I thought Kirkpatrick was a common name in Canada?!

As I have ventured across the country from Lubbock to Canada today, I have met and seen many interesting people. Coincidentally, the few I actually spoke to were some very nice Canadians. As we conversed, I learned that Kirkpatrick was a very common name in Canada! Go figure..

...Well, the story goes on.. After finally arriving in Canada, I get through customs, purchase some Mike and Ikes from a little red ,old fashioned candy machine, find a seat, and open up my lap top while I wait for my friend Kelcey to arrive (who is also going on Semester at Sea). While I'm reading through some last minute documents for the trip, I hear:

"Mark Kirkpatrick, please report to security."

My first thought is, well those Canadians weren't lying when they said that Kirkpatrick was a common last name here in Canada. My second thought was WOW! Not only, is that MY last name, that is my Father's full name. I keep reading my documents. They announce that Mark Kirkpatrick is needed again over the loud speaker about three more times. However, I read on.

Forty-five minutes pass by and I go foraging for coffee. Obviously, I'm carrying all of my belongings with me; wouldn't want the whole--two people in the airport at 1:00 in the morning to steal my bags. I don't find any coffee, because soon after passing by that little red, old fashioned Mike and Ike candy dispenser, the realization hits me like an 86 lb. suitcase that I DO NOT have mine with me.. Oh dear! I find the closest security guard immediately.

"Sir, I'm the Mark Kirkpatrick you were looking for earlier. Or well, it's my Father's suitcase with my belongings in it.. I just thought Kirkpatrick was a common name here in Canada?!"

Well, wish I would've known it wasn't THAT common. I did get my bag back. Phew!

What I have learned from this mistake:

1. Texas is wonderful, but Canadians are very helpful and friendly.

2. Don't be surprised if you're ridiculed for carrying an 86 Ib. bag

3. NEVER forget your bag, especially when it is carrying two months worth of clothes.

Kelcey just arrived! Goodnight and au revoir from Canada!