second class citizen, I am very uncomfortable with the idea of voting for someone who shares that view. And, I'm tired of voting for the lesser of the evils. Don't get me wrong. I loathe John McCain. Aside from his politics, the main insulted me to my face. But, you see, I'm just having trouble with the alternative...

"Although Barack Obama has said that he supports civil unions, he is against gay marriage. In an interview with the Chicago Daily Tribune, Obama said, "I'm a Christian. And so, although I try not to have my religious beliefs dominate or determine my political views on this issue, I do believe that tradition, and my religious beliefs say that marriage is something sanctified between a man and a woman."

This is bullshit, bullshit, bullshit. Columbia? Harvard Law? C'mon, surely he understands the difference between civil law and religious tradition.

I understand all of the arguments for why it's important that Obama end up in the White House. I really do. I'm just, personally - in terms of integrity, self-esteem, whatever - having trouble helping to put him there.

The Mouths of Babes

A few moments ago, 7YO and I had the Democratic convention on the television. An obnoxious GOP commercial aired. He said, "That's Hillary Clinton" and asked something about it being "Obama against Clinton." He's never heard of McCain. I explained that the contest had been between them, but that now it was Obama v. McCain, a friend of Bush. He asked, "Why don't you like George Bush?" This, btw, is old news to him. When he was 3 he could chant, "Hey, Hey, Ho, Ho, George Bush has got to go." But, I responded by saying that I don't like Bush because he took the country to war by lying and people had died. Then - going out on a limb - I said that he also didn't believe that kids should be able to have two moms or two dads. He did his, "Grrrrr..." and said, "He has a peanut brain" and "his dad George Bush has half a peanut brain." Okay, so he got that backwards. Still, talk about on target! In the car he prefers news to music. As I write, he's falling asleep in the chair, half watching Maine public television coverage. But, don't ask him to read or write. Go figure.

More of the same...

Here are a couple of more examples of why I'm glad - even with all the challenges we've had - to be out...

Unmarried adoption ban cleared for ballot
Ark. proposal would keep gays from becoming foster or adoptive parents
The Associated Press
Aug. 25, 2008
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A proposal aimed at effectively banning gays and lesbians from becoming foster or adoptive parents was cleared Monday to appear on this fall's ballot in Arkansas.

The measure would prohibit unmarried couples living together from fostering or adopting children, and Arkansas doesn't allow gays to marry or recognize gay marriages conducted elsewhere.
Go here for the entire article.

and

Texas gov. OK with teachers packing heat
Texas school district allows teachers to carry guns for protection
The Associated Press
Aug. 25, 2008
AUSTIN, Texas - Along with normal first-day jitters and excitement, students in this tiny district started school Monday wondering which teachers might be toting firearms.

"It was kind of awkward knowing that some teachers were carrying guns," said Adam Lira, 17, a senior. "I don't feel like they should be, 'cause we already have locked doors and cameras. But I didn't feel threatened by it."

Several parents said they had no idea that employees of the K-12 school were allowed to carry concealed guns on campus until recent publicity about the school board's policy, approved quietly last fall. They said they were upset that the rural community near the Oklahoma border had not been able to give input.

While some parents said they felt their children were safer, others opposed the plan, which appears to be the first of its kind nationwide.
Go here for the entire article.

Where to Begin?

It's going to take me a while to catch up and I don't know that I have the presence of mind... I guess the biggest news is that because P's law school - a part of the university with which I am employed - is an evil, inhumane bureaucracy, P is leaving for St. Paul on Wednesday morning at 5:40 am. Longer story short(er).

