We promised a final entry looking back and, watching coverage of the opening ceremonies for the Paralympics, it seemed time to keep that promise. We can well believe that Vancouver is turning out more enthusiastically for the Paralympics than any city before. It would be like getting a shot at another dose of the most benign euphoric drug ever made. We'd go back in a flash if we could.
The spirit was, after all, like no other we have ever known. And that is no comment on our experience; everyone we met said the same. Nor was it just for enthusiasts born to cheer like us. Vancouverite after Vancouverite told us how they had been skeptical and thought they should just leave town for the Olympics. But the flame came and they felt it spark up and burn inside them, often much to their surprise. Claire told us of a couple she knew who had actually bought a vacation in Hawaii for February and were regretting it.
There is, it turns out, in every person, a desire for something as simple and pure as the drive to test limits, often facing real risk and dangers. The athletes try and fail and succeed and overcome and fail to overcome in Olympic sport as we try and fail and overcome and fail to overcome in the travails of our lives everyday. In their courage and grace we find again in ourselves the desire, so eroded by the wear and tear, to be courageous and graceful ourselves. The chances to be so are there everyday, if we will only see them as such.
Looking back, we don't know that we did enough to describe the feeling in Vancouver on the day of the men's hockey gold medal match. NO ONE wanted to watch at home alone or with just a few people. Everyone wanted to be with a crowd, preferably downtown and preferably where beer could be purchased. There was a pervasive fear felt by people that the game would start and they would be left out on the street with nowhere to watch and no one to watch with. It was a bit like the city was being evacuated, but instead of rushing onto planes and buses and trains, we were rushing into bars and pavilions, seeking to escape only the risk of toxic exclusion from the greatest communal moment of a generation.
Another thing worth a few more words is the sheer beauty of sport when seen live. We don't know why television can't capture it, but it can't. The grace of the speed skater's leaning caress of the ice, the pause in movement and almost in time, as a snowboarder pauses in the air launched from the side of the half-pipe, the contrast of the fluidity in the air and solidity of a good landing by an aerialist: these things are not just athletic; they are beautiful.
Finally, we would like to thank all of you who have followed this blog. More followed than we expected. We are pleased and flattered and grateful to discover that people have felt closer to Vancouver 2010 because of it. Your comments and support have been special to us. Thank you and goodbye.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Our Odyssey Comes to An End
Yesterday and today feel like one long day so we'll use dates. On March 2nd we got up, put the last touches on tidying the condo and packing and left the place that had been our Olympic home. We found out later that we had missed packing our camera charger but everything else was in good shape.
We had picked up an extra piece of luggage and now had four larger bags and three carry on sized bags. Our flight wasn't until 9:00 p.m. and there was no way we could lug all that around all day, so we had called the day before to confirm that we could check our luggage in the morning at the airport. The Canada Line makes travel to the airport so easy that we could then go back to Vancouver, spend the day and return to the airport for our flight without any problem.
While there were some glitches with the plan, it worked out in the end and we found ourselves back downtown sans luggage with the bulk of the day ahead of us. We had a quick bite at a Cafe Artigiano, (an excellent coffee house chain that may we think soon be giving Starbucks a run for its money in Vancouver). The City was still disassembling and cleaning up from the Olympics and many people looked a little lost without the constant buzz of activity. We read in the paper that VANOC will be providing counselling for the thousands of people who have defined themselves for the last few years by their work towards the Olympics and who, now, have no idea what is next.
We went to the Vancouver Art Gallery where there was an exhibit of original Da Vinci anatomical drawings, with Da Vinci's marginal notes--it was a special exhibit that came to the city with the Olympics, but that will be staying until May. One of the points Da Vinci makes in his notes is that it is useless to try to describe in words what needs to be shown and we won't try to fully describe the intricacy of the drawings, except to say that modern textbooks are in many respects no more accurate than was Da Vinci. In some ways it is analogous to our Olympic experience--it was impossible to capture in words or pictures--you simply had to be there.
The exhibit was larger than we expected and was fascinating. The papers were in glass, suspended vertically so that we could see the work on both sides. Da Vinci had personally dissected many cadavers and made extensive drawings and notes. His anatomical understanding was centuries ahead of his contemporaries.
