I love Ottawa. I've only lived here eight years, but this city and its people have embraced me as a professional and a person like no other. Having been to 49 states, eight provinces and multiple countries in Europe, I truly feel fortunate to live in one of the best cities on the planet.

Some people complain that it's not Toronto or Montreal. Nothing to do here. Fewer entertainment options. Not as cultured, hip or trendy. Just a sleepy government town where the streets roll up at 5:00. Blah blah blah. Those attitudes reflect the people sharing them, not the city. Sure I'd love a few more concerts or direct flights. And there is no doubting the world class nature of our country's two largest cities, just two and four hours away. But it's time for people to embrace the fact Ottawa is a world class city in its own right. The capital of one of the best countries on the planet.

Where else can you go for a hike in Gatineau Park, take a walk along the Rideau Canal, visit the War Museum, National Gallery or Museum of Civilization, and follow it up with a sporting event or performance at TD Place, Canadian Tire Centre or the NAC. And don't even get me started about nightlife. I've found more than enough fun here to rival your average weekend getaway in Montreal, New Orleans or Vegas. Can't find a good time in Ottawa? That's on you. Not the city.

Name me a better place to celebrate Canada Day than Parliament Hill. Name me a better place to honour our heroes on November 11th than the National War Memorial. Heroes like Cpl. Nathan Cirillo. We weep for you. And you will never be forgotten. We will also never forget the heroism of our first responders, law enforcement, Kevin Vickers. You prevented yesterday's tragedy from becoming much, much worse.

We are still a shaken city. Today feels like a hangover. But without the joy and laughter of a party that preceded it. We live in a new age. The risk of being attacked again is very real. But make no mistake. Our great country and beautiful city will not be broken. I am proud to be Canadian. Proud to call Ottawa my home. And one cowardly, lunatic sure as hell ain't going to change that.