Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that all opinions expressed are my own.
It has been a dream of mine to purchase a 3,434 sqft vacation home just steps away from a private beach in Florida. I envisioned myself surrounded by 57 different types of flowers, adorning the 42.57-acre property, my senses awakening each day. I imagined starting my mornings with a refreshing swim in the saltwater pool. Hosting monthly parties for my friends whenever I flew down to the United States was also part of this dream.
However, it seems that this dream will not be coming to fruition. Despite my impeccable and spotless record, which I have diligently maintained over the years, it appears that my plans have been thwarted. One of the reasons I have always strived to keep my record clean is because of my passion for traveling the world. Unfortunately, it seems that being a law-abiding citizen no longer holds the same weight at the USA border.
In the past, I have always had positive interactions with the customs agents at the border. They have consistently been kind and respectful, providing me with honest guidance as they allowed me to pass through. I even have a memory of a border guard once offering me life-saving advice, which I heeded at a critical moment. It may seem unusual to some of you reading this post that I hold a fondness for border guards, but perhaps it takes a good-natured and courteous Canadian to appreciate such situations.
Many of my friends, family, and associates enjoy learning new languages as a hobby. Being able to converse with someone in their native language is a wonderful way to establish connections and build friendships. I have had the pleasure of forming strong bonds with some amazing Spanish friends. One memorable experience was dancing all night with Bonnie at a club in Calgary. When I relocated to a new vibrant city, I generously offered my entire apartment to Bonnie and her family.
The Spanish people I have encountered have always been incredibly welcoming, eager to share their culture, cuisine, and traditions. I have developed a deep appreciation for Bachata music, which never fails to get the entire nightclub moving in perfect harmony. Witnessing this synchronized energy is truly a sight to behold and an experience that must be felt to be fully understood.
Twenty years ago, I found myself lost in Los Angeles without my passport. I was unable to locate the two girls who had invited me from Canada to LA. However, my spirits were lifted when a group of Mexican individuals approached me and offered me a drink. The beverage they shared with me contained strong Jamaican rum and grenadine, a memory from my days of enjoying drinks while out dancing with friends. Although I no longer drink for spiritual and purification reasons, I found solace in sharing stories about myself and Canada with my newfound Latino companions.
Under the night sky and the glowing orange club lights, the Mexicans introduced me to a dance that involved intricate footwork. I attempted to mimic their movements, hopping from one foot to the next, which elicited laughter from all of us. After our impromptu dance lesson, we piled into their old blue-grey car and they graciously drove me across Los Angeles to my friend's apartment. From there, I safely returned to Canada.
I was touched by the kindness and generosity of these strangers, who not only provided me with transportation but also located my passport and luggage without knowing the correct neighborhood or address. To this day, I hold a special place in my heart for the Mexican people who showed me such compassion during a time of need.
Hace veinte años, me encontré perdido en Los Ángeles sin mi pasaporte. Era incapaz de localizar a las dos chicas que me habían invitado desde Canadá a Los Ángeles. Sin embargo, se me levantó el ánimo cuando un grupo de individuos mexicanos se me acercó y me ofreció una bebida. La bebida que compartieron conmigo contenía un fuerte ron jamaicano y granadina, un recuerdo de mis días en los que disfrutaba de las copas mientras salía a bailar con mis amigos. Aunque ya no bebo por razones espirituales y de purificación, me consoló compartir historias sobre mí y sobre Canadá con mis recién descubiertos compañeros latinos.
Bajo el cielo nocturno y las luces anaranjadas de la discoteca, los mexicanos me enseñaron un baile que requería un complicado juego de pies. Intenté imitar sus movimientos, saltando de un pie a otro, lo que provocó las risas de todos nosotros. Después de nuestra improvisada clase de baile, nos subimos a su viejo coche gris azulado y me llevaron amablemente por Los Ángeles hasta el apartamento de mi amiga. Desde allí, regresé sana y salva a Canadá.
Me conmovió la amabilidad y generosidad de estos desconocidos, que no sólo me proporcionaron transporte sino que localizaron mi pasaporte y equipaje sin saber el barrio o la dirección correctos. Hasta el día de hoy, guardo un lugar especial en mi corazón para los mexicanos que me mostraron tanta compasión en un momento de necesidad.
I have taken it upon myself to learn Spanish as a hobby in my free time. Mexican people primarily speak Spanish, which is the dominant language spoken by over 99% of the population in Mexico. While Spanish is widely used, Mexico is also a multilingual country with more than 60 indigenous languages still spoken today. The most prominent indigenous languages include Nahuatl, Maya, Mixtec, Zapotec, and Tzeltal, among others.