In fact, his intent had been to publish the drawings as part of, essentially, a text book, but he died before he could complete the work. His heirs simply kept the material with his other things and it wasn't until almost 1900 that anyone realized that Da Vinci had been so in advance of the world: one of the most casual and dramatic wastes of work and knowledge perhaps in human history.
The rest of the museum was a mix of modern socially aware art and Group of Seven classics. There was some good photography on display and one piece of sculpture - a whale skeleton (to scale) made from plastic lawn chairs - was quite striking. From the patio on the cafe we overlooked Robson Square, with its skating rink empty, its entries barred off and crews of workers taking down the zip line, the information booth and ticket area.
At the back of the art gallery is the Olympic countdown clock, showing 0 days, 0 hours, 0 minutes and 0 seconds to the Opening Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. On the opposite side is the countdown clock for the Paralympics, which start in only 10 days. Somehow, the flip side seems forgotten.
From there we made one last visit to the Bay, where there was still a line up to the Olympic store. A friend who shall remain nameless only a couple of days before thought to ask us to get him a pair of the red Olympic mittens. This was, needless to say, very late to that party. The things had been on Oprah! There were none, nor were any of the other things we were looking for in stock. The staff at the Bay looked shell shocked, but maintained a helpful attitude.
Then came our last meal in Vancouver - and what a meal it was! It was at a Belgian restaurant that served food for the gods. It was called "Chambar". From drinks made with both pisco AND absinthe to a mushroom/truffle soup that was served in an esspresso sized cup because the human palate couldn't handle more to venison and mussels that were beyond compare, this may have been the best meal we had in Vancouver. Take that Vij's!
The Canada Line took us back to the airport and Westjet took us back to Toronto where our friend Tracy very kindly picked us up at the airport (thank you, Tracy!). We didn't want to come back. As we said, some of the Olympic employees are receiving counseling for the post Olympic let down. We'd like some too.
This will be our second-last entry; we will do one more with our final thoughts.
Back on the ground,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
We had picked up an extra piece of luggage and now had four larger bags and three carry on sized bags. Our flight wasn't until 9:00 p.m. and there was no way we could lug all that around all day, so we had called the day before to confirm that we could check our luggage in the morning at the airport. The Canada Line makes travel to the airport so easy that we could then go back to Vancouver, spend the day and return to the airport for our flight without any problem.
While there were some glitches with the plan, it worked out in the end and we found ourselves back downtown sans luggage with the bulk of the day ahead of us. We had a quick bite at a Cafe Artigiano, (an excellent coffee house chain that may we think soon be giving Starbucks a run for its money in Vancouver). The City was still disassembling and cleaning up from the Olympics and many people looked a little lost without the constant buzz of activity. We read in the paper that VANOC will be providing counselling for the thousands of people who have defined themselves for the last few years by their work towards the Olympics and who, now, have no idea what is next.
We went to the Vancouver Art Gallery where there was an exhibit of original Da Vinci anatomical drawings, with Da Vinci's marginal notes--it was a special exhibit that came to the city with the Olympics, but that will be staying until May. One of the points Da Vinci makes in his notes is that it is useless to try to describe in words what needs to be shown and we won't try to fully describe the intricacy of the drawings, except to say that modern textbooks are in many respects no more accurate than was Da Vinci. In some ways it is analogous to our Olympic experience--it was impossible to capture in words or pictures--you simply had to be there.
The exhibit was larger than we expected and was fascinating. The papers were in glass, suspended vertically so that we could see the work on both sides. Da Vinci had personally dissected many cadavers and made extensive drawings and notes. His anatomical understanding was centuries ahead of his contemporaries.
In fact, his intent had been to publish the drawings as part of, essentially, a text book, but he died before he could complete the work. His heirs simply kept the material with his other things and it wasn't until almost 1900 that anyone realized that Da Vinci had been so in advance of the world: one of the most casual and dramatic wastes of work and knowledge perhaps in human history.
The rest of the museum was a mix of modern socially aware art and Group of Seven classics. There was some good photography on display and one piece of sculpture - a whale skeleton (to scale) made from plastic lawn chairs - was quite striking. From the patio on the cafe we overlooked Robson Square, with its skating rink empty, its entries barred off and crews of workers taking down the zip line, the information booth and ticket area.
