Thursday, February 18, 2010

Proudly Canadian

Photo credit: miss604 on Flickr

After attending the FWE luncheon (read about inspiring event here), I took some time to enjoy the sites and sounds of the Olympic buzz, as I was smack dab in the middle of it all! I walked with the crowds to the flames of Olympic Cauldron a few short blocks away. Yes, the fence was up, but still impressive indeed.

I describe the vibe as "snow falling on a cool, crisp Christmas morning and neighbors coming out to say hello, chat about the weather, their day with family and friends" - everyone is in such a grand mood. I beamed with Canadian pride, smiled and thanked a volunteer as we walked towards the cauldron together, gave a visiting mom whose child was having a meltdown a reassuring "been there done that" look, and was reminded how we are really alike and how this event is truly sensational for all.

I was reminded of how the power of smiles and happiness is contagious and an easy gift to give and receive. I then walked to Canada Pavilion, the meeting spot where my husband and our sons would be, to enjoy a few more sights together.

At the end of the day, a hot chocolate break at the Four Seasons Hotel and sharing laughs with visitors was a perfect end to a great day.

We plan to continue the appreciation celebration downtown later this week again.
Janet

Monday, February 8, 2010

Welcoming the Olympic Torch!

photograph from series of Torch Relay photographs
by unknown photographers, a j a n i photography


Donning my BC tartan scarf, with our sons wearing their "red mittens," my husband and I cheered the Olympic flame and gave a great welcome to the Olympic torch as it made its way through our community. I became surprisingly emotional as I lifted our 6-year-old up and pointed down the street. "Here it comes," I yelled. The community came out wearing red and white celebrating the torch relay with great enthusiasm and pride.


I find myself more proud of my city, my Country than expected. I am proud to see downtown Vancouver looking so ready to welcome the world. What overwhelms me most is seeing the volunteers- thousands of them in their teal blue coats, the people volunteering their time to be a part of it all. Truly Canadian indeed.


Go Canada Go!