I celebrated Canada Day this morning with a giant fruit salad drizzled in some patriotic maple syrup.

As I munched through my salad I thought about how it represented Canada.

It was filled with local strawberries, raspberries, exotic pineapple, papaya and coconut, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds, and of course a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

Canada is a young, open-minded country that embraces different cultures but is also very proud of its own roots.

After years of traveling I’ve grown to appreciate this country more and more.

I feel strong, safe and powerful being a woman in this country.

I grew up with friends who all came from different backgrounds and race or religion never set up walls for us.  Instead we felt fortunate to share our cultures, our food and traditions.

I have just accepted another job with the production company I’ve been working for so it looks like my feet will be firmly planted on beautiful British Columbia ground for some time.

I’m embracing it whole heartedly, getting into the West Coast vibe by getting outside to jog along the water, buying local produce and eating lots of healthy, energizing food.

I am happy to be here, to have my love by my side, to have my career blossoming so early and to be celebrating Canada Day in the city I was born in.