I enjoy watching Spanish soap operas in order to perfect my language skills. As a result, when I speak Spanish, I do so with a dramatic flair. This ability has allowed me to easily connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, a talent I have possessed since childhood.
However, if you enter the USA, the circumstances may not be as favorable for you in 2025.
Learning a language should not be done under pressure or coercion. If you go to the United States in the future, you may find yourself mistakenly in El Salvador in a situation where you are forced to learn Spanish on the fly, but the Spanish experience may not be as pleasant as mine in LA. The local form of Spanish in El Salvador is known as Salvadoran Spanish or Caliche, which has distinct characteristics in pronunciation and usage. The individuals you encounter may not be as friendly as those I interacted with in the past in LA. They may have different intentions, leading to a less than desirable outcome.
It is important to recognize that not all Spanish-speaking individuals are homogenous. Each Spanish-speaking community is unique in its own right, with distinct cultural practices, dialects, and traditions. Understanding and appreciating these differences is essential in fostering mutual respect and collaboration among diverse Spanish-speaking populations.
I do not and will never need to learn the correct El Salvadoran Caliche inflections to ask for my own toothbrush and soap. Thank you.
Why not avoid the hassle of crossing the United States border and instead visit Winnipeg this time? Come on over to friendly Winnipeg, Manitoba and bring your RV this summer. The beaches are stunning, the people are welcoming, and the weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
It is well known that I have a deep appreciation for Canadian big rig drag races. I enjoy setting up my chair on the lawn, sipping on my apple cider vinegar tea, and watching the big rigs speed by. To ensure I have time to indulge in this hobby, I make it a point to train for marathons early in the mornings before the truckers begin their workday. Living in Manitoba, even miles away from the action, there is always someone keeping an eye out, making my neighborhood a safe place to reside. It is a comforting feeling to know that housewives can stroll together near their homes and throughout the neighborhood without any concerns for their safety.
During my endurance workouts, I enjoy singing to enhance my performance. Singing and running simultaneously can be quite challenging, but I find it to be a rewarding experience. On Sundays, I dedicate time to practicing my breathing techniques while singing religious songs and David Bowie's "Moonage Daydream." I believe that God appreciates legends like David Bowie and John Denver, so I make sure to include their songs in my repertoire along with Broadway tunes.
Mastering proper breathing techniques is essential for supporting your voice. It is crucial to keep your diaphragm expanded while singing to maintain vocal power and control. Currently, I am delving into the study of the Bel Canto technique, which focuses on achieving beautiful singing and proper vocal production. This technique will undoubtedly enhance my singing abilities and help me reach new heights in my vocal performances.
I often train in my driveway to avoid causing truckers to slow down as I walk along the side of the road.
One of my favorite singers is Celine Dion. I have been practicing her songs for years and admire her talent immensely. She is truly the Queen of music, forever and always. While I was initially puzzled by her foray into the world of fashion with her clothing line, my love for her music remains unwavering.
One of my ultimate dreams is to have the privilege of receiving singing tips from Celine herself, right in the comfort of my own living room, in exchange for sharing some of my health tips. As a homemaker with a penchant for gourmet magazines and Martha Stewart, I take great pride in my culinary skills. My friends often rave about my homemade pumpkin pie recipe, which involves the unique step of charring the pumpkins to easily remove the skin.
Five years ago, I found myself in a place similar to where Celine Dion is today. Currently, I engage in four-mile walks to keep my legs limber and effortlessly high rope walk two miles on gravel roads in the Manitoba wind to enhance my speed training for marathons.
In Manitoba, there is nothing quite like witnessing the sight and sound of a large truck speeding down a rural road. The dust kicked up from the road can be seen for miles, while the powerful engine roars like a wild beast. It is safe to say that I have embraced the country lifestyle. The faster and louder the trucks go, the more exhilarating the experience. If you are wondering, all drivers adhere to the speed limits near my residence.
One of the most impressive aspects of these trucks is the skillful way in which the drivers shift gears. It is through this action that I am able to discern between experienced and inexperienced drivers. The ability to shift gears smoothly and efficiently is a true signal of a skilled driver, and it is a skill that can be recognized simply by listening.
(YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAA!)
Canadian big rig drag races are gaining popularity and are held in various locations. One notable event is the Rodeo du Camion, or Truck Rodeo, which has been taking place in Norte-Dame-du-Nord, Quebec, since 1981.
Another event is the Accélérations de camions de Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce, which is set to take place in 2025 and promises to be a spectacular experience with power, speed, and madness on four wheels.
I used to enjoy attending carnivals. I was so fond of them that I would often go alone. The allure of cotton candy, the enticing cooking aromas, and the sound of laughter filled me with joy. However, my feelings towards carnivals have changed, and the reason is quite clear - some of the Carnies.
