The Red And White Chronicles

Despicable Me

2010-07-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

During the Olympics we came across these wee yellow things posing in front of the Olympic Clock. We had NO idea what they were. And neither did anyone else we asked. Turns out they're minions from the summer movie Despicable Me. I wish I'd known about the movie then b/c it looks really fun and I would have made more of an effort to get my picture taken w/ them (I'm a total sucker for plush characters -- but only if I like what they're from, not just some random character on the side of the road).

Duncan Keith Day

2010-07-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

The City of Penticton has declared July 17 "Duncan Keith Day".

To celebrate his special day, the Stanley Cup Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist and 2010 Norris Trophy winner will bring Lord Stanley’s Cup to the South Okanagan Event Centre on Saturday at noon.

“In recognition of Duncan Keith’s phenomenal achievements, the City of Penticton wants to honour and celebrate a citizen who has made Penticton proud,” said Mayor Dan Ashton. “Now, therefore I, Dan Ashton, Mayor of the City of Penticton, do hereby proclaim July 17, 2010 Duncan Keith Day.”

Starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, complimentary tickets will be available to the general public on a first come, first served basis. Tickets can be picked up at the box office of the South Okanagan Event Centre or the Wine Country Visitors Information Centre.

“The organizing committee has worked hard to create an event for Duncan Keith that incorporated the things that were important to him — family, the residents of the City of Penticton, youth in our community and those who are less fortunate,” says Larry Lund, chair of the organizing committee. “And I think this celebration will accomplish that.”

Those hoping to attend the ceremonies should pick up their tickets to avoid disappointment.

Source

I'm jealous I won't be home for this. I think it's the first time in my life that the Stanley Cup will be in Penticton as part of a victory lap (each player on the winning team gets to have the Cup for a day in their hometown). My parents have their tickets though so I'll get to live vicariously through them.

Open House

2010-05-13T12:33:00.001-07:00

This looks really cool!!!! I don't think we'll be able to go but I hope it's a huge success! Just like the Games were!

Source

Seriously?

2010-03-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

There are some cool looking items at the Official Photo Products website. Photo books, calendars, posters etc. The thing that I wanted was a "swatchbook" of pics. Right off the bat I had a little bit of a problem with it b/c it says that it's 30 pages but really you use one side of the page so you can only use 15 pics, but not really b/c there are a couple of pages that say things like "with glowing hearts". Anyways, even with 13 pics it's a super cool little thing. And it's only $15.99 -- so I got down to business and started making one for my Mom. The program itself was kind of frustrating but I finally got it finished. And guess how much shipping was? $30! Yeah, I don't think so. Thanks anyways VANOC.

The Paralympic Opening Ceremonies - March 12, 2010 at BC Place

2010-03-12T22:26:00.001-08:00

We were pretty excited about going to the Paralympic Opening Ceremonies, actually. I'd done some volunteering so when an e-mail showed up offering $20 tickets, I didn't think twice.
Like the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, our seats came with a participation pack which included one of four coloured ponchos, and pom poms with flame coloured LED light strands.
The pre-show rehearsal had several elements including a dance routine which, if successful, would have broken the world record to become the largest choreographed dance with 60,000 participants.
When seen from a distance, the ponchos recreated the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic logo complete with the sun image.
Sumi is the official mascot of the Paralympic games, and flew in to greet us.
The athletes entered the stadium to deafening fanfare. All the athletes, but of course, especially Canada.
We did our "Flash Mob" dance during this dance number. I'd have to say our section was pretty good, and from where we were it looked pretty impressive.
The speeches were okay, but got a bit long. We were a bit restless at that point. Where's the flame??
After a really moving tribute to both Rick Hanson and Terry Fox, the flame arrived in the stadium, carried by Terry Fox's parents. Very emotional.
Welcome Vancouver 2010 Paralympics!!!!

The Paralympics Begin Tonight

2010-03-12T13:58:00.001-08:00

Today I was reminded of the Olympics. Why? B/c of the massive military helicopters that were flying & hovering over my neighbourhood. That can only mean one thing. The Paralympics must be starting! Keri is going to the Opening Ceremonies tonight and maybe if we're really lucky she'll do a guest post for us.

Want to watch the Opening Ceremonies? Well, if you're in BC you can watch them live at 6pm on CTV. The rest of the country will have to watch them tomorrow at 2pm local time.

Source

Accounting For Dragons

2010-03-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Accounting For Dragons is a funny 7min long podcast found at PodCastle. Thanks Nadine!!!

Threadless / TypeTees Tuesday

2010-03-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

I'm on a mission to become "quirky shirt girl" and have started a nice collection thanks to Threadless & TypeTees.

Today's shirt is compliments of Josh Miller: "If Your Pants Are On Fire, Being A Liar Becomes Less Important."

Ben Sigston LIVE March 18

2010-03-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

My friend Ben Sigston is performing Thursday, March 18 at The Media Club (695 Cambie St).

You should totally go! 8pm. See you there!

Well, *I* won't actually see you there since I'll be working -- but you should still go.

Handsome Men's Club

2010-03-08T09:23:00.000-08:00

Not Olympic related in the slightest but Jimmy Kimmel's skit last night was hysterical! Enjoy!

Thank You Brian Williams

2010-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

I realize this was written Feb 26 but I only saw it today, after my Mom emailed it to me. Did I mention I've been sick? LOL. Here's a very nice thank you note from NBC's Brian Williams.

After tonight's broadcast and after looting our hotel mini-bars, we're going to try to brave the blizzard and fly east to home and hearth, and to do laundry well into next week. Before we leave this thoroughly polite country, the polite thing to do is leave behind a thank-you note.

Thank you, Canada:

For being such good hosts.

For your unfailing courtesy.

For your (mostly) beautiful weather.

