home

something weird happened to me today.

after meeting up with some friends, i popped by john deere to take patrick the cold meds he'd forgotten in the car.  we had a few minutes to chat and hug in the sunshine, and it was really nice.  the rest of my day feels whirly and my mind races all the time - but when i'm with patrick, it's like we're in a circle of trees that blocks the wind and noise and everything is still and warm.  he's just like that.

anyway, on my way home, i was driving down walsh street and the trees were all green and lush, arching over the road.  it's a really wide street, but somehow they are tall enough and full enough to do that.  it's so beautiful.

and all unbidden came the thought 'oh, i'm so glad i live here!'

and, upon closer examination, i realize - i am.  i am glad i live here.

this afternoon i was at the doctor's office, and the waiting room was full of chatty people.  i ended up talking with some moms who could have stepped right out of rants-from-mommyland.  a friend of mine (who works there) popped out to give me a hug.  and when i went into the inside offices, three of the ladies who work there came to see sam and ask how my pregnancy is going.  it definitely felt more like a social call than a doctor's appointment.

the large loneliness that comes from being a stranger in a new city is rapidly shrinking.  there are few lovelier places from june through october than northern ontario (did i mention that the sun doesn't go down until 10?  and twilight lingers til 11?).  i miss halifax, i miss my ocean, my sisters, my parents.  but there are really good things, and really good people here too.

tonight, some friends are coming over for a costume party and a scavenger hunt.

thunder bay is (finally?) becoming home, and yes, i'm glad i live here.