We flew from Salt Lake City to Edmonton (with a two-hour layover in Seattle, ironically enough). I have traveled to many places, and I have to say that flying into Sea-Tac is definitely the most beautiful landing you could ask for. Seeing that landscape will never get old. But I digress...
After sorting out a rental car situation (the original rental couldn't accomodate the amount of stuff we had to haul), we located the University of Alberta where we will be staying the next few days. Our rooms are DEFINITELY taking me back to my first-year experience, dorm-room days. Lorna and I (*Liz is flying solo, along with her loud sleeping habits) are in a double that smells as though two college boys inhabited the space not long before the two of us. It is very humbling, and between the community bathrooms and the stiff mattress we definitely are learning to appreciate that Super 8 motel we stormed in Salt Lake.
Good Fortune Perhaps?
We set out for dinner and a grocery run after checking into our dorm rooms. We had Chinese food at a small place a few blocks from campus. My fortune cookie predicted good luck in the Gulf Coast for our team: "Travelling to the south will bring you unexpected hapiness." This is a very good sign that something profound will happen in light of our documentary work.
Cupcake Pear-adise
Dinner was topped off with a cupcake stop at "Fuss Cupcakes." This place was wonderful! I had a Pear-adise cupcake, with pear-esque butter cream frosting. It was white-cake and coconut covered goodness! I wonder if they ship to the states? This place was more than memorable, and with wonderful puns like "Legalize Frostitution," I was sold from the start.
Making Peace Official
The most interesting observation I had today, in all seriousness, was the discovery of the Canadian Peace Officer. Yes, they are the real deal--there were two Peace Officers riding bikes around town after we ate dinner. Rob said that they mitigate disputes, rarely carry guns, and are not to be confused with police officers (although the uniforms are very similar). This is a very fascinating resource to have patroling the streets, and I think that it is an idea that the US could definitely benefit from. I love our peaceful neighbors to the north!
Today was eventful, but in a relaxing sort of way. We got in many laughs, and I am looking forward to our more serious day tomorrow. We are scheduled to interview Deputy Speaker Cao from the Albertan Government. I will update everyone as soon as possible.
