The Mounties and the Royals

Hello everyone,

I would have to say that over the last two days, there have been many surprises! First, the Aga Khan was here on Tuesday! If you do not know who that is, think of him like the Pope of Islam, as that is how he was described to me. His Highness has played a major part in the elimination of global poverty; the advancement of the status of women; the promotion of Islamic culture, art, and architecture; and furthering pluralistic values in society. Security was really tight, as he was receiving an honorary degree at convocation (their version of commencement). Everyone was very excited about his presence, so it was cool to be here while he was here! Also, the Prince of India was here to speak at a conference, and the Prince Michael of Kent (Great Britain) just walked by the office! Apparently University of Alberta is a very popular place for royals...now if I could just befriend a few of them...

Now the most important thing...I created a list of things that I must do while in Canada. It would be naive to assume that the entire list will be completed, but the more that are, the more satisfied I will be with my Canadian experience. One of those goals was to take a picture with Mounties, in uniform. Well yesterday, I added a check mark to that goal, as there were Mounties here for all the Royals. As soon as I was told they were here, I ran back to my room to get my camera, and went to find them. They were stationed in front of the building, so I walked up to them, and asked if I could take a picture with them. They were curious as to why, so I informed them that I was from the United States, and that I told everyone I would bring back a picture of myself with Mounties. They asked which state, and I informed them that I was from Virginia. They then joked that there was a $35 fee for pictures, so I laughed, and got one of the peace (police) officer to take the picture. I will upload the picture sometime tomorrow! The rest of the list will be revealed as it is completed, but I do want to get a Mountie uniform to take home...

That's all for now...more to come this weekend!