She delayed filing her intent to take a leave, waiting to hear about the job here. She didn't get the job here. She contacted the law school to see about taking a fall leave. We figured it made more sense, absent the job, to stay here until we were actually settled, and go back in the spring if she wanted to finish this year. A man I'll call Rick - the "p" is silent and thanks to Kate Clinton for that one - serves as a dean of sorts. It was his call that if she took the fall leave she would lose her roughly $12,000 scholarship. So, we decided that there was no way she could stay here - if she ever planned to finish - and give up the scholarship. The good news is that we had originally talked about the possibility, so we weren't completely unprepared. We just didn't anticipate that it would be with 7YO and me still living in temporary quarters and me with one fully functional limb, and that one with wrist arthritis.

So, 7YO and I will be here in Fredericton. Next week he's in camp again all week so I will have some time to play catch-up with a lot of hanging details, like my expense report from the Boston trip. The week after that he starts school. My birthday is the end of that week. Happy frickin' birthday. There is the possibility that we will be able to move in to the house, sans siding, the third week of September. Not holding my breath. Speaking of the house, I'll try to post an update on that soon.

So, as you might imagine, we've got a lot going on. We did go away this weekend, a previously planned birthday celebration for P. We took our first trip to Grand Manan Island. After a Friday of prep, we drove down to Blacks Harbour first thing Saturday morning - in the heaviest fog I've seen in years. To do so, we had to take what is allegedly the NB highway most frequented by moose. Unfortunately we saw evidence of that claim. I was glad that 7YO was snoozing when we passed two different moose who had met their demise on the highway. Scary and sad.

We took the 9:30 ferry, but, due to the fog, we saw nothing past the railing for the entire 90 minute trip. We arrived at North Head, Grand Manan around 11 am. Everything was enveloped in fog. We had talked to a local on the ferry and he had, delightfully, clued us in to the local bakery. We stopped and picked up warm doughnuts and other treats. We made our way to Castalia Marsh Retreat thinking we wouldn't be able to check in because it was so early. But, our host said, "It's ready, make yourselves at home."

We stayed in the "Birch Yurt." This was a great "in between" because, right now, my knees and shoulder would just, I'm sure, completely quit if I said, "Let me get my ThermaRest!" So, a camping cabin was a great alternative. Here are a couple of photos.

The "Birch Yurt" at Castalia Marsh Retreat, Grand Manan Island.

The view out the window, toward the marsh.

A few other snapshots...

The walk out to the Swallowtail lighthouse.

The "Hole in the Wall" formation.

We had great seafood and saw some beautiful scenery. 7YO enjoyed his "beachcombing" and "rockhounding." The Grand Manan Whale and Seabird Research Station museum was also a hit. This morning, Monday, we stopped at the bakery en route to the 9:30 ferry, picking up some more warm doughnuts and a couple of loaves of bread made with organic ingredients from a New Brunswick farm. Yea - 100 mile diet qualified!

This time we were on the smaller boat. There was hardly a cloud in the sky. It was sunny and warm. A striking difference from Saturday. And, on the way back, several times we spotted harbour porpoises surfacing as they swam. Very cool. They often spot whales, but we did not.

We stopped in Blacks Harbour to pick up some sardines and at The Birch Grove in St. George for lunch - one more scallop burger, one more lobster roll... Then, we stopped in St. Andrews for one last visit - for the summer - to Katy's Cove. P and 7YO went for a swim while the pup - yes, our 9+ year old lab x spaniel made the trip with us - and I hung out in the shade. As you see, we opted for a leisurely return to Fredericton. Good thing. I'll save the story of the "too short joists" for another post on another blog.

All in all, Grand Manan is a great getaway if you enjoy nature, the water, hiking, relaxing, and seafood. If you've ever been to places like St. Andrews, NB or Ogunquit, ME or just about any place on Cape Cod, think of Grand Manan as the anti-resort. You won't find any fast food, neon lights, or tacky shops. There appears to be one gas station, one grocery store, one great bakery, and a handful of restaurants that you might miss if you're not looking. There are all kinds of hiking trails and several campgrounds, cottages, etc. You can go whale watching or kayaking, but that's pretty much it for "touristy" things. All in all, we give it a thumbs up. You just have to know what you're looking for in a vacation. One storekeeper I spoke with relocated there from Toronto and loves it. But, when her sister came to visit she couldn't wait to leave.

