Growing up in Ontario and raised by a well-read and well-travelled family, I was always encouraged to travel somewhere alone, where I had never been before and to live there for awhile. You know? Really do some soul searching and rediscover myself all over again while learning to love myself even more. Truthfully, in the past I secretly despised myself and others for whining and complaining over the things that would not matter five minutes from now. And as most people know, us Ontario people "Love to Bitch." But I have no complaints about Nova Scotia.

Honestly, I have been making up excuses not to leave here because every time I get teary eyed, and I never get teary eyed about leaving a place or a person ever. There are many wonderful and inspirational people who all struck a chord with me one way or another, and suddenly I did not feel alone in this world. Then after a while I was able to actually focus on the good in myself so I could eventually love myself more and not settle for less.

Yes, sure I messed up and had blunders on the way. But I am "Ontario shameless" like that and own my shit. You guys should too. You are too modest and all of you deserve so much better. From my friends to my foes, I love you all and will miss you whenever I leave the province.
—T.

We met a while ago when I was home for a visit. I didn't know then that I'd become so smitten with you over the months to come. Although we live in different places, I keep hoping you'll give this a real try.
—Your Sarcastic Toronto Friend

You don't need to keep leaving me treats and greeting cards in my doorway, I'm grateful to simply be alongside you.
—LunchButt

It was a Saturday at Pete’s in the afternoon, and I was awkwardly holding a bag of nuts and talking to my friend. You have long red hair and you were wearing a cream-coloured coat. You walked by, and we shared a smile, and a little laugh. I think you’re super-beautiful. I’m the woman with short curly brown hair and glasses.
—Feminist Killjoy

To the very handsome and friendly firefighter (white uniform) whom I was chatting with in line at Superstore late morning on a Tuesday: I am sure you have a lovely wife. On the off chance that you do not, I am very single. If I missed an opportunity, maybe the universe will find a way for us to meet again?
—I Love A Man In Uniform

I worked the advance polls before the election, and not only was I surprised at the amazing turnout, I was happy to see it as well. What really made my long days better was seeing parents bring their children with them to vote and encouraging them to be part of the process—letting them put the ballot into the ballot box, for one thing. Making kids see the voting process shows them how easy it is to change things. It was gratifying to see a whole new generation of voters getting excited about voting, even it if it way off in their future. I often don't have a lot of hope for the younger generations but this experience gave a little back. Thank you parents and first-time voters as well!
—Thankful Poll Worker

“Oh, Fortuna, you capricious sprite!” I always tell people about our lovely, spontaneous encounter on the bus. About how it was a perfect rom-com set-up, and how I was so stupid to let you go without asking for your number.
—Find Me

To the person who returned my student ID: I was on my way to a school event (where I actually needed to present it) when I realized it must have fallen out of my pocket. I backtracked and was frantically texting my roommate when you walked up and held it out to me. I asked your name, but was too flustered to remember it, or to really thank you properly. I have no idea how you managed to find it on such a windy evening, but thank you!
—Grateful Student

You just trolled one of Gordon Ramsey's cooking videos while eating a Bacon Dipper cracker off the floor.
—I Think I Love You

I wanted to write to share how grateful I am for my weird little apartment building. I live in a brightly painted building that most people recognize and few know. I rented it without ever seeing it (just moved from another city). When I come back from my morning walk/gym sesh, I am comforted by the neighbours in my hallway who are awake and brewing yummy coffee and cooking something sweet-smelling. As I pass each door, my mind goes off into a wonderland of imagining what Martha Stewart situation is happening on the other side. It's a fun way to start my day, and to those neighbours, I thank you. I don't know you all but I like you.
—Appreciating the strangers among us