Anthony Malbrough
CFL.ca
For many import players, living in two countries is a way of life. For 6 months many of us live in Canada, and for 6 months we live in the US. As for myself, I like to think of it as having the best of both worlds. Once I arrive at the border, my mind set changes. It’s something I call “adjusting to your surroundings.” My social security card is put to the back of my wallet, and I make room for my social insurance card in the front. All American “green” cash is exchanged for the more colorful Canadian cash, and my first stop is Tim Horton’s for a 10 box of Timbits and a French Vanilla coffee, which, by the way I am forced to live without for 6 months! Keep in mind, I don’t even drink coffee when I am in the States! So, the question today is: Am I American or Canadian?
I live in a suburb of Houston from the end of the season in November to the end of May, and then back to Canada from the end of May to the end of November. That means nice winters with no snow, and sometimes short sleeve shirts during the Christmas holidays in Texas. Then, when it is time for me to leave and go to Canada, I leave behind the blistering 100 degree temperatures and unbearable humidity in southeast Texas during the summer months. For mild summer weather, I have become very accustomed to living in Canada. When the season is over and it is time to leave, I will leave behind the frigid snowy winters of Winnipeg, Manitoba.
In October , my wife, kids, and myself go all out for a Canadian Thanksgiving. We celebrate with the works, sweet potato pies (an American thing!), turkey, cornbread dressing (another American thing!), and all the trimmings. I celebrate, one more time, in November if my team is not fortunate enough to make it to the Grey Cup. Not many people get to enjoy two Thanksgiving dinners a year, but, if you are living the life of an American and Canadian anything is possible. So again, Am I American or Canadian?
From banking to grocery shopping I have two ways of doing everything- Royal Bank of Canada, and in the US, Bank of America! Simple things, like having a favorite restaurant depending on the side of the border I am on is a way of life for me. North of the border, I like Earls, and south of the border I am headed to Pappadeaux’s for some cajun seafood. I can list scenarios all day, but you get the idea. The old saying is “home is where the heart is,” so my response to that is my heart spends 6 months in Winnipeg and 6 months in Houston. In the off season I can’t wait to get the season started, and during the season I am missing my home and family in Texas. Being in the CFL has given me a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment for the last 7 seasons. A blessing if I ever had one. But, my question still remains, Am I an American or a Canadian? I guess the fans can help me decide! Thanks for reading the Malbrough files!
Anthony Malbrough is a defensive back with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He is a veteran of three CFL teams during his seven year career.
