Arriving into Vancouver was pleasant for me as it was like my second home. I been flying for a long time so the Vancouver Airport has become a common place for me to pass through. The buildings, the Queen Charlotte Island architecture, and the fresh brew of Starbucks fills the atmosphere. For Moon, it was like another world to her as the speed of life, industrialization and the sounds of english language greeted her as she stepped off the Cathay Pacific 747.
Meeting the Canadian Immigration officer was an interesting story and nervous threat to our welcoming into Canada. I made the mistake of adding Moon to my arrival immigration card as I thought she can be labeled on the same card as we are staying together in the same household in Calgary. Officer Chris (remembered from the name tag) drilled us with questions in a direct rude like matter:
- "Where are you from sir?"
- "Where are you from Madam?"
- "What are you guys doing here?"
- "How did you guys meet?"
- "How long are you planning to stay in Canada?"
After our quick 1.5 hour flight from Vancouver to Calgary, we had to wait for about 45 minutes until my mother arrived at the Airport. When I saw her, I began to cry as I have not seen her for years. The last time I went to Canada was in July of 2005 which makes it almost 1 1/2 years since I step in my own country. Such a long time indeed! We cried for a long time and eventually Moon and my mother's best friend joined us for a 4 way welcoming greeting hug!
It's so nice to be home again...