Having been guests for almost two years in the United States, I've been amazed at the kindness and real friendships we've found here.

I did have a little inward chuckle earlier this week when I told some of my co-workers that the 1st of July was a national holiday in Canada. They were quick to wish me a happy "Canadian Day," which (unfortunately) made me think instantly of a Blue Light special at K-Mart with half price back-bacon and Molson. But, they said it with such genuine spirit that I didn't have the heart to correct them.

So, with equal sincerity, I wish our neighbo(u)rs to the south "Happy American Day!" Luckily, as with so many of our customs, the holiday involves the exact same traditions of drinking and barbecuing.... Really, it's amazing how much we have in common.