80 degrees of separation

40°C X -40°C : extreme temperatures.

This is the contrast now between Brazil and Canada thermometer (top) marks. It is something as a person being next to the stove and another one getting out of the freezer at the same time. Actually, with an even bigger difference!

Well, if the kitchen is close to the beach, I would not mind to be there sweating, conscious that I can enjoy sea later... 

I'm likely to be frost, though :/

letters

Even in my teen age, when didn't exist email yet, I think I'd never waited so anxiously for receiving correspondences.

New life, other requests... but, in fact, too much burocracy to restart officialy!

Waiting... My current wor(l)d in Canada.

fly high

After some changes, living permanently, in Canada.

Onward and upward!

à chacun son goût

En attendant...

Interrogé sur leur intentions de aller au Brésil en vacances, le québecois répondre:

- Mais oui, je cherche une belle litière.

(oui, exactement ce qui a été dit avec une incroyable supériorité sur le sud! - c'est-à-dire tout ce qui viens de l'Amérique Latine!)

Quel irrespect! 

J'aime vraiment le Québec, les gens d'ici, sa culture, puis je n'aurais jamais pensé en écouter un si fort insulte... Alors, excuse-moi, mais: pauvres chauvinistes ces (ostie de) losers égocentriques qui ne voient que leur souverainisme! S'il y a certains québecois qui croient même que leur "pays" est le meilleur endroit au monde, je voudrais qu'ils entendent (seulement un petit peu - au moins!) ce que tous les autres canadiens ont à dire par rapport à cette province francophone, et son peuple compris.

Une place pour chaque chose et chaque chose à sa place... Quelle ironie!

Vive le Canada et son acceptation des différences! 

J'ADORE ça: de la tolérance en plusieurs niveaux.

la beauté n'est pas tout

...mais comme dirait Vinicius de Moraes, qui a écrit 'Garota de Ipanema' (une de plus belles déclarations d'amour déjà faites), entre autres compliments aux dames...

"Les femmes laides, pardonnez-moi, mais la beauté est si fondamentale"

S'il y a quelqu'un que doute qu'au Brésil il y a de belles femmes, voici quelques indices:

- Maria Ieda Vargas (Rio Grande do Sul) et Martha Vasconcellos (Bahia) on rapporté le titre de Miss Univers, en 63 et 69 respectivement;

- La top modèle la plus somptueuse (et riche) au monde est Gisele Bündchen (Rio Grande do Sul);

- Adriana Lima (Bahia), Alessandra Ambrosio (Rio Grande do Sul), Isabeli Fontana (Paraná), Ana Beatriz Barros (Minas Gerais), Fernanda Tavares (Rio Grande do Norte), Caroline Trentini (Rio Grande do Sul), Fernanda Motta (Rio de Janeiro) et Brenda Costa (Rio de Janeiro) figurent parmi les modèles les plus hot de tous les temps;

 
Bon, si les québécoises sont les plus belles femmes au monde (comme y croient quelques-uns), répondez-moi pour quoi:

1. les deux canadiennes (Karen Diane Baldwin, en 82, et Natalie Glebova, en 2005) qui ont été élues Miss Univers vient de Ontario? (étant que cette dernière est née en Russie, ni même au Canada...);

2. il n'y a que quatre mannequins d'ici connue internationalement? (Alexandra Aubin, qui a débuté à la fin des années 80, la mignonne Charlotte Le Bon, la rousse Judith Bedard, et Anaïs Pouliot, qui est en lumière maintenant);

3. elles ne figurent pas actuellement sur aucun classement des plus belles (ou sexy) femmes?

Finalement, j'aimerais connaître ou même seulement avoir vu au moins une en personne! Parce que, dans la rue, elles ne sont pas... Il manque quelque chose, peut-être grâce. Par contre, au Brésil, juste dans une visite à la plage de Rio, ou n'importe où à Porto Alegre, c'est assez pour reconnaître toute la beauté brésilienne, sans modestie. On déborde féminité.

travel is good for heart

I know. I'm very heatlhy and happy then! 