Off to bed - more as I gather the energy!

Just Busy

Hello, hello! I've not posted in a while - just busy, tired, traveling, etc. Stream of consciousness here... My knees and shoulder are just sucking any energy I might have right out of me. I was en route/in Boston from 31 July - 6 August. It was a good, but tiring, trip. P found out, while we were away, that she came in second for the job. That was a huge drag, but we're trying to operate on the "it's because there's something better yet to come" approach. The week we were gone there was record rainfall here. That translates to being another week behind on the build. And, it's rained almost every day since we returned. The good news is that we met with the builder for two hours yesterday and hammered out a lot of the details. We're pretty much on budget so that's great to know. Now if we could just get the damn thing built. Prompted by L-girl, I'm meeting with members of the Fredericton Peace Coalition on the 19th to see what they're up to; and in particular to encourage action re the resisters. 7YO has been a terror. Too much Scooby-Doo and Pokemon and not enough running around. Next week he's in camp 8:30-4:30. That should help. Before leaving for Boston we had coffee with two couples - one gay, one lesbian - and had a fabulous time. We've discovered two little organic shops right downtown. Very nice, indeed. That's about it for a quick update. I'm off to ice my knee. Hopefully this week I'll have the energy to post something a bit more coherent. Take care!

More fun!

Aside from the fact that I may have a stroke over the build - go here for that info - things are going great! We've had another busy week with swimming lessons, tutoring, touring, etc. Yesterday my mother (77YO) and I went up to Houlton, Maine to visit a woman who was my father's nanny around 1938-1942. What a hoot!

Tonight P and I are going to dinner at the home of the folks who just moved here from Montreal, P and S. And, 77YO offered to stay home with 7YO so that we could have "grown-up" conversation. Tomorrow is the beginning of the Highland Games in Fredericton. We'll go to the Tattoo in the evening and the competitions, music, etc., over the weekend. On Sunday we're going for coffee with two gay/lesbian couples in the neighborhood.

I am not kidding when I say we've met more people here than in the last several years back in Saint Paul. Seems like most folks we associated with there were from work. I am loving this.

The other big news is the P had the big job interview on Tuesday. Though she won't know until next Friday whether or not she'll get an offer, the good news is that she felt it went well and there wasn't anything she could have done differently. Thus, if she doesn't get it, she can honestly say there wasn't anything more she could have done and chalk it up to other things. We're really hopeful, but trying not to hold our collective breath.

I guess that's it. My knees and shoulder are still just horrific. But, I'm hobbling through. We got the letter saying that we have NB Medicare as of 1 September and I'm waiting for the orthopedic referral. Unfortunately - but at least I knew it before getting here - we may never get a family doctor. That's a bit frightening when it comes to preventive care for 7YO, but folks obviously make do.

F'ton rocks!

We Love Fredericton!

What a great weekend! Saturday morning began with clouds and drizzle, but the Fredericton Newcomers Club BBQ went on as planned. Within an hour the skies cleared and we had a gorgeous afternoon at Mactaquac. 7YO spent some time casting at the lake, played with other kids, and was introducted to a game of modified cricket. A majority, though not all, of the "newcomers" are from the UK. We chatted with a woman, A, whose son will be six in September and exchanged numbers. And, we met a woman whose 15YO is interested in babysitting. Score!

This morning A called and 7YO and I went to their place for lunch, followed by an afternoon at the Kingswood Family Entertainment Center. The boys played in the "climber," used up their tokens in the arcade, and played a line of candlepin. 7YO had an absolutely fabulous weekend which, after spending the past six weeks with his moms and grandma was just terrific! We also lined up the aforementioned babysitter so that the three grown-ups can go out to dinner before 77YO heads back to Arizona.

