I like you. I like you a lot. We've only known each other for a a year, but you've already treated me like a member of the big family. I'm really touched.
When I just got here, I compiled a list of things about Canada I didn't know about. I missed those things when I was back in Indonesia for a month after being here for 4.5 months. But when I'm back here in your land, I miss Indonesian food constantly. If I could have one wish, I would wish for at least one authentic Indonesian restaurant here in in Waterloo so that I could go there when I'm feeling homesick.
A lot has changed since I wrote the abovementioned list. Your oddities don't strike me as odd anymore. I've been able to incorporate the Canadian "eh?" into my daily conversation, and I've also been able to tolerate your lower temperature better. Now I can stand not to wear my sweatshirt when the temperature is in the mid- to high-teens. I hope you are proud of me. I'm not so crazy about your higher temperature, though. 38°C in Spring was not cool! But I know it wasn't your fault.
I'm married to one of your men now. He's a lovely man; sweet, caring, and gentle. Like most Canadians, he likes maple syrup, but he still can't get me to try it even though I've been here for a year. Not that I'm complaining. I really hope you won't take this personally, but maple syrup scares me. I don't know why. It just does. I'm sorry.
Finally, I just want to wish you a happy birthday. My husband and I are going to go to one of your birthday celebrations today. I enjoyed last year's celebration, and I'm sure I'll enjoy this year's just as much, if not more. Please keep being friendly, open-minded, and beautiful. Those are the things that I like the most about you.
Sincerely yours,
Firda