For scheduling no more than 60 percent of your float plane departures at the exact moment when I was trying to say something on television.

For not seeming to mind the occasional (or constant) good-natured mimicry of your accents.

For your unique TV commercials -- for companies like Tim Hortons -- which made us laugh and cry.

For securing this massive event without choking security, and without publicly displaying a single automatic weapon.

For having the best garment design and logo-wear of the games -- you've made wearing your name a cool thing to do.

For the sportsmanship we saw most of your athletes display.

For not honking your horns. I didn't hear one car horn in 15 days -- which also means none of my fellow New Yorkers rented cars while visiting.

For making us aware of how many of you have been watching NBC all these years.

For having the good taste to have an anchorman named Brian Williams on your CTV network, who turns out to be such a nice guy.

For the body scans at the airport which make pat-downs and cavity searches unnecessary.

For designing those really cool LED Olympic rings in the harbor, which turned to gold when your athletes won one.

For always saying nice things about the United States...when you know we're listening.

For sharing Joannie Rochette with us.

For reminding some of us we used to be a more civil society.

Mostly, for welcoming the world with such ease and making lasting friends with all of us.

Source

Into the Eye Of The Hurricaine -Canada Wins Gold in Men's Hockey !!!

2010-02-28T21:01:00.001-08:00

BELIEVE!

2010-02-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

What an amazing two weeks! This is something I will never forget and I'm so lucky to have been able to live it.

I'm sicker than a dog right now and haven't left my apartment in two days but have still been watching the Olympics constantly. Downtown is crazy right now; they've had to halt bus service b/c of the huge street parties that are going on. All you can hear is people cheering & horns honking. Party on, Canadians, party on. I'm too sick to even want to be there in person but I'm there in spirit. Wrapped in my Team Canada blankie I've been crying & cheering with every Olympic special that's being aired on TV. We're less than 30 min away from the Closing Ceremonies.

Gotta go as they're starting a new special on the Olympic Torch on TV. I can't miss anything.

With glowing hearts!!!!!

ps - LOVE you Sidney!!!!!

The Quatchi Kid

2010-02-27T22:29:00.000-08:00

This might be the cutest thing I've ever seen! The Quatchi Kid is on a mission to find Big Quatchi.

Photo credit: The Quatchi Kid's Facebook page

Child Sized?

2010-02-27T22:09:00.000-08:00

I would totally wear this but don't think there's any way I can fit my rather large head into a child sized hat. Boo! Buy it here if you have a small head or want it for your kid. It's $30.

Lucky Loonie

2010-02-27T21:42:00.000-08:00

We were just watching Brian Williams interview the Canadian men's curling team who won gold earlier today. He was able to confirm that there were 5 "lucky loonies" placed in the ice at the Vancouver Olympic Centre. Here's hoping there are some at Canada Hockey Place as well.

I really enjoyed watching curling today and want to give a big CONGRATS to both our men's team who won gold and the women who won silver! Way to go!!!

Short Track Speed Skating - Victory Ceremony 26Feb2010 at Pacific Coliseum

2010-02-27T20:01:00.000-08:00

Guest Blogger Keri

I'll mostly let these photos speak for themselves. Imagine, if you will, lots of tears, excitement, screaming, singing, and joy.

Here is Charles Hamelin and Francois Tremblay getting their medals and watching our flag raised in song.

And here is the 5000m relay teams

Short Track Speed Skating - 26Feb2010 at Pacific Coliseum

2010-02-27T20:00:00.000-08:00

Guest Blogger Keri, here again.
This was one of the events that I never imagined I'd get to attend. Not only is it an amazing sport, it was the medal event and Canada had a shot in two of the events.
We arrived to find the longest lines of people wanting to buy tickets that I've seen so far. I learned that Americans love their Apolo Ohno (with good reason, the man is amazing) and scalpers tickets were going for $2000 but in this case capitalism wasn't going to win out.
There were three medal events, but I'm only going to write about two of them.

We had awesome seats. Surrounded by Americans in what was an international crowd. When the announcer listed off countries, it was pretty much evenly split between Canada, USA, Korea, and China. As we sat down the ice was being prepared. Knowing nothing about Speed Skating, I wondered why there seemed to be no barrier. I turned to the man sitting next to me and asked if he knew anything about speed skating, and he replied that "Yes he did". Then I found out that he was the father of Francois Tremblay!!
The first event was the Men's 500m. How did NBC put it? "It's well established that Short Track is a crazy sport, and the craziest event within this crazy sport is the 500 metre...For pure entertainment sake, this is one of the most enjoyable events at any Winter Olympics."

The volume at the Coliseum was deafening as the men raced around the track. When two Canadians made the medal race we couldn't have been happier. It was too fast to even be a nail biter but it ended with Charles Hamelin with Gold and Francois Tremblay with Bronze. Lot's of hugs and kisses with with the Tremblay's, you can be sure.
Last was the men's 5000m relay.
I've never seen anything like it before. It was five teams of four skaters racing in a traffic jam of bodies. How they even kept track of their teammates and of their positions is amazing. In fact a few of the teams missed a few of the changes to varying results. In the end, Canada were undisputed Gold winners, with Apolo Ohno squeaking out a bronze finish for his American Men.

On Route To The Game - Canada vs USA

2010-02-27T11:04:00.000-08:00

The Pre Game Skate - Canada vs USA

2010-02-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

The Americans did a good job being loud but we were louder.

Canada vs USA For The Gold

2010-02-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

GOAL!!!

The Canadian men's team.

The "WE WANT THE GOLD" chant started at the 2 min mark.

We were all on our feet for the last minute.

GAME OVER!!!

2010-02-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

The Victory Ceremony

2010-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:00

The Victory Lap

2010-02-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

GOLD!!!!!!!