I also heard from one of the guys I met at the conference in May. He and his partner just arrived from Montreal, closed on their house, and are getting settled. And, he's finding himself surprised at how much he's liking Fredericton. We hope to get together with them later this week. So, this has been a great weekend for getting settled and meeting folks.

I've been meaning to post about our great kennel search. A few weeks back we spent the afternoon visiting kennels. The first one, unfortunately the closest to our house, was kind of scary. Very, very, very noisy and not all the cages - and they were cages - were connected to runs. Ugh. Then we stopped at a place that, in addition to being a vet's office, had a sign, "Pet Boarding." The [very nice] woman at the desk said, "Oh, they don't do that any more." On to the third stop. We really liked the owner and the fact that she can take only four dogs at a time, but she - not surprisingly - had no space for the weekend we needed.

We had heard about two women who were opening a kennel, but didn't have their names, etc. So, I contacted our realtor and she tracked down their information. Long story short. Although it's 9-10 km farther and $5/day more than the likable place, above, it's just terrific - especially for our sensitive guy.

Check out Foster's Home for Dogs here and here. This was the proprietor's dream. She and her partner bought the property so that they could do just this. They remodeled the garage into 8 separate "hotel rooms." Each room has a toddler bed and sleeping rug. Sounds a little over the top, I'm sure. But, it's great! There's a window in the front wall of each room where C can check on the "guest" without opening the door and unnecessarily exciting him/her. I wasn't so sure about the walled room v. the open wire, but I think it works. They get so much time playing outside that I don't think they end up feeling isolated.

When we went for a pre-board visit, C spent some time getting to know our pup, Boz. She took him for a walk and spent some time getting a sense of his personality, etc. We dropped him off the next morning and he spent two days there. When we returned to pick him up they gave us a montage of photos from his stay. What a hoot!

So, that's it. Tomorrow is Monday. We'll see what happens with the build. They're calling for clouds and showers all week. Fingers crossed, as always.

Reminder

I just thought I'd post a reminder that I'm putting photos of the house build here. Hopefully there will be some exciting additions by late next week!

In other news, today we went to Woodstock, New Brunswick's "first town," and Hartland, home of the world's longest covered bridge. Although it was overcast with an occasional drizzle, we went to the farm market in Woodstock and had a nice "home style" lunch at Kalijas Family Restaurant. For me this meant a hot pork sandwich on homemade bread with gravy, french fries, and coleslaw. No skimping on the calories this time! We then had a pleasant drive back on 105, via Mactaquac, Keswick Ridge, and through Douglas, where we checked out the work on the house.

Catch-Up

I've been really negligent about posting. Living in temporary quarters, having my mother with us, having knees and a shoulder that have given up and gone home, and major frustration with the house are taking their toll. But, while sitting here waiting for the builder to call, I thought I'd try to post a little something.

We've taken care of all of the "getting settled as PR" things. E.g., NB Medicare application and the car. A word about each... The Medicare app wasn't bad, but after submitting it we received a letter asking for photocopy of our PR cards, front and back; photocopy of our driver's licences and car registration; proof that we're living here (e.g., rental receipts, utility bills, etc.); copies of our Customs form for bringing our goods into Canada; and something else I can't recall at the moment. We don't have anything like rental receipts so I sent a copy of the deed to our land! Hopefully that is evidence enough of our intent to stay!

As for the car - that would have gone really smoothly except that, when I found out that we wouldn't need our driving records to obtain licences here, I didn't request them before leaving. Then, I found out that, yes, while we wouldn't need them for licences, we would need them to obtain car insurance. And, you have to have Canadian car insurance before getting tags. The good news - miracles of miracles - is that I sent the requests via Purolator to Minnesota, with a note asking that if they could possibly fax them directly to the insurance agent... Lo' and behold she had them within the week. I was shocked! So, we now - after the modifications of the car seat tether and day time running lights, federal and provincial inspections, and a minor repair to one wheel - have New Brunswick plates.

