My sense of place

In running some errands with my Aunt Pat yesterday, I came across information that shows, despite my Southern California birthplace and Western New York upbringing, the depth of my Canadian roots.

My great-great-great grandfather, on my late mother's side, James McGonnell, was born in Johnson's River, Prince Edward Island, in 1853. His parents came from northern Ireland, County Tyrone, to be exact.

One of four children, he was the only one to move to America, settling in Coudersport, Pa. Others, however, stayed close to home, living in Charlottetown and Cardigan. Further generations spread out across Canada -- places like Calgary and Burnaby, B.C.

I suppose that explains my love of hockey.