2010-02-25T20:59:00.001-08:00

Tonight was SO AMAZING!!!! I have lost my voice & might have forever damaged my ears but it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I'm so lucky to have been there!!!!! YAY CANADA!!!! Gold medal hockey is officially the loudest experience ever!

More pics to come tomorrow!

On Route To The Victory Ceremony

2010-02-24T23:33:00.000-08:00

We were able to watch part of the first period of the Canada vs Russia hockey game while having an early dinner. Keri wanted us to have a three goal lead before we left and we did! I think I'm going to ask her to "want me" to become a millionaire. We'll see how that works out.

I love it when there are no lines!!!!

Victory Ceremony

2010-02-24T23:26:00.000-08:00

Clara Hughes Gets Bronze -- Victory Ceremony

2010-02-24T23:15:00.000-08:00

Congrats Clara!!!!!!

CONFETTI CANNON!!!

INXS -- Victory Ceremony

2010-02-24T22:52:00.000-08:00

Keri and I both love INXS. We saw them when they came several years ago and it was one of my favourite concerts ever. Tonight's show was good. It was short but that was expected since it was part of a Victory Ceremony not a full concert.

Sound at BC Place isn't great but it was better than Madonna. I really try and avoid concerts at BC Place and have only seen the two shows there.

JD Fortune looks much skinnier than before. It makes his teeth seem really big (no, seriously it does). It was really nice to see him back w/ the guys. I think they are great together. Hopefully things work out and they stay together.

I would like to apologize to Keri for refusing to move to better seats. I am not capable of seat jumping.

I was so tired by the end of the evening (I'm sick again) that in a moment of total confusion I bought a Canadian flag -- I thought I was buying a poncho. Thankfully Keri could tell I was fading fast and sent me home. Hopefully a good sleep will help me feel better for tomorrow but if not I am prepared to use today's "magic formula" of Tylenol Cold Daytime (extra strength of course) + lots of sugar + a splash of caffeine + exciting event to help me get out of bed and to women's gold medal hockey.

Ladies Figure Skating- Short Program. February 23, 2010

2010-02-23T23:13:00.000-08:00

Yu-Na Kim

Guest Blogger, Keri
I'm watching the repeat of this on TV right now and they called it the premier event of the Winter Olympics, and although, I'd say that's hockey, I would say it was pretty amazing.
I'd had the best time at my practice events, so was really excited when actual program tickets became available. I know almost nothing about Figure Skating, but thanks to Sonia, who is a big fan, and our handy dandy AXEL radio which is a $20 lifesaver if you are planning on going to a skating event. It's basically a venue only radio that has experts offering informative and often hilarious commentary, and information about the competitors, and scoring.
We hadn't been there very long before we ran in to our first celebrity. Sonia spotted her in the bathroom, and got all fangirl. "Oh my god! You're Tracy Wilson, 1988 Olympic Bronze Medalist in Ice Dance!!!" (Side note, Tracy is on NBC right now explaining technical details)
Tracy Wilson

It was the first event I've been to that I felt had a truly international crowd attending. There were large contingents of fans from all corners of the globe, but of course, the most rabid were there to see Queen Kim Yu-Na.

The second largest contingent was Japanese, there to support second place (after the short) contender Mao Asada. As our AXEL radio informed us, every person in Japan was watching at that moment.
Mao Asada

The biggest support of all was for Joannie Rochette. Everyone, from every country exploded when Joannie hit the ice. It was very emotional for us, and I'm sure, overwhelming for her. For those of you who don't know, Joannie lost her mother suddenly to a heart attach only three days ago.
Joannie Rochette

Her performance was nearly flawless. A career best, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house.

Canada's other contender also put in performance to be proud of earning her a rank of 14th after the short program.
Cynthia Phaneuf

MukMuk for Mascot Rally - 23Feb2010

2010-02-23T13:42:00.001-08:00

Guest post by Keri.
Our friend Sonia sucked it up and went down for the free Zip trekking over downtown. She arrived at the site at 7:20am and was already 116 in line for something that didn't open until 10:00.

This post isn't about that, although photos will follow at the end of the post. What it's about is what she encountered on her way out. A MukMuk for Masccot rally!!! For those of you who aren't aware, the beloved MukMuk isn't an official mascot, but a "sidekick".

Explains rally attendee Karen Gray, "Poor MukMuk has spent the Games trapped in a digital no-man's land. While the mascots regularly attend events, MukMuk has been left behind, waving out from a computer screen with his "We're Number One!" mitt. Well, we want him to know we think he's number one too."

As for Sonia's experience Zip Trekking? I'm sure you want to all know whether it was worth the 5 hour wait. Sonia says, it was great, she really wanted to do it, but using the patented Keri formula of how great the thing was/wait time, she would say not worth it.

On Route To The Game - Canada vs Finland

2010-02-23T09:59:00.001-08:00

For our other games we arrived the recommended two hours early. But GM Place (sorry, Canada Hockey Place) doesn't open until an hour before so we'd just stand in line for an hour. This time we showed up an hour and 15min early. So we stood in line for 15 min and then walked right into the arena. We were still there really early and got to see the pre-game skate.

The Pre Game Skate - Canada vs Finland

2010-02-23T09:52:00.001-08:00

The Canadian ladies skated out to Wolfmother's "Woman". So awesome!!!

Canada vs Finland

2010-02-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

First goal of the game!

Some Samsung execs were sitting in the section next to us and had cameras following them.

Team Finland's cheering section.

With Tyler Stewart, the drummer for Barenaked Ladies. They are such a fun band to see live! I love them!!! He and his friends liked my jersey.

GOAL!!!

Bring on the Americans! We're ready to battle for Gold!!!

TSN Intermission - Canada vs Finland

2010-02-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

Is Bob McKenzie posing for me again?

