What I did…

On my first days back in Canada!

So, I am back in the country for a little while, mostly for work, although there will be some relaxation as well.



1. I knit a hat!



Interestingly enough, even though my skin is still dry and parched, this took three or four times as long to dry here as it would have in Sudan. Since its now warming up (to a balmy –4C), I don’t know how much I’ll need it. I suppose the weather is always volatile, so it will probably cool down again at some point. (There's no picture yet, because its still wet!)

2. I also knit a swatch.



I did a very poor job of packing before I left. (I’ve counted at least a dozen things that didn’t make it into my bag, and I’m sure that number will continue to grow. I know I can buy anything I need here, but I find it frustrating to be replacing things I already have tonnes of at home: running shoes, bathing suits, lotion, soap, face wash, hair elastics, etc.) Anyway, I didn’t pack nearly enough knitting or reading material, so I’ve purchased supplies in both of those areas. I’m thinking of a top-down cabled cardigan in some Patons Classic Merino.

3. Shopping: What is it about this country that makes me instantly want to buy everything? I have yet to shop for much beyond food in Sudan, and yet I’ve spent a couple of hours shopping each day of the weekend.



4. Reverse Culture Shock: Somewhat surprising, since it’s only been four months since I was last in Canada, but it is definitely here. It started with the lights of Amsterdam (so many!), and was compounded by entering the country as a visitor (according to the CBSA, I am no longer a resident, since I, you know, don’t live here). Everything is so big, and spread out, and I’m needing to adjust to driving in a law-abiding society (stop signs are more than suggestions, and when people honk at you here, you are probably actually doing something wrong) and there is just so much stuff! My jet-lag is wearing off, which is helping, and I’m starting to adjust, but it still feels weird to be sitting here.