We've taken a quick trip to Halifax to take my mother to the tattoo, visited Peggy's Cove, Hopewell Rocks, St. Andrews by the Sea, the Ganong Chocolate Museum, etc. 7YO has been swimming almost daily and started weekly swimming lessons. We've lined up a tutor for twice weekly sessions for what's left of the summer. We've selected appliances. We've not been letting the dust settle around us, that's for sure. Last night P and I got to go out for a "grown-ups only" dinner, but we were so tired we went early and were home before 7! Ah, we're such party animals!

In other news - a word about health care. As you might recall, back in May I spent one day at the ER here in Fredericton. Now, under my excellent health care coverage in Minnesota - and I mean that seriously as in 13 years I've been very happy with the care and coverage I've received - the ER bill would, based on experience, probably have been around $800. What one would actually pay would vary, depending upon coverage. I just received the bill for my May visit. $231. Yup. Just as I thought. A not wholly unreasonable charge for being seen in the ER.

A 20 minute appointment with a doctor at the MN clinic is $220. Again, what you actually pay varies. Under my former coverage it would be a $30 co-pay. Under my current high deductible HSA it is about $158. I say "current" because I've kept my insurance since I'm not yet covered here and my employer pays for it. Last week I went to the after hours clinic here in F'ton - what you do when you don't yet have a family doctor. I had to pay $50 because I'm not yet covered by NB Medicare. It cracked me up that in MN that would have been a $30 co-pay or $157. I was essentially paying for an orthopedic referral, but that's what I would have to do in MN, too. So, is NB subsidizing the costs, even for those who don't have coverage? Or, are costs in the US ridiculously jacked up? Get this - when I went in for a 20 minute appointment, during which the physician gave me a cortisone injection, the bill was $220 for the "20 minute appointment" and $204 for his giving me the injection (plus the cost of the medication itself). Call me crazy, but that's like a lawyer saying, "I charge $200 an hour to see you and $100 if I take notes while we go over your complaint." Lawyers may have their issues, but an hour is an hour. I couldn't believe that I paid for the visit and separately for what he did during the visit! I guess I shouldn't be surprised... But, geez!

So, speaking of health care. My knees, one in particular, are still trashed. Bad. Wrecked. I actually think that they may have been put over the edge when I laid vinyl flooring - getting the house ready to sell - without knee pads. I remember standing up and thinking, "Oy!" But, time will tell.

That's the latest. I've written all that and still not heard from the builder. Time to make a phone call. Hope all is well with you and yours! More as it happens!

Wing Nuts and Other Morons

You may have noticed the deleted comments on a couple of posts. I was going to delete and ignore them, but I'm pissed.

Someone - I believe the username was something like magnolia_2000 - posted, in "response" to my Canada Day post, "Corey Glass is a fraud." I think that's the post that also said something like, "Wait until wmtc sees this." Then, a separate comment said, "wmtc is a b**ch." Clearly this person has seen that wmtc and 2moms are linked, and, perhaps, my supportive comments to L-girl regarding her activism on this issue. But, unable to post obnoxious comments to wmtc, this person was, I'm guessing, looking for another avenue. I posted a response and then decided to just delete the comments and my response and ignore it. Ignore them and they go away, right?

Well, this morning, there's another comment: "i-girl said... I've been thinking and I don't want to link to your blog anymore. Please stop linking." Interestingly, when you click to view the profile it is - shocking, I know! - unavailable. And, at that point it reads, "l-girl." In addition, it was created in July - as in the past 5-6 days.

Clearly someone - no doubt the same person as behind magnolia - is trying to pass as our fellow traveler, "l-girl" of wmtc. I hate to sound like I'm in junior high, but, "What a dork!" As if I would think that l-girl was posting a comment telling me to stop linking to wmtc. Get a life. Choose your cliche, but leave me the f**k alone. This blog is a pedestrian little thing that serves as an account of our travels to Canada and, hopefully, some useful information - here and there - for others seeking to do the same.

