The experience has been exactly that -- quite the experience!

However, a combination of events, all occurring within weeks of each other, have had quite the effect. It is no secret that IMI isn't doing very well financially; from 130+ employees, we're now down to just less than 60 people. (One month after leaving, there are now less than 10 people left at the company, and some of them are now in the process of leaving.) And the INS (U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Services) has refused to renew my NAFTA papers, which I would require to stay an additional 12 months. There is an appeal process, but it entails expensive immigration lawyer fees and time, neither of which IMI nor myself are capable of investing at this point.

Thus, in a certain way, my options have been decided for me. On Friday March 19, I gave IMI my resignation. Kat and I find ourselves saying good-bye for now to great weather, palm trees, and many good friends. Before we dive into our great packing adventure, Kat and I decided to spend one last weekend in Florida. In a matter of days, we'll be heading back to Vancouver, Canada.