During my youth, I ventured to a carnival by myself. I vividly recall encountering a Carney with striking blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. This encounter left a lasting impression on me, ultimately leading to my disillusionment with carnivals.
On another occasion, two girls invited me to join them on a ride. I declined, citing the long line and the height of the ride as reasons. Despite my refusal, one of the girls said something to me, and before I knew it, we were soaring high above the city. Both girls were seated beside me, and a black safety bar with foam padding secured me in place. As the ride plummeted, screams filled the air - mine included. The impact caused my two front teeth to become lodged in the foam covering the safety bar. The ride operator eventually brought us to a gentle stop.
Upon exiting the ride, the operator handed me a photo taken just moments after my teeth made contact with the bar. To my surprise, my front teeth were still intact in the image. The two girls, who had been laughing throughout the ordeal, walked away without a second glance. I couldn't help but wonder if they had three orchestrated the entire experience, as they never inquired about my well-being, and I never crossed paths with them again.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my mother for providing me with Flintstone vitamins until I was 12 years old. As a result, I have developed strong and healthy enamel, as confirmed by my dentist. Now, I politely decline invitations to go for rides. Saying no...thank you. All polite 'cause I am Canadian.
Coupon Code 20% off: VitaminCanuck
In Canada, individuals who talk over others or interrupt are met with disapproving glances. Canadians pride themselves on their strength, focus, and politeness. The level of politeness a person exhibits is a reflection of their inner strength. If you find yourself being unkind while Canadians remain polite and refrain from interrupting, you may find yourself in a difficult situation.
If you have a passion for extreme winter sports, Manitoba offers excellent training opportunities.
Manitoba experienced record-breaking cold temperatures on February 13, 2021, with several areas setting new low temperatures. Winnipeg set a new record of -38.8°C, breaking its previous record of -37.8°C set in 1879. Other areas that set new records include Gretna, McCreary, Melita, Norway House, Oak Point, Pilot Mound, and Portage la Prairie.
The lowest temperature ever recorded in Winnipeg was -47.8°C on December 24, 1879.
Strong wind gusts were recorded in Southern Manitoba on Wednesday, when I went for my training walk, with some areas experiencing gusts up to 92 km/h in Westman, Ninette, and Pierson, and 90 km/h near Killarney. It didn't seem that windy. It must have appeared peculiar to see me strolling nonchalantly through a windstorm.
The wind warning was issued due to a significant pressure gradient around a low-pressure system crossing the province and a strong jet stream over the southern Prairies. The wind warning was lifted by Wednesday evening as the system left the province. According to Windy.app, the current wind direction in Manitoba is East, with wind speeds varying between 4.5 and 13.4 mph, and gusts up to 22.3 mph.
I find solace in the stillness of an icy snow bank, where I can sit for hours motionless on freezing snowy nights, meditating and feeling a deep connection to nature. The wind and snow swirling around me serve as a reminder of the power and beauty of the world around us. It is in these moments that I truly put my snow pants and jacket to the test.
While I typically enjoy hard techno music, I refrain from listening to it during these solitary moments, as I must remain vigilant in case a wild animal happens upon me. In such a scenario, I must be prepared to defend myself with hand-to-teeth and paw combat to ensure my safety. In isolation, one must always be on high alert, especially when there is no one around for miles.
In order to adequately prepare for the endurance and ice training necessary for an expedition, particularly when training on flat surfaces and in cold temperatures, consider focusing on several key areas.
Endurance Training
Aerobic Capacity:
Long-Distance Hiking: Simulate the long hours of climbing by hiking on varied terrain, gradually increasing the distance and pack weight. If you live in a relatively flat area, use stairs, inclined treadmills, or Stair Masters to mimic the elevation gain.
Consistent Training: Aim to build the capacity to go uphill for many hours. This is the most determining aspect of preparing for Everest.
Muscular Endurance:
Leg Strength: Focus on exercises that strengthen the calves, hips, quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Compound exercises such as squats, lunges, step-ups, and deadlifts are particularly effective.
Functional Training: Use free weights to develop functional, climbing-specific strength. This type of training helps you balance weights as you would your own body, weighted with a pack, in three-dimensional space.
Ice and Cold Weather Training
Cramponing Skills:
Practice on Similar Terrain: Hone your cramponing skills on snow, ice, and rock. If you are in Manitoba, take advantage of the cold temperatures and snow to practice on local ice formations and frozen lakes.
Technical Competence: Efficient movement over rugged terrain conserves energy and reduces fatigue. This skill is best developed on similar terrain.