No, this isn't eloquent. I'm annoyed. If you have so much frickin' time on your hands that you can spend your time creating usernames and intruding upon others' cyber-communities - without the cojones - or other euphemism of choice - to identify yourself, send me a note and I'll let you know about 1000 ways you can actually offer something positive to the world. There are plenty of opportunities out there.

Okay, back - perhaps - to our regularly scheduled programming. And, unfortunately, moderated comments.

Canada Day Redux

A few snapshots from Fredericton's Canada Day parade...

Pipes and drums - my favorite.

The Green Party, right behind the Fredericton Filipino Community.

Chinese community members and the dragon.

That's 7YO - yeah, the one leaning over - on the Round-Up.

We went over to the river around noon, hearing the 21-gun salute as we walked. 7YO went in one of those bouncy moon-walk things and then we ate - hot dogs, soda, samosa, garlic naan, and kettle corn. Then, 7YO discovered the Round-Up. Since we're living only about six blocks away, we came back for a break and went over to the pool to cool off. It's only about six blocks, if that, in the other direction. Just before 4:00 we went back to watch the parade. Then, another visit to the Round-Up. We wandered a bit and came home for dinner. Still don't know if we'll make it to the fireworks. Ah, the suspense!

Hope you had a great day!

Happy Canada Day!

About a year ago, I set the goal of celebrating Canada Day 2008 while living in Fredericton. And, here we are! Woo-hoo! I don't know that we'll make it until the fireworks - they aren't until around 10:40 tonight! - but we do plan on attending the parade. Fingers crossed that if it rains it's just a drizzle. It's a "green parade" in which the only gas powered vehicles that are permitted are hybrids. The theme for this year is "Fredericton - Green Matters - You Matter - Get Involved." What a perfect theme for our first year at Fredericton's Canada Day! The block party - claimed to be "Canada's largest block party" - includes games, rides, pony rides, parrots, laser tag, food, face painters, airbrush tattoos, etc. Hopefully 7YO will have fun and my knees will hold up! We have our Canada Day temporary tattoos and the flag on our car antenna. We're doing it up!

Happy Canada Day, everyone!

California Wedding Bells

I don't know how long this link may be active, but I wanted to share this story of a colleague of mine, Kelly, and his partner, Tom, who were married in California recently. Nice story and some great snapshots. Go here! 

Hooray!

What a day! Eight years ago today we had our commitment ceremony in Minneapolis. Today we "celebrated" by going out to the lot in Douglas, NB and - finally - seeing this:


Yesterday it looked like this:


I can't tell you what a relief it was to see work begin!

We also met one of our immediate neighbors. He was very nice and, as always seems to be the case, didn't miss a beat when we introduced ourselves and our son. Cool. And, he and his wife have two girls, 2 and 6 years old. There are apparently a lot of kids on the street. Yea!

Then, after coming back downtown, we walked over to Service New Brunswick and got our drivers' licences. From there we strolled to the library and got our library cards. Then, we went and signed up for a cell phone family plan. Also, this morning I had called the guy who issues dog licences. He dropped by the house around 5 pm with his receipt book and jangle of tags. one more thing off the to-do list! Woo-hoo! I'd call this a successful day by any measure!

We also faxed the recall clearance letter and received a response in the same day. Now we can deal with the car inspection.

Onward and upward!

Getting Settled

Well, we arrived a week ago this afternoon. I thought I'd try to take a few minutes to post an update. We are slowly getting settled in our temporary quarters, no small feat. It's a very small "cottage" that you can actually see here. It just struck me that I'm sitting here, posting with a wireless connection, in a home built over 100 years before I was born. Wow.

After getting the truck unloaded and returned to Maine, we tried to take care of a few things like applying for Medicare, visiting the bank, etc. We've joined the Co-Op, made a few visits to Canadian Tire, etc. We're going to let 7YO collect the Canadian Tire money and return bottles for the deposits. We received an email from RIV saying that they cannot locate recall information or some such so I think we're going to have to fax them the recall clearance letter. Tomorrow we should get our drivers' licences as we're supposed to do so within 10 days. I definitely think that the car is going to prove the biggest hassle of all.

