Dec 13, 2012

Preparing to return to Canada





After returning home to South Africa in 1994 after 27 years in Toronto, I am going back to Canada and the US after spending 19 years in South Africa. It was a hard decision to make, but my responsibilities to my parents have ended as they are both deceased and I now want to be with my daughter, Zaida Harry, in New Jersey and forge a new life with her and her family. My grandchildren Ameera and Zara are waiting anxiously for my arrival, but having just made the decision to return to North America where I have lots of friends from my Canadian days there is much to do before I can get on a plane. The thought that I will be with them soon is exciting. They are both at a great age, one and a half years old and three-and-a half, I can relive some of my childhood with them.


Preparation for trip

·         Write to Canada Health and reinstate my Canadian health card
·         Get new passport photos for my Canadian passport
·         Write to Motor Vehicles in Canada and reinstate my driver’s licence
·         List and sell my Plumstead house
·         Sell my motor vehicle
·         Prepare my receipts for tax preparation
·         Speak to my sister for her accountant’s details so my Canadian tax can be prepared
·         Speak to realtor
·         What to do with books
·         What to pack for container
·         Home Affairs
·         Contact bank
·         Book tickets to Toronto
·         Publication of new book
·         Meeting with publishers
·         Contact National Arts Council


Making the decision to return
I cried bitterly yesterday when I made the decision to leave, but once I make a big decision like that I stick with it. The time has arrived for me finally to have both my kids and grandchildren in the same country and to enjoy the rest of my life. My grand-kids are at a great age and I am looking forward to Halloweens, skating and baseball games. Coming back to South Africa was the best thing I did. I got to know my country through research and writing. My dual lifestyle, however, now require that I join up with my family. Thank you, South Africa, and to all of you who have contributed to my happiness and success.  I am busy writing my personal experience living with Parkinson’s. We will still know each other through my forthcoming books if God so wishes for me to be here.

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