After decades of marriage, Canada and the United States are getting a divorce. It’s not Canada’s fault; the U.S. is caught up in an extreme mid-life crisis and they’re cheating with Russia. In strategic retaliation, Canada has been blatantly flirting with Europe, even winking at them in public.

Marriages have peaks and valleys. The same can be said for the Canada-US relationship. There have been good times and bad times. But the news this morning suggests that the U.S. has gotten itself into a drunken brawl with the Middle East. No wonder Canada is running into the open arms of Europe. This could turn out to be more than a summer fling.

Canada, like many a spurned housewife, is going all out on a makeover, bringing out the stilettos and strutting their stuff. Perhaps a little personal space and time for self-discovery may be just what Canada needs. As for the U.S., well they might end up couch surfing, sleeping around, and crying in their beer before they get their act together. When all parties sit down at the table–and they eventually will–let’s hope everyone shows up serious, sober, and ready to learn from past mistakes.

Keep your joy.

My annual summer break is coming up. Next week will be my last post until after Labour Day.

Anne Milne is an every Sunday blogger, unless it’s a holiday weekend. Or summertime.