As for the build, they were supposed to start clearing the lot today. Alas, it's now going to be tomorrow. The good news is that we can stay in these quarters as long as needed. It's costing us a pretty penny, but at least we won't be out on the street. I will feel a lot better when I see some actual movements up on the hill.

P and 7YO went to a local lake beach for a swim this afternoon. Me? As I write this I, again, have ice on my knee. There is a pool just a couple of blocks away, but it won't open until later this month.

A little more about our location - we are two blocks from the Farmers' Market, I think that's my favorite thing in Fredericton! We were there Saturday morning and bought eggs, lettuce, cheese, Montreal bagels, kettle corn... Once we're really settled in we will buy most of our meat and fish there, too. We're about two blocks, in another direction, from the river and walking/biking trail. P has been taking our lab-spaniel mix for a nice walk over the St. John each morning. Here is someone's site with a few great photos. 77YO was able to walk to church on Sunday and the library on Monday. We are really in an absolutely perfect location for our first summer and with a visitor who will not be driving when she's here.

Well, dinner is almost ready so I'll sign off. I'm really glad we're here, but I'll feel a bit more settled, I think, when my knee is better and the house is really started!

MN to NB

I've been wanting to post an update, but have been absolutely swamped - literally and figuratively!

We started loading the truck on Wednesday evening, 6/11. Six friends helped and, except for their inclination to play "let's see how fast we can throw everything on the truck," it went fine. We couldn't have done it without them. But, we still spent twelve hours on Thursday, 6/12, packing the truck and cleaning the house. We ended up pulling out of Saint Paul at 5:30 pm.

We should have made it to Madison, WI, where we had a reservation, in about 4 hours. But, near Baraboo, WI we were in a single lane of traffic, literally stopped on I-90. It took us an hour to go four miles. Turned out that the right hand lane, farther up, was under water. It was bizarre to drive by with water on the middle lines in the interstate! So, we got to Exit 135 around 10:30 or so, in the rain, and stopped at the hotel. When we got up the next morning, I-90 was closed from Exit 135 north. So, if we had stopped a bit to the north, as we had once planned, we wouldn't have been able to continue south on the interstate. And, if we had left on Friday, same thing. But, we were headed south, so all was well. Well, so to speak. Rain, rain, and more rain. Here's a story about the closures.

On Friday morning, 6/13, we headed toward Chicago, but stopped in Elgin, IL to meet an old friend for breakfast. I was driving with 22' rental truck with my mother (77YO) while P drove our '98 Honda Civic with 7YO and our lab-spaniel mix. She was behind us a ways, but when she didn't show up I got concerned. Thank goodness for cell phones. She had missed the exit and was on her way to Schaumburg. They turned around and made it back to the restaurant where we had breakfast before continuing on our way. We arrived in Cleveland, OH around 9 pm where we were meeting another old friend and her fairly new husband for dinner. This would all have been uneventful... and faster - were it not for the torrential rains. Ugh! And I don't know who designed the highway in Cleveland, but... weird. There was a 90 degree turn with instructions for, I think, 35 mph in the middle of the interstate. But, we made it, had dinner, and traveled another 45 minutes to our hotel in Conneaut, OH, on the OH/PA border.

On Saturday, 6/14, we traveled through the Southern Tier of NY, visiting Wellsville. P has distant relatives there that she had never heard of, let alone met, so we planned a lunch visit. That was good because there were kids there and 7YO got to run around for a couple of hours. We then made a stop in Hornell, NY as I wanted to photograph the headstones of my great, great grandparents and great-grandparents. Alas, I couldn't locate them, there was no caretaker available, and I did my knees a grave injustice. The pun was not intended - I just noticed it on review. But, hey, I'm leaving it! On to Albany where we spent the night in the very worst Super 8 I've ever visited. Yuck! Oh, and in case you wondering, yes, it was still raining on and off.

