“Passando aqui do U.S. is like being adopted by a close relative. Almost like your parents, but different…”

That’s what American Brenda Kautz wrote in um recente Globo & Mail column about relocating from Denver to Calgary.

She goes on to say:

It’s been interesting to compare stereotypes with our Canadian neighbours. They find us Americans to be generally red-necked and dyed red, white and blue patriotic, while we find them to be mildly patriotic, hockey-loving fanatics….

Canadians are polite about Americans’ reverence for our Thanksgiving in November. They are so sweet about wishing us Happy Thanksgiving. If they knew it’s just about family, food and football, perhaps it would ruin the mystique. It’s also our kickoff to Christmas. Aqui no Canadá, Thanksgiving is just the October long weekend….

O que você acha? If you’ve relocated to Canada from the U.S., have your experiences been similar to hers? Você pode read the complete essay here.

Fotografia © Carolyn B. Heller