Toronto Life at 52 Douglas Avenue
We've only been (pronounced 'bean') here for just over 4 months and already I'm starting to view life a little differently. It no longer seems like I'm allowed to stay in my own little bubble doing the same things I want to do every day. It no longer feels like I can just coast along.
Instead, I've been integrated into a multiethnic society that thrives on community living and conforming standards. What I mean is that people around here seem to expect you to be part of the 'whole'. You really should follow all the parking rules if you want to be a good citizen. You really should contribute to the 'Multiple Sclerosis' fund at school- it's the right thing to do. You really should know the Jewish holidays (at least in my neighborhood) and be considerate of their celebration time.
In the public sector are many reminder of how to behave publicly. The subway door windows have signs that urge you to be considerate and not block the doors, another train will come soon. On the highways signs are posted to remind you not to tailgate or drive over the speed limit. One day I had an etiquette lesson from the garbage collector on the proper way to dispose of your waste. For the compost-able material (the green bin) I should store it in the freezer until garbage day. That way it won't stink in the bin outside.
The children don't seem to be affected by much of this with the exception of always asking what bin to throw their trash in: green, grey or blue. They are taught polite manners at school (but not much differently than when we were in Texas). And they are learning to play/exercise in public areas as our yard is not much bigger than a postage stamp.
With the birth of Kelsey (our fourth) each day is carefully orchestrated to get everyone on time to school. The fact that the kids come home at lunch time only compounds the chaos. Poor Alek and Kelsey have to be dragged back and forth to Brooklyn and Reina's school four times every day.
But overall I'm really enjoying my time here. Colin seems to be learning quite a bit of new things. He's happy to be working with very intelligent mentors. I've made some very nice friends at church and in the neighborhood. I feel like I'm fitting in with the other immigrants: another American, a German, an English mum and even a Czechoslovakian.
I can't imagine ever living in another place quite like this.
