Alexandra Orlando

People in Your Life

2010-09-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

People come into your life for a reason,a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is,you will know what to do for that person...When someone is in your life for a REASON,it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.They have come to assist you through a difficulty,to provide you with guidance and support,To aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually.They may seem like a godsend and they are.They are there for the reason you need them to be.Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or dosomething to bring the relationship to an end.Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.What we must realize is that our need has been met,our desire fulfilled, their work is done.The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.Some people come into your life for a SEASON,because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.They may teach you something you have never done.They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.Thank you for being a part of my life,whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

Amazing Woman of the Week - JANE ROOS

2010-09-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you a little something about my good friend Jane....

There are probably not enough words in the dictionary to describe her, but I'll do my best. Not only is she larger than life, but one of the most incredible women I have ever been fortunate to come across. She is going to blush when she reads this I'm sure, but I'm doing it anyways (love you Jane).

There are people out there that have an energy that is unlike anything you've ever felt. It's not that she just lights up a room when she walks into it, but she has the uncanny ability to inspire, motivate and fuel the people around her. She's magnetic. An athlete, business woman, wife, mother, artist, humanitarian...the list goes on and on. It's no wonder she's one of the most influential women in sport in this country.

The founder of the Canadian Athletes Now Fund, which has donated millions of dollars to struggling Canadian Athletes, Jane has dedicated her life to giving back and making a difference. She always leaves me in awe and I've said this before, but she makes me realize that the whole world is at the tip of my fingers.

Her overwhelming genorosity speaks volumes to the kind of person she is. Thank you for always sending out so much love, grace and strength into this world.

Adult Wonderland

2010-09-12T05:44:00.000-07:00

Flying over the Grand Canyon on my way to Las Vegas last week I remember a sense of calmness that came over me. That would be the last time the word calm would come to my mind over the next few days. I was glued to the window on this tiny plane and couldn't take my eyes off the incredible view. It was a gorgeous day, clear blue skies and I could see the sandy desert and rugged mountain range that cuts across the south. I've traveled the world and haven't seen anything like it in awhile - actually not what I was expecting of Vegas.

When you think Las Vegas what really comes to mind? Let's all be honest - not the beauty of it.

Touching down I could already feel the energy rising on the plane. A group of guys on their way to a bachelor party - attempting to recreate 'The Hangover' I'm almost positive, couples looking for a wild weekend and girls leaving their boyfriends at home....the energy was rowdy and debaucherous and we were still on the plane.

The best way I can describe Vegas to people is an Adult Amusement Park. Anything goes and I mean anything. My shuttle bus driver to the hotel gave a little tour guide for all the newbies and you already knew it was going to be trouble. The amount of people, little rules, tons of distractions (in every kind of way) and entertainment overwhelms you. The strip during the day is still as incredible as it is at night. 6 miles long (wear flats ladies) stores, street performers, fountains, restaurants and loud music fill the streets. I'm pretty sure that no one should ever drive there as pedestrians couldn't care less about street lights, signs...basically anything that's in their way of more drinks and gambling.

I was in town for two days - short but definitely sweet. My trip was a whirlwind of little sleep and the most fun I've had in a long time. You literally feel like you're in another world....in over load. Met incredible people, pretended I was wealthy enough to go into all the designer stores and tried things on (so fun) and didn't wipe the smile off my face.

I'm keeping all the details my dirty little secret

Thank you Nevada and Good Night

Vegas Bound

2010-09-09T05:51:00.000-07:00

I'm about to board my flight, but wanted to get this down before I forget that it ever happened because it kinda made my day. Actually, pretty sure it just set up my entire time in Nevada - thank god for that airport currency exchange lady or else waking up so damn early and fighting with my mother on the way to the airport might have ruined my day....

SO I breeze through security and customs down to the States (faster than normal) and get to my gate in one piece - after getting harassed by the creepy airport security guys (fuuunnn). I mean seriously, if you look down my shirt one more time and snicker to your little buddies behind your big, tough shiny table I might lose it.

I digress.

So I had some time to kill and was wandering around people watching, one of my all time favorite activities. When I see this currency exchange booth and I figured that it made sense to get some American dollars if I'm heading down to Vegas. Just being practical.

Here I am, chatting away with the very friendly woman who is probably about my mom's age behind the glass. She asks me if I like big bills or small bills and I say small - always love having cash on me for once (I'm hiding my bank card). She starts counting it out then stops and looks up at me (knowing that I'm going to Vegas) and says with a little smirk on her face - "want some one dollar bills too?"

It took me a second, but I got it. Vegas. One dollar bills. Awesome. So I laughed said well yes I think I may be needing those and she blushed a bit and said she knows what goes on in Nevada!

AMAZING - smiled all the way to the gate

Biting the Bullet

2010-09-04T10:59:00.001-07:00

Things have definitely changed since we've all grown up. My parents live in our childhood house, my sister is off with her boyfriend and I've been a downtown single girl for awhile now. Getting ready for the next stage in my life I know I needed to make a big sacrifice and save up as much as I can to buy a place of my own. The first step in that plan was the unthinkable - moving back home.

So here I am - sitting on the same couch where I held hands with a boy for the first time, did my homework and collapsed on after a long day of gymnastics training

It's a little weird, but I'm surviving (acclimatizing I like to call it)

There is one thing that I never noticed before and I realize that I'm going to have to bite the bullet on this one and just keep my mouth shut - or else I'm sure there will be trouble. So I've become aware of my parents (mostly my dad) talking out loud to themselves on a pretty regular basis. It's not just talking to themselves though it's just saying out loud what they are going to do next. They narrate their lives. I mean, do I need to know that you're going to change your pants now because you don't have pockets and you can't put your keys in them when you go and work out, but only after you brush your teeth? Not really.

I love you guys, but it's an over share. I'm going to bite my tongue, but let's see how you like it when I do it :)

xo

Bittersweet

2010-08-30T07:05:00.001-07:00

Since I was a little girl my parents always taught my sister and I that when you make a commitment to something you keep it. Your dedication and promise to someone or something meant more than just simple words. That is something that has stuck with me my whole life. When my athletic career began to take off there were times when I didn’t think I was strong enough to do it. Times when I was being pushed to my limits and wanted to be a typical 14 year old and bow out and quit. My parents have been and will always be my biggest fans and supporters. Even though they knew I had the potential to go to the Olympics one day, they would have let me quit if I wanted to. As long as my sister and I were happy, we could do whatever we wanted.

There was just one rule.

If I committed to competing for a season, I was competing for that season. The time, energy and sacrifice of so many people around me to prepare for a competitive year on the international gymnastics scene was huge. Everyone becomes emotionally invested because they are basically a team of people trying to get the absolute best out of you. I remember my coach would have trouble sleeping if I wasn’t training well before a big meet and my club and all the families would fundraise to send me to another world cup I couldn’t pay for. It wouldn’t just affect me if I stopped cold turkey, it would affect everyone around me and was ungrateful.

So even now, how many years later, I still keep that at heart. When I decided I needed to make a big change in my life, I did it and didn’t think too much about it. After two years of living with a great friend I just pretty abruptly got out of my lease. A few months ago it didn’t seem like that big of a deal, but as I began to pack up my things and say goodbye to the all the people and memories that have come and gone I wanted to go back on my word and stay.

There were definitely a few moments where I doubted if I had made the right choice this week. Standing on my balcony last night for the last time with my last roommate was hard. My room an empty shell, our place not ours anymore. It’s funny because I never thought I would get this choked up, but my life was that place. It was easy and comfortable and fun. I lived with my best friend for two years, it’s sad to think we’ll never be able to be that close again. I mean, seeing her struggle to get up and out of bed every morning is probably one of the most amusing things ever…going on last minute unexpected adventures in the city is up there too.

I spent my first night in a new bed, in a new room and it was weird. Something that will take time to get used to for sure. I know deep down that this is what I have to do and moving out on my own is a little scary, but it’s that next step. It’s time to grow up.

“last night in the condo. too blurryto even cry. music was just how i like it. deal with the ghetto. love you more than you know. brazilians what? 4am sweet potatoe fries. much love babe”

Learned My Lesson

2010-08-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

I had a very humbling moment last night. I'm not even sure if humbling is the right word to describe it, but it was one of those times where you all of a sudden see yourself and your friends in a different light. A year ago this conversation would not have gone the way it did and that's ok, but it was different yesterday for a reason.

We get so caught up in the past and history and things that once seemed life ending that we forget how much we've grown and how far we've come from that point. I didn't see it until now.

I didn't give my best friend the credit she deserved, I didn't give her the benefit of the doubt that yes maybe she just did want me to be happy. Drama and scandals and gossip have surrounded my young adulthood and I couldn't open my eyes wide enough to see that we're past all that.

I sat across from her with an open heart for the first time in a long time and thought I would lose her. I was stupid to think that she would go anywhere. She's been there for me through everything and believe me I didn't have the typical problems that teenagers go through...but she never ran like so many others before her did.

I wish that I had realized we were grown ups a long time before I knew it, but maybe I wasn't ready to see it then.

Funny how life works sometimes.

As the words fell from my lips I knew that I had done the right thing. The last thing I have ever wanted was to hurt her, but keeping things hidden just makes it worse in the end.

Thank you for being such an amazing person. I don't deserve you in my life. I just wish I had been stronger to come to you earlier...

before i lost it, before i gave up on something,before i hurt him

I love you.

Who doesn't know this?

2010-08-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Alright I need to put this out there because I actually don't believe that the majority of people don't know what this expression means...

If someone says I am falling down the rabbit hole please tell me that the general population would recognize that it's a very famous line from Alice in Wonderland or at least understand what it's referring to...

I realize that if you didn't grow up in a Disney household (which kinda makes me sad) you may have not seen it, but at some point at some time in your life you would've had to run into this saying and asked what it meant...I mean cmon!

FYI - falling down the rabbit hole means your world is turning upside down and you don't know what's what or what's real anymore...basically spiraling downward into an alternate universe or frame of mind

Just in case you are one of those people that didn't know.

Worst pick up line of the night..

2010-08-24T07:22:00.001-07:00

I have two questions for you...

#1 - are you single? 100%?
#2 - what time do you work in the morning?

Boys please don't try this one.

Something in your eyes

2010-08-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

You can see right through me when you're looking into my eyes. No matter what kind of front I'm putting up or how tough I think I am standing there...my eyes give it all away. Everytime.

I think that's why I'm always always in big sunglasses...and here I thought it was just a fun fashion statement...your mind plays tricks on you sometimes...(go figure)

It's funny - it's so easy to hide emotion behind that thin dark piece of plastic, putting up a wall between you and the person sitting literally at arms length.

A quiet defense, a piece of armor to slip away with dignity.

Yet the second they come off your face you lose the battle. Your achilles heel. Your wounds open for anyone to see.

Making it too easy for you.

Cover your eyes little girl, it's not worth it.

Alexandra Orlando LIVE

2010-08-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

Am I really an author now...

2010-08-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

I grew up hating english in school. I was the math/science girl - yes a little bit of a nerd too which I whole heartedly embraced. The writing thing was never my forte. I struggled with essays and could never express myself, not to mention my sister was the gifted writer in the family. An incredible poet, speaker, actress, singer...she is the creative one and I happily assumed the role as the athlete. No complaints there.

So it's kind of ironic now that I started to write a few years ago and then dabbled in some blogs for CBC, the Toronto Star, Lenovo, Commonwealth Games Canada, the Strength Within Group...

I honestly began to love it. Working with an editor at CBC was one of the greatest experiences in my professional career. Not only did he help me hone my writing skills, but got me to open up and write in a way that could affect people.

Raw emotion.

So two years ago when my life changed...

when I lost the thing I loved to do the most, reached a goal I had had my entire life, walked away from someone that I will always hold in my heart, went back to University and had to deal with ten years of putting my body on a wild rollercoaster ride

....The feelings and emotions were too much to even understand or talk about so I started to write. I bought one of those big leather bound sketch books and began to fill it up. From lyrics to journal entries to collages and advertisements that meant something to me - my heart and soul went into it. From this book I found my love of writing and I guess the rest is history.

A few weeks ago I pitched an idea to the President of a Publishing company, Burman Books Inc, that I met out of luck at an event earlier this year. He loved it. I loved it. Long story short, I JUST SIGNED A PUBLISHING CONTRACT TO PUBLISH MY FIRST BOOK NEXT FALL!!!

Does this make me a real author now?! :)

Photo of the Week - the many faces of alex

2010-08-19T10:24:00.001-07:00

This is for Nik - I know the facial expressions I somehow come up with never cease to amaze you

Smile for me

2010-08-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

It's not a good day when you wake up in the morning and feel that sinking feeling in your stomach - a mixture of insecurity, disappointment, laziness - that weird dulling sensation that seems to take over your mood and everything you touch. It's as if it follows you around desperately clinging to your back like a scared child, bringing you down inch by inch until it overtakes you. Those are those days where you break down and cry - even if you're not a crier. Those are the days where you don't know where it came from or why it's happening, but you're not happy with your life.

I haven't felt like that in a long time, but the more I spend with the people that mean the most to me the more I see them go through it. It's always funny to me because if they saw what I saw - what everyone sees - they couldn't possibly feel this way. I find that people define their lives on what they're doing, how successful they are and the actual tangible 'things' that they have. We all do it, but to a point now where nothing is ever good enough.

I should not be one to talk, but when I see an incredibly talented and inspiring person feeling like they are doing nothing with themselves it infuriates me. Please please open your eyes and see that just being you touches the lives of everyone around you. Believe in yourself and you will do great things because you couldn't not. Stop comparing yourself to other people, we're all on different paths, but it doesn't make you any less of a person.

Smile for me.

Best advice given to me today...

2010-08-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Focus on one difficult relationship where you are bringing a lot of judgement to the table. What's one piece of truth you share in common with the person being judged?

Think about it - it may blow your mind

Taking it back to Sicily

2010-08-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

If you've never met a Sicilian before let me fill you in - we are an intense, crazy people that hold our family at the center of our universe.

They are our blood. Our past, present and future. Don't mess with it if you know what's good for you.

So the incredible news that one of my first friends from University may potentially be related to me is possibly the best thing to happen ever. Apparently a Teresa Orlando married a Francesco Agueci way back when in Sicily, joining these two great families together. Basically this is a beyond epic realization and our families are now going to have an even bigger, louder, broken english posse (love you nonna) then ever before :)

Bring it.

Leave Your Boyfriends At Home...

2010-08-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

I was literally counting down the seconds until we were on the road heading north this weekend. The past week was a bit of a blur. I was so out of it and a few late nights and early mornings really didn't help me feeling like a complete disaster at work.

Even though we were only going up for one night the five of us girls hadn't all been together in forever. Actually - not sure if all of us have ever done anything like this before. Needless to say, it was much needed and I couldn't wait to escape the city and have a full fledged girls trip.

No boys allowed.

Seriously - probably one of the best weekends of the summer.

I think the combination of hilariously fun girls, sugary beverages in the middle of the day, boating escapades and incredibly cheesy music made the past 36 hours the funniest I've had in a long time. I'm pretty sure I laughed for a good three hours straight at one point - oh and also expressed my love for ms. tash (on multiple occasions)

I know i know. Shocking that my commitment levels just dramatically increased - what can i say she just does that to me? :p

love you girls thanks for an amazing weekend - the boys were definitely not missed
xo

Niki. Steph. Caye. Tash. <3

Awkward Inter-Office Encounter

2010-08-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

How is it that only after two weeks in our new office building I have found myself in an awkward social situation already? Only me.

There's only 30 of us from the Pan Am group working here right now - taking up a small corner of the 3rd floor AND forgive me for trying to be friendly and interact with the other companies up here...

Let me be clear...I've been friendly...as in polite chatter in the kitchen and basic conversation in the elevators...i would admit to a little casual flirting believe me

BUT apparently this has compelled someone (who by the way only knows my first name) to somehow find me in the building directory and send me a pretty suggestive email.

what?

