Oh Canada!

Going to see a cousin who is also your next-door neighbor just doesn’t quite feel like an outing. Much like going to a family reunion in Canada doesn’t feel like an international trip… but it is. I definitely needed a passport. But come to think of it, it didn’t even get stamped! Welcome to Canada, I guess! 🇨🇦 

Let’s rewind 24ish hours while strolling through the airport in the early the morning hours when it’s not too busy. The din of idle chatter, fast-paced steps, and the suitcase wheels scraping the tile floors are all calming and familiar. It means I’m in the right place, approaching my gate and officially in vacation mode. I start noticing random people— the lady being pushed in a wheelchair with her wallet sprawling open across her chest exposing all her credit cards and compartments smh. When I pull over for some gum at one of those overpriced airport stores, it’s the young guy with locs who’s been eyeing me and eventually says “sorry for staring; I love your locs”.  When I finally arrive at my gate it’s the older Filipina who moves her luggage so I can sit, then invites me to her restaurant then tells me her testimony of coming to America as a nanny then later becoming a chef. She encouraged me to keep my relationship with the Lord strong. I’m definitely gonna check out her restaurant when I’m back home. Anyway, it’s like I start paying attention again when I go on vacation and all my senses are somewhat muted when going through the motions of everyday life. 

The flight was quite easy and short. With no disruptions or layovers though someone did take my window seat to sit with their family. I got a free champagne for the trouble since I was agreeable. And I mixed it with orange juice — hey when life gives you lemons, make a mimosa ☺️

Made it to Toronto in under 2 hours and took the UP (express train 🚊) to Union Station; it took maybe 20 minutes. 

Then took a 20 min walk with my luggage and backpack. I now realize this is likely why my back was hurting later that night! It was a nice walk though. I was glad to make it to my cousin’s condo after getting a little turned around crossing Lakeshore under the overpass. 

I had a Piri-piri chicken sandwich (not the greatest) for dinner from Subway then took a Power Nap. My parents came around 8 and after hanging out a little, I got ready for bed and was knocked out by 10:30. I’m learning to prioritize rest on vacations instead of pushing myself to fit in everything. This is my first time actually staying in the city of Toronto so looking forward to exploring a bit tomorrow! Maybe Toronto will make a tourist out of me after all!