Ciao from Moreal…

As you might imagine, things are cooling off in the city (today is 5 degrees). The trees have been shedding leaves for at least a week and, mixed with the steady supply of rain, most streets are carpeted in layers of dirty, soggy leaves. It’s all so organic.

A couple of notes on the ORFFM (Operation Relocation Fact-Finding Mission) Part I: Montreal:

I find that Montreal, and especially downtown has a distinctly alternative feel. This is, of course, after six shocking months of life as a DC peon, and must be taken with a little lime. I’ve stayed North, East, and now West of Centreville and I’ve had a feeling throughout that not only is the mix of people feel quite diverse in itself, but they are also dressed more randomly. Almost an “anything goes” philosophy. Some people really get into their appearance, but the point is if you don’t, it doesn’t matter. What you wear, how you look, and whether you groom is more of a non-issue.

Minus another life detail: Plus 5 QOL points.

The Winter Factor (TWF). On the other hand, one tenet of life in Montreal has finally become clear to me. As I now understand it, Montrealers must be AT ALL TIMES prepared for every possible emergency that could possibly occur outdoors. For example, what if you get a flat tire in the winter? What if it’s forty below? What if all the petrol stops are closed and it will take you an hour to walk to the nearest help? Will you live to see another day? NOT IF YOU ARE NOT PREPARED.

That’s right. if you are not properly prepared with the proper gear and equipment at all times, you can DIE. This is a fact. And the chances of LOSING IMPORTANT EXTREMITIES like noses, fingers, and ears are much, much higher. The lesson here folks is that weather can kill. That’s why we have to educate ourselves about weather and how we can protect ourselves. (This has been a Public Service Announcement of the Coalition to Educate Southern California Natives(CESCN).)

Winter season may cause death: Minus 50 QOL points

The Swiss Contingent is living it up on sick leave and plans are in the works for New Year’s Reunion 2005: New York City. Theme: Nothing but Blue Sky

Time is running out kiddies and I’ve got to run. Nausiated by my Bleak Future has just signed in and now that I’ve chuckled myself silly about it, I must return to the front lines of teacher education. Until next time,

LMA