So of course I didn't respond, needing to sit on it for a little bit and analyze my next steps without making this a huge deal as I do have to work here for the next few years...BUT my life would have it that as I'm going to grab a cup of tea from the kitchen who do you think I run into?

This was the definition of awkward. I almost wish someone had caught this on camera. Wow.

My friend Jess shot me a glance that almost made me burst out laughing right there...seriously I don't need this drama at work...

So long story short I had to send possibly one of the weirdest emails I've ever written and politely regretted to inform him that I was just not that into him.

I can't even wait for the response.

Another typical Friday for Alex Orlando - awesome

Stupidity

2010-08-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

Since when is "How to break up with her" worthy enough news to be profiled next to a piece on Obama?

I'm sorry, but do guys really need more stupid advice on how to be honest....wait I forgot it was so difficult

I can tell you the easiest way to break up with someone and I don't need 1000 words to say it.

Read my lips.

Don't lie. Don't let your ego get in the way. Be real. Stop trying to be the good guy (you're not remember). Make a clean break.

Now why is that so hard? :)

Photo of the Week - Jarry Naphtal

2010-08-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

Stuff Souls are Made Of[ ΩΛΜΟ ] : a selection of works by jarrtan naphtal

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jarry85/show

My Source of Strength

2010-08-11T14:17:00.001-07:00

The last little while I've been thinking about the people in my life and how incredibly fortunate I am to be surrounded by people who inspire me. Sometimes I think of myself as still a girl, but I'm at that age now where I can comfortably call myself a woman with a smile.

I'm definitely not pretending like I've got it all figured out because I don't and I'll be the first one to tell you that....

But I think of where I've come from and how I'm surviving womanhood now and know that I owe it to those who make me stronger and keep pushing myself to be stronger ever still.

These absolutely incredible women deserve such amazing things in their lives for what they do for others...

Thank you....
for your good heart Marisa
for never leaving my side Victoria
for being my soul sister Annamay
for making me feel like the whole world is at my fingertips Jane
for showing me that I am beautiful Mercy
for helping me find myself Rose
for letting me drive you crazy Niki
for pushing me Gaby
for your brutal honesty Veronica
for always being there Rita
for inspiring me Barbara

When you were young...

2010-08-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

When you were young and your heart was an open book...you used to say live and let live...
you know you did

But in this ever changing world in which we live in...makes you give in and cry....
say live and let die

- Paul

Paranormal Activity?

2010-08-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

Call me paranoid, but I swear something freaky is going on in my parent's house. It could be that I just watched this stupid paranormal movie and even though it wasn't that scary it still made me all jumpy OR my house is just possessed. Take your pick.

Alright you may think I've gone completely crazy (which is entirely possible)...but listen to this...

I'm sitting in my dining room with all the lights on working away on my laptop when the lights start flickering. I could hardly notice at first, but then it kept happening. I didn't really think anything of it, but then I just got this really weird feeling. I can work in my dining room all night because believe me I've done it before, but this time I had to get up and move. It was really bizarre.

So it's 1am and I picked up my laptop and stuff to go and leave when the lights went out completely. That has never ever happened to me in my life. Then my dining room door slowly started to open...thankfully we have another door that leads into the kitchen... and needless to say I ran like a crazy person to my room upstairs.

I am fully aware I sound like I'm 12 right now, but I swear this all happened and it really creeped me out...

Could be too many late nights and horror movies, but I doubt I'm going to get any sleep tonight

Beyond Stressed

2010-08-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

I think there's a point when you're so stressed out you just become numb. Deadlines are piling up around me and not just at my normal day job. Of course I can't be like every other person and have one job - no I have to be superwoman and have about 5 or 6. Anything else you would like me to take on? I'll probably say yes because apparently I don't know how to say no.

Not a good little pattern I've gotten myself into.

I kind of want to just have a good cry, but...

1) I don't cry (there goes that plan)

AND

2) I can't feel anything to muster up some sort of reaction beyond some sort of intense/empty look on my face

Those of you who really know me, know that I love everything I do. That's the problem. I wouldn't trade my life for anything, but there are those days (and nights like this one) where I honestly don't know how I've gotten myself here. It's 10:51pm and I'm probably going to be pulling an all nighter and heading to a meeting for 8:30am tomorrow. It sounds like it might be a glasses kind of day...maybe they can hide the bags under my eyes...

It's ironic though because I'm not even upset or concerned....just numb. It will get done because I'll make sure it gets done no matter what, but I can't help wondering if my body can put up with it forever. My guess is probably not.

If I can just survive the next two days I'll never do this to myself again.

Who am I kidding - you know I will

If I didn't have my family and friends to pick me up sometimes I don't know what I would do. Thank you for putting up with me and this crazy life. I love you all <3

Reliving the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Bid

2010-08-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

Never hold anything in

2010-08-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

One of my biggest fears is that I will lose someone without telling them how I really feel or how sorry I am. I listen to this song from Paul McCartney to John Lennon and can't help but think no one should ever hold anything back. You never know what will happen tomorrow...but are you brave enough to let go and say it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgJw5L_UGAw

Is there any good way to pick someone up in an elevator?

2010-08-09T11:51:00.001-07:00

It has come to my attention that there is no smooth way to take innocent flirtatious glances in an elevator to anything more than a frustrated feeling of letting a moment go by.

I am really curious and would love someone else's opinion on the elevator pick up. Do you go up to a different floor and put yourself into a potentially awkward and embarrassing situation when you have no idea where you're going when you get off? Or do you attempt to hit on this person with coworkers in the elevator? That can also not be a good idea. Even if you do have some sort of a connection it lasts all about 30 seconds before one of you jumps off...albeit slower than you normally would...maybe absent minded hoping that they'll stop you?? yeeaaah ok.

Can it be anything more than just a feel good moment? Someone that day finds you attractive - awesome.

Comments are more than welcome here people...

Good Advice...

2010-08-09T05:53:00.000-07:00

Monday August 9, 2010

"Most relationships are based on selfish desire where the partner or sibling or friend only worry about their own happiness. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be happy. The problem is life is based on paradoxes...

If we seek happiness for ourselves we receive chaos instead. Yet, when we strive to make others happy, we ourselves receive happiness. The more we share with others, the more is shared with us.

Yes, there is a balance. No, we are not meant to become doormats. Learning when enough is enough is another topic, but it's enough now that you notice those situations where it's all about you.

This is the secret of happiness. Now you know. Today, put your knowing into action."

The Drunk Text

2010-08-07T11:37:00.000-07:00

We've all done it before. Regardless of what is going on in your life, you know that there is that one particularly annoying person that you've either dated, had an insane obsession with or found yourself caught up in a mind game with that you're not going to win...don't lie I know you know what I'm talking about.

This person for some reason even though you deleted them off facebook and bbm is still in your phone...a # somewhere in there that you keep for no good reason...well just to torture yourself with.

So it's a late night and you've had one too many rye and gingers or vodka rocks (that would be me) AND instead of phoning because that would just be stupid you send them a nasty text - good, bad whatever...anything you've said in there is going to make your cringe the next day.

BUT I found out that what's even worse than the drunk text, which can usually be blown off casually the next morning as a mishap of a really good night out on the town (totally understandable from both parties), is the sober text.

You heard me - the sober text

This is a text that you send late at night when you're feeling in a weird mood or just plain lonely and are fully aware of what you are doing. Let me re-iterate...you are fully conscious of the fact that communicating with this person only brings you more trouble and yet you do it anyway. You can't even blame the embarrassing emotions that seem to fly out of your fingertips on anything but yourself.

You look crazy.

Remember that before you think sending that text might be a good idea.

What were you thinking?!

2010-08-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those moments where you look back on something you did and tense up, squeeze your eyes shut and basically start wincing - hoping to god that it wasn't as bad as you think it was?

You're thinking how is it actually possible that something so ridiculous could come out of your mouth? It's as if you have a little voice inside your head screaming at you to stop, but you just ignore it for some reason. The second the words leave your lips they hang in the air teasing you...drawing out the seconds before someone speaks again. Slow motion emotional distress - no better kind.

So do you think that people actually remember the stupid things you say? I'm really praying they don't. I am sitting here cringing thinking of my past really bad 'jessica simpson blonde' moments (sorry to all my blonde friends you know i love you) and the immature bs that slips out every now and again.

I believe I used the word 'sick' in front of my CEO the other day and not in the "I was feeling sick" kinda way. Smooth alex.

So moral of the story - I'm hoping that everyone has these moments as often as I do and the next time you walk around with food in your teeth all day, a see through skirt on by accident(that happened to me yesterday) or say something that makes you want to hit yourself about the head...remember we've all been there...

Sugar Beach

2010-08-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

Let me just say that as much as I can criticize and point fingers at the government for how they are spending our tax dollars here in Toronto - they have finally gotten something right.

The WATERFRONToronto project is probably one of the best things that could have happened to my life. Not only is it going to make heading down to queens quay that much more compelling, but it has strategically placed a beach right outside my office building. I'm talking right outside - I can see it from my desk (if only you knock down the two cubicle-like walls in front of me).

Sugar Beach. Close your eyes and I swear you'll feel like you're in another world...far, far away from the work piling up on your desk and the numbing hum of your office building.

This afternoon I kicked off my heels and ventured into the giant sand box with Jess - my new coworker slash soul mate? A wickedly cool girl that I would probably go insane without every day. Thank god someone gets my sarcasm and inappropriateness.

Back tracking - we collapsed into two white wooden perfect cottage esque beach chairs and spent our lunch hour underneath a pink umbrella. Um pretty much made my day.

Nothing makes stupidity and heart break slip your mind more than a little taste of sugar. Seriously.

Jaded

2010-08-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

Jad·ed /ˈdʒeɪdɪd/ –adjective
1. dulled or satiated by overindulgence: a jaded appetite.
2. worn out or wearied, as by overwork or overuse.
3. dissipated: a jaded reprobate.

The end result of having a steady flow of negative experiences, disappointment, and unfulfillment fed into a person where they get to the point where their anger circuits just sort of burn out and they accept disillusionment.

You've got your mama's style but you're yesterday's child to me
So Jaded
You think that's where it's at but is that where it's supposed to be?
You're gettin' it all over me
X-rated

In all it's misery it will always be what I love and hated
And maybe take a ride to the other side we're thinkin' of
We'll slip into the velvet glove
And be Jaded

Yeah, I'm so Jaded
And baby I'm afraid of you

You're thinkin' so complicated
I've had it all up to here
But it's so overrated
Love and hate it
Wouldn't trade it
Love Me Jaded

When everything you see is a blur
And ecstasy's what you prefer
You're so Jaded

'Cause I'm the one that Jaded you

Question of the Day

2010-08-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

I was having some fun on google digging up questions for a team building session I'm holding next week (not during office hours I swear) and came across one I had never seen before. It's one of those questions that really gets you thinking...I mean I'm writing a blog about it so it must've had some sort of impression on me...
If i gathered the closest people to you in your life, what would they say about you that's not true?

I was expecting the typical - how would they describe you? That's always an easy one - it's what you think of yourself that you hope others would say too...in my mind at least. I guess that's cheating a bit, but is it really? If you think of yourself as outgoing 9 times out of 10 most people agree and would add that you're social, loud, fun, etc. etc. It's a no brainer.

But this one is different - this one is real. This is when you think of all those times you feel misrepresented or thrown into some stereotype because of the clothes you wear or the music you listen to, even the job you have. Those little digs that your friends and family seem to throw at you that you never really say anything about.

You can probably tell that this question really got to me because I feel like most of the time people think they have me pegged and they actually have no idea who I am. Kinda funny actually.

So my answer to this question?

I would definitely say that the closest people in my life think that I'm a lot colder than I am. I don't know if that makes any sense, but they think that I'm almost invincible in the way I hold myself and interact with people. Someone very close to me once told me I was too serious. Just relax he said. To anyone else that wouldn't seem like an insult, but it was to me. It hurts to think that all they see when they think of me is how hard I work and the crazy amounts of time I dedicate to things in my life. Given, I am a 30 year old in a 23 year olds body, I am the biggest goofball ever. My guard isn't as high as everyone seems to think it is. Yes, I am a more serious person when it comes to my future, but I am not invincible. I have insecurities and fears just like everyone else and am waiting for someone to come along to take that wall down for good.

What would they say about you that's not true?

Shorts ARE allowed to be shorter

2010-08-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

After careful consideration and a heated debate with my mother, I've come to the conclusion that if a girl is wearing shorts they are allowed to be shorter than a skirt. However, let's put it in a little perspective. Whether it's a skirt or shorts, no item of clothing should ever show any part of you know what.

Please to all the girls out there - clothes are meant to cover your body. I appreciate a good plunging neckline and short skirt every now and then, but believe me I have never had a Britney moment and am hoping I never will. Yes you all know what I'm talking about.

So next time you're debating about the length of a particular item in your closet make sure you can sit in it without having some sort of paparazzi nightmare and be able to pick up something gracefully that has fallen out of your purse (because at a certain point in the evening you know you're going to drop your keys, lip gloss, phone or all of the above).

Don't get me started on the tightness though...that's a whole other ball game ladies. Exercise some caution with the wardrobe choices this august...somewhere somehow there is a mom thanking me for this :)

ti amo mama
xo

Attention All Guys

2010-08-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to or hopefully just want to impress a girl I can help you out. It was actually a coincidence how I stumbled upon this place, but regardless I felt the need to share it with all of you.

Last night I was hanging around my condo with my roommate Niki and couldn't stand staying inside when it was such a gorgeous night. A patio seemed so boring and our balcony isn't as amusing as it was 2 years ago when we moved in. So the only logical thing to do was get in the car and do some city exploring.

With the windows down and the music blaring we made a quick decision to head west on Lakeshore and fly by the CNE and BMO. I haven't been to the beach down there in forever so we parked in the furthest lot before the stretch of condos started and hopped out.

Just to make this clear, I have lived in Toronto my whole life and have never walked as west as we did (sad I know). Over the white bridge we watched the sunset and smiled at the couple taking professional engagement photos overlooking the pink skyline. It was kinda perfect. Too bad I was on a date with my roommate (no offense Niki).

We kept walking and came across a long stretch of rocks that curved into the lake. With our wine and snacks in hand (yes we made a picnic) we climbed out and found a quiet spot on one of the rocks. Sitting there we could see the entire downtown Toronto skyline glistening at us and couldn't stop smiling.

So moral of the story - if you want to do something to make a girl feel like she's the most special thing in the world...Niki and I decided that take her here with some wine glasses and whatever happens she'll probably never forget it.

Cheers :)

2 Years to London 2012

2010-07-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe yesterday marked the 2 year countdown to the London Olympics. It feels like everyone is still reeling from Vancouver...literally. The pure adrenaline that I was running on the entire time threw my body into shock when I got back to the East coast. Don't get me wrong, it was totally worth it. I wouldn't trade the days without sleep and deliciously fatty foods for anything...not to mention screaming at the top of my lungs day in and day out either.

Everything about Vancouver was unbelievable. I have never seen so much Canadian pride. The streets were littered with Canada gear and there was something in the air. For the first time I could enjoy a huge sporting event, without the stress of actually having some sort of responsibility. Wait - I can go to that concert, only get 4 hours of sleep and still have time to grab that hockey ticket for tomorrow? You mean I don't have to dedicate 4-6 hours of my day to the gym and miss all the other events going on?

I could get used to this.

Not being an athlete anymore has its perks, but with London fast approaching I'm not sure how I feel about it. It's the next Summer Olympics and Beijing is becoming a distant memory for some. As our athletes look ahead, setting their sights on that podium in London, we all move on with them. It dawned on me that I am going to be just another Rhythmic Gymnastics spectator, cheering on the girls that gave it their all to grab that Olympic berth. My generation, my time in the sport is over and you know what - I'm ok with that. Maybe a year ago I wasn't in this place, but I've become a different person then I ever could be if I was still training. I'll never forget the incredible moments I had as a Canadian athlete, but I couldn't go back there now.

