Being sandbagged...

I was at an event put on by a couple of profs from the University of Calgary tonight. After the thing was over and while I was talking with one of them a woman turned to me - an staring at my Memorial University t-shirt asked me where I was from. I explained that I am a doctoral student at the university here in Calgary.

The she asked me what I was doing. I explained that my area of research focuses on the relationship between Aboriginal people and the Federal government. She quickly responded "We have lots of 'them' here." Followed by "We've managed to integrate some of them but I don't know what we will do with the rest!"

I have to say I was more than a little nonplussed. The best I could come up with was "Well I don't think it is our responsibility to do anything with them. I think they have to sort it out for themselves."

I walked away dismayed both at her attitude and my failure to more effectively respond to her. Yet as I continue to reflect on the incident I am keenly aware that the work I have chose to do is critical.

Housesitting...

This week I am ensconced in a beautiful 1913 cottage at the base of Crescent Heights in Calgary. The owners are off visiting family in Winnipeg while I take care of their home and two of their cats, Jake and Poppy.

If I had to choose a place to live in Calgary I think this would be it. I can walk to Eau Clair market in less than 10 minutes and to the c-train in about 15, quicker if I wanted to hurry. But then why hurry when the path leads along tree lined streets away from the noise of traffic.

The house is being renovated but in a style that enhances the original design without any real sacrifice to modern conveniences. It is early 20th century skillfully blended with 21st century ideas of comfort such as built in dishwasher, a skylight in the kitchen and a deck out front.

Paul, Jill - I may have to change the locks on the doors.