Born a Canadian, always a Canadian...no matter where you live

Hi there. A note from a "long time" expat...to other expats...
After living aboard (in Holland) for more than 20 years....I still always refer to myself as a Canadian, THEN also being dutch.  For me my being Canadian, is not only my birthright, but also a part of my character and personality.  No matter where I live, or travel...Canada is my source, my roots.  But that also gives me my anchor when I am living here in Holland.  I have come to accept and realise that I have 2 homes, and 2 lives...one here in Holland, and my life in Vancouver, where the rest of my family and friends live.  What helped me to adjust here to my life is NOT to constantly compare the 2 countries to each other.  That is impossible.  Just for the simple fact that they are so different from each other.  The language, the people, the daily life, the traditions, culture, the work place and ethics...the list goes on.  If you keep comparing the two...it makes your adjustment all the more difficult and a huge waste of energy and emotion that you need to learn about living here in Holland.  Yes, it is different, but once you look at it objectively there are many good things, and good people here.  One last tip...the dutch may seem stiff, and hard to get to know/ or thaw out....but once they sense that you really are trying to learn and adjust...they will meet you more than half way. I never have regretted moving and living here. Of course I miss family at special times and occassions...but thank goodess for computers, webcams, sms's, and cellphones.  That makes up for a lot of distance, and miles between us.  Good luck with your adventure and experience here in Holland.  Mine has and is good. Hope yours is too. Joy