Nick Kypreos (far right) was mauled by a female fan as he was leaving. It was really funny to see.

Post Game - Canada vs Finland

2010-02-23T09:13:00.001-08:00

As usual we skipped the hour plus line for the SuperStore at The Bay and instead went upstairs to the International Marketplace on the 5th floor. There was NOBODY there!!!! It was actually kind of creepy! This time I felt I was able to take a good look at things and there is nothing I would buy for the prices they are selling them for. Maybe after the Olympics when they have some deep discounts but not now.

One cool thing is they have all these shirts/hoodies from previous Olympics. I'm actually not sure on the prices of these items but it was neat to see them all.

This is the madness that I'm talking about, $89 for a t-shirt! A T-SHIRT!!!!

Canada House is housed on the 6th floor of The Bay and is closed to the public. It was neat to at least see the outside of it.

I don't know what happened but downtown was dead. Relatively speaking -- there were still lots of people around but it seemed so quiet and empty compared to the last time we were down there. It was actually very creepy! Where are the crowds????

We were planning on having dinner at Joey Burrard but it had been taken over by Team Russia for a private party.

Cool T-Shirt -- Only Available For 10 More Hours

2010-02-22T12:54:00.000-08:00

I received an email from Kelly who designed this fun t-shirt featuring all the previous Olympic cities. Here's what she wrote:

This year watching the Olympics has brought back recent memories from our trip to Sarajevo and all of the old Olympic venues we saw. It got me to thinking that it would be cool to have a t-shirt that lists all of the cities that have hosted the Olympics – a tribute to the cities and to everything the Olympics represents. I couldn’t find one online, so I decided to design one myself. Of course, Vancouver is the highlight!

Her tshirt is only $12 (it's an American Apparel tee), is available here and will only available for 10 more hours. So if you want one get it quick!

Ice Dancing and Ladies Figure Skating Practice - February 21, 2010 at the Pacific Colesium.

2010-02-21T21:52:00.000-08:00

Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada

This is Keri again, with another guest post.

This morning, I went to another figure skating practice. This time it was Ice Dancing and Ladies programs. I enjoyed my first practice session so much, that I jumped at the chance to see another. This time it was Ice Dancing Original Dance, and Ladies Figure Skating.
Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin from Russia
When we arrived we were treated to the last two groups of Ice Dancing Pairs. They included all the top teams. We were smarter this time, and actually did a bit of homework beforehand so we knew who the top teams were! As the competition was tonight, the Ice Dancers were all in costume, but like last time, they didn't do complete performances.
Meryl Davis and Charlie White from the USA
It was really exciting to actually watch the performances tonight. It was good to get confirmation that the performances we liked best were actually the best.
Isabelle Delobel and Olivier Schoenfelder from France

Following Ice Dancing, the Ladies took to the ice. We were only able to watch two groups before we were kicked out of the venue, but luckily for us it included the top ranked skater in the world, Kim Yu-Na of Korea.
Kim Yu-Na of Korea

You'll notice in this photo that off to the right of the frame are a row of cameramen that appeared out of nowhere. The line of cameras followed her every move and moved in unison as she moved. It was really quite strange.
Rachel Flatt

Canada vs USA

2010-02-21T19:48:00.001-08:00

We sold our tickets. We had the chance to make some big money and we took it. Considering how the game went I'm really glad we did. We watched the game at Keri's. Gorgeous TV and a gorgeous view.

Ryan Miller had a great game and gave a very gracious interview afterwards. Next game is Germany on Tues and then we'll face the Russians on Wed. Go Canada go!!!

On Route To The Game - Latvia vs Slovakia

2010-02-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

We took a cab to Rusky Dom (aka Science World) and walked to the game. Much faster than the other route.

They took the barricades away but told us to wait and we did. Canadians are so well-behaved and polite. LOL.

The Pre Game Skate - Latvia vs Slovakia

2010-02-21T11:10:00.001-08:00

The very cool camera that gives you the behind-the-goal pics.

Latvia vs Slovakia

2010-02-21T10:57:00.000-08:00

Slovakia won 6-0. We were planning on cheering for both teams even though we had some Slovak gear but Latvia was so sad. They needed all the encouragement they could get so we cheered extra hard for them. By the second period it seemed like the whole arena was cheering Latvia on. Don't feel bad for Slovakia b/c they still got lots of love plus they won the game.

After a really big hit they had to tweak the glass.

TSN Intermission - Latvia vs Slovakia

2010-02-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

We were shocked to discover that the TSN intermission show took place right next to our seats. We totally missed it in the first intermission but thankfully stuck around and watched it in the second. It was cool to watch the stage move out and the commentators get their make-up touched up.

Nick Kypreos' Stanley Cup ring. I've had the pleasure of holding a Stanley Cup ring before and those babies are HEAVY! Also a little gaudy but still very cool!

Bob McKenzie totally posed for this pic. It was really nice of him.

The guy sitting behind us thought me holding a beer would add to the picture and handed it over. That was pretty funny, but if you know me you know I hate (HATE) beer so this picture suddenly becomes much funnier.

Post Game - Latvia vs Slovakia

2010-02-21T10:36:00.001-08:00

Mother/daughter picture.

Jon Montgomery's gold medal ceremony was being shown live at LiveCity Downtown so we stopped to watch. It was very cool. CONGRATS JON!!!!

The Cauldron With Mom

2010-02-19T22:31:00.001-08:00

Robson Square With Mom

2010-02-19T22:25:00.001-08:00

ATHLETES!!!!

2010-02-18T20:44:00.000-08:00

We're trying to get pics with as many athletes as we can. We're off to a pretty good start.

The German short track speed skating team.

Belarus!

Russia!

Members of the Swiss hockey team.