I stood at a press conference at the Canadian Athletes Now Fund yesterday afternoon downtown Toronto and was so proud of my former teammates. They came from all different sports, but all have the same thing in common. They are sacrificing it all for a shot in London. Let's do everything we can to support them.

Please check out www.canadianathletesnow.ca/ and make a difference in the life of an athlete. They need all of us behind them now in the home stretch to the Games.

Go Canada!

Moving Nightmare...

2010-07-29T08:54:00.001-07:00

Ever since I heard that Toronto was throwing themselves into the ring to bid for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games I have wanted to get involved. Being in the right place at the right time I stepped into the Bid Office two years ago. The space became home to the Bid family - a quaint little office in the St. Lawrence Market took on a whole new identity.

By now you should all know that we WON the bid and have now successfully transitioned into the Toronto 2015 Host Corporation. This is where we ran into a little bit of a problem. Our little home is just too little. So long story short...after months of negotiating we are all packing up and heading down to our new building after the long weekend.

Unfortunately, what that means for all of us trying to work this week is that we're stuck in the middle of a moving nightmare. Everything is being packed away in boxes, there are no supplies left for anything (internet is going down in about an hour) and there are people on ladders kicking us off our stations to take down artwork and flags hanging from the ceiling. Did I mention the noise level? Not cool.

You can probably tell I'm not impressed and am seriously counting down the minutes until we're in our new spot. Waking up on the wrong side of the bed this morning really doesn't help either.

Will send pics of the new digs asap...get me outta here :)

A

$40 MILLION ON NATHAN PHILLIPS?

2010-07-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Toronto has a spending problem. You know it, I know it. Even our mayoral candidates know it.

“Toronto doesn’t have a funding problem. It does have a spending problem”
- George Smitherman

“Toronto has a spending problem, not a revenue problem”- Rob Ford

It seems as if Smitherman and Ford have been drinking the same kool-aid.

The biggest challenge for our new Mayor is definitly going to be handling that beautiful budget of ours, but that’s a given. How they are going to do it is actually what we should all be worried about.

Ironically enough, today an article on some improvements to Nathan Phillips Square caught my eye. I took a closer look and what I thought was just a minor enhancement turned out to be everything but. Can someone please explain to me why we are spending $40 million dollars to give Nathan Phillips a face lift?

Alright, so it’s not the most modern or technologically impressive of places, but it’s not supposed to be either. Apparently the upgrades are going to make it a more inviting place. Well, I walk through it every day and the last thing I’m thinking is that it’s empty and cold.

Once the cold Toronto winter passes, the place is packed. It’s full of tourists taking a break from walking under the sun, kids running around playing and even couples enjoying a quiet romantic moment near the water.

There’s beauty in simplicity sometimes.

How will building yet another restaurant (that we don’t need) and creating a fancier landscape really benefit Torontonians? This multi-million dollar project is coming right out of the city’s capital budget too. Just what we need.

But hey – I’m all for an information and tourist Kiosk on Queen Street.

Let’s hope our new mayor can put this city’s money to good use because this sure isn’t a good way to start.

Your City, My City

2010-03-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

The Star has asked 30 members of the community to blog about what they think should be done to make Toronto a more livable city. What kind of city do we want to live in - and how should we get there? To start a dialogue, we've asked dozens of people from across the region to offer ideas on how to make our community more livable, more successful and more just. They are posting suggestions on the Your City, My City blog, but we also want to hear from you. So sign on to thestar.blogs.com/yourcitymycity and join the debate to help shape where we live.

I have been a part of this incredible project and just posted my second blog up on the site today. CHECK IT OUT and CONTRIBUTE!

What do you think would make Toronto a better city?

Olympic Fever

2010-02-14T08:40:00.000-08:00

I have been in Vancouver for literally three days and I haven't had a moment to stop for one minute...so here's a point form blog for you all to enjoy because I have 2 minutes before my volunteering shift starts...here we go

I have been running on...

- NO SLEEP
- Incredible LIVE Music (Concerts are EVERY night!)
- Meeting the World's best athletes
- Watching Jennifer win our first Silver Medal!!!! (teared up just a little bit)
- Molson Hockey House (enough said)
- Introducing the Minister of Tourism and Culture at Ontario House
- CanFUND House with Jane Roos :)
- Rain, rain and more rain (aka my hair is so curly its insane)
- So much red and white clothing we all look sooo patriotic i LOVE it
- Volunteering at Canada Olympic House with the best crew ever...team song soon?

Alright got to jet...having the time of my life!

Be back soon (hopefully)
xo

VANCOUVER

2010-02-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

I didn't know what to expect flying out to an Olympics as Beijing starts to fade from people's memories. I was so excited that we were hosting the Games and bringing the world to this incredible city, but had to really come to terms with the fact that I was coming as a volunteer and spectator! Definitely a weird feeling, but the second I got here it has been unbelievable. The streets are lined with people in red and white, there are so many languages being spoken around me I find myself answering people in french or spanish and the Olympic spirit has definitely arrived.

Today I sat on the bus coming into downtown for my orientation meeting at Canada Olympic House and had a little girl plop down next to me. She was hard to miss. In a bright turquoise jacket, red Canada hat and big Canada purse, she was quite a sight. What caught my eye first out of everything was the lanyard around her neck covered in pins! For those of you who don't know this, athletes trade pins at every big Games with other countries and try and collect as many as they can. It sounds kind of weird, but my pins from the Olympics will be something I cherish forever.

It made me so happy to see her with all of them that I had to ask her about them. She proudly chatted my ear off for the next 20 minutes explaining where she got each one of them and why some were her favorites. She was so excited to be at the Olympics (also a Toronto native) and thought this was the biggest adventure of her life. I will remember that forever. Come to think of it, it's one of the biggest adventures of my life. My first Olympics in my country, working for the Canadian Olympic Committee, writing for CBC and soaking in this incredible feeling. It doesn't get any better than this.

WRITING FOR CBC SPORTS

2010-02-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

Check out my articles on www.cbc.ca/olympics! I will be writing through the 2010 Games on my experiences out West and would love for you all to follow them :)

GO CANADA!

http://www.cbc.ca/olympics/blogs/alexandraorlando/2010/02/pressure-and-the-canadian-athlete.html

http://www.cbc.ca/olympics/blogs/alexandraorlando/2010/01/the-icing-on-the-cake.html

Why is it so hard to get a City Councillor on the phone?

2010-02-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

Next Tuesday there is a North York Community Council meeting being held, where Havergal College will be making a deputation against the proposed billboard variance by Abcom Media. If you're wondering how I'm even involved with this, I used to be a Havergal girl once upon a time and now find myself back in the halls as an Institute Program Coordinator. This issue first came up a year ago, where a letter of protest from our Principal Dr. Susan R. Groesbeck with a petition of now over 800 signatures was sent out to Mayor David Miller and Councillor Karen Stintz for our ward, including others. With no response, it seems as if our beloved politicians are trying to slip something past the public yet again, but is that really a surprise?

The new billboard or just a replacement sign as it is being referred to, will be a brand new carbon consuming, bright eyesore to the quiet neighborhood of Avenue and Lawrence. Very noticeable from Havergal grounds, but also across the street from a set of condominiums. As quiet as this matter has been kept, there are probably a number of people that will have a shining sign beaming down on their homes 24/7 that don't even know it. Although Councillor Stintz does reassure us that it will not be a flashing video sign, they tried to pull that one in California a year ago too, I'm not buying it. It's only a matter of time before a new bylaw comes into action and just an improved sign becomes a gimmicky, consumer driven distraction. Not to mention the environmental concerns that this poses on our community. The carbon consumption alone is enough to power 13 homes. So long story short, the detriment to our community is far greater than the benefits (what are those again?).

Before we head into the meeting next week, I spent all afternoon calling each City Councillor that would be in attendance. I can't help but laugh when I recall the curt rejections from their secretaries or the empty promises of a call back. The one and only Councillor that was willing to take my call was none other than Karen Stintz, the very person Havergal has not heard back from since they first contacted her last May. Once I made it clear that I was calling on behalf of the Institute, she didn't seem pleased I had kept that little fact from her secretary. I felt as though once I finally had her attention, I was being rushed off the phone. She didn't understand where Havergal was coming from (maybe that's why she never responded), but she definitely does now. Did I mention that City Staff recommended against this proposal and somehow it's still getting pushed through?

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

2010-02-05T11:45:00.000-08:00

Sprott Supports Canadian Elite Athletes

Canadian Investment firm to celebrate each victory in Vancouver with $100,000 donation each time a Canadian athlete wins gold

Toronto, February 4, 2010 – Sprott Asset Management LP knows a thing or two about gold. And today CEO Eric Sprott announced support for Canadian athletes with a unique pledge, the Sprott Canadian Gold Metal Celebration. Each time a gold medal is won in Vancouver, Sprott Asset Management LP, in conjunction with The Sprott Foundation will donate $100,000 to the Canadian Athletes Now Fund (CAN Fund), a not-for-profit organization devoted solely to raising funds and awareness of Canadian athletes.

“With our Canadian athletes competing for gold against the best in the world, we wanted to celebrate their success in achieving their goals by supporting the CAN Fund, which provides direct funding to Canadian athletes,” said Eric Sprott, CEO, Sprott Asset Management LP. “As an investment firm, we’ve delivered results to our clients by making big bets on the future —and we wanted to use the same approach to build on our athletes’ successes in Vancouver by providing funding for our athletes on a longer term basis.”

Sprott says he chose to partner with CAN Fund for its track record in being the leader in direct funding for Canadian athletes, many of whom struggle to meet even basic training expenses, let alone the international travel required to compete at world-class levels. Donations are allocated by athletes for equipment, coaching, travel, team fees, proper nutrition and living expenses as they train out of the spotlight to become world class athletes.

“Today Eric Sprott reminds all Canadians to celebrate excellence and the necessity of providing ongoing direct funding to our athletes,” says Jane Roos, the founder of CAN Fund. “For years the CAN Fund has been building the relationship between our summer and winter athletes encouraging them to work together. In one week, many of our winter athletes will realize their dream of standing on the podium. Sprott’s generosity helps ensure our winter athletes’ success will fuel the dreams of summer athletes in the future.”

Roos said that an initial gesture of support by Sprott—a $210,000 donation to CAN Fund through the Sprott Foundation—has effectively cleared the backlog of winter athlete funding requests.

“Funding has increased for athletes competing in Vancouver, but what many Canadians probably don’t know is that 42 per cent of our winter athletes who are ranked in the global top ten still have net negative incomes,” says Ben Rutledge, 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist in Rowing.

The Sprott Canadian Gold Metal Celebration will feature a website www.sprottgoldpledge.com—set up to encourage others in Corporate Canada to join in celebrating each hard fought success of Canadian athletes in February. Sprott says this is a critical time to celebrate victory since an athlete has never won a gold medal on Canadian soil during the Olympics in Montreal (1976) and Calgary (1988).

VolWeb.ca Newsletter February 2010 - Featuring AthletesCAN!

2010-02-02T12:05:00.000-08:00

Winter Games Countdown

Only 12 more days until the start of the 2010 Winter Games! Whether you are volunteering at a community celebration, going to a competition venue or enjoying the various events and pavilions around the city, we hope everyone has a great time during the Games.

As we welcome the world to British Columbia , we also want to celebrate the commitment and dedication of Games-time volunteers. Numerous volunteers were recruited through VolWeb.ca for celebration events across the Province.

During the 2010 Winter Games, VolWeb.ca staff will be temporarily assigned to roles outside of 2010 Legacies Now through Feb. 26, 2010, and support will be limited during this time. Please contact us with any non-urgent business after Feb. 26. For urgent support requests, email volwebsupport@2010legaciesnow.com.

AthletesCAN – FEATURED ORGANIZATION

AthletesCAN, the association of Canada ’s national team athletes, was started in 1992 by a group of retired Canadian athletes with a goal of creating an independent voice for athletes across Canada .

AthletesCAN started working with VolWeb.ca to find volunteers and Ashley Kilburn, Manager of Athlete Relations & Strategic Partnerships, says, "It was great – I was able to narrow down my search to find those who had the experience we were looking for to ensure our event was successful."

Throughout these events, one volunteer stood out in Ashley’s mind: VolWeb.ca volunteer Bill D. "Not only did he have an amazing resume of volunteer experience in sports but he knew how to run an event and he was able to give us pointers!" Ashley explains, "He was there almost every day we were, did not hesitate to take on any task and was incredibly pro-active – he definitely made our lives easier and we would not have been able to do it without him!"

VolWeb.ca would like to recognize AthletesCAN for supporting our Canadian athletes and making such a great contribution to the community!

The Adelaide Club

2010-02-01T15:30:00.001-08:00

HELP THEM SUPPORT US

By Joining the Adelaide Club you will help support Canadian National Team Athletes through the CAN FUND! This incredible charity started by Jane Roos, one of the most influential women in Canadian sport, gives athletes struggling to train and compete for this country the means to keep going. There are still about 60 Canadians who will represent us in the Vancouver 2010 Games that do not have any government funding. They have found a way to qualify for the Olympics with the help of their family, friends and people like Jane Roos. Find out more about the CAN Fund at www.canadianathletesnow.com and see how you can contribute!

On behalf of all Canadian athletes, I can't thank the Adelaide Club and the Can Fund enough for everything they have done for us.

GO CANADA!

http://www.adelaideclub.com/

My current Obsession...

2010-01-24T10:11:00.000-08:00

There is just something about Justin Nozuka's voice that puts me in the most refreshing state of mind. The one and only Leigh Kitlar took me to his concert here in Toronto a little while back at the Mod Club and he is even more hypnotizing in person. Right now his music is my obsession and GOLDEN TRAIN continues to be on replay on my ipod...

But tomorrow if a golden train came to take you away,
Would you go or would you stay

RIGHT TO PLAY @ Lawrence Park

2010-01-22T12:06:00.001-08:00

This past year as an Athlete Ambassador for Right to Play I have had the opportunity to learn so much about this incredible humanitarian organization. I always thought I knew what Right to Play did, but I quickly realized it was so much more than I thought. After working with the incredible Team here in Toronto I'm still in awe.

Right to Play is currently reaching over 680,000 children each and every week through sport and play programs across Africa, Asia, The Middle East and South America. By using games and sport as tools for education, peace and conflict resolution, community development and disease prevention, Right to Play is making a huge difference in the lives of children worldwide.

Children who are marginalized based on gender, ethnicity, social background and religion. Children who live in some of the most disadvantaged areas in the world, heavily affected by war, disease and poverty. Children who feel guilty about having fun.

Right to Play gives them back their childhood. Our international volunteers coach and train local leaders and role models to run sport and play activities that can be sustained within the community. Using sport to make it a healthier and safer world for the next generation.

This morning I went to my first school visit on behalf of Right to Play in North York, right around where I grew up. It was a blast. The student athlete board is organizing a whole week of fundraising activities for Right to Play and we kicked it off with our assembly. Running some of the games that we use in the field with hundreds of high school students was the best part. At first they didn't seem too impressed that they had to participate, but by the end of it EVERY single person was smiling. It's incredible to see how the simplest games and activities can teach so much. Ranging from teamwork, multi-tasking to disease prevention and even creating an open, comfortable space to tackle serious issues in communities.

Text PLAY to 45678 to donate $5 to RIGHT TO PLAY Now

Haiti

2010-01-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

I was running late for work today and flung myself on to the nearest seat I could find on the Northbound train. Vacant for only a few seconds, the seat beside me had today's Metro newspaper crumpled up on it. I don't usually grab it because I use my precious time on the subway to close my eyes and fall semi-asleep, but the front page caught my attention. The crisis in Haiti heightened with the terror and horror of a devastating after shock. My stomach dropped and as I slowly read the articles that exposed the dirty underbelly of the political instability, severe lack of medical attention, food and water my throat dried up. I suddenly found myself hit with symptoms reminiscent of claustrophobia. I closed my eyes and felt my head spin and chest tighten. A few deep breaths and the kind smile of the woman sitting across from me eased what could have escalated into a messy situation. I practically ran off the subway to get some fresh air and sat down on the nearest bench. Haiti. The image of the young boy pouring water from a broken pipe line into his mouth was burned into my memory. What was I doing to help? What could I do to help? I donated money to the Red Cross earlier this week, but that doesn't seem like enough at all. So I urge you all to help in whatever way you can, whether it's your money or your time, if everyone comes together we can do our part to give the people of Haiti a fighting chance to survive.

