Planning your life around Montreal

[misa 2]

Asamu, you need a reason and and address out west. Examples: Visiting a family member for "a while", working out west for "a while". Be aware that Vancouver needs to accept your case and it seems they are getting wise to people transferring for faster interviews. You'll need to contact both consulates to ensure the transfer takes place properly (Montreal sat on mine until a staff member at Vancouver contacted them personally).

[cuci 0]

. . . and at least three layers of leggings (when it was February) . . . and a heck of a lot of Poutine (I carbo-loaded my way through the process -- and somehow arrived back at home thinner than when I'd left) . . .

. . . And so, in combining my good friend, CutienPurg's comments with the zen-master, Jersey Girl (who has a penchant for wine -- good wine!) -- yes, we all are happier when we experience the world as we actually percieve it!! No big surprise or "uh-oh". And so, at least for this crew in MtL, this "survival list" is accurate -- doesn't matter if it's right or wrong, fair or unfair, complimentary or otherwise -- it helps align our perspective and perception with what our actual experience might be -- and that'll help us stay happier in the meantime. . . . plus a weekly poutine, smoked meat and good wine.

I've thought about the hoops and hurdles up ahead -- and I'm hoping that none will involve the upheaval that this last (obtaining the K3 visa) has caused. Being separated from your spouse -- or moving your entire life to another country for an undetermined time period (as was our case) was a test of patience, logistics and faith. If I'd known what the actual wait time would've been -- I'd certainly have obtained a longer lease, etc. etc. etc. Simple logistics. Things that make life easier.

And everyone's had the patience of Job -- some get through this more gracefully than others (as was not my case -- I was reduced to a puddle of tears at least twice a day) but no one that I respect judged my demeanor -- but instead nudged me toward keeping my eye on the prize.

Now we're home -- dealing with mosquitoes, fleas (my dogs are wondering where the snow is and where the French-speaking ladies are), hurricane season looming . . . It's definitely a GOOD PRIZE. I think that CutienPurg's "Survival List" will help MtLers plan for the near-term and hopefully make them happier in the meantime.