I so very much hope that ordinary lives will not become so difficult, although it is of course important to consider. I was reading several articles today about the state of Canada's economy, and while it is true that we will take a hit with the rest of the world if the American economy completely tanks, it will be only a secondary shock - we are in a lucky position wrt to debt, well-placed to move on pretty smoothly, by all accounts, despite our economic ties with the US. And since Canadians by nature tend to be a a little on the pessimistic side, I think this is likely true.

I have wondered sometimes if Americans can see themselves as outsiders see them. It has been like watching a train fast approaching a curve you're sure it can't make. You can't do anything about it, just hope no one gets hurt too badly.

Good luck, neighbours, and I hope that train gets slowed right down in the very near future.