I was forwarded the message below this morning. It only takes two minutes of your time to sign the petition...

"The work ahead to recover from this tragedy is immense. So here's our goal: $1 billion for Haiti. That's how much Haiti owes to the International Monetary Fund, the Inter-American Development Bank, and a handful of others.

Sign the petition below to ask Haiti's creditors to act quickly and cancel Haiti's debts:

http://one.org/international/actnow/haiti/index.html?rc=haiticonfemail

As Haiti begins to rebuild we can help by lifting this debt."

My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone in Haiti right now.

The Big 2-3

2010-01-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning with the biggest smile on my face. I'm not usually a huge birthday person and don't really care too much for the whole big she-bang, but I actually may have had a change of heart. What triggered this excitedness? I really couldn't tell you. All I know is that I was actually genuinely looking forward to being 23. Last year I had blown out my knee and was a miserable, grumpy birthday girl on crutches. I pretty much would've completely missed celebrating my 22nd year on this earth if it wasn't for my very good girl friends making sure that even though I was in a completely b@$%*y mood I still had to do something. When I look back on it, it was probably the most bizarre evening and led to an even more bizarre year. There were some definite highlights and incredible moments, but there were definitely some times where I couldn't wait for the year to be over too. Career-wise it was more than I ever thought it could be, relationship-wise let's just say I learned a lot (or finally got some sense knocked in to me...my friends can all breathe a sigh of relief), family-wise we've never been closer, but friend-wise there were a lot of growing a part realizations. All in all, I was on a constant roller coaster ride not exactly balancing everything the way I have been known to in the past. SO after the new year, along with some very demanding resolutions, I felt like things were different. I was dreading turning 23 a few months ago, but today I couldn't be happier. As I move further away from my young adulthood and into grown up life, I have to just smile. I've come so far in such a short amount of time and am a healthier and better person because of it. So thank you for all the birthday wishes, I know that I can achieve anything with having so much love around me. I will never miss another birthday again :)

2010

2010-01-01T13:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everybody!!! I still can't believe it's 2010...kinda freaks me out a bit....but I was so ready for 2009 to be over. As fast as it flew by the last couple of months have probably been the most stressful of my entire life and just seemed to never end. I can't even believe that I made it through as unscathed as I did. I mean here I am, healthy and happy, surrounded by great family and friends...can't really ask for too much more than that.

A few weeks ago I fell into this pessimistic mindset (somewhere my mom is smiling right now...she is the ultimate optimist) and couldn't get myself out of it. I fully brought it upon myself by taking on way too much than I actually have time for, drinking obscene amounts of coffee that no person should ever drink, sleeping less hours than I have class a day and working as much as I can in a million different areas. Welcome to my crazy life. So this kind of life plus exams, plus travelling for all the really amazing things I get to do as a retired athlete, plus trying to get back in 'athlete' shape....drove me absolutely insane. Ask my poor roommate, she never saw me.

Anyways, moral of the story I needed the holidays to slow everything down a bit and breathe for a change. It was just what I needed. So as I rung in the New Year last night I made a deal with myself. When I feel like life is starting to blur again...slow down...make time for those stupid little things that make you happy...call an old friend (oh that's new years resolutin #2 -> actually pick up my phone/respond to messages)...and learn to relax (without someone telling me to...you all know how much I love that).

Excited to see where this year takes me.

Laugh. Live. Love. 2010

Gymnastics Deja Vu

2010-01-01T13:01:00.001-08:00

So weird to have apparatus back in my hands...weird good :)

Remember this life?

At a loss for words...

2009-12-30T07:32:00.000-08:00

It's an awful day when you wake up hearing about someone's death. Especially, when a tragic accident took the life of such an incredible person so quickly. I met Kelly Pace only a few weeks ago at a good friend's birthday party. She stood out in the room right away with her infectious smile. I only spoke with her briefly, but what I will always remember is her birthday toast to Jane. Her genuine warmth, love and compassion for another strong, powerhouse woman was beautiful. She seemed like an amazing friend and woman, someone I would have liked to have gotten to know. When I heard of her car accident I couldn't believe it. A few days ago she was standing next to me laughing and catching up with old friends. A few days ago she was celebrating a life that was still only getting started. Things can change so suddenly it's a reminder to us all. I couldn't say it better than Jane herself...

"Today is the funeral of an amazing woman Kelly Pace. She was 41 and in a tragic car accident. In minutes your life is changed forever. As 2009 comes to an end and we make resolutions for 2010. One request from me if you read this- be grateful you are alive, tell your loved ones "who they are" to you, play, contribute... to others, know who you are in the world, love yourself. Life is so very precious."

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and her family Jane.

sick AND tired

2009-10-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

The one thing I hate more than anything is being sick. I can handle being tired.....I can handle being exhausted.....honestly I can even handle walking around like a zombie as long as I'm healthy. My immune system has never been amazing, but I would never get beyond that kind of uncomfortable cold thing. I will do whatever I can to avoid being bed ridden. Staying in bed all day when you're just having one of those incredibly lazy, I'm going to watch movies, and not get out of my pjs day is one thing. Feeling so awful you can't even sleep when you're stuck in bed is completely another.

Two weeks ago I got more sick than I've been in years. My whole body ached, I couldn't even lift my head and I was completely out of commission. I had just gotten back from Vancouver, hadn't even seen my roommate and I did not come out of my room for about 36 hours. It was so bad that yes at 22 years old I called my mom to come and make sure I was ok. I had no groceries (as always), nothing even to drink besides water and was so incapacitated that my mom came all the way downtown to make me feel better. Feeling like I was 12 again was possibly the funniest thing ever, but I absolutely loved it. Lately I've been so independent and off doing my own thing, feeling invincible as I like to think I am, that I forget what it feels like to have someone take care of me. To be honest, I like to believe that I don't need anyone to take care of me. I don't know where that comes from...could be from being surrounded by such strong women. Whatever it is, I finally let myself ask for help and it felt good. After some good Orlando loving I was thankfully back to normal.

So you can imagine how upset I was when yesterday I was losing my voice and started to feel a little under the weather. I tried to ignore it and blame it on over working myself, etc. etc. BUT this morning I woke up with a crazy high fever. I AM SICK AGAIN! I am so sick and tired of this. What are the odds of getting so sick again in less than two weeks? I was not impressed that I had to cancel my plans and stay inside all day....again. I have so much work to do (school and work work) that I can't afford to take a day off....which is exactly what I had to do. I'm mad that my body is not as strong as I want it to be. I'm mad that I'm sitting here feeling awful when I could be out doing a million things.

So beyond frustrated right now.....

The Power in Sport

2009-10-19T10:39:00.000-07:00

Instead of writing up a summary of the AthletesCAN Forum and sending it out to the Gymnastics Community, I thought of something better. My teammate Lauren Adolph, one very passionate young woman, wrote about her experience at Forum to help inspire our athletes. As their athlete rep, I feel like I'm always sending out emails to them, but coming from a recently retired teammate of theirs it might make more of an impact. I absolutely loved her letter and hope you all do too....

To all Members of the Canadian Gymnastics National Team,

Last weekend I attended the most amazing and life-altering event of my life! Now, I know that’s a cliché and you’re probably thinking, “well, she’s a bit over the top,” (those who know me would probably add that I easily leap to such dramatics when confronted by sport intermingled with inspiration). This week has been nonstop “Oh Lauren, how was your weekend? What did you do again?” So then I’d explain, but some audiences just didn’t get it. This weekend, I think I could say with some certainty that the name of the game (no pun intended) was “How to affect real change.” So you can imagine the response I got from those who were, let’s say, “youthfully challenged.” I am coming to the sad realization that the word ‘change’ is stolen on one’s 30th birthday and there are only a handful of people willing to fight for it back. So now that I have confessed my bias on the subject, I would like to recount just the facts (without embellishment) so you can see for yourself. So here is my ode to AthletesCAN Forum 2009.

Each morning started with an hour of yoga and went right into an amazing (oh, sorry no adjectives) breakfast. We then entered the Delta Hotel Richmond’s ballroom where we began a day of super fascinating presentations. The first speaker was the President of AthletesCAN, who answered my burning question: “What is AthletesCAN?” It is the only independent organization that represents senior national team athletes across Canada. They are the people, who have brought you the Bell Mobility cell phone plan, Sport Solutions (free legal representation for sport related issues), and a strong voice with such organizations as CCES (Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport – you’ll know these folks intimately if you’ve ever had to pee in a cup?), and Sport Canada. They are willing to take the blunt end of any argument with GCG that might otherwise cause you, as a current national team member, severely negative political repercussions. They are full of information on issues relevant to you – including the latest anti-doping laws and carding rules – and how AthletesCAN has a voice in funding policy. After three years on National Team, I had never heard of AthletesCAN nor realized what a great resource it could be; thanks to Alex Orlando, who currently serves on the AthletesCAN board, for enlightening me and now you.

We heard next from a panel of three outstanding speakers. All shared their stories of how, as an elite athlete, they learned to survive, find a balanced life, and succeed in retirement. To my utter joy these speakers, no matter their sports background, were repeating my life’s journey, but with the added wisdom I would have died for during my career. It is also worth noting that these people I had so much in common with were Olympic athletes… gold medal Olympic athletes…three time Olympic athletes… and our own Alexandra Orlando. I’m not sure how much more amazing one weekend can be, but there was more.

Then our afternoon was filled with workshops directly aimed at improving the efficiency of National Athlete Representatives. Problems discussed were insufficient on ineffective athlete representation on National Sports Organizations (NSOs) Boards; in many cases where athlete reps are members of NSO Boards, their opinions are ignored, as their presence is seen as purely symbolic.

We would sit around roundtables, diligently compiling practical life strategies for making headway with our power hungry Boards. And I would glance at all the right hands scribbling notes or tapping thoughtfully, when I noticed 90 percent of those hands were wearing a heavy gold ring embossed with the Olympic rings.

So this is what I got out of my weekend (besides being awe-inspired by these giants of sport): I believe in the power of sport. I learned that sport can change our health, our communities, the way we connect with each other; sport develops forward-thinking leaders, promotes responsible citizenry, prevents crime, inspires kids to think more, dream more, be more. In the words of one of the participants, a Paralympic gold-medal swimmer, “It is our responsibility as elite athletes to dare youth to be fearless to dream.”

My hope is to inspire you to believe that real change is possible. Through utilizing your athlete rep and AthletesCAN – who only exist to serve you – you can have a voice. Only you know what’s relevant. Otherwise, it’s like having a new Ferrari F430 in the garage, but no map. You can roar around the block a few times, make lots of noise to impress the neighbours, but you never really get anywhere.

I share this with you in the hope that you speak up, share your challenges and concerns, and are ultimately free to focus on what an elite athlete should: training hard, staying healthy and reaching your goals.

Lauren Adolph
Retired Rhythmic Gymnastics National Team Member
“I believe in the power of sport”

The Canadian Club

2009-10-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I received these emails about this event at the prestigious Canadian Club and marked it in my calendar. I really wanted to go because I thought it was a really great idea on behalf of the Pan Am Bid. The Canadian Club of Toronto will host a discussion about the benefits of holding the Pan / Parapan Am Games in Toronto in 2015 led by a panel consisting of David Peterson, Chair, Toronto 2015 Pam Am Games Bid, Chris Rudge, Secretary General and CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee, and Jagoda Pike, President and COO of the Toronto 2015 Bid. The discussion will be moderated by legendary Canadian rower and Olympian Marnie McBean.

So I got my ticket and I was really looking forward to hearing what the panel had to say. Two days before the event, Jagoda had to fly down to Ecuador leaving the Bid in a tight spot. I got a call from Bob Richardson, who is the communications and PR mastermind for us, and was asked to fill in. I of course couldn't say no, this was one of the biggest opportunities that I've ever had come my way. I was excited, nervous, but ready to speak my mind in front of a roomful of people that would be hanging on our every word. This was so important and I couldn't believe that I was going to be up there.

The event was yesterday and it went so well. I spoke from the heart, with passion, and that's all I can do. It was amazing and I hope people caught it on the Rogers Channel (it will be replayed throughout this week!).

Check out this article and VIDEO of the panel at the Canadian Club of Toronto yesterday!

http://www.torontosun.com/news/torontoandgta/2009/10/17/11432411-sun.html#/news/torontoandgta/2009/10/17/pf-11432411.html

Commonwealth Games Canada Announces Delhi 2010 Mission Staff

2009-10-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

OTTAWA, Oct. 8, 2009 – Commonwealth Games Canada (CGC) today announced its Mission Staff for the 2010 Commonwealth Games to be held in Delhi, India, October 3-14, 2010 – and celebrated the commitment to sport of its motivated volunteers.

“This outstanding group will help us create the right conditions for Canadian athletes and coaches to produce best-ever performances,” said Scott Stevenson, CGC’s Director of Sport. “The Commonwealth Games are a proven, valuable stepping-stone for many Canadian athletes en route to other international, Olympic and Paralympic success.”

The Games will feature more than 4,000 world-class athletes from 71 Commonwealth nations and territories, competing in 19 different sports. Canada, which finished third overall at the 2006 Games in Melbourne, Australia, is expected to send a highly competitive team of approximately 400 athletes, coaches, and volunteers.

“On behalf of the Commonwealth Games Canada leadership team, we are delighted with the selection of these capable Canadians to our team,” said Martha Deacon, Chef de Mission for Team Canada 2010. “A year from now, their passion and enthusiasm will contribute in countless ways to the success of our world-class athletes.”

The Mission Staff will work under the guidance of the Mission Team Leaders, whose appointment was announced in April 2009. Chef de mission Martha Deacon, named in November 2008, will head the team.

“Every time Canada mounts a mission to a major Games, the demands and expectations increase,” said Greg Mathieu, Chief Executive Officer of Cycling Canada. “This Mission Staff has the capacity, energy and experience necessary to ensure Canada’s team in New Delhi has the highest level of support which is reassuring to each National Sport Organization participating in these Games.”

Joanne Mortimore, Chief Executive Officer of Athletics Canada, added: “It is reassuring to see the Mission Staff who have been appointed to 2010 Games. The group clearly has the skills to create the best environment for the team to compete at their best in Delhi.”

Mission Staff for the 2010 Commonwealth Games

Operations: Martin Routhier and Anne Warburton (Administration), Jim Bradley and Yvonne Bierman (Transportation); Sue Boreskie and Suzanne Weckend (Clothing); Shravan Chopra (Technology and Webmaster)

Team Member Support and Services: Todd Allison, Monique Allain, ALEXANDRA ORLANDO :)

Communications: Yan Huckendubler, Patrick Kenny, Martin Richard, Julie Audette, Hélène Lavigne (Translator), Dan Galbraith (Photographer)

Coaching and Applied Sport Science: Lisa Smith, Michel LeBlanc, Shelley Milton

Mission Team Leaders for the 2010 Commonwealth Games

Dr. Jon Kolb – Coaching and Applied Sport Science
Dr. Navin Prasad – Health and Wellbeing (Medical)
Kelly Laframboise – Team Operations
Jackie DeSouza – Communications and Media Services
Michael Smith – Team Member Support and Services

RyanDan Concert

2009-10-16T17:20:00.000-07:00

One of my closest friends and my miracle healer during all those hard years of injuries, Farhan Dhalla, gave me the greatest surprise recently. A year ago he gave me this incredible CD for Christmas that really touched my soul. When I first heard RyanDan, I was mesmerised by the power and beauty of their voices. Their lyrics are so real and genuine, I felt an instant connection. Whenever life got too much to handle and I needed a quick break from reality I would turn to them. Closing the blinds in my room, blasting RyanDan and curling up with a blanket was my go-to stress reliever technique. When I found out he got us tickets to their concert in Richmond Hill I was ecstatic! To make the evening that much better, Farhan hooked us up with a meet and greet before the show with Ryan and Dan! We were both so nervous it was hilarious. I was definitely a little star struck, but they were so down to earth and approachable. You never would have known that they were about to go out and sing for hundreds of people. It was an amazing evening. We sat in the 2nd row and could feel the vibrations of the music running through us. Honestly, it was hard not to cry at one point. I just became flooded with emotions. I don't know if it was the lyrics or their voices or just dealing with a lot lately and needed a release, but whatever it was it was an amazing night. Thank you so much Farhan, I owe you more than you know.