Acclimatization:
Hypoxic Conditioning: Use normobaric hypoxia via a mask or sleeping tent to simulate high-altitude conditions. While these adaptations are not entirely identical to real hypobaric hypoxia, they can help reduce the risk of altitude-related illnesses and improve your performance.
Cold Weather Exposure: Train in cold temperatures to acclimate your body to the extreme conditions you would face on Everest. This includes practicing with your gear and equipment in cold environments to ensure you are comfortable and efficient.
Additional Tips
Modulation and Individualization: Balance hard and easy weeks to allow for recovery and growth. An individualized approach is crucial to address your specific physical weaknesses and strengths.
Professional Coaching: Consider working with a professional coach who can assess your aerobic fitness and tailor your training intensity zones using methods like heart rate monitoring. This small investment can have a significant impact on your success.
By focusing on these areas, you can build the necessary endurance, strength, and technical skills to prepare for the unique challenges of climbing, even if you are training in a flat and cold environment like Manitoba.
Indeed, those two jovial women and the carnie, seemed to be in cahoots to steal my teeth.
In the past, you may have seen me walking around the world with large, intimidating groups of men. However, looks can be deceiving, my friends. Despite my petite stature and being the only woman in the group, there is no need for alarm. We are all innocent individuals. Each of my companions is at a different stage of my health and wellness regimen. Therefore, some may appear intimidating as they undergo their healing process.
I have a limited number of woman friends, but the ones I do have are truly beautiful. They possess a beauty that allows others to shine in their presence. In my experiences, it is often women who try to take me for a hazardous ride, wanting to involve me in activities or situations that I am not interested in. On the other hand, men usually want to engage in pleasant conversation with me.
Throughout my experiences, I have acquired valuable skills from men, including navigating treacherous ice-covered rivers and snowbanks on a snowmobile, as well as repairing cars and quads. These lessons have equipped me with practical knowledge and expertise that have proven to be invaluable in various situations. They are understanding of my reserved nature, appreciating that I only speak when I have something meaningful to contribute that can enhance their lives.
Come on over, visit beautiful Manitoba this winter or summer. You will surely enjoy all that this friendly province has to offer.
This is how we sometimes go to the store in Manitoba.
1-855-420-0732
The Blue Crescent Hotel in Arborg, Manitoba, offers 30 rooms spread across 3 floors, including elevators, a pool, a waterslide, a hot tub, and a fitness room. The hotel also provides complimentary breakfast daily from 6 AM to 9 AM and a large meeting/function room.
Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre
The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre is a museum located in Morden, Manitoba, Canada, dedicated to the discovery and preservation of fossils. The museum houses an extensive collection of over 10,000 fossil specimens, including the largest collection of marine reptile fossils in Canada. The center's galleries provide a detailed interpretation of life in the Western Interior Seaway during the late Cretaceous period.
Fossil Discovery Activities
Fossil Dig Adventure Tours: The center offers annual Fossil Dig Adventure Tours for adults, families, and earth science enthusiasts. These tours provide hands-on experiences in fossil excavation and discovery.
Museum Adventure Tours and Workshops: The museum also conducts Museum Adventure Tours and workshops for children, families, and earth science enthusiasts, offering educational and interactive experiences.
Research and Collections
Laboratory and Collections Room: The center's research is conducted in its laboratory and collections room, which includes a fossil mold and replication station. This facility supports ongoing research and preservation efforts.
Visitor Reviews
The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 86 reviews on TripAdvisor. Visitors praise the museum for its excellent displays and knowledgeable staff. One visitor highlighted a particularly engaging discussion with a staff member about specific fossils and their backstories. Despite its small size, the museum is highly recommended for those interested in paleontology and natural history.
Island on the Prairies is a tourism website for Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. It offers information on dining, events, shopping, and various attractions in the city, including arts and culture, history, recreation, and outdoor experiences. The site also highlights local legends and lore, and provides options for visitors to host events or stay in the area. Additionally, it features a calendar of events and merchandise related to the city.
Pembina Threshermen's Museum
https://threshermensmuseum.com/
Pembina Threshermen's Museum (PTM) is a historical museum located in Stanley, Manitoba, Canada. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the agricultural and Mennonite heritage of the region. It offers visitors a unique experience with acres of old-fashioned fun and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in local history and culture.
The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and from 1 PM to 5 PM on weekends. It provides a variety of exhibits and activities that highlight the rich agricultural traditions and the contributions of the Mennonite community.
While specific reviews and ratings are not provided, the museum is well-regarded for its educational value and engaging exhibits. Visitors often praise the museum for its well-preserved artifacts and the knowledgeable staff who enhance the visitor experience. The museum is a great place for families and history enthusiasts to learn about the past and enjoy a day of fun and exploration.
I AM CANADIAN