I love it and hope be in a trip soon...

Here, some of our destinations of dreams:

Africa

Angola
Giza, Egypt
Johannesburg, South Africa
Morocco
Sahara


Asia

China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Malaysia
Nepal
Philippines
Thailand
Tibet

 

Havana, Cuba

Central America

Caribbean
Curaçao
Cuba 
Jamaica 


Europe

Athens, Greece
Barcelona, Spain
Berlin, Germany
Dublin, Ireland
Edinburgh, Scotland
Firth of Clyde, Scotland
Florence, Italy
Frankfurt, Germany
Glasgow, Scotland
Hamburg, Germany
Lisbon, Portugal
Liverpool, England
London, England
Milan, Spain
Moscow, Russia

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece
Munich, Germany
Pisa, Italy
Porto, Portugal
Prague,  Czech Republic
Rome, Italy
Rotterdam , Netherlands
Venice, Italy
Versailles, France



North America
 
Alaska, USA
California, USA
Campeche, Mexico
Cancun, Mexico
La Paz, Mexico
Las Vegas, USA
Merida, Mexico
New Orleans, USA
New York, USA
Niagara Falls, CA
Progreso, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Quintana Roo, Mexico
Toronto, CAVancouver, CA

Yucatan, Mexico

Yucatan, Mexico


Oceania

Australia 
Hawaii 
New Zealand


South America

Andes, Chile
Antartida
Amazon, Brazil
Buenos Aires, Argentine
Chuí, Brazil
Córdoba, Argentine
La Pedrera, Uruguay
Machu Picchu, Peru
Montevideo, Uruguay
Mount Roraima, Venezuela
Patagonia, Argentine
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Tierra del Fuego, Argentine


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by Kurt Baumgartner, in Manitoba

Finally, these are some places in Canada we'll find Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights):

Athabasca Country, Alberta
Baie-James, Quebec
Canadian Rockies, British Columbia
Churchill, Manitoba
Dempster Highway, Yukon
Fermont, Quebec
Inuvik, Northwest Territories
Iqaluit, Nunavut
Labrador, Newfoundland and Labrador
Northern Saskatchewan
Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories
Whitehorse, Yukon
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

for well

I tip my hat to Ryan Hreljac. 

Aged of only six years old, this praiseworthy Canadian kid was determinated to help people in Africa, building a well for them. Touched by a class in which his teacher Cathy Prest talked about water problems in African continent, he decided to do something. 

It started with $70, charged by doing some home services for his parents. Later, he raised the amout of $2,000 with neighborhood contribution. His first well was built in 1999, when he was seven. Today, he has his own Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars, contributing a total of 518 water and sanitation projects in 16 countries serving over 640,000 people.

How only a single person  can change the world? With will (whatever the age). Small initiatives, anyone, count.

Watch a little passage of Ryan's Well, a documentary about this inspiring story.

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*This is just another reason to be pround of Canada. 

 

Canadian

I really don't know if they realize that their country (where they were born, live, moved... whatever!) is fantastic! Without false modesty.

Of course it's not perfect (there are many problems, a lot of points to improve). Anyway, though, it's perfect in the imperfect way it is: too cold and so far, (or even 'that smooth!') - as almost all suppose.

For me, five stars: a d-r-e-a-m!

That's how I honestly see it: with much love. After all, I fell of it! I own... Here, I'm very warm in that I am in my lover arms.

I'm immensely glad for coming. I feel myself welcome here, "home".

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Furthermore, their goal (at leat in Quebec) seems not be the same of their neighbors. Overall, hey don't partake of American Dream, not even their crazy fears (ironically presented by Michael Moore in this funny video of Bowling for Columbine). 

american challange

In the end, Obama won. Better, in my opinion.

I'm pretty sure that everybody is expecting from him another good four-year term. All over the world.

