I remember Dominion Day. I did not know it had become Canada Day, but it sounds like a good move. Oddly, I don't remember Centennial year. Oh, wait, 1967. I was stoned from November 1965 until um, many years later.
The Canadian Ensign was very similar to all the ensigns, with their Union Jack in the top left. The red maple leaf on white is uniquely Canadian, even though maple trees are not. Within months travelling Canadians were sewing the flag to their backpacks and everyone around the world knew who they were. Yes, there were a few dissenters, mostly old fogies. Believe it or not, there were once people older than Ms Pubs and myself.
Anyway, I remember thinking that this was the start of then 20 million people developing an identity that was more than part of the British Commonwealth, more than a de facto extension of the USA. For better or for worse, and mostly better, Canada and Canadians had come of age.
So now there are many Maple Leafs being flown by many Canadians rightly proud of their country on Canada Day.
Moving south, tomorrow will be the Fourth of July, the day in 1776 that the Americans declared independence from Old Blighty. Truth be told, many of us were and are still glad to see the back of the troublemakers. Making tea by pouring the tea leaves in Boston Harbour? How barbaric. We were right to keep the Canadians and let the others go.
Do please keep your dogs indoors, away from the fireworks.
Trust me, I'm a doctor.
Catweasel
Out of my mind. Back in five minutes.