On Sunday, 6/15, we took off for the greater Boston area, Newton to be specific. We were going to lunch with another old friend, her partner, and their 8 year old twins. Fortunately as I exited Route 9, with the intention of turning left on Chestnut Street I noticed the sign: 11' 8". Yikes! The truck requires 12'1" of clearance. Whew! After a minor detour we made it. 7YO was able to play with the boys and their Wii, their nerf dart gun, and otherwise have a blast. And, yes, our friend realized that 7YO had just played with his first, to our knowledge, "gun." Oh, well. From there we drove to Freeport, ME. After a short dinner and a quick visit to LL Bean - where 77YO bought more long sleeved shirts for the weather of an Atlantic Canada summer - we turned in, ready for the last day's drive. And, yes, there was still rain.

On Monday, 6/16, we slept in and took our time preparing for our departure. We stopped in Houlton, ME to fill up and then headed toward Customs. First, US Customs for the export of our vehicle. No problem. They had the materials we had sent via FedEx and the fact that P's last name on the title is not her current name wasn't an issue. Then, over the Canadian Customs. Again, no problem. The whole thing took about an hour, but some of that was the fact that there were four of us, a dog, and two vehicles. We were in!

We made a brief stop at the New Brunswick Visitor/Information Center, picked up some tourism literature for 77YO, got 7YO a Sprite, and headed toward Fredericton. And, yes, it was still raining. I thought we might make it the whole way, but having downed an entire Sprite, we had to make one more stop for 7YO.

We arrived in Fredericton around 5 pm. The fabulous fellow from whom we are renting for the summer had prepared a supper of ham, scalloped potatoes, and fiddleheads. After supper - it was overcast, but not raining! - we took my mother by our lot and showed her 7YO's school. Then, it was time for bed.

This morning we unloaded the truck into our storage space. Rather, our realtor, her husband, the fellow from whom we are renting, and his son unloaded the truck. We helped, but they were miracle workers. Compensated, but miracle workers nonetheless. We were drenched. Once we got everything into the space or in the car to bring back to the house, we picked up 7YO and 77YO and went to get lunch and run errands. And, yes, it was still raining.

I've been writing this with my legs up, both knees wrapped in ice. My shoulder is trashed. But, we're almost done. Tomorrow we have to return the truck to Maine. 7YO and 77YO are going to hang out here so that will be nice. P and I might even be able to have a quiet lunch in Bangor before heading back. After that it will be a matter of dealing with the car, the builder, etc. and hoping for a sunny day! I really can't believe we're finally here.

Oh, and P has an interview in July. She's one of two people they're bringing in to interview for a position that is basically her dream job. She's going to be beyond bummed if she doesn't get it, but we just keep saying that if that's the case it's meant to be.

Sorry for not being able to post from the road - they would have been more interesting - but the rain really slowed us down and days became much longer than they should have been. But, we're here!

All is well...

Just a quick note to say that we're fine. Hope to post details soon. In brief - rain, rain, and more rain. But, we're doing okay. On to New York... thanks for the good thoughts that I know are with us on this (grueling) trek!

ETD 36 hours+

I can't believe I haven't had time to post. Chalk it up to packing, head/chest cold, packing, bum knees, packing, house guest, packing, house guest's Great Dane, packing, house guest's small dog, packing, mom's arrival, packing, bum shoulder, packing... You get the idea. I've tried to glance at others' blogs, but no time to actually think so that I can write.

We're scheduled to pick up the truck tomorrow afternoon and load some tomorrow evening, some Thursday morning, and drive just four hours Thursday afternoon/evening to get on the road. Looking around I don't know how it will happen. I know that it will, but I'm not sure how. I can barely walk up or down stairs. That has really slowed things down.

Oh, well. I'm hoping to post from the road. I should have more time then than I've had here!