To be Canadian

Finding the life, Volume 4. A special edition.

On April 27th, 2017 something epic happened. After 44 years in Canada, as a landed immigrant turned permanent resident, my dear father took his oath of Canadian Citizenship. In his words, he kind of did things backwards. 

"While for most who took the Oath of Citizenship along with me, it was the start of a new and exciting endeavor, I did it a bit backwards.

For more than 40 years, I have lived in Canada as a landed immigrant, building a career here, married a beautiful Canadian woman, raised 2 fabulous daughters, took part in all aspects of Canadian society and Canadian living, and only then became a citizen myself.

So, actually I see this ceremony as a reward at the finish line after a long and good race. One of which I am very proud of." -Alfred J.

My day started with loading up my crazies and taking them to daycare, because there is no way on this earth that they would have sat through this ceremony. I am super lucky to have a casual daycare that welcomes my boys with such open and loving arms. 

After kiddos were happily at daycare (they didn't even say bye to me... they were excited. I think they may be sick of me) I was off to have my winter tires swapped off my van and enjoy a hot coffee in peace before heading off to my dad's ceremony.

**side note** When I became a mini van mom, someone jokingly asked me when I was going to get a stick family as a bumper sticker. This was my compromise. Win.

And off I go! 

It was so incredibly wonderful that so many of my dads long time friends were there to support him along with my mom, sister and I. 

Taking the Oath of Citizenship!

Receiving his citizenship certificate! The judge asked him who his cheering section was... apparently we were pretty rowdy in our excitement...

A very happy and proud new Canadian, rushing to greet his wife, family and friends! I even handed off my camera so that I could get in at least one frame!

And now off to the forks to enjoy a celebratory beer!

And after our quick celebration beverage, it was time to run to sort out dinner and pick up children...

Someone was not ready to come home....

And home we came. To pizza and a lonely puppy.

Thanks for sharing in our joy. This truly was an incredible experience and I am so proud that my Dad can now count himself among Canadians. To all our friends and family that came out to celebrate this day with us, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support. 

Dad, I am so happy you chose to come here. I am so grateful you decided to explore our big wide world and settle down and create the amazing life we've all shared (I wouldn't be here had you not). Canada is lucky to have a man like you in her midst, and I am so very proud and honoured to call you Daddy. 

Love to you all! Cheers friends!

-Alicia