Much love
xo

The International Olympic Academy

2009-10-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

It is so difficult to try and put into words what I experienced at this year’s International Olympic Academy. There are so many moments and emotions that I wish could be conveyed to you in words, but it is indescribable. I really did not know what to expect as I got on the plane to Greece this June. The IOA far exceeded any expectations I had. I can’t thank the Canadian Olympic Committee enough for selecting me out of so many deserving candidates. I am so fortunate to have been given this once in a lifetime opportunity. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

My IOA experience taught me so much about myself and what I value most in life. As a Canadian and a competitive athlete, I can honestly say that I have never been exposed to an Olympic Education program. I knew what the Olympic Movement was, but I didn’t know how it touched the lives of other Canadians and what institutions were in place to keep it moving forward. The IOA showed me the type of programs that are in place all over the world that inspire me to help improve our own Canadian Olympic Education. I learned how passionate I am about this particular field and that I believe in Olympism as a way of life. I learned that it is not just about sports, but so much more. Olympism is a way to improve all humanity and helping to achieve a peaceful more unified world. I came home with a new outlook on life and the values that I hold. I learned how important Olympic Education is to build a stronger nation and the positive consequences that come from it.

I believe that the most important information that we received to benefit our Canadian Olympic Committee was successful applications of Olympic Education. In many nations, Olympic Education is built directly into the school system starting at a very young age. It is not just a theme that arises every two years for one class or one particular ‘Olympic’ day. These are yearlong programs that include the history of the Olympic Games, Olympism, political movements and the variety of amateur sports. These Education Programs teach students values and morals that will affect them in every area of their life and bring out their full potential. Integrating more national level athletes into the programs on a more regular basis is seen in other countries as well. The key difference I saw between Olympic Education programs across the world depended on how highly the government and its people value sport. Olympic Education is the beginning to changing how our nation views amateur sports and what it has to offer our citizens. It should not just be applied within the school system, although that is an excellent start. The Olympic Movement needs to touch every single person, no matter what age. Community programs and events focused on amateur sports and our athletes as role models can strengthen support for the Olympic Movement. With increased government support, Olympic Education can touch every Canadian.

KINGS OF LEON CONCERT

2009-10-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

So I've had a little bit of a love affair going on now for the past two years. I lose myself in the moment when I hear their voices and will literally jump at any chance to see them live. This past summer I was working at Sport Alliance of Ontario and we shared such a fun office with KidSport. I was so lucky to have met Leigh there, who is the most genuine person I've met in a really long time. So when she came to me with Kings of Leon tickets in Hamilton, after only knowing me for two months, I literally almost died. There's is something about their music that just hits me to the core. Their lyrics, their sound, their soul....incredible. If you don't know who Kings of Leon are then please I urge you to check them out.

Here is one of my favorite songs of theirs....I apologize if you can hear me singing in the background....but there's always this one person that I think of and you know who you are that when I hear it I just smile...

THANKS LEIGH I LOVE YOU LADY!
xo

OLYMPIC REFORM CONFERENCE

2009-09-25T16:08:00.001-07:00

Someone once told me that to be your best, you had to be confidant. If you doubted yourself, you were holding back so much of what you could really be without even realizing it. When I was competing, I dreaded those days when I knew I wasn't ready. I knew that I wasn't where I should be, mentally...physically...you name it. It's such an indescribable feeling, but it's awful. People who know me, know that I'm a confidant person, but I definitely have those nervous, self conscious moments too. When I was asked to be a panel speaker on Athletes' Rights and Representation for an Olympic Reform Conference this year at the University of Toronto I was incredibly honored and excited. When I got off the phone with Dr. Bruce Kidd, Dean of Physical Education and Health at the University, I squealed for probably the second time in my whole life and then my stomach dropped. I had never done this before. I know what I believe in, but now I would be voicing that opinion in front of some of the most influential people in our sporting community and the media. I wasn't just an overzealous athlete with dreams of a better international sport system anymore, this was serious. I would have the chance to not only state my beliefs, but criticize our Olympic governance and make recommendations for the future. When I first began writing my notes I hit that wall. That what if everyone takes one look at me and wonders what this young girl is doing there wall. It took me a few drafts, but I gained that confidence to stand up in front of all those people and make them listen to me. It was empowering in such a different way than I was used to and am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to speak.

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Here are some of my favorite parts of what's been on my mind lately...

My main goal has always been to increase awareness among the athletes. Most of them don’t even know their rights as a national team member, or what kind of decisions are being made without their knowledge. I believe that NSOs can often easily start functioning like a business, pushing themselves further and further from an athletes’ centered organization. So without truly even defining the role of your own athlete representative at the Board level its easier to keep this position more as a figurehead instead of being an active athlete member that can effect change. Without an active and powerful athlete body within the IOC, COC or any other governing bodies such as NSOs and Bid Committees, vital decisions are being made that significantly impact athletes without them. The athletes actually don’t have any input at all on the decisions that are greatly affecting their lives. Even with athlete representation within the IOC, COC and NSOs at the Board level, I feel that there are problems with their actual effectiveness. When decisions are being voted on in various governing bodies, even with athlete representation, in reality their voice is completely ignored because it comes in the form of one vote or a certain number that wouldn’t be able to challenge the decision anyways. At the IOC level, there are only so many athlete representative members. So how can they really make a difference? I honestly don’t see it and I don’t see how we are making enough change in the system. It is extremely frustrating.

We all have the right to understand how decisions are made and the ability to question our national and Olympic governance. And I think it is important to mention that this type of questioning should not be perceived as something negative, as it generally is. It is usually seen as an attack on the IOC or COC and it is not that at all. Questioning their governance defines their roles and responsibilities. This is the only way you can learn and grow; the only way to improve your Olympic governance is by constantly examining and reforming the system.

I find the Athletes’ Councils created as a branch of the IOC and the COC are an attempt to address the athletes’ perspective on issues that arise. However, many of us question their effectiveness and how much power they actually have.I see now that they are functioning more as just giving constructive criticism back to the Olympic Committee. They are not really able to force change and again make us question if they are really involved in the decision-making process at all.

I believe that athletes need to start to be integrated more heavily into the system, at the national and international level, not as only athlete representatives but as equals. We need to increase their numbers within the IOC and the COC, separate from the Athletes’ Commission, and need them working together as equal members and not as individual athletes sitting in. They should be more highly valued because of the specialized experience and knowledge they have, which is so valuable to our sport system. I think we all need to realize that in a perfect world we would have equal representation from every nation and every sport at the international level, but in reality we’re not even close. Equality is something that we need to strive for. We need to diminish the disparity between the representation from different nations and different sports. I hope to one day see the different Athletes’ Councils, the IOC Council, all the Olympic Committees come together in some way or begin to consistently engage in communication to learn and improve from each other. This would be an opportunity for the national athlete representatives to meet with the IOC Council and distinguish and open the lines of communication, which would drastically improve the sporting community.

A common feeling among some of the athletes is that if you are not within striking distance of an Olympic medal, you don’t matter as much as an athlete that is. With the focus of our sport system moving towards Olympic medal potential, the voice of an athlete struggling for more funding without ranking to back it up, realistically, is lost. And we can see that with regards to our new Own the Podium plan that has begun to be implemented here in Canada. I am not here to speak on my opinion of the program and whether you agree or disagree with the principle, it is an example of why many athletes are now coming running to their athlete representatives and demanding answers for why they’ve lost their federal funding.

I stand by my convictions when I say that our government is holding us back. The insufficient funding, coaching and facilities for a country of our wealth and size is unacceptable. We as a nation do not value sport in the way we should. The President of AthletesCAN Andrew Nisker said it perfectly. Sport is not just sport. It is education, it is crime prevention and it is healthcare. The power of sport is endless. How we perceive amateur sports in Canada needs to change. We need a whole culture shift that places emphasis on sport, not just medals and trophies. I think by educating the public on the remarkable role that sport has and can play in this country, our government might be more willing to make it a priority.

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If you want the entire thing it will be published in a few months with all the lecturers from the 2009 Olympic Reform Conference....

JARRY'S PHOTOSHOOT

2009-09-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

My friend Jarry is an absolutely incredible photographer and asked me to 'model' for him earlier this year. I jumped at the chance to work with him. Check him out at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/31660547@N02/ OR http://jarry85.deviantart.com/

Here are some of my fave pics from the day, which we shot right on Bloor St one awesome afternoon....

more to come....

Good Luck Ohenewa

2009-09-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to have met and become friends with one of the greatest women I have ever known, Ohenewa Akuffo. We have known each other for a few years now and I am still just as much in awe of her as I was the first day I met her. Ohenewa is a Canadian Olympic Wrestler, who I shared my first Olympic Games in Beijing with. Without her I wouldn't have been able to keep so positive and inspired. I can't thank her enough for that...

She sends out little email updates to all her supporters and loved ones and I wanted to share her last one with all of you...

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Hello Friends and Family,
I am preparing for another battle. I am heading off to Denmark today (Saturday September 19, 2009) to represent Canada again. Please keep me in your prayers as I am wrestling on Friday September 25, 2009. You can watch matches online and follow results at www.wwc2009.dk. Thank you for your continued support.

I am strong, I am powerful and I am blessed...
Ohenewa Akuffo

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I know it sounds pretty basic and simple, but it's anything but. She takes everything in her life, every obstacle, every challenge as a battle. She puts her whole heart into everything she does and is the definition of a fighting spirit. After finishing 5th at the Beijing Games, which is UNBELIEVABLE and I am beyond proud of her, she wanted more. Ohenewa was looking for a medal and nothing but would satisfy her. I think we all know what that feels like. It doesn't matter what place you get or what mark you receive, in or out of sport, when you set your mind to something and don't get it you're not going to be happy. I totally understand that and live through that almost every day of my life. Nothing is ever good enough, but this is not about me, this is about O. She recovered from knee surgery and put herself in the most incredible state of mind to keep going and push for the London Olympics. I hope she doesn't mind me broadcasting her age, but she is almost 30 years old and is in the best shape of her life. That last line of her email..."I am strong, I am powerful and I am blessed" really sums up her personality for me. She is a force to be reckoned with and I wish I could be more like her.

Good Luck in Denmark O you will be amazing!
much love

Remembering Dr. Gene Sutton

2009-09-18T13:51:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I drove up to Hamilton with my family to attend Dr. Gene Sutton's memorial. She was an incredible woman who dedicated so much of her life to sport in this country. I had heard of her for years and years when I was an athlete, but never met her. It was only until I retired and started working on the other side of sport did I finally get my chance to spend some time with her. From the moment we met, she took me under her wing. She was my mentor on the Gymnastics Canada Board and helped me see how I could put my passion to good use in my sport and country. It was very shocking to hear of her sudden passing a few months ago. I was so fortunate to have been in her company for the past year to learn and grow from all her experience and wisdom. I owe my path into Olympic Education to her. She inspired me to apply for the International Olympic Academy and follow in her incredible footsteps. I couldn't have been more honored. She believed in me and I will never forget that. Our sporting community will not be the same without Gene. She touched so many of our lives. Her memorial filled the Convention Center in Hamilton and was a true celebration of her life. I know we have to keep her memory and spirit alive with all we try to accomplish in Canadian sport. Thank you for everything Gene. You are in my thoughts and my heart always.

Athletes' Council

2009-09-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

When I got elected on to the Gymnastics Canada Board of Directors as the Athlete Representative, I had no idea what to expect. This was my first time on a Board and I was nervous, but really excited. I finally felt like this was my chance to start something, something bigger than I had imagined. It's a weird thing to feel so young when for so long in my sport I felt so old. I mean for the past few years I've been the 'mom' of the Rhythmic Gymnastics community...literally lol So walking into that first face to face meeting was terrifying. I felt like I was a child, who had no idea what she was doing. After one full day of meetings I gained my confidence and found my place in the boardroom. I did not want to be quiet (that is so not in my personality) so I made sure I spoke up. I really wanted to learn and be a part of what was going on. My fellow board members were so great and welcomed me with warmth and enthusiasm. I am very fortunate to be working among such highly experienced and intelligent people.

One of my first concerns was my actual role on the Board. What is expected from the athlete representative? More importantly, what do I want to do as the new rep? I wanted to make sure that I wasn't just a figurehead because the Board HAD to have an athlete rep. I wanted to make sure I actually used this position to do something. I have to admit once I saw how decisions were made and the very long and slow process it is I knew that I had to act fast.

My first real big proposal to the Board was the creation of a Gymnastics Canada Athletes' Council. It's not possible for me to know absolutely everything that is going on in all four disciplines (Men's Artistic, Women's Artistic, Trampoline and Rhythmic Gymnastics) and I honestly can't say I represent all of these athletes. An Athletes' Council would designate an athlete representative for each discipline that would speak with the athletes on a consistent basis and with me frequently. Therefore, each athlete would have a rep within their own sport to go to that would come to me where I can bring their issues to the Board level, where the decisions are made. It would strengthen communication between the disciplines and encourage athletes to speak up. I can't help our athletes if I don't know what their concerns are. I want to make the relationship between the NSO (National Sport Organization) and their athletes more positive and effective. Our athletes need to know that they can tell us what they like and don't like and what they're entitled to. Most athletes are so unaware of their rights and what is provided for them it's shocking.

At these past National Championships in Hamilton, Ontario I held an info session for all National team members across all disciplines. I wanted to introduce myself as their new rep and what my plans and goals are. I also gave them a crash course in everything that is out there for them, within Gymnastics Canada and organizations like AthletesCAN and the Canadian Olympic Committee. It was long and I talked for a good two hours straight, but it was an initial meeting. I'm hoping to have meetings at each Elite Canada and Nationals for every discipline every year. They will turn into brainstorming sessions for the athletes to meet with their rep and raise their voices.

Right now I am still pushing for an Athletes' Council to be put in place and included in the NSO policy. Everything that is worth it takes time and I am going to see this through. I will keep you all updated on the progress....

Commonwealth Games Canada

2009-09-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

This morning I went down to Fuel Advertising to shoot a little promo video for Commonwealth Games Canada (CGC). They are trying to attract some new sponsors and corporate attention to the organization. When they called me and asked if I would be willing to shoot some footage I jumped at the chance. The 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia were one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was such an unbelievable trip and I would do anything for CGC. Not only did I have a career personal best down there, but I found my motivation to keep going for the Olympics. Before then I wasn't sure if there was enough left in me to do it. I was coming off one of the biggest disappoints of my life, missing the 04 Games, and Melbourne was my first real test.

I didn't know what to expect heading down to my first Commonwealth Games, but from the second I stepped off the plane I knew it was going to be a life changing trip. I hate to call it the 'friendly' games because it's just as competitive as others, but the sportsmanship and comradery among the athletes is different. Everyone is supporting each other and cheering them on, even if they're not from their country. I felt the whole village behind me when I headed into my last day of the competition going for the World REcord. That's something that you don't usually get. The athletes were more open to meeting each other and I learned a lot from them. It was kind of like a 'mentoring' session for me you could say. The Commonwealth Games lands just in the middle of the cycle, not too far from the Olympics to not take it seriously, but far enough that you're still learning and improving upon your own potential. These Games are the perfect opportunity to get out there in front of tens of thousands screaming fans and face that kind of pressure. It's a great stepping stone to Pan Ams and the Olympics. I will never forget Melbourne. I was so inspired when I left that I had the best two competitive years of my life after that. I thank everyone involved with those Games, the athletes, the coaches the Mission Staff and volunteers. They made it all it could be for all of us and we are so grateful.

