Crossing the border...

After 6 hours on a plane I arrive at the Seattle airport with three checked bags, a carry-on and my computer bag. Not too bad for a 5 1/2 month stay, or at least that's what the lady in front of me at the airport said.
Tim arrived with flowers in hand...beautiful flowers of different varieties some of which must be native to up here because I've never seen them before. We drove about 20 min to a restaurant that comes highly recommended, only to realize that it's closed on Mondays. But we quickly discovered that the area of town we were in, Freemont, was full of delightfully quaint cafes and restaurants (most of which are also closed on Mondays or during the day) and settle on a place with delicious sandwiches and soups. From there we walked, talked and did some sight seeing. It was such a needed break from the stale air and hard seats of the plane.
Once back in the car we made a few more stops (to Trader Joes and to meet another Tim Rathjen...) then on to the border(about 2 hours away). I was highly anticipating this great moment. I'm not sure where I got the picture in my mind of border patrol being crossing gates with Canadian Mounties in their red and black uniforms wearing guns came from, but that is not what we encountered. Instead it reminded me of a toll booth or waiting in line to pay for parking at Disney World. We had one slight setback, I apparently needed a study permit...cost me $125 (and set off a flag at Bank of America which caused them to freeze my account). But the women inside was nice and didn't deport me, so for that, I am grateful.

After about a 15 min drive we entered into Abbotsford, where Tim grew up and his parents still live. I met them for the first time. They are a delightfully eccentric couple that were thrilled to meet me. All of my nervousness subsided when I walked into their home. We had a delicious dinner and dessert full of conversation and laughter. I believe that I made a good first impression. I guess time will tell.

Another car ride (and 1 1/2) later we arrived at my new home. 3 of the 4 women where either sleeping or studying but Rebecca graciously let me me and helped me feel at home. Although I am temporarily sleeping in the "guest nook" (a section of the living room blocked off by book shelves) on a pull out couch, I am finding myself to be at ease in my lovely surroundings.

This is the first of many updates as an official American in Canada :)