The Common Canuck - Introduction

January 16, 2021

First, this is a new project / venture for me. I am not necessarily a writer, but there are many topics, current events, situations in today’s world that I have an opinion on. Hopefully, you do too. Let’s put a Canadian perspective on what is going on out there in this crazy world.

First, what is a Canuck (Canadian)? From the "Googily" (Google Search) I found the following:

Although known for embracing the many cultures that make up Canada’s mosaic, it appears our multicultural population share more in common than one might expect. In a recent survey, 70% of respondents felt they have much in common with Canadians from other provinces – and here are seven of the many traits we share:

1. Frenzied fans of hockey - Invented in Canada, hockey is our official national sport. Canadian-born players continue to make up the majority of the NHL and our national teams have dominated on the international stage for generations.

2. Notoriously nice - If there are common characteristics non-Canadians cite of Canadians, it’s that we’re warm, welcoming, and polite – if not to a fault. In fact, without exaggeration, we’re likely to apologize even if you’re the one truly at fault. Sorry about that.

3. Hankerin’ for Hortons - Truly ubiquitous, Tim Hortons is the largest fast food restaurant and most popular coffee in Canada. Even the most hard-hearted coffee hipster will concede that Tims/Timmies coffee is iconic, beloved across the country, and a definite road trip staple.

4. Cottage country crazy - Home of approximately 60% of the world’s lakes, it’s no surprise that Canadians prefer to spend summer weekends at the lake.

5. Sense of Humor – As they say (who ever THEY are), “laughter is the best medicine”. From famous Canadian Comedians through down to your little sister, many have a good laugh now and then.

6. Desired differentiation - If there’s one not-so-nice quality many Canadians share, it’s an almost passive-aggressive need to be known as distinctly not American – especially in our travels abroad.

7. Eh B C’s - For a word so short, there’s no shortage of its use. We often do not realize how much we say “eh” until we step foot in another English-speaking country where it’s not commonly used. Go figure, eh?

I am sure there are lots more that sets us aside from the rest of the world, but this will do for now.

The way I have organized this blog is that I will regularly post articles, opinions, etc. These posts are meant to start a discussion. As with any discussions, there could be dissenting opinions, tangent discussions, whatever. Let’s hear what you have to say. I am hoping that we can have intelligent discussions without any mudslinging. (Presidential debate (2020) – what a gong show). Your comments don’t have to be long, but let’s get engaged.

I don’t plan to have a schedule for posting blogs, but will try to do something at least once a week. If you would like to help me out and be a contributor let me know.

My bio

I live in the beautiful Okanagan Valley in BC. Even though this is a national forum, don’t be surprised if there is a slant to Western Canada (sorry Toronto). I have been retired for about a year from my engineering position in Calgary which I did for 30 some odd years. (it was not in the Oil Patch, so not one of those guys). I am working on my second marriage with five awesome kids who are all doing well (even in this Covid world). My wife is the most amazing woman I know. She is keeping herself busy working with Seniors and the Elderly. Her second job seems to be keeping me inline. She is doing a great job.

No Topic will be off limits – within the bounds of common sense. A humorous slant on things is always good. (#5 above). We don’t want to be too serious about issues, but when there is something important to talk about, well – get at ‘er…….

Since this is my blog, I get to determine what gets posted. Its just the way its going to be. I will not be afraid of posting dissenting opinions, but they can not be crude or disrespectful. (everyone should read the Code of Conduct Section) Let’s all just be nice out there.

That’s is for now. Let’s hear what you have to say.

Ronco 😊