So when I sat down in front of the camera, fully decked in my HBC 06 Commonwealth Gear, I had the biggest grin on my face. I believe that as athletes we can help improve the current financial support we receive from this country. We can't always rely on others to do this for us. I think that when corporations hear a genuine statement directly from an athlete, they feel more of a personal connection. When it comes from the heart how could they say no right? :)

Hopefully, I can help bring in some more support for Commonwealth Games Canada and give more of our athletes a chance to have the opportunity to represent our country at these incredible Games.

Some things never change....

2009-09-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

I've never felt better than I do today
I finally see what everyone has wanted me to see for so long
I finally get it

Things may seem like they're different but they never really are
Deep down you're still the same
How is it possible that for one moment you could think that you were that happy?

Today you opened my eyes and I finally took a good look at what I saw
It all sounded so familiar
I'd heard those words before
And to think I thought we could be back there again

I'm laughing now
Some things never change

Thank you for letting me go

A Little Starbucks Perspective

2009-09-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

For the past 10 days I have been going through serious roommate withdrawal. My roomie Niki jetted off to Europe for a well deserved and needed vacation (she works like a crazy person), but left me home all alone! I'm usually the one that is hardly there and is always leaving for something, but this is the first time it's completely the opposite and I'm so not a fan. Niki would probably be laughing at this right now, but it's true!

So I was procrastinating earlier and instead of doing something productive I decided to flip through some old pictures. I came across this one above and it reminded me of Niki so much. She is usually a pretty camera happy girl and taking pictures of starbucks cups sounds just like her. So this wasn't surprising when I came across it. Then I actually read the quote and loved it! Who knew Starbucks had some real insight? For those of you who can't read the small print it says:

"Failure's hard, but success is far more dangerous. If you're successful at the wrong thing, the mix of praise and money and opportunity can lock you in forever."

I never thought about success in that way before and it really made sense to me. People go their whole lives doing things just because they're good at them, but are they really happy? For a long time I thought a certain profession and a certain salary would make me happy and provide a certain security that I thought I would need for the future. That couldn't be further from where I am in my life now. I find that I'm nowhere near as materialistic as I was when I was younger and everything I do, I do because I love it. Maybe that will lead me to my dream car or multiple houses all over the world (I can dream ok), but maybe it won't and I'm ok with that. To wake up and want to go to work every day is better than any salary. To have a passion that will ultimately make a difference in the lives of others means more to me than anything money can buy. I would rather fail at trying to do something I am so proud to be a part of than succeed at something I find meaningless and empty.

Thanks for this Niki!
COME HOME TO ME SOON I MISS YOU
much love
xo

Orlando Has Found Her Niche Here

2009-09-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

By ALISON KORN

http://www.torontosun.com/sports/columnists/alison_korn/2009/05/29/9607481-sun.html

The athlete face of Toronto's bid for the 2015 Pan Am Games is pretty, yes, but what's more impressive about rhythmic gymnast Alexandra Orlando is the important new career she's carving out for herself.

Last summer, Orlando, 22, clinched the top spot in a list of top 50 sexiest female athletes competing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. After placing 18th in Beijing, she returned home for her third year of political science at the University of Toronto. With longtime injuries to tend to, Orlando was all too aware that stopping gymnastics training could make for a difficult transition this year.

But to her surprise and relief, Orlando's post-competitive life so far has been, as she put it, "incredible."

"I always knew this was going to be a really hard year of no training," Orlando said. "I loved what I was doing so much, and I was really worried that I wouldn't be able to find things that I loved to fill that void. I really didn't think I would feel this fulfilled and happy after stopping."

Orlando has found a new purpose in sport beyond pushing her body on the gymnastics mat -- a passion for athlete advocacy. At last October's AthletesCan forum, the yearly gathering of national team athlete representatives, Orlando was one of four athletes elected to its board for three years. In June, she's going to the International Olympic Academy in Greece for two weeks. And she's the athlete rep on the 2015 Pan Am bid committee, travelling to Acapulco last November to do the initial bid presentation. She'll also go to Mexico this November for the final bid presentation.

"It has definitely been one of my favourite experiences as an athlete," Orlando said of the bid work. "I just want to make sure that athletes are represented, we're being thought of, and we're making sure the Games are an athlete-centered Games."

Orlando won a record six gold medals at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia, and three gold at the 2007 Pan Am Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she was named Canadian flag bearer for the closing ceremony. In a sport dominated by Eastern Europeans, Orlando was the only rhythmic gymnast from North or South America to qualify for Beijing.

These days, her goals are to set up an athlete council for Gymnastics Canada and strengthen communication between athlete reps from different countries and those on the IOC athlete council. The surprise nomination and election by her peers at the AthletesCan forum sparked her journey down this new path -- one she can't see herself abandoning to go back to the athlete life.

"I realize I had blinders on when I was training and had no idea what was going on in other sports," said Orlando. "I just got so pumped up and motivated and I came home [from the forum] and said, 'This is what I want to do, and really take it seriously.' I think this is an area I'm going to stay in for a while."

ALISON_KORN@HOTMAIL.COM

With A Little Help From My Friends...

2009-09-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

After a year of completely neglecting my blog, I think I'm finally ready to start getting back into it again. I have to owe it to Mr. Jason Sealy for giving me a little push in the right direction and I want to thank him for it. I forgot how much I used to love writing. I stopped earlier this year when I was going through a lot of changes in my life that I just didn't understand. For the first time in a long time I was a little lost. The last year before the Olympics I was in so much pain, but I couldn't stop training. I had been working my whole life for that moment and no injury was ever going to stop me from competing. I had to keep pushing my body past its limits, while still being cautious. For me those two things completely contradict each other. Looking back on it now I don't know how I did it. In the end, I was so proud of myself for getting through it in one piece. When I got home I pretty much went from being in the best shape of my life to not being able to do anything active for a long time. It was a hard transition for me and I had my moments where I didn't take it very well. I am so fortunate to have such amazing people in my life to help me through those times. My family was and always is incredible. They put up with me no matter what and I am so grateful. My friends always know how to keep me sane and stop me from stressing. Somehow I'm going to have to find some way to repay all of them.

So once I came to peace with leaving my old life behind and stepping into a new one, I've never looked back. This past year has been a blur for me. I was busier than I ever was as a gymnast and am happier than I have been in a long time. I decided to dedicate this blog to my new life, not as an athlete, but just as me.

Welcome To My Crazy Life...

New Years Resolution -> Don't be so RECKLESS with your body...

2009-01-23T14:22:00.000-08:00

So I would love to say that I took my own advice and tried to take it easy on my body this year....but that just wouldn't be me. Ever since I was a little girl I would always throw myself into things 250%, especially anything physical. I hated not being good at something and would push and push and push myself to get better with literally no fear. And I mean that. I mean no fear as in no fear of getting hurt or not being able to do something. My parents still tell me stories about how I used to throw myself down the ski hill when I was little or never ever hold myself back on the mat or in the gym. I apparently terrified my mom. Can you imagine a mother watching her kid be so competitive and fearless? I'm pretty sure it would terrify me actually. I guess it's just part of my charm as my best friend put it yesterday. I was telling her last night exactly what I've done to myself now and she wasn't even surprised. When I hurt myself it's all or nothing. It's either the worst case scenario or the best...no middle ground. So this time was no different...

I was up north having a very fun weekend with twelve lovely ladies and I really wanted to try some skiing. I had the time of my life snowboarding the week before so I really wanted to ski. Unfortunately, skiing definitely didn't like me. It was the most embarrassing and painful experience of my life! Not only was I completely hopeless at it, but had the most brutal falls. I mean those types of falls where your hat and goggles and poles go flying....your body gets thrown down the hill....skis pop off...it was a disaster. But I have to say that even though it was painful and frustrating, I kept going. I was actually getting the hang of it and managed to make it down a blue diamond (whatever that means) without falling once! So we decided to do one last run to finish off the day and that's when I think my luck really turned on me...

To make a very long and painful story short...I caught a very bad icy edge fell very very hard as I was going ridiculously fast (too fast) and my skis didn't pop off. So my body went tumbling one way and my skis (still on) got caught and just twisted my right knee. I heard that horrible snapping sound when you know you just tore a ligament. Even before I fell I knew it was bad. My whole leg was on fire and I wasn't even going to try and move it. So paramedics had to come and snowmobile me down to the bottom, which was the most embarrassing thing ever, and we had to immediately get me to a hospital. I ended up on crutches and a lot of painkillers. It's the first time I was ever on crutches and I hate them. They make you feel like you are absolutely helpless. I couldn't even get a glass of water for myself and bring it to where I was resting. It was brutal. I'm off them now but have a very long recovery to go...but I know I can handle it....serves me right for trying to have a little fun with my newfound freedom...

Moral of the story... NO TRAINING = TROUBLE :)

Happy New Years!!!

2009-01-05T16:52:00.001-08:00

I still can't believe 2008 is over and it's actually 2009! HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYBODY!

It's definitely that time of year where you reflect on the past and look ahead to the future and figure out what you really want in your life. That's what I love about resolutions. They really show you exactly where you are and what kind of person you've become and want to be....

My one very big new years resolution is to not care so much about what others think about me and stay as far away from drama as I possibly can....

I know it might sound like a weird resolution, but I constantly find myself in situations that people wouldn't even believe. I am put in the middle of friends, the middle of rumors (horrible ones at times) and the middle of things I definitely don't want any part of. I really just want this year to be DRAMA FREE! That is a big thing to hope for, but I'm going to try my very best to have a fresh start. I want to pull away from those who bring me down and surround myself with the real people who care about me. Sometimes I think when I put all my energy into making everyone else around me happy or not mad at me, it ends up backfiring. My best friends like to tell me I'm too nice in situations and walk right into trouble. Don't get me wrong, for those of you who know me I know I am extremely confident, independent and confrontational BUT what I think they mean is that I really don't want to start any trouble at all. The problem has and always will be that I won't back down to anyone who is talking behind my back and I will defend myself and my friends no matter what. You can see how that might cause some issues....

What I don't understand is that I'm 21, in my fourth year at University, and I still feel like I'm back in high school sometimes. It is just such a waste of time for everyone involved. It's crazy how rumors can get so out of hand and blown out of proportion that people you thought you could trust and who were your friends actually believe it. I just found out that that is exactly what's been going on with a few people I know back in Toronto recently. I was pretty upset about it, but I woke up today and realized that there's nothing else I can do. I know what I know and I can sleep at night knowing that I've been honest with everyone, but I can't change everyone's mind or opinion. I came to terms with the fact that people are going to judge me on preconceived assumptions and false accusations, but that happens all the time and I have to let it roll off my back. I've realized that life is never going to be perfect and not everyone is going to like me or my actions, but that's life. If you live every day worrying about what is making other people happy you won't be happy and I definitely want to be happy. I am putting anything negative from the last year behind me and moving forward into this new year and can't even imagine where I'm going to end up.

What's your new years resolution?

SNOWBOARDING

2009-01-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time before I had extreme responsibilities to not get injured in some reckless way I used to ski! I wish I had a picture of my sister and I back then because we were absolutely hilarious. The last time I was out on the slopes was about 12 years ago. My family used to go up north a lot and my dad, sister and I loved it. My mom hated being cold (still does) and was more than happy to sit in the chalet by the fireplace all day while we were flying down the hills. One of the things I had to give up for gymnastics was skiing. At the time I was more than happy to because I knew I couldn't risk getting hurt, but for the first time in my life I could be out there again. I've been talking and talking and talking about getting back into it for awhile now, but didn't really know were to start. Enter Brianna :)

Brianna is one of my best friends from high school, who has always been there for me. She is one of those friends that you can go to with anything and she would never judge you. I've leaned on her shoulders many times and vented about training, family, boys...you name it. We rarely get to see each other now that we're at different Universities, but over winter holidays she just called me up and told me to get myself up to her cabin. It was a pretty spontaneous decision and I literally drove up to Collingwood for not even 24 hours to get a crash course in...you guessed it...SNOWBOARDING!!! Her family took me in and gave me all the equipment necessary so I didn't kill myself (well I think they were keeping their fingers crossed) and we were off!

Once I was actually at the top of the hill, which was let me tell you the funniest experience of my life getting there, I found out it was even more difficult to stand up once I was strapped in. For all of you who have never snowboarded before, trying to walk with one boot strapped in and your foot awkwardly turned in while you're trying to slide/walk to the lift is the most hilarious experience EVER. I'm laughing thinking about how ridiculous I must've looked. Anyways, I somehow got that whole part down and once I was actually up and standing I turned to what just felt natural and took off down the hill. Brianna had given me some tips before I actually took off, but do you think I actually listened to her? Let's just say that I took some very hard falls, but I LOVE the speed and with Brianna helping me out and figuring out why I was falling I was actually snowboarding! I have never felt anything like that before in my life. I can't even describe it. Flying down that hill gave me this insane adrenaline that coursed through me. It was unbelievable and I can honestly say I've fallen in love. I haven't been that happy like that since over a year ago and I owe it all to Brianna and her amazingly generous family!!! What do you think? My next sport maybe?

A New Life

2008-12-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

After the Olympics, I honestly didn't think I would ever use my blog again. I basically made it only to write about my prep for Beijing and to let my friends and family know where I was and what I was going through. When I officially retired I didn't really think there was any point to have it anymore. I still hate saying I retired...I don't think I'm ready to be ok with the idea that I might never compete ever again. I know that I needed to take this year for myself and I would never regret or doubt that decision. It was very clear that my body and mind needed a break from the sport. The injuries alone from the last year and a half plus the pressure I was putting on myself definitely took its toll. It's just weird to say that I retired at 21. I would by lying if I said I didn't miss it. Deep down I loved to train, even when it was taking 40 hours out of my week. There were always good and bad weeks, but it felt so good to be doing something that I loved and that I was good at. It sounds horrible to say that, but it's hard to explain. I guess knowing that you have this crazy confidence when you're in one place and being one person is exhilarating. It's comfortable...it's so safe. Now that I don't spend hours and hours in the gym, I'm thrown into this world where I have to find that feeling somewhere else. It's kind of like finding myself again.

The Toronto Star recently put out this article below and I think it sums up exactly where I am right now...

http://www.thestar.com/News/article/561349

I can't wait to see where I'm going to end up this year....I have a feeling 2009 is going to be a good one....

OPENING CEREMONIES

2008-08-08T21:51:00.001-07:00

I have to give a little shout out to SCOTT in the Canadian clinic here at the 08 Beijing Games!!!!

Here's that blog I promised you :)

Ever since I was a little girl my favorite part of every Olympics was getting to watch the Opening Ceremonies. I would always wake up or stay up to watch the entire thing live no matter what. There's just something about it that's so hard to describe. It's a celebration of years of hard work, dedication, passion and commitment. Honestly, it's what dreams are made of. I know that sounds cheesy, but it's true. Thousands of the best athletes from around the world in one place, at one time....pretty incredible. The feeling in the village before it all started was electrifying. Everyone was so pumped up, so ready to go and just so excited. I don't think I have ever looked forward to something more in my life. This time I wasn't sitting at home watching from my couch, but stepping out onto that track in front of millions of people! I can't even tell you how many times I've watched Canada march into the stadium and imagined myself there one day. It was hard to believe that I was actually going to be one of them. As I put on our Opening Ceremonies outfit, I glanced at myself in the mirror and have never been more proud to be Canadian.

Now that it's over it felt like it went by so fast, but in the moment it felt like it would never end. We all got ushered on to these huge buses that took us to the Gymnastics facility where all the countries were filing in to the arena one by one. It was a really long, hot process, but still fun to wait with the whole team. I was so anxious for it to get started I couldn't keep still. I don't think I actually sat down to wait once. I was taking pictures and finding friends from other sports to keep me company. It was kind of cool that we were number 62 to march out this time because Canada in Mandarin characters is extremely different from alphabetical order in english. I thought that was really interesting. It definitely felt like it was hours from when we left the arena until we entered the stadium for the big show. All the countries had to walk outside towards the eggs nest and the sights and sounds coming from the stadium were out of this world. The fireworks display alone was unbelievable. Even though we didn't get to see much of what was going on inside, I wouldn't change the experience for anything. I nearly broke into tears as we were in the tunnel about two minutes away from finally breaking out on to the track and Team Canada started to sing the national anthem. I had pushed my way to the front of the line right behind our flag bearer and could see the entire team behind me singing. There really aren't enough words to describe it.