On Route To Short Track

2010-02-18T20:33:00.000-08:00

We waited downtown for an express bus but after four of them cruised passed us w/ a sign saying "bus full" we took off looking for a cab. We found one right away and it was the best $16 I ever spent.

Sinclair Centre

We were directed to the sponsor entry b/c it had the shortest line.

A glee club singing ABBA's "Thank You For The Music". Very cool!

I love the lifeguard chairs with the volunteers yelling directions & greetings into their bullhorns.

Short Track Speed Skating

2010-02-18T20:07:00.000-08:00

Short track was nuts! I loved it!!!! Our seats were pretty high -- I don't normally have a fear of heights but I do at the Coliseum. I'm terrified of falling down the super steep stairs so once I get to my seat I refuse to leave until the event is over. Then I need some Valium and someone to talk me down the steps (actually I just kept a death grip on Marshall's arm). I was also out of breath by the time I got to the top. I seriously needed a sherpa.

No, that's not a zamboni. It's an Olympia ice-resurfacer!

Yup, that's a DJ spinning.

I LOVE YOU, MUKMUK!!!!!

1000m Men's Heats

2010-02-18T19:43:00.000-08:00

This was meant to be a picture of Charles Hamelin stepping onto the ice but I was pleasantly surprised by the shirtless German eye-candy that made it into the pic. *swoon*

Charles Hamelin set a new Olympic record. It only lasted until the next race but it was very cool to see!

This baby got so much use during speed skating.

Men's 5000m Relay - Semifinals

2010-02-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

The relay is totally crazy to watch! I loved it! Canada's team of Guillaume Bastille, Charles Hamelin, Oliver Jean & Francois-Louis Tremblay have advanced to the finals. Let's go boys!!!

SILVER!!!!!!

2010-02-18T19:24:00.001-08:00

We watched Marianne St-Gelais win silver!!! It was soooooo awesome!!!!

On Route To The Game -- Canada vs Norway

2010-02-18T09:18:00.001-08:00

I bought a ton of stuff before the Games but haven't bought anything since they've started. I think I'll have to change that.

So much walking!

Waiting for the security sweep to be finished before they let us in. This was the second game of the day and they do a full security sweep before letting the next group in.

Thriller! Entertainment while waiting.

Ooooh! They're starting to let us in.

So many excited people!!!

The Pre Game Skate - Canada vs Norway

2010-02-17T11:08:00.001-08:00

Ryan Getzlaf

Penticton's Duncan Keith.

WAYNE!!!!!

Canada vs Norway

2010-02-17T10:41:00.001-08:00

The media section.

The line-up for the men's bathroom! The only other time I've seen such a huge line was at the Manchester United match Keri & I went to in Seattle. The line-up in our bathroom? 4 women.

Post Game - Canada vs Norway

2010-02-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

The Vancouver Art Gallery.

The Paralympic Clock is still counting down.

The Olympic Clock is now counting up. No idea who these little guys are.

Robson Square

Watching Patrick Chan skate.

With Finland's Teemu Selanne.

The burger was really yummy but the fries were meh.

The Swiss Are My Favourite!!!!!

2010-02-16T23:27:00.001-08:00

We had an AMAZING day today!!! We watched Canada's first hockey game against Norway, spotted Wayne Gretzky (from a distance), ate mini-donuts, met Teemu Selanne for the second time, got our pic taken w/ several athletes, had a great dinner, watched the fireworks/pyrotechnic show at Robson Square etc. I'm way too tired to sort through my pics tonight but here are a few for you.

I've decided that the Swiss are my favourite fans (so far). We spotted several more but only got pics of these few.

Members of the Swiss (ice) hockey team. I told them that the Swiss fans were my favourite and they thought that was awesome!

I Guess I'll Use My Visa

2010-02-15T23:12:00.000-08:00

$2010 a month for a year? Awesome! That's the prize Visa's going to give away. Enter by using your Visa card during the 2010 Olympics.

Figure Skating Practice- February 15, 2010 at Pacific Coliseum.

2010-02-15T17:20:00.001-08:00

This is guest blogger Keri, here for Marsi who was unable to attend today's festivites. Today's practice session was for Men's Short Program and Pair's Free Skate Program.
How it worked was that the men went first in groups of 6 men or 4 pairs. Their music would be played and they would practice their program. All of the other skaters were also on the ice practicing at the same time.

I arrived in time to see the group that included USA's Johnny Weir and Canada's own Patrick Chan. Lucky for me, they had arranged it so that the best skaters practiced last.

This was followed by the pairs, who are skating tonight (right now as it happens). The groups were not in medal contention at all. They included teams like Great Britain's Stacey Kemp and David King, and USA's Caydee Denney and Jeremy Barrett.
As none of these teams were in medal contention, there wasn't a lot of competitiveness or cutting off fellow skaters. There also weren't any full programs performed.
What happened was that the music would start and the pairs would perform a part of the program. Go see their coach and then do another part of the routine. This wasn't so bad because the other pairs would be full on performing at the same time.
There is no question who the best pairs performance of the day. They probably won't win a medal but it would be the pair from France, Yannick Bonheur and Vanessa James. They are the first black couple ever to compete in the Olympic Games, and I have to say that although the Olympics are colour free, they make an incredibly striking couple on the ice. They skated with far more confidence, skill, strength, or artistry then any other team we saw today. They will be champions one day for sure.

It was an amazing thing to see. Our seats were so close we were almost sitting on the ice. It would be so amazing to have seats like this for the real event.

As a final tidbit, we ALMOST met a Russian skater today. As we were leaving the venue, Sonia noticed a Russian uniform first, followed by a face we'd already seen on the ice, and said to me, "athlete! Athlete! It was Artem Borodulin! By the time I got it together to make a run for him he'd noticed he'd come out the wrong exit, and made a dash back down the stairs.

