I started reading the Guardian Weekly in 2004 when I was living in Townsville, Australia. I was 27 years old. I’d moved from Ontario, Canada, to teach ice skating in tropical north Queensland. Before that time I had never read a newspaper like it. I was hooked.
When I returned to Ontario in 2005 I enrolled in a 6,000-hour mobile crane apprenticeship programme. I often worked out of town for extended periods. Luckily, I found a local store that carried four copies and was even kind enough to set aside issues for me.
One Sunday I arrived to pick up my paper just before closing time. The owner, Mike, handed me my issue with “paid” marked on it. He described the person who had paid for it. It was my girlfriend! Our mothers set us up hoping we might be a good match. We have been together for 11 years and married for nine, with two daughters.
As I have been abroad, I was not aware until now that your format had changed. I enjoy it. The photos are my favourite part. I am also thrilled to read about international events. And I like the letters to the editor. Congratulations. I admire your work.