The actual walk in was unreal. The entire crowd was lit up with cameras. You could see clusters of Canadian cheering sections and our flags waving from the stands. There were just so many people everywhere you turned overjoyed in the moment. It was really beautiful. For a little while it felt like the world was finally at peace. Here we were in China during one of the most political Olympics in the history of the Games and millions of people were coming together in harmony to celebrate sport. It wasn't about medals or performance or even your own country. It was something bigger than all of that. I didn't want it to end. If it was up to me I would've circled that track forever. Once we were all ushered into the center of the stadium, all the countries were mixing together and anxiously waiting to see the Olympic Torch to be lit. That had to be my favorite moment of the night. The Games were officially beginning now. I remember standing there looking up at the flame and just thinking, here we go! It's exciting, nerve racking and surreal.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN

WELCOME TO BEIJING

2008-08-08T18:57:00.001-07:00

I am finally here!!!! After all the years of working and waiting for this moment, it's actually happening. It is the craziest thing. I feel like I'm living in a dream right now. Every morning when I look out my 7th floor window over looking the heart of the Olympic Village, I want to pinch myself to make sure I'm actually awake. Am I really here?! I'll be walking to get breakfast or hanging out in the athletes lounge and I'll just have a moment where I realize all over again that I am at the Olympics! It is definitely not a dream.

When we arrived in Beijing and walked out of the airport we were hit hard with the hot, humid air. The smog wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, but I was more surprised with the temperature. It was boiling! I don't think I will ever complain about the air conditioning being too high in my house ever again. I seriously have a new found appreciation for it. Before we became too uncomfortable in the humidity we were whisked away in a private car to the Olympic Village, where from there the heat was a distant memory. It was the most surreal feeling driving in the Olympic lane through Beijing passing all the new facilities, the stadium and Olympic flags everywhere. When we pulled up to the Village, the COC mission staff were there to get us to our rooms as easily and quickly as possible. I recognize so many of them from the Pan American and Commonwealth Games. It's so great to see familiar faces and share this excitement with so many amazing people. It really is something special.

I could go on and on and on about the Olympic Village and it still wouldn't do it justice. I can hardly find words to explain it. It's basically a mini city in the heart of Beijing. We all live in condo's that have gardens, parks and ponds separating them. There is never nothing to do. The athletes lounge is the most relaxing place in the Canadian section where we can all just go and chill. You meet new people every day and everyone is so friendly. I already signed up for tickets to go watch water polo, swimming and gymnastics. I'm trying to do as much as I can to soak up this amazing experience. It's hard for me to sometimes just go back and sit in my room because I want to be doing something every minute of every day! I don't want to waste any time here, this is what I've been waiting for my whole life. Tomorrow I think some of us are going to have a little Dance Dance Revolution competition in the international athletes building. It's a great way to just unwind and relax after a long day of training or a stressful competition day. So far the village has more than lived up to my expectations. I'm sorry I can't explain it better. When I upload my pictures I will definitely be posting them for all of you to see first hand. Come to think about it I'm going to go and explore a little bit. The village is so huge I have hardly seen half of it! Bye for now :)

4 Bronze now BEIJING...

2008-08-08T10:39:00.001-07:00

The competition in Bulgaria couldn't have been a better preparation for me. Not only did I end up walking away with four bronze medals, but also with stronger confidence in myself and what I was capable of. I was a little hesitant competing on my ankle that has been injured since April, but once I walked off my first routine I knew there was nothing to worry about. My adrenaline, focus and determination washed away the pain those few days and I felt better out on the carpet than I had in a long time. I didn't think twice about the injury and was able to give it my all, not holding anything back. It was the perfect experience to have before heading to the Olympics. I feel so ready to go, which is not always the case before a competition. Every athlete knows when they're not in the best possible shape or didn't have the preparation they needed to have the competition of a lifetime. Throughout my whole career in this sport I have always known myself and how to read what my body was telling me. I definitely know that when I'm not 150% confident I can't perform to the best of my abilities. With confidence comes everything else. I'm sharper, more expressive and powerful. It is a huge difference when I let my nerves get to me. My main goal for the Olympics is to go out there, give it my all and just have fun doing what I love. I don't want to be nervous or hold back anything. This is my moment and I'm going to do everything I can to make it unforgettable.

My Practice Run...

2008-07-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

I was boarding a plane on monday from Toronto to Vienna and realized that the next time I would be taking off I would be heading to China. This week was my last competition before the Olympics and as I sat on that eight hour flight over to Europe I couldn't get that out of my head. Since my injury in April I have been out of the competitive scene until now and knew how important this competition would be for me. It wasn't just another chance for me to be out on that carpet, but a chance to get my confidence up. It was my Olympic practice run. I have been working so hard these past couple of months to be ready for the Games and unfortunately with my ankle I couldn't be competing all this time for practice. So when I arrived here in Varna, Bulgaria I was anxious to get out there in front of the crowd. We did run into a few surprises once we were here though. We ended up making it to the hotel Tuesday night after a very long day and a half of traveling. I flew over with my coach, Mimi, and my teammate, Demi, and we were all exhausted and just wanted to sleep. My coach received the competition schedule right when we walked in and thought there was some sort of mistake. Apparently, the schedule had been changed and instead of competing friday and saturday we would be starting on thursday! We had to train the next day only once coming off 30 hours of traveling and a very jet lagged sleep before we competed. This was definitely not the best news to get the second we got here. Honestly, when things like that happen you just have to roll with it. There was obviously nothing we could do and no sense getting upset about it. Well, I can say that now, but at the time I was pretty upset. I wanted a better preparation than that. The day after any long flights are usually a write off. Your head is not all there, your legs are tired and don't even get me started on jumping. I basically feel like I can't get two feet off the ground, BUT I have to say that when you put something in your head you can do anything. After I was initially a little disappointed about the whole situation I knew I had to have a good practice on wednesday to feel ready to go on thursday. So I really focused all my energy on training well. I'm not going to say it was easy because it wasn't. I didn't feel that great, but I pulled it together and even though we were up at 6:30am running on only a few hours of sleep it went better than expected. My energy was there, which was a nice surprise. I guess my two training camps in Spain and Toronto have really helped get me into shape. The biggest challenge of the day was not falling asleep in the afternoon so I could get a full eight hours at night before the competition. That was the hardest part of the trip. I don't know how we did it, but I think it was all that european coffee in the morning because we managed to make it through the day without fading. So it's the day of my first real competition since April and I am excited and nervous. Wish me luck, I'll let you know how it goes!

CHATELAINE!

2008-07-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

A year ago I would've never believed you if you told me I was going to be on the cover of a magazine. Well, as it would happen, this month I'm on the cover of CHATELAINE!!!! I cannot even begin to tell you how crazy that is to me. At first I thought it was pretty cool, but I've done photo shoots and stuff before so I wasn't that excited. Then I got flown out to Montreal for a day for the shoot and met my long time idol Perdita Felicien and the funniest fencer in the world Sherraine Schalm. We had the most amazing day. I don't think I've ever laughed so much in my life. The photographer was definitely starting to lose his patience with us by the end of the day. The best was when he told us to look sexy and we all put on the goofiest faces ever. That was priceless. All three of us had to wear white and got to try on so many designer duds. We were all in heaven. I definitely wore the Prada shoes even though our feet were not in the shot at all. It was probably the coolest thing I've ever gotten to do through my sport and it was in support of all female Canadian athletes. It really couldn't have gotten any better.

where has this month gone?

2008-07-24T02:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the last time I wrote was two weeks ago. I have that whole eat, sleep, breathe gymnastics mentality going right now and somewhere along the way I totally neglected my blog. I can honestly say that nothing that exciting has been happening, so you haven't missed anything important. The day after I got back from Spain I started my training camp in Toronto and it was just as intense as I imagined it would be. The only really great part was I had two of my teammates with me, Ali and Demi. Even though we were in the gym every day the time seemed to fly by while they were with me. It's such a different atmosphere training with friends than by yourself. We have all seen each other at our best and worst and no matter what are there for each other. The second I was getting frustrated in the gym, all I had to do was see a huge smile from Demi or a comforting look from Ali and I would instantly feel better. They can read me so well after basically living with each other 24/7 all over the world for weeks at a time. They know my moods and exactly what I'm thinking without even talking to me. They gave me a chance to really enjoy my last training camp in Toronto and not let the pressure get to me. I haven't trained so well and so consistently in the past year than I did these past few weeks. It made me realize just how much I'm going to miss them after this crazy journey is over. After the Olympics I have decided to take the year off so last week was maybe the last time Demi, Ali and I will ever train together. It's really sad to even think about. I know that I will always remember this summer before the Olympics and will always remember the three of us. Thanks for the never ending love and support girls! When I need some extra motivation I know exactly who to come to....

HBC RUN FOR CANADA

2008-07-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

I am so happy I didn't miss the event this year. Even though I was a bit jet lagged from my trip the day before, I wouldn't have missed it for anything. The HBC Run for Canada is on July 1st and it's basically a huge fundraiser for us Canadian amateur athletes. Anyone can come and participate in a 10k run, a 1k kids run and/or a 3k jog/walk down by the lake shore. All the proceeds go to supporting the athletes and this year they raised about $2 million dollars! I don't think I've seen a bigger turnout of supporters and there were a lot of Olympic bound athletes in these very cool personalized shirts helping out all day. I think my favorite part was watching the little kids do their 1k run and giving them their medals afterwards. The competitiveness definitely comes out and there were a few tears shed of course, but it's adorable and I love it.

I had to be up at around 5:45am to get down by the water for 7am, but it was worth it. The day always flies by and it was a lot of fun. It was so great to see so many athletes I hadn't seen in over a year! I was catching up with people that I was at Pan Ams with last July and meeting new athletes from the GTA. We were sharing stories, joking around and supporting all the runners. I find it so funny that none of the athletes run the 10k, but there's really no need to risk injury this year of all years. We just always laugh about it because there are some pretty intense hardcore runners that show up to the event and could probably outrun and outlast us all!

Anyways, I was asked at the end of the day to say a little thank you on behalf of all the athletes and I was very honored to do so. Of course I was pretty nervous to get up in front of the thousands of people that showed up for the day, but it went really well. I don't know why I stress so much before I speak because when I actually get up there you can't shut me up. Funny huh?

My good friend, Ohenewa Akuffo, who just happens to be Canadian Wrestling Champion and Olympic bound as well spent the whole day with me (check us out in my pic). I hadn't seen her since I left for Spain and it was so great to have a little fun outside the gym or the clinic. Thanks for making the Run that much better! See you at the clinic :)

For next year anyone interested in the Run for Canada check out www.hbc.com and come support your athletes!!!! THANKS HBC!

Back Home

2008-07-06T06:53:00.000-07:00

I have to say I was a little sad to leave Marbella last week. We woke up at 4am in the pitch black morning to catch our flight to Paris. There were still tons of people on the streets coming home from their night out and the warm breeze coming off the water made me want to just sit on the beach and watch the sunrise. When we took off it was starting to get light out and there were absolutely no clouds in the sky so I said goodbye to Spain for the last time properly.

So after a long and delayed flight from Paris we got back to Toronto last sunday afternoon and I don't think I even smiled until I came around the corner through customs and saw my mom waiting for me. That's my favorite part of any trip. Coming back from wherever you were and seeing your family or friends standing there because they missed you. It was the perfect homecoming. I noticed her immediately. My mom is a pretty cool lady. She has this awesome Victoria Beckham inspired hairstyle and an everyday killer orange purse (which I absolutely love and want to steal). Let's just say she's pretty noticeable. I hope I get that from her someday.

Anyways, I don't think I've ever talked so much in my life from the airport to our house. I got so excited to see her and I wanted to tell her everything about my trip. I think it hit me that it's July and I leave for Beijing in a month!!!! I have one more little trip and then the next time I pack my bags it's for the Olympics! That is so CRAZY!!! It could be also that after my training camp in Spain I feel like I've improved so much and am really ready to compete. I left all my insecurities and doubts over in Spain that first week and I'm feeling good. I've got my confidence up and am sooo ready to get our there and compete. A few days ago I checked my email and I had one from a good friend of mine Nazmi from Australia who will also be in Beijing with me for Rhythmic. It was one line, "getting excited?". It put the biggest smile on my face. I have never been so excited in my life....nothing could describe it. 30 days to go.....

feeling the pressure...

2008-06-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

On the way to the gym this morning, I really opened up to Mimi about some of the pressure I had been feeling lately. Believe me, I am not the type of person that usually talks like this. I think I´m a pretty private person, except with my close friends, and usually keep a lot to myself. My mom is always telling me it´s not good to keep it all inside, but I like to think I can handle everything on my own. That´s just my type of personality I guess. I don´t want to be a burden on other people or have to rely on others so I come off as having this crazy tough as nails persona, especially with my coach. Mimi is constantly telling me to tell her when I´m in too much pain, etc. etc. but I like to think I am invincible. I think most of the time it works in my favour, but there are times when I need to ask for help and I don´t. So here I was reaching out to my coach for some advice. We had an amazing conversation and I was able to get a lot off my chest that had been on my mind for awhile now.

Basically, now that my injury is practically healed and I´m back in the gym with full force I´ve realized that the Canadian and International gymnastics community hasn´t seen me since early April. That is a long time to be off the scene and I started feeling worried that people were doubting my ability to come back from it. I have the most incredible support system ever, but I still had this feeling that there were people out there concerned that I wouldn´t be able to compete well at the Olympics. Honestly, I never doubted for a second that I would be back even stronger for August. Yes it hasn´t been easy, but I´ve never back downed from any challenge that was thrown at me. My coach reassured me that there will always be people who try and put you down or worry that even though you had come through for them before you might not be able to do it this time. It´s sad to me to think that those people are out there, but in the end I know what I have to do and what I´m capable of. I can´t wait to get out there and prove all of them wrong. I think I have an edge walking into the Olympics with being out of the competitive loop these past couple of weeks. No one will know what to expect and I am expecting to blow them all away. Mimi really helped me get rid of all those negative feelings and extra pressure I was putting on myself. She reminded me that it was my first Olympics ever and that will be extremely nerve racking, no matter how physically prepared I am. Whatever happens it will happen for a reason, but she is behind me all the way.

Thanks for everything Mimi!

Where did the time go?

2008-06-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

I was talking with my coach, Mimi, yesterday and we were saying how fast these past two weeks have gone by. We were in the car on the way back from the gym and she started talking about packing and I was just like what? The idea of packing everything up again and getting ready to leave hadn´t even crossed my mind. I reassured her that we had so much time left before our flight on monday. So we got home and I just had a feeling to look at my tickets and wouldn´t you know our flight was on sunday not monday!!!! We totally would´ve missed our flight home if I hadn´t checked it! Both of us were laughing so hard at this because it has actually happened to us before. I am sooo relieved we got it all sorted out, but now I only have two days left here in Marbella. I´m a little sad, but happy too. I wish there was more time to do things I wanted to do...aka shopping....but I was here to train and that´s exactly what I did.

It was a really hard trip for me, but pushing through it I´ve come out so much stronger and better prepared for the next couple of weeks heading to Beijing. Mimi totally whipped me into shape, but I needed it badly. I keep saying it, but she is the only coach that can get the best out of me. No matter what, I trust her completely and know that she is going to do everything in her power to have me ready for my first Olympics. We have waited such a long time for this and I know it´s going to be the performance of my lifetime.

Ok I really need to go buy some souvenirs to give to everyone back home....ciao!

Hola!

