Dee -- Actually I do get out and enjoy our Canadian winter --- snowmobiling, cross country skiing and skating. My son has been the driving force in keeping me active in all wether !!! I just find that after month three, the bitter cold wears me thin and towards the end of the winter I spend more time inside drinking wine than I do outside freezing my buttocks off.
I would enjoy a year-round temperature somewhere in the mid-70's without the humidity. I definitely hear you on the humidity point -- I can't imagine trying to function in the humidity we have with asthma
I think more and more Canadian companies are moving towards the cotton field mentality you mention.
I myself am guilty of overworking --- spend on average 70 - 80 hours working between home and the office.....but the expectation is there from employers and if you want to work you can either do it or let someone else have your position and they will do it.
Having a tight family will help to get you through the transition. They can offer a tremendous amount of support --- even if it's only an ear to bend on the tough days.
When you say it takes a month to earn what you would in a week in Canada -- does what you earn in a month give you the same buying power. Are the living expenses relative to the earning potential or does one greatly overshadow the other?
I best be going, still at the office ... taking a 5 minute break to regroup my thoughts -- have a nice evening.