White Satin

It's coming up to 5 months now since I made the big proverbial "leap" from east-coast to west-coast living...and let me tell you, like most things in life, it's been quite the learning experience!

There are a few stereo-types about Vancouver that have proven to be true. Ladies and gentlemen, I am here to tell you that the rumours are bang-on...the drivers in this city SUCK! People have no idea how to abide by the rules of the road, they drive too slowly, cause accidents all the time, have no clue how to turn left, and occasionally drive directly into oncoming traffic. All jokes aside, I am not making this up, I am not even expanding the truth even a little bit just to be funny! I often find myself wishing I were in an airplane than on any street in Vancouver behind the steering wheel...for those of you who know me, this should validate my fear!

People here are happy. The average person walking down the street smiles at you. Before I moved out here I figured it was because of the copious amounts of BC bud being smoked. But that's not the case. People like eye contact out here. The other day I was in an elevator and this guy starting talking to me about the weather. I automatically got my guard up and became the cold-hearted bitch I tend to turn into when strange men try to talk to me, but I soon realized this wasn't the case. People here just like to chat. There is no such thing as an awkward silence because there never is silence! Unless you are camping or skiing or doing any of the millions of outdoor things that BC is known for. Anyway, I felt really bad after we both got off the elevator and gave him an awkward smile in response to his genuine: "Have a nice day!" So I guess I still have to get used to that.

Moving on to fashion...this is where things really fall apart. There is a serious dilemma out here when it comes to fall/winter attire. First of all, no one in this city needs to wear parkas and scarves and mitts and get this...EAR MUFFS?! People...it's minus 3 at the WORST! So, I'm kind of confused on how to fit into the "winter scene". I can't sport my Ontario Parka because I totally over-heat, and I always forget my umbrella at work so I'm stuck wearing my MEC rain jacket (meant for camping) over my business suit! Clearly I need time to adjust. However, I'm sure of one thing: Februray ain't the month for wearing WHITE SATIN PANTS! I know there is a fashion law out there that clearly states NO white after labour day and before May 24! I'm not giving in to that one let me tell ya!!