FEBRUARY 24, 2009

       So, the new U.S. president swept through our country in a matter of hours and that short visit left many people with a wonderful long-term memory.

       And shortly after Barack Obama’s Ottawa visit, our prime minister went to the United States where he was warmly welcomed, in a move that made a lot of Canadians squint.

       What’s wrong with this situation? Why are Americans giving a Canadian such a great reception? Or am I the only jaded Canuck that sees something odd about this whole thing?

       Don’t get me wrong, it’s great the countries finally seem to be getting along. But it’s had me wondering where the dislike came from in the first place.

       When former president Bill Clinton was in office, things seemed OK. Did Canada-U.S. relations go downhill once Bush came into office? If so, why? And, was it a blanket dislike for all Americans solely because of who they had as their leader?

       I know many Americans – some of my good friends are Yankees – and I have never had anything bad to say about them. I’ve never judged them just because they’re American. So it’s strange to think that just because one person is in power, it can reflect our views of that person’s entire country.

       While Obama seems to be a friendly guy who is all smiles, and wants to be amongst the people, the same can’t be said for George W. Bush, who, by the end of his term, was dodging flying shoes.

       Does Obama have to do anything drastic to win over the hearts of Canadians? Seems like a couple waves and cookie purchases in Ottawa was enough to do the trick. Mr. President, hats off to you. Don’t worry, the shoes are staying on.