My 2nd "Canniversary"

Melissa's Musings:

2 years ago today around 3 pm, I became a permanent resident of Canada. It was a long, stressful, expensive(!) journey to get here. One of these days, I'll sit down and do a timeline and cost breakdown of my immigration process. I really should, since I know it would probably be helpful for people who are currently going through it. Though, as far as I know, right after I completed the process, it was simplified, so it should be easier now. 

It wasn't easy to get here, but it was worth it. There was a problem with my immigration file, every step of the way, even with a lawyer (thank goodness we were smart enough to hire him.) My papers were issued, and then reissued, with only a few days to go before they expired. The time to get packed, quit my job, and say goodbye to family and friends was a short six weeks.

Actually landing and going through that process to get my official paperwork at the airport was easy. They were also impressed with my listmaking for the lists of goods coming in with me that day, and to follow me later. They even asked if they could take extra photocopies to use as examples.

I did have a rough time adjusting. I missed my family and friends a lot, and felt "trapped" in the country at first because I couldn't go back to the US, or even start applying for jobs until I got my permanent residency card in the mail (you need that before you can get the other forms of ID necessary for job applications) That didn't arrive for 5 long months. And even after that, I still had a hard time.

I'm doing much better now. I don't have as many friends as I'd like, but that's okay. I'm working, trying to enjoy the little things, and no longer in the super depressed state I was in for quite a while my first year here. 

The US will always be my home, nearest and dearest to my heart (especially when I'm wearing these):

 But, Canada is my home now, too,

If anyone has any questions about my immigration journey, feel free to ask!