Obviously, being the USA President is not a easy role to play. Pondering its plural population, their fears and demands, on the top of all the rest of the planet, such responsibility becomes evident!

They believe being in the control of others issues, above everything else... even the truth, good and evil, etc etc etc. After all, they decide by themselves which governments should fall (despite chosen democratically by local people), who deserves to live, to die, among other outrages.

Good luck, Mr. President. Do your best!

While there's life, there's hope...

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it all ended in poutine

Still about election process... I just got to know (through Ênquete) Pierre Poutine, a remarkable character of Canada politics.

A commonly known, as everybody else. Just a restrict group of people was acquainted with him, personally, bodily - only who created him, his identity. Actually, doesn't matter how many people were involved... the fact is that his fonction was executed: finger in Canada Federal Election last year.

This figure contracted the service of robocalls which reached more than 8 thousand voters. Because of it, these citizens reveived false information about where perform their democratical right of voting.

It was not (so) massive, but for sure that made any difference in the results. I just don't understand why they haven't cancelled this polling, making it over, appropriately. Well, honestly, I grasped their reasons... It was not interesting for Stephen Harper, who guaranteed his third consecutive victory.

I'm VERY surprise that this kind of cheap trick happens here.

Check the program out. It's really good.   
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poutine = pizza

In Brazil, we are used to say that things always end in "pizza", meaning 'nothing'. 

Not in elections (which are electronic there, in the bargain: a worldwide model), but in case of Mensalão scandal, differ from what has happened nowadays in Quebec with politicians involved in corruption, who are dismissaling "voluntarily" (due to Charbonneau Commission), Brazilian president at that time would be deposed. Without a doubt!

Merely for conniving (even if not participating), besides not doing anything against the corruption system estabilished, it would be enough for an "GET OUT!". Well, it would be something! 

Better for Lula that things are still smoother there... (more tolerant population)
 

not that much smooth

To whom has thought Canada (in detail, Quebec) was a tranquil and serene place to live, I listed briefly some events I witnessed, which prove that it REALLY rocks in different aspects - for good or ill:

Hurricane Irene passed by here in August 2011;
 

Occupy Montreal resisted at Square Victoria more than a month last year;
 

Le Printemps Érable, how they call the period of students protests in Quebec this year, caused! Red squares, Bill 78, confrontations, violence... even the possibility of Montreal Grand Prix cancellation. Lastly, the inevitable happened: elections! People voted massively. Then, their Prime Minister was replaced as a democratical consequence of his own (unsatisfactory) administration. Without a doubt, a remarkable triumphe;

We watched live on 4th September night: Pauline Marois, the new Quebec Prime Minister, was abruptly dragged off stage during her victory speech (in which she was calling for unity). A man opened fire into the Metropolis, where she was speaking. This attack brought out "past" issues of sovereignty, once the felon was arrested claiming "The anglos are waking up". The shooting left one victim dead and a second in critical condition. At the theatre where tragedy happened; a benefit concert with local stars (as Celine Dion and Arcade Fire, among others) was offered for the daughter of Denis Blanchette (murdered). Donations were also collected for Dave Courage, the other man hit by the same bullet.

Charbonneau Commission scandalizes with strong allegations of illegal financing between Quebec Liberal Party and (Italian) Mafia. Due to revelations of his implication, Montreal citizens ask their mayor, Gérald Tremblay, to resign immediately;

Another season off: NHL lockout desapoints hockey supporters this year. If some kind of soccer strike occurs in Brazil, I'm sure it would give rise to a huge civil war there (In this regard, Canadians are so civilized!);   

In the end of May, Luka Magnotta shocked the whole world with his brutal crime. He killed his boyfriend, Lin Jun. I frankly don't know what was the worst: the fact of dismembering the chinese student, or sendind parts of his body by mail - to the Conservative Party of Canada national office, and also to elementary schools in other provinces. Only in June, they finally found Jun's head in a park of Montreal. Well, if the goal of this mere model was be famous, he got it. Let's face it: as a shoody porno actor, he made an successful 'real thriller' (not his speciality). However, I wonder myself how he will enjoy his celebrity confined in a jail until his death... Not worth job, dude!;

A 4.5 Richter scale earthquake shaked Montreal area last night.

