Later this week I’ll be executing a plan my wife and I have been creating for the last several years: to move me to Canada so we can actually exist in the same location! These last 4 years have been stressful, but thanks to video calls, a plethora of texting and messaging apps, and the ability to get things delivered anywhere, we’ve not been completely separated. Now, here are the answers to all of the frequently asked questions I keep getting!
Where in Canada are you moving?
I’m moving to a very tiny town in the middle of nowhere between Edmonton and Calgary, at least until we can move to Edmonton.
Where is that?
Edmonton is basically straight North of Montana if you know where that is. If you don’t, straight North of Salt Lake City or Las Vegas also works, just much further.
Are you flying? How long of a drive is it?
Nope, I’m making the looooooooooooong 24-hour drive (split over several days) in my car.
How did you fit all your stuff in your car?
Before moving out, I got rid of a TON of stuff. Everything that’s essential for day-to-day is in my car, and the rest is in a POD here in Chicago waiting until I’m in Canada to get shipped up there.
Are you a Canadian citizen now?
Not yet, but I soon will be a “permanent resident” which is like a US green card.
Do you like Canadian sports teams? Regional food? Businesses? Weather?
Yes, legally I must now like everything Canadian.
Are Canadians nice/do they say “eh” and “surry?”
Most Canadians, like most people, are pretty nice, but the “too polite” thing isn’t something I’ve encountered much. And if you have any doubt, I suggest you look up a Canadian series called Letterkenny, which shows some less-than-nice interactions. The accent isn’t super pronounced in Alberta; I think that’s more of a Vancouver thing.
Doesn’t it get cold up there?
Yes, it does! When I last visited back in December, it was -30C to -40C (which coincidentally is also -40F) for several days. That didn’t scare me away, so I think I’m safe.
Will you still be working for Birds on a Cable?
YES! I’m excited that I get to keep supporting all our awesome clients, but I’ll be the “man in the chair” from now on.