Being Canadian–Week 1 on Vacation

So since I’m not really baking whist on vacation but do intend to have a few “baking” posts, I thought I’d teach/introduce you all about what it’s like for me to be Canadian.

I never really thought that there was much of a difference.  Fundamentally we are very similar but there are things you can get in Canada that the States don’t have, or do have but taste so completely different. In my post for Lady Bugs I listed a few things I couldn’t wait to see and do and taste.  I checked off quite a few this first week on vacation.

First things first – Tim Hortons: It’s not great coffee, some days it’s not even good coffee, but there’s something about this Canadian donut shop that was originally started by a hockey player that make people line up every morning for.  Now Timmies can be found in some of the northern states like Michigan and New York, so when we crossed the state border into NY we got our first stop.  It was like a light leading us home!  Then we stopped when we crossed into Canada and again when we got to Rob’s parent’s town of Tweed and basically every day since we’ve arrived.  Yes, there may be a small addiction.

That’s me the morning of July 1st, Canada Day!  I’m a happy camper.

Next on the list was to hit a Canadian Tire.  Not for anything in particular, just to go.  There is nothing like Canadian Tire in the States.  You’d have to combine a Sears, Kmart, Advanced Auto Parts, Dicks Sporting Goods, Ace Hardware and a Bed Bath and Beyond to get somewhat close.  I mean where else can you find a cement mixer next to the bbqs.

I believe Abby is combining two things, drinking a Tim Hortons Lemon Ice with a visit to the store.

There are also a few tastes of Canada that I’ve been craving:

Poutine – French Fries, Gravy and Cheese Curds

Butter Tarts – Pie pastry filled with a butter/sugar centre.  These are the best, I’ve tried but never duplicated Betty’s Butter Tarts.

and good OLD cheddar cheese and by old, I’m not talking 2 years, I’m talking 9 year old extra sharp cheddar.  Possibly the best cheese on the planet!

So week one on vacation has been great.  Still so much to see and do.

Thanks for looking!