On a positive note

Hiiiiieeeee,

This post is dedicated to the things I like so far about Winnipeg/My new life. I apologize for using the numbered list format again, it just feels so convenient when all I've got is anecdotes, if you know what i mean...

So it turns out that as I continue on here my life is starting to feel somewhat more real (a fact exemplified by the mosquito that just bit my 'third eye', there are more mosquitos here than I usually see on a camping trip in North Ontario io io). And as it becomes more real and less surreal I am able to appreciate aspects of my new locale. Here goes...

1) I have a fan group. Well, actually Toad has a fan group and it's no small group at that. Remember those kids that I referred to in post 1-- the ones that hang out in the alley putting their lives in danger, well those same kids just LOVE Toad! As soon as they spot the little fluff ball coming their way, they start calling to one another in some aramaic dialect that I can't place (Somali? Ethiopian?) and within seconds Toad is surrounded by a group of at least 8 boys and 1 small girl (who makes the cutest joy noises when she pets Toad). Me and these kids have developed a routine that they like and feel comfortable with, it requires that I hold Toad's head (they are scared he might bite, hilarious!) and then ALL at once they pet him maniacally. It is honest to god one of the cutest things I have ever seen. Today they asked to borrow him for the day and while I considered it I realized that whoever and wherever their parents are, they may not approve of their kids babysitting a shit-poo named Toad.

2) Only a mere block from my house there is a Middle Eastern food products store!!!! You cannot imagine the excitement I felt when I noticed this little gem. I had found a place to purchase my beloved Curries, Vine leaves, Hummus, Sardines, Pita Bread, Pickles, Samosas, Lentils, the list goes on.... This little store has made a genuine difference in my experience of Winnipeg, just tonight I made a curry with ingredients from there and it caused my nose to run, a sensation I so cherish.

3) People are nice. Like, really, really nice. Every where you go there are people being nice. And from what I can tell it is real niceness. What it real niceness you might ask? Well for me, it is a niceness that comes from a place of just enjoying being kind and then enjoying reciprocated kindness-- a niceness that exists for the purpose of harmonious communication and connection. The people I have actually met here (through various connections in Toronto) manifest this niceness, as do the people I encounter in the shops and restaurants. For example tonight the security guard in the liquor store went outside to watch Toad, who was not allowed in the store, for me! And a few days ago the ladies at the wonderful 3 story antique shop I went to said that I could hang out with them whenever I felt lonesome! So fucking nice.

4) This will be my last point as I don't want to bore you with too many words...so # 4 in my list is: My House. I really like my house. It's big and spacious and old and charming. Dane my room mate(who is also VERY nice) says that the house was built in the early 1900's. It's a funny house because the previous owners painted it a whole bunch of wacked out colours, almost every room is a different colour, and while I might find this offensive in another dwelling somehow this house can carry it well. There is also a front and back yard which are wild and overgrown, two features I appreciate. And finally it is located on a lovely little cul-de-sac street that is lined with massive trees and inhabited by people that smile and say hi when passing each other. NICE!