Reflection

The end of June was our one year mark for moving to Montreal.  It's a little discouraging that I have to really think hard to come up with things that I have accomplished in the past year, and its even more discouraging to realise that I still don't know how much longer it will be until I have my permanent residency here and will be able to work, have health care, get a bank account, be added to our car insurance policy, have Canadian ID, and not worry every time I pass through the border.  It will be amazing when I finally have my residency - and I am hoping it will only be a few more months!

Even though it's hard at times to live in Montreal, it has been fun.  I've experience a lot of new things here that I would never have experienced in the States.  I really love the food - especially the fresh bread made daily at the hundreds of bakeries in the city! The French language and culture have been a real adjustment, but I'm glad that I am beginning to respect and appreciate people who are different than I am.  I think its been good to live in an area where the church is small and see the challenges that come with that.  It makes me grateful to have the church in my life.  And even though I love the USA, and am starting to have some Canadian pride.  I loved singing the Canadian national anthem at church after Canada Day.  But I must admit, my heart swelled up a little when the organist (an American) played the U.S. national anthem as we exited the chapel that Sunday!

Here are some fun, random pictures of things I've seen this last year.

A giant robot in Jean-Drapeau park

A street performer in Old Montreal.  He's got skill - juggling on a unicycle!

There are chandeliers in the food court of the underground mall! Fancy!

This is Gibeau Orange Julep, but we call it "that giant orange place".  Its a restaurant inside of a HUGE orange.  They serve burgers, fries and a signature orange drink that tastes like those orange creme popsicles.

Ryan and his cousin Lisa enjoying their first Giant Orange experience

We saw this guy on the street one day.  I have no idea where he was going or why he was dressed like that. Random.