Well, it IS something, isn't?!  

On se souviendra!

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911 turning 728

The classical police number is at a low... 728, instead, is on the wave crest nowadays. Actually, since the students protests occured last spring...

Cop n. 728, become famous by many videos showing her intolerant behavior to deal with people in general, not only rioters in upheaval. She pepper-sprayed broadly! 

Freshly, a new episode drew forth her! Once again, in an aggressive exchange captured on video. Watch a news reporting about here.

The worst, in my opinion, is her point of view, her both stiff ideas and conduct. Her unfortunate commentaries like "On a réussi à le menotter. Mais, pendant ce temps-là, tous les rats qui étaient dans l’appartement en haut, les gratteux de guitare, c’est toute des osti de carrés rouges. Des artistes osti. En tout cas, des mangeux de marde. Ils ont toute commencé à sortir de l’appartement, tsé" are wretched.

Stéfanie Trudeau, implied in more this case, drags attributtes of a violent person since school, according her ex classmates. Well, it's visible, evident, clear by seeing these videos. Hail current technology! (which permit people to record several occurrences).

After this event, Montreal police reputation was put in check. "Is this kind of police we want (and need) here?" - they called into question. At least, now, she was FINALLY suspended.

A site about her was even created. Check it out.

it's been an experience

Ok, it was not grave... I "just" waked up in the middle of the night with a strong noise, feeling the house shaking as when many trucks pass over there at the same time. 

Jokes aside, it was something (to me)! Strange sensation...

Can I freak out a little bit, at least? After all, I'm not used with natural phenomena like earthquakes! NOT AT ALL! Furthermore, this is not even supposed to happen here (what's more in that proportion)!

By the way, 3.9 Richter scale shocks in Quebec; Manitoba, Alberta and Ontario snow storms in early October(!)... Well, the weather seems crazy lately! Indeed.

Last year, it was the hurricane Irene... Which one it will be the next, Saint Peter?

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Read more:

Earthquake rattles Montreal
Earthquake strikes near Montreal 
Early snow: A sign of what's to come?
Southeastern Manitoba pounded by adversity
Another quick blast of winter in parts of Alberta
Autumn snow causes power outages in southern Manitoba 
Snow falls in Winnipeg on last day of summer

a place for everything and everything in its place

It's no use: other's mother IS NOT ours.

Lucky me to have mine, even far!

Going out of her way, truly pulling the universe out of her soul to help me and make me happy, this is priceless.
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everything has it's price!

Lately, Queen Elizabeth II revised the Royal Household Order of Precedence. Little changes involved only Kate Middleton, though, in order to remind her about her commoner roots.

At this newest protocol, the Duchess of Cambridge must curtsy to your husband's relatives unless she is with him. Probably the worst part will be do it, whether in private or in public, to Eugenie and Beatrice, two blood princesses, cousins of Prince William, when she meets them alone.

Well, if it is humiliation caused by Queen's jealousy of her popularity (as magazines have speculated by now) or if it is just respect for their old royal tradition, I really don't mind...(!) In my opinion, all monarchy stuff is completely old-fashioned and out of place nowadays.

After all, who pay for it? By the way, I sincerely don't understand how a country as Canada, for example, still maintains its political system tied with the British Royal Family, supporting them and their caprices (Kate's expensive new dresses, included!).

Tant pis au Québéc! (yes, unfortunately we are also paying for that...)
___________________________________________________________
  
in the bargain, I feel very blessed not to having a mother-in-law like princess Diana had.

Fortunately, I love mine! ♥

little things which make all the difference

Feeling myself  welcome - Now, more than ever, I’m prizing it (once I’m satisfied with the way which people deal with immigrants in Canada)! Differently I was used to pass in Europe, here, there are not only opportunities, but (and mainly) respect.