2008-06-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

So it's day 4 of my training camp in Spain. I woke up this morning and have never been so sore in my life. I really wish I was exaggerating. I had a pretty restless night of tossing and turning and when I woke up I tried to sit up and couldn't. I had to just laugh because it took me about twenty minutes to try and find some way to get out of bed in the least possible amount of pain. Sore doesn't even begin to describe it. It was one of those mornings where you debate with yourself if you really have to get out of bed at all. I felt like not moving one inch all day, but when I heard my coach putting the coffee on I snapped back to reality. I had to leave for training in half an hour so there was really nothing else to think about. I had breakfast on the patio and honestly I give the sun total credit for taking away any pain I had. I couldn't resist taking a picture and showing you the breathtaking view from this morning. It was hard to leave it, but I'm thinking I'm having my coffee out on the patio every morning from now on.

Besides the soreness, training has been going really well out here. I'm so happy to be back with my coach Mimi. She just knows me so well as a person and an athlete and we're definitely getting the best out of each other. The days are long and hard, but nothing I'm not ready for. I literally just got back from training so I think I'm going to jump into an ice bath and hopefully tomorrow I'll have a more pain free wake up call.

Toronto Sun Article

2008-06-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Rob Longley from the Toronto Sun just wrote up a great article on me so you can check it out at:

http://www.torontosun.com/Sports/OtherSports/2008/06/16/5889446-sun.html

Thank for giving my sport such great exposure Rob!

Leaving for Spain...

2008-06-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

I'm flying out to Spain today to see my coach and I'm really excited. My coach, Mimi, has been living out in Europe since October and it's been a huge life change for me. For the past ten years I have worked with my coach every single day here in Toronto. I grew up and matured as a gymnast with her watching by my side. So when she had to take a contract out in Spain for an amazing coaching position I obviously supported her. It is a difficult life for coaches in Rhythmic Gymnastics here in Canada and she had to do what was right for her and her family. Long story short, she moved out there and I was faced with this huge decision. Should I move to Spain to be with her? I know it sounds like a no brainer, but it took me a really long time to decide. There were so many factors that went into it for me, it was far from easy. To move to Spain sounds so glamorous and fun, but I had to remember about everything I would be giving up if I left. I had my family, friends, university education....my whole life. Could I really leave it all behind?

In the end, I couldn't leave Toronto and we came up with a plan to make sure my preparation for Beijing didn't suffer. Basically, I fly back and forth so I can train with Mimi, but still be in school back home and not lose who I am and my life back in Canada. I love it out in Spain and it's always such an amazing experience for me as a gymnast and a person, but the first time I came back home I realized Mimi wasn't with me and on monday I would be starting up with a new coach for the first time in my career. It was pretty nerve racking I'm not going to lie. When you've worked with one person for so long, it's a scary feeling to not know what to expect when you head to the gym. I have to say though that it's been the best and most beneficial thing for me at this time in my life. So many coaches here in Ontario come to my trainings and want to help me with my preparation. Now I always have fresh eyes on me at practice in Toronto giving me new feedback and ideas and I push myself even harder in Spain when I know I only have limited time with Mimi. I have become so much more independent and able to take criticism from all different coaches and use it to my advantage. It feels like I have the whole Canadian gymnastics community trying to get me in the best shape possible for the Games, which is a pretty cool feeling to have.

So I'm going to be boarding a plane in a few hours and am really looking forward to the next two weeks with Mimi. I know it's going to be hard, I know it's probably going to be the hardest training camp of my life, but I still can't wait for it. I'm so ready to get the best out of me and on those bad days I'll just keep Beijing in my head and battle through....

Feeling good

2008-06-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

I can't even tell you how good it feels to be back in the gym. I never thought I would ever say I missed training, but I did. I can't describe to you how frustrating it is to sit at home, knowing that all you can do for yourself is stay off your feet. I am definitely not used to having time to just lie around the house, but that's exactly what I had to do with my injury. Knowing that all my competitors were working themselves like crazy, while I was doing nothing was the hardest thing for me. I felt completely helpless, it was awful. Everyone was telling me to just stay calm, wait it out, rest, ice and elevate, but that's a lot easier said then done. The second my ankle started feeling better I wanted to go back to the gym and see what I could do, but my doctor and I both knew that I would push it too hard so I had to keep waiting. We wanted to make absolute sure the ligaments were strong enough to handle what I was going to do to them lol

So after a very long month of complete stir craziness I was back at training two weeks ago and I've never felt so good. It's a hard road to get back into shape after taking so much time off, but when is anything easy? I'm more motivated, more energetic and more driven then I was before my injury and am feeling like my old self again which always puts a smile on my face. It was so tough for me to face an injury so close to the Games and I let it get me down a few times, but looking back on it now I am so fortunate it happened when it did. There was still enough time to get ready for Beijing and maybe my body was giving me a sign that it really needed a break. Not the best way to tell me, but everything happens for a reason.

After two weeks of being more careful then I would like in the gym, I'm totally confident in my abilities and what my ankle can handle now. I feel good and am running the events I'll be competing with in August now. I think my stamina is the hardest thing to get back, but I know that comes with time. It's always the worst to build up for me, but I keep telling myself that if it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger. It's just being able to push through that initial pain and fatigue...if you can get through that in one piece you're good to go. Some days I've wanted to tell my coach that I just couldn't do it anymore, but I never do and I can always find the energy you never thought was in you to keep going. So no matter how bad you think it is, it feels so much better to get past it then let it get to you. I'm always so disappointed afterwards when I'm easier on myself or don't put my all into practice. So yeah you've saved some energy, but did you get better? Probably not. My coach always used to tell me if you show up not giving 150% in the gym then it's not even worth it and you should've just stayed at home. I guess that stuck with me...

UofT Alumni Magazine Debut!

2008-06-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

I had no idea what to expect when UofT contacted me and wanted me to be in their Summer issue of the Alumni Magazine. The interview was pretty standard, but I was really surprised to hear that they wanted to set up a professional photo shoot for the issue. I met up with an amazing photographer, the one and only Chris Wahl, and I had the most fun on a shoot ever. We spent hours switching up poses, outfits, hairstyles, facial expressions (that was hilarious) and I got to show the real me. I love and so rarely get to take more laid back shots with my hair down and in training clothes so I couldn't have been happier when I got the magazine this week. The competition suits we have to perform in are so not sporty and I think this type of picture captures my personality perfectly. So thanks Chris for making me beautiful and UofT for including me in the Alumni Magazine this summer!!!!

2008 National Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships...

2008-06-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

I just got home from Nationals in Montreal and for the first time ever I was just a spectator. My 12th National Championships and I was sitting in the stands. It's honestly really hard for me to even write that let alone say it. I never thought it would affect me like this. As I sat there, surrounded by all these families and friends, I realized what life is like on the other side and I did not like it. Don't me wrong, I loved watching the girls and cheering on my teammates, but I wanted to be one of them not just another fan. I never thought that being on the sidelines just this once in my career would upset me so much. It's not about defending my title or the attention, but missing out on that feeling I get in front of a home crowd; That adrenaline pumping through me while I'm performing just for the pure love of my sport and nothing else. Internationally, the stakes are higher, there is more pressure and you don't have the support of a community that has watched you grow and mature since you were a little girl. I have been competing for Canada since I was 9 years old and I will cherish the memories I have had at every Nationals forever.

The competition over last weekend was held in the Olympic park Stadium where ironically enough I won my first National Title at 11 years old. It was a very emotional weekend you could say the least. As I watched the younger athletes compete, I saw myself out there. It was the strangest feeling. I couldn't help but reminisce about the past. The last twelve years of my life all of a sudden felt like they had flown by and here I am two months away from the Olympic Games.

If I hadn't been working towards making the Olympics since I was a little girl maybe I would've risked competing on an injury. But the past couple of weeks I've been struggling with a torn ligament in my ankle and it's just not the year to risk anything, even though I wanted to so bad. As I'm writing this now my ankle is almost back to 100% and I'm in the gym pushing myself as usual. Well, technically I'm supposed to be taking it easy, but that's just not how I train. If I'm in the gym, I'm there to work. From my own experience, whenever you're cautious and thinking too much about not getting hurt in the gym, you always do. I think I'm old enough and hopefully mature enough to know my body and know when it's telling me to stop. And if by any chance I'm just being myself and pushing too hard, my coach is always there to tell me to calm down! Which funnily enough, happens more often than not.

So even though it was incredibly difficult for me to watch this years Nationals go by, I couldn't be more proud of my teammates and all the gymnasts that competed over the weekend. I wanted to congratulate each and every one of them for going out there and giving it their all. I am extremely jealous that I couldn't be among them, but in the end it made me more motivated to get out there and compete the next time. Thanks girls!

Second Chance by Alison Korn

2008-06-07T16:29:00.001-07:00

A former Canadian Olympian, Alison Korn, contacted me a few days ago to do an interview. She now writes a great weekly column on amateur sports for the Toronto Sun. I was so honoured that she chose to write last weeks column on me! So here is the link, you should check this one out too!

http://www.torontosun.com/Sports/Columnists/Korn_Alison/

CHECK IT OUT!

2008-06-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Jeff Jurmain from the Canadian Olympic Committee wrote an awesome article on me for an Olympic themed newsletter called PODIUM. The link is below so you should all check it out!

http://www.olympic.ca/EN/newsletters/57e.shtml#0

Enjoy :)

stressing...

2008-05-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

For some reason I thought that if I qualified for the Olympics my life would all of a sudden be perfect. No stress, no drama, no negativity....just perfect. I couldn't be more wrong. So yes I qualified and it was beyond amazing, hands down the best thing that has ever happened to me in my life, but it has been anything but perfect since. I think I tried so hard all year before qualifiers to not get sick, not get injured, not get distracted... you get the idea....that the second I let myself breathe normally again my body kind of crashed. Long story short, I was competing and rolled my ankle really bad a few weeks ago. It was the scariest moment of my career. I honestly thought I had broken my ankle and I can't even describe the pain to you if I tried. All the doctors in Europe said I had to be off it, so they sent me back home and kept me out of the gym for a few weeks. I don't know why, but at the beginning I thought it was better that no one really knew about it. I didn't want anyone feeling bad for me or worrying. I didn't want anyone doubting, even for a second, that I would be fine. I think it was a way of telling myself that nothing was wrong and I was fine. So I came home from europe, a little scared, but ready to do whatever I had to do to get better. I've had the best medical team working on me every single day and an injury that should've taken 12 weeks to heal has taken 4! Right now I'm almost 100% and am so excited to be back in the gym on monday. I miss it so much. I never thought I would be so frustrated to be resting for once and not training like a crazy person, but I really am. I want to be in the gym so bad I don't know what to do with myself. I knew that I had to be patient with the injury and not push it. The main goal has been and still is the Olympics and that's all that matters this year to me. Everything I do, everything I work for is for those three days in August. I can't be more fortunate to have such an incredible support system behind me. The medical clinic has become my second family, my friends are doing everything they can to keep me positive and healthy and my family family have never left my side. I couldn't ask for anything more to get me through this...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAYE!!!

2008-05-22T06:16:00.000-07:00

Time is Flying

2008-05-22T05:47:00.000-07:00

Wow I can't believe it's May 22nd already. I feel like I wrote my last blog a few days ago and it's been almost two weeks. I don't know where the time has gone. I looked back through my agenda, which is HUGE because if I don't write everything down I would never remember anything, and saw that every single day I've really been booked solid. I'm not used to not having my down time. When I'm training throughout the season and doing my thing, I'm all over the world and back again and always give myself that time to do absolutely nothing. It's a totally different time in my life right now though, with the Olympics only two and a half months away. I am getting so excited and the media and just simple exposure opportunities keep on coming in and I can't turn them down. This is a once in a life kind of thing for me and I want to experience it all. But it obviously doesn't come without a price. I am tired. When you're tired before you even have to go to training, it's not the best thing. I know I want it all and because of that I just suck it up and battle through it, but it's been challenging the past two weeks. For the first time in a long time, I am actually back in Toronto for over a month and my family and friends couldn't be happier and more supportive. Being the person I am, I want to spend as much time with them as I can and am finding it difficult to "do it all". I'm slowly realizing that these last few weeks before heading to China I'm going to have to make some changes. I think as much as I don't want to I'm going to have to make some sacrifices, which I'm sure everyone will understand. I would never even think twice about this usually, but this summer is so different. A lot of things are changing in September when I get back and I want to make the most of this experience before that happens. I am stressing a little bit that I have a course project due tomorrow and a final exam on monday to finish off my third year at UofT, but I think once I get through that I'll have some weight lifted off my shoulders. I should probably get off the computer and start getting ready for another crazy day, but I quickly just wanted to give my best friend Caye a HAPPY 21ST BIRTHDAY BEAUTIFUL!!! Welcome to your 20's (officially now). Much love hun.

HBC Clothing Launch

2008-05-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

On May 1st the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) launched the new Olympic clothing line for the Canadian Team heading to Beijing this summer. I was really excited to see what they had come up with for all of us especially since I had seen a few pieces before the big preview. A couple of months ago I got an amazing opportunity to be one of the 'models' for HBC's new Ad campaign for the Olympic line. They chose about 15 Canadian athletes from all different sports to be involved and not only did we get to experience a real photo shoot, which was really cool, but we got to see some of the new items too. Just from a few pieces I knew the line was going to be a really different, dramatic look and I thought it was perfect for these Games. We want to come out as a country looking strong, unique and powerful and I knew the designers would deliver for us. So May 1st rolls around and Canadians got a glimpse of what Team Canada is going to look like in august. Honestly, I can't be more shocked at people's reactions. Obviously not everyone is going to like it, but I think it's getting a little out of hand. I opened the newspaper the next day and read a huge article about how horrible the outfits are. I don't know about you, but I seriously think the line is a really powerful statement for Canadian athletes. The pieces aren't plain or boring, but full of life and truly represent our multiculturalism. They make us proud to be Canadian and show our competitors we won't go unnoticed. The designs use a chinese influence because the Games are in Beijing! I read a hilarious comment on the internet from a woman who thinks that people are going to mistake us for China and not Canada. How is that even possible? I think everyone loves to be a critic, but doesn't realize all that goes into designing for our athletes. We don't want just red and white simple items that look ordinary, we want clothes that are going to stand out. Personally, I can't wait to get it all when I arrive in Beijing and I am going to wear it proudly. Thanks HBC for doing a great job, we're going to look amazing over there. All our athletes need to feel we have the support of our country behind us, especially now with the Games so close. I understand if you don't like the line, but it can't be changed so why not talk about how great our athletes are going to do instead of what they're wearing.

ps. that's my ad in stores now :)

Officially a blogger now!

2008-05-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Welcome to the first blog ever from yours truly. As I'm sure you already know, my name is Alexandra Orlando, but I've always just gone by alex. Besides my grandma, who pronounces it Alessandra, which I love, everyone else knows me simply as alex. I do have some wonderful friends of mine who love to annoy me by calling me by my full name, but they never can keep it up for too long. And believe me if my mom uses it I know I'm in trouble. Which doesn't happen too often now that I'm all grown up and moving out (this is where my mom would start to cry). It's funny though because in the Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG) world I'm only known as Alexandra. It's almost like another persona I have or maybe it's like a part of my game face I put on when I arrive at a competition. Whatever it is, to me it sounds so professional...formal even...which I think really helps put me in that right state of mind out there on the carpet. Now don't get me wrong I love my name, but since all my friends and family call me alex I thought you obviously should too...you're going to be getting to know a whole lot more of me as this goes on so let's throw out all the formalities right now. With me, what you see is definitely what you get...

I really hope you know what you've gotten yourself into because I'm going to be experiencing the most incredible, life changing next couple of months. In 96 days I will officially be a Canadian Olympian and you will be with me every step of the way. I hope you enjoy this crazy journey I'm about to drag you along on...I know I will!

I couldn't be more excited to share this with all of you. It means the world to me to have your support. I would love to hear from you as well so please write to me (and let me know if I'm doing a horrible job at blogging or something lol).

Beijing here I come....are you ready?