The ravages of transport

Bridge from Gatineau to Ottawa

Everything that passed through the mail from England to Canada seems to have suffered a bit in the crossing, if only by taking on an odd smell. Nothing, however, was anywhere near so badly damaged as my world map. Despite being properly packed in a rigid plastic tube, it has been bent, crushed, and mangled. That is a particular shame given that it was an especially good map, and a birthday gift to boot.

Right now, the remains (held aloft by a system of cords I rigged up) are serving as a temporary window covering for the pane facing the street. I should have given it to someone in England, or left it on the wall of my room in Church Walk for the next inhabitant to appreciate.

PS. These 34 degree Celsius days (and twenty degree nights) are a challenge unto themselves. I am looking forward to the autumn.

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here.

7 thoughts on “The ravages of transport”

  1. Did you buy insurance from the shipping company? If so, I think they owe you a new map.

  2. The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) forecast peak demand would reach 26,502 megawatts on Thursday afternoon, near but not above the province’s record peak of 27,005 MW, set a year ago yesterday on August 1, 2006.

    To meet the peak, a spokeswoman for the IESO said the grid would have to import some power from the United States since domestic generators will be able to generate only about 25,931 MW during the peak hour.

  3. Record-setting temperatures in Ontario today pushed the power supply to the limit
    CBC Television – The National
    Thursday, August 2, 2007 – 22:00 EDT

    Host(s): HEATHER HISCOX

    HEATHER HISCOX (HOST):

    Record-setting temperatures in Ontario today pushed the power supply to the limit. Air conditioners worked overtime as the thermometer neared 35 in the southern part of the province. Factor in the humidity and Environment Canada says it felt more like 41 Celsius, the hottest day yet in a current heat wave. It was much the same in Montreal, also about 41 with the humidity. People have been doing whatever it takes to stay cool, but in temperatures like those, it’s not easy.

  4. Antonia,

    As with most things, it would be far cheaper to buy here.

    Litty,

    That is a good idea. I will have to look into it.

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