Furthermore, other aspect that makes me appreciate this country is its people's kindness. Without a doubt, they are completely different from, for example, most part of Dutchs who I've met in The Netherlands - rude and indelicate when giving short answers, always with no smiles in their faces. 

Although their idiom seems a little brute for us, while, for instance, the Latin ones make us closer (of course), it's not only a matter of language. Even descending from French, Quebec's people are so cute and solicitous - much more beloved than their European ancestors, who, unfortunately, don't have one of the best appealing reputation - at all! Sometimes, inclusively, the anglophonic Canadians seem be even more captivating, but is not a plain fact! Maybe this unfavourably impression is made à cause des mes difficultés et de les particularités du français... Oui, peut-être!

Finally, there are many other reasons which make me believe I’m in the right place right now… Almost feeling myself as in home (or 'chez moi'). My only challenge, the worst one, which impedes me to affirm I’m 100% sure of that, is the winter(!) - that haven’t started yet. Probably, it’s going to be as cruel as colder than any other people in the whole planet! Wow… I wonder myself if Canadians are going to keep joy and so gentle even under less 30 degrees! Well, let's see.

*By now, I would like to excuse myself with Holland and French people, since I love them and their places. However, it's important to be sincere AND, in such case, EVEN WITH NO CRISIS, Europeans generally tend to have so much (related to behavior and mood) to learn with other peoples in order to improve their manners.

by force

A sad reality among so much happiness and perfection...

I’ve never thought about rapes or sexual violence in Canada. However, today I was informed that around one in four women has suffered some kind of sexual abuse here, or even attempts, at least once in  her lifetime. “Too much!” - I said impressed to Julie, who attended me in the 2110, giving me some information about sex issues.

Actually, I don’t know if this number is refered only to Montreal (Quebec) or if it is a mean of all their cities. I used to live at easy, calmly, with no worry about that here… until tonight! Coincidently (or not!), a guy tried to grip my arm under a viaduct while by my side. I was a little afraid, without understand what he wanted... and could do with me there. Fortunately, nothing happened due to a lady who passed by bike exactly at that time, disturbing him (and helping me by chance! - Thanks God). 
   
Although Mtl seems being a peaceful and safe city for women, it‘s better pay attention - always! I‘m going to inform myself about who are the men who commit it, the way it occurs here and why. I‘m sure that the reasons (besides the “basic” uncontrollable desire of pervert men) are different for the Brazilians. Let’s verify… and as soon as possible, I’ll write explaining something which is simply inexplicable - inadmissible and unforgivable.

By the way, congratulation to people who help others with these sexual problems, all demages...

Despite implicit, the heaviest scene I’ve ever seen about that was played by Monica Bellucci in the French movie Irréversible. It’s extremely distressing. I hope nobody, experiences it, or undergoes a traumatic similar situation, wherever.

Better if I could help them... So, (hey, ho) let's go!  

il est passé par ici

Le premier ouragan, on n'oublie jamais!

J'ai eu peur.

Irene a laissé des dégâts sur son passage dans le Canada, et des mauvais souvenirs dans ma mémoire.

[WHOU-OU-OU-OU...]

another me

Actually the SAME, but improved.

At least, I think so…  once my new version is more versatile, light, opened for new experiences, and ready for any change (or rather… any challenge!). 

And how much I’ve changed…! Getting some advantage to be in Canadá, right now, for example, I just ate bread with chicken and Dijon Mustard, which is finger-licking good. What????? It is exactly what you read: m-u-s-t-a-r-d (I like it, since it is Dijon - only that!). Haven’t I said I am another one? Well, it’s true!

Good reasons to celebrate(!), some beyond my control, besides the personal ones…. The fact is that I decided to stop with soft drinks and other fat stuffs. Furthermore, from now, I’m avoiding mayonnaise (even still loving it) in order to feed myself in a healthier way - by the way… in many respects! 

Let’s wait for the next season to see other natural transformations…