So close!
I'll leave you with a video of USA's Jeremy Abbott practicing to A Day In The Life. You can see the other skaters taking up his space.

Sick

2010-02-15T15:56:00.000-08:00

I'm home sick and missed the figure skating training session this morning. Keri said it was awesome and is going to do a guest post a little later on.

Tomorrow is Canada vs Norway (hockey) so I've got to be all better for that.

The Richmond O|Zone

2010-02-14T20:21:00.000-08:00

Today we headed out to the Richmond OZone. I enjoyed it, mainly b/c it was sunny and we got to sit on the "grass" and watch speed skating w/ thousands of other fans. But it wouldn't be the funnest place in the rain. I think the main draws during the day are the Holland House & the big screens. At night, they are having a bunch of concerts and if I lived closer I would totally go for that.

I uber-love Tasha's Mukmuk bag!!!!! Check out her blog We Are All Mukmuks.

We stopped for a potty break at Richmond Centre, which was a totally good move b/c they have some of the nicest public bathrooms ever. Much better than a porta-potty.

The huge line moved very quickly! Security was a breeze.

Welcome to the Winter Olympics! LOL!

Massive, massive lines for Holland House.

Where is everybody? In line for Holland House.

The food tent & beer garden. They had several different ethnic food stands. I opted for a good old hot dog. Nothing says vacation like a hot dog!

Still not very many people but once speed skating got under way the field filled up. We sat on the grass (ie - astro turf) and cheered on our Canadian women. It was awesome!!!! Marshall, Tasha & I watched speed skating while Keri & Amneet wandered around.

More From The Richmond O|Zone

2010-02-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, this is the winter Olympics. Why do you ask? The wind was quite chilly so you did need your jacket most of the time but if you were sheltered from the wind it was super warm.

Holland shipped over 400 bikes for people to use for free but it turns out you could only borrow them if you had a Dutch passport. Boo!

There's still a line at Holland House. I think we'll skip it.

Happy Chinese New Year!!!

Best mini-donuts EVER!!!!

Stopped at Richmond Centre for another potty break.

Hmmmm, that's a ton of people. Maybe we should take a bus to the casino and get on the train there. The plan worked except we waited 30min for a bus -- so really we just should have stayed in the original line. Oh well. We're making memories -- right team?

Waiting. Waiting. Waiting for a bus.

FINALLY we're all on the bus.

Keri & Amneet both said the BCLC Pavilion wasn't that great b/c they stood in line for well over an hour (maybe even two, honestly it's hard to keep track) and only got to "play" one sport. It's really misleading b/c you think you'll get to try everything (hockey, biathalon, bobsleigh etc but you don't). Anyways, Amneet was thrilled with her souvenir. I think she should try and use that to get into various events.

Back in the car and on our way home.

Flash Mob Dances & Sings On Robson St

2010-02-14T09:08:00.000-08:00

This is soooooooooooooo cool!!!! Maybe turn the volume down before you start the video as it was pretty loud.

ENJOY!!!!

Awesomeness

2010-02-13T23:08:00.000-08:00

Two great things today:

1.) While having lunch in a dowtown pub there was speed skating on TV. As the Canadian crossed the finish line the whole place went nuts! It was such a great moment. Then later when a Dutch skater set a new Olympic record the place went crazy again. These are the moments I want to remember forever.

2.) Just finished watching an amazing fireworks display from my balcony.

Canada Pavilion Opens

2010-02-13T21:32:00.000-08:00

Marshall used to work in Ottawa & we were lucky enough to be invited to the opening of the Canada Pavilion. We had our own special entrance and got to spend about 30min in the Pavilion before the opening ceremony and before it was open to the public. It was very fun.

It's full of interactive displays & sports memorabilia. The Stanley Cup will be making an appearance later on (not sure exactly when though).

I lost a snowboarding race to a 10 year old. You can snowboard & play hockey here. I was better at the slap shot contest.

The Order Of Canada is the highest civilian honour we have.

"OOOOOH! MASCOTS!" is what I squealed when I saw Miga. I felt pretty silly after that as I was the only adult in the vicinity. The photographer standing next to me laughed and said it was "really refreshing to see such honest enthusiasm".

There were TONS of people waiting to get in. Thankfully b/c we were "guests" we got to go back in through the exit.

Inside Canada Pavilion

2010-02-13T20:55:00.000-08:00

After Canada Pavilion had officially opened, we headed back inside. I was approached by a pin collector who was very interested in one of my pins (but I didn't trade it). We played some hockey, messed around w/ the mascots & had our own torch relay moment. I really liked it but I don't know how thrilled I would have been to wait in line for hours for it.

With Canadian Astronaut, Julie Payette!!!!!!!! We were so excited to meet her! She was very gracious and spoke with us about her experience of walking in the Opening Ceremonies with the Olympic Flag. She was so honoured to be included. She said the engery was amazing in BC Place and wondered if that translated on TV. We said that it did.

People waiting to be let in.

Game-worn jersey of Maurice "The Rocket" Richard.

With Rachel Greenfeld, who is the Conservative candidate for Vancouver Centre.

The silver torch is for the Paralympics.

With Minister Of National Defence, Peter MacKay.

Anarchists GO AWAY

2010-02-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

We got a text from Mom this morning warning us to stay away from The Bay b/c rioters were breaking windows. By the time we made it downtown the mini-riot was over but we did see some of the damage. Things like this make me soooooooooo angry! Alissa Westergard-Thorpe, of the Olympic Resistance Network said she considers the action non-violent as long as no one was hurt, no matter how much damage is caused. My response to that is (Mom & Dad -- stop reading now) BULL-SHIT!!!!!!!!!

Okay, must change subjects b/c this actually makes my blood boil.

