One of the oddest thing about the Canadian understanding of our relationship with the US is the general tradition - except for the David Frums - of distancing ourselves, making sure we are not "too American". We like to be distinct, confident in our way, while being generally respectful but often a tad condecending. Then when someone from the US says something good about some aspect of life north, you get a big gooey feeling that immediately embarrasses like watching Sally Field at the Oscars. If Bush mentions or fails to mention Canada in a speech it can lead the national news - good Lord.

By the way, I am fully expecting to run into Ian at the New York State Fair on either Pie Day or Bread Day. I am sure the entire population promenades, singing show tunes just like in the musical Oklahoma. I am sure that's what it will be like. I'm sure.