March 21st 2011

We completed our citizenship ceremony and celebrations yesterday.

Our ceremony was held at the same location as our exam on Expo Boulevard.  According to the judge holding the proceeding 59 of us became citizens yesterday afternoon, from an astounding 36 different countries.  David and I were the only ones we think from England and there was one lady from Scotland.

There was a little sitting around and waiting beforehand while they organised all of the people for their ceremony and their visitors. By the time the ceremony started the room was full.

On the wall the Canadian coat of arms - ‘A Mari Usque Ad Mare’ From Sea To Sea.

We then had to each swear one at a time around the room and then take the Oath in both English and French.

Liz unfortunately had prior engagements that afternoon so we had to settle for a portrait on the wall.

After we had all taken the Oath we were presented with our citizenship cards and certificates.  Then we had the opportunity to be photographed with citizenship Judge Ann Dillon and a guy in RCMP uniform who gained three different names during the proceedings.  Constable John/Gerald/Geoffrey thanks for taking part in the photoshoot anyway !

After the ceremony they held a reception with tea & cake but we didn’t stay as we had to get home, take Mojo for another quic walk before leaving him again to attend our social engagements Downtown.

We had arranged to meet with a few friends at Joeys in the Bentall Centre on Burrard St.  Most of our friends were working on Monday night but Stephen and Andrea were there before we even arrived.

Myself with Stephen

David with Andrea

Then our English friends David and Andrea arrived and we enjoyed plateloads of Ahi Tuna Tacos, Chinatown Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Sushi and Cheeseburger Sliders washed down with bellinis and beer.

David and I in Joeys

A little later in the evening Deb and Bob joined us after their long shifts.

Thanks everyone for supporting us and celebrating our becoming Canadian.  We had a great day and are very proud of our new dual-citizenship status.