Source & Source

Random Downtown & The Cauldron

2010-02-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

Another line-up? Shocking! That was sarcasm btw. Anyways, this is the line-up for Canada's Northern House. We kept walking.

The Royal Canadian Mint

2010-02-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

I was really excited to go to the Royal Canadian Mint Pavilion to hold the Olympic Medals & see the million $ coin but the line-up to get in was TWO HOURS LONG! So we kept walking.

The Superstore Vs The International Marketplace

2010-02-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Here's a tip for anyone actually in Vancouver. Don't spend hours in line to get into the Olympic Superstore -- instead head up to the 5th floor of The Bay and the International Marketplace. Not only do they have merchandise from many of the Olympic countries, they also have Canadian gear and you're not fighting with a million people to get things.
Yup, that's the line up to get in.

This vest is so me!!!

Olympic CEO

2010-02-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

Marshall headed out very late last night to check out the Olympic cauldron. He ran into John Furlong while he was out & about (or "oot & aboot" as we Canadians say!).

The Ceremony

2010-02-12T23:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have NO IDEA what is wrong w/ my computer but it is uber-slow right now and it's driving me crazy!!!! I still have some great pics from the ceremony plus our little trip down to Granville Island. But I'm giving up -- not for good, just for tonight.

Tomorrow day is spent downtown and we're watching speed skating & women's moguls tomorrow night so I might try and do some blogging while we're watching TV.

See you then & thanks for reading!

The Torch

2010-02-12T22:39:00.001-08:00

9 min away!!!!

2010-02-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

We're having a blast. Here is Keri's most recent tweet:

Marsi keeps crying. During the Olympics pre show. During the commercials.

Yes, it's true. I've cried at practically everything, except the fibre one. I drew the line at that.

FIRST COMMERCIAL BREAK: Loving the Opening Ceremonies so far!!!!!

2nd commercial break: Keri has also cried now too. We both cried when Georgia came in. RIP Nodar.

3rd commercial break: nothing to add.

4th: liking the Bell adverts. "Bless you more!"

5th: Keri & Marshall are on their iPhones/Blackberries constantly. I have to actually get up off the couch and walk to the computer. I really need a smart phone.

6th: Donald Sutherland IS the voice of the Olympics. I have decided that I need a hat w/ antlers. Or Keri suggested I could just sculpt my hair into horns. Either one will work. Also need shoes that create sparks.

7th: WE ARE THE TRUE NORTH STRONG AND FREE!!!!

8th: I freaking LOVED k.d. lang's version of Hallelujah!!! The torch is next!!!!

BNL Busking

2010-02-12T12:33:00.000-08:00

Barenaked Ladies gave an impromptu performance on the street today at Robson & Burrard. How fun!

Just watching the torch relay live on TV. It's currently at Granville Island.

Prayers For Nodar

2010-02-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Georgian athlete Nodar Kumaritashvili sustained life-threatening injuries this morning in Whistler. I am not going to link the video here -- it's truly horrifying. Our prayers go to Nodar, his family & teammates.

Source

Update: according to the AFP, Nodar has passed away. So sad!!!!!!!!!

Source

Love it!

2010-02-12T10:17:00.001-08:00

My friend Jen just sent me a link to her friend Jeanie's post entitled "Just A Flame Passing By". Fabulous images!!!!! This is my favourite!
Photo credit: Jeanie Ow from Studio Jeanie

Olympic Tweets

2010-02-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

Adrienne Brown has complied a great list of Olympic athletes who are on Twitter. Check it out.

I can't believe the Opening Ceremonies are tonight!!!! I've heard from several people who went to the dress rehearsal and they all give it the thumbs up. So excited!!!

Breaking News!

2010-02-11T19:10:00.000-08:00

Kind of. LOL! Keri just called to say that she ran across an Australian reporter who was about to call home to do a report on who the Australian flag bearer will be. It will be snowboarder Torah Bright. Keri will send the pic of the reporter on the phone later this evening.

Great reporting Keri!

Here's the moment Australia finds out the identity of their flag bearer!

Photo credit: Keri Dubitz

OMG! Thanks to this blog posting, I have now been listed as a reference on Wikipedia!!!! I'm reference #5 at the bottom of the page. Check it out!

The Torch Relay At City Hall

2010-02-11T16:32:00.001-08:00

Quote of the day: Amneet saying "I DON'T WANT A COOKIE -- I WANT A PIN!!!!". We did manage to get some pins, thanks to Keri's idea of going right into City Hall.

Panasonic Pavilion In Pictures

2010-02-11T13:29:00.000-08:00

The Panasonic Pavilion is very cool! I don't have time to write as we're heading out for the Torch Relay so I'll just say that the 3D technology is amazing! You should totally stop by and watch their 15min movie. It's un-freaking-believable! It's like you're actually standing at a window and looking out at the real world. There were one or two times the 3D didn't seem to work for me (things seemed a bit blurry) but overall it was awesome. I was also in love with all the "regular" plasma TVs decorating the pavilion. I really need to start feeding my TV fund more.

I'll try and write more about my experience later.

Takumi Kajisha, Managing Executive Officer

Sadly Sarah Brightman didn't sing.

Eisuke Tsuyuzaki, Chief Technology Officer

I'M ON VACATION!!!!!

2010-02-10T22:33:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow the fun starts! I've got the Panasonic Pavilion opening in the morning and then the torch relay in the afternoon and again in the evening. Can't wait!!!

JD Fortune Back With INXS

2010-02-10T22:30:00.000-08:00

JD Fortune will be playing with INXS at next week's Victory Ceremony (actually the week after next). I'm really glad b/c we saw them play together in 2006 and he was great with them!

Here's what I wrote after their concert in 2006.

I cannot wait for this show!!!!!!

Source

The Oakley Experience

2010-02-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

JOIN THE OAKLEY EXPERIENCE IN VANCOUVER
Fashion Show featuring Oakley athletes, Rolling O-Lab and Pop-Up Store bring unparalleled innovation and style to the city.

Oakley, one of the world’s leading sports brands, is bringing an exclusive look into some of the hottest new styles and technological innovations in sports wear to Vancouverites:

Fashion Show in the Snow

WHAT: Oakley will be hosting a Fashion Show in the Snow featuring athletes. The show will feature the new winter 2010 Oakley Technical Outerwear Collection, as well as the latest styles and innovations in the Oakley Pro Rider Series developed for the world’s best alpine athletes. This must-see event promises to be a true celebration of style on a snow-carved runway featuring 25 complete ensembles modeled by Oakley athletes.

***This event is open to the public and free with the cost of admission to Grouse Mountain.***

WHERE: Grouse Mountain

WHEN: Thursday, February 11 6:00pm

Rolling O-Lab

WHAT: Oakley’s exclusive Rolling O-Lab is a mobile demonstration unit that educates visitors about the science behind quality eye protection. Technology presentations include the use of optical laser scope equipment that demonstrates clarity and prism shift, ultraviolet emitters and measuring devices to illustrate UV protection, and testing rigs that show the effects of high-velocity and high-mass impact situations.

***The public can visit the Rolling O-Lab during the Games (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and it’s absolutely free.***

WHERE: Grouse Mountain

WHEN: Throughout the 2010 Winter Games, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Oakley Pop-Up Store

WHAT: Oakley fashion aficionados will appreciate the new Oakley pop-up store, featuring a fully enriched Oakley retail experience complete with an extensive array of the company’s finest products. One of the highlights of the store is an Oakley Custom Bar, where visitors can customize select Oakley eyewear and goggle products. It’s a rare opportunity for shoppers to enjoy access to a wide range of Oakley products in a single retail outlet.

WHERE: 488 Robson Street

WHEN: Throughout the 2010 Winter Games

Ode To Mukmuk

2010-02-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

As requested, Centenie wrote a Mukmuk poem. Her first one turned out to be political and b/c she's such a sweetheart she wrote another non-political one for me. Thanks Centenie!!!!! :-)
Ode to Mukmuk, Version 2.0
by Centenie Narusis

Lost little Mukmuk

You're never around

Did you somehow end up

In the local pound?

Dear little Mukmuk

Do you feel ignored?

You're back in your hole

Because you're so bored

Oh little Mukmuk

A marmot is rare

Better stay clear

Of big Quatchi's lair

Cute little Mukmuk

Your friends are sure famous

You're a sidekick, not a mascot

And that is just shameless

Sweet little Mukmuk

You'll soon be forgotten

By all except Marsi

Whose blog is just rockin'!

Made From Canada

2010-02-10T11:40:00.000-08:00

I love Canadian beer commercials!!!!!

Olympic countdown: 2 sleeps & 1 working day!!!!!!!!

The Motherland -- Sort Of

2010-02-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

The Ukraine isn't really the Motherland b/c I'm Mennonite (and therefore don't actually have an "official" homeland). But many Mennonites moved to South Russia (now Ukraine) at the invitation of Catherine The Great in the late 1700's. So we have a bit of an affinity for that part of the world.

Ukraine House is being run by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. It will be located at the Ukrainian Catholic Centre at 3150 Ash Street.

There will be food & drink, performances, TVs to watch events (in both English & Ukrainian), sports memorabilia auction & souvenirs to buy. Ukraine House has a great website complete with forum.

Harry Potter & The Quest For Gold

2010-02-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

Email sent to me:
For your next blog, I challenge you to tie in your Harry Potter obsession with the Olympics obsession. Make me proud.

Potential links.... Talk about the magic broom that our Canadian Curling team will use. Totally regulation of course. How about the ski jumpers landing in spectacular form after skillfully dodging a stray Quaffle that Squatchi hit.

Endless opportunities my friend. Endless.

I laughed when I read that. It's true -- it would be a very good blog topic. This morning Canada.com has a big article on the new Wizarding World Of Harry Potter which is opening in Orlando this spring. This would be the perfect time to debut my Harry Potter / Olympic comparison except...it's not written. And sadly won't be written anytime soon. My brother is arriving today (yay) which means I have to do some cleaning (boo) b/c my house elf is totally useless. Also I have a dentist appt (double boo) so there's no time to be creative.
"Hairy Potter" (LOL!) -- Keri and I went to the midnight launch of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows in 2007. It was fun and tons of people were dressed up. There were some really good costumes.

Olympic Countdown: 3 sleeps & 2 working days!!!!

My Turn

2010-02-09T00:05:00.001-08:00

Ada brought her torch to work and it was a great way to end the night! Thanks Ada! Yay Olympics!!!!

Sarah

2010-02-09T00:02:00.000-08:00

Thanks Jen!

Olympic Countdown: still 4 sleeps but now only 2 working days!

Tears...Again

2010-02-08T14:26:00.001-08:00

I so need to get some waterproof mascara before Thursday.

Torch Bearer Announcement

2010-02-08T13:59:00.000-08:00

Canadian crooner Michael Buble, the Governator Arnold Schwarzenegger and famous dad Walter Gretzky will all carry the Torch later this week.

Also announced are Rolly Fox (father of Terry Fox), astronaut Julie Payette, singer/songwriter Jann Arden, former B.C. Lions player Luis Passaglia, former Canucks players Richard Brodeur and Stan Smyl, and former Vancouver Whitecaps player and current team president Bob Lenarduzzi.

As for who will light the cauldron at the Opening Ceremonies? CTV thinks two top contenders are Wayne Gretzky & Betty Fox. Only 4 sleeps and we'll know for sure!

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