At the back of the art gallery is the Olympic countdown clock, showing 0 days, 0 hours, 0 minutes and 0 seconds to the Opening Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. On the opposite side is the countdown clock for the Paralympics, which start in only 10 days. Somehow, the flip side seems forgotten.
From there we made one last visit to the Bay, where there was still a line up to the Olympic store. A friend who shall remain nameless only a couple of days before thought to ask us to get him a pair of the red Olympic mittens. This was, needless to say, very late to that party. The things had been on Oprah! There were none, nor were any of the other things we were looking for in stock. The staff at the Bay looked shell shocked, but maintained a helpful attitude.
Then came our last meal in Vancouver - and what a meal it was! It was at a Belgian restaurant that served food for the gods. It was called "Chambar". From drinks made with both pisco AND absinthe to a mushroom/truffle soup that was served in an esspresso sized cup because the human palate couldn't handle more to venison and mussels that were beyond compare, this may have been the best meal we had in Vancouver. Take that Vij's!
The Canada Line took us back to the airport and Westjet took us back to Toronto where our friend Tracy very kindly picked us up at the airport (thank you, Tracy!). We didn't want to come back. As we said, some of the Olympic employees are receiving counseling for the post Olympic let down. We'd like some too.
This will be our second-last entry; we will do one more with our final thoughts.
Back on the ground,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Would the Last Person to Leave Please Turn off the Lights...
When we woke up this morning the difference was palpable. It started when Kim reflexively turned on the TV and what came on was championship bowling. Yup, bowling! We didn't watch.
We had a lot to do today: laundry and cleaning up the condo so that we can return it to Ann and Arnold in the same condition it was when they entrusted it to us. We also had errands to run outside the condo. The city was quiet. The pavilions are already closed; they were taking the cow decals off of what used to be "Swiss House" and transforming it back to "Bridges" the restaurant. We had our choice of restaurant for lunch, without a line up and without a crowd.
We ate at "Cat Social House" on Granville island, on the patio with a view of the water. The setting was pristine. The waiter was friendly and said that the difference between today and yesterday was astonishing...it was like somebody hit the "off button". We had a pleasant meal, tried some excellent local beer (not sold in cans, so we couldn't bring any home) and ate at a leisurely pace.
We stopped at a local art store and had a similar conversation with the proprietor as we had with the waiter. We told her that the city and its people had won us over. We had come for the Olympics but we would be back--for the scenery, the food, the recreation and the activity. We meant it and we think that others who came will feel the same.
We also truly hope that the same energy is there for the Paralympics. We wish we could have gone to both the Olympics and Paralympics; commitments and budget required us to choose. It's too bad that they are separate events and not one Olympics which includes events for all.
We still haven't seen the Closing Ceremonies. We had planned to watch it "On Demand". Unfortunately, there seems to be a technical glitch. It seems wrong not to see the Closing Ceremonies before we leave Vancouver tomorrow. Shaw is supposed to call us when it's fixed. Here's hoping.
We leave tomorrow evening, taking a red eye flight, arriving back in Toronto at 6:00am. During the day tomorrow we plan to take in a Leonardo DaVinci exhibit that, while special for the Olympics, is open until March 2. We may also go to Northern House, which is staying open until April and which was truly breathtaking.
It certainly hasn't all sunk in. We have done and experienced so much in three weeks. We have more than 1000 pictures to sort through, but the photos cannot and do not evoke the true impact of this trip. There will likely be one or two more entries in this blog before we stop to cover the trip home and some final reflections.
Not ready to get back to life and back to reality,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We had a lot to do today: laundry and cleaning up the condo so that we can return it to Ann and Arnold in the same condition it was when they entrusted it to us. We also had errands to run outside the condo. The city was quiet. The pavilions are already closed; they were taking the cow decals off of what used to be "Swiss House" and transforming it back to "Bridges" the restaurant. We had our choice of restaurant for lunch, without a line up and without a crowd.
We ate at "Cat Social House" on Granville island, on the patio with a view of the water. The setting was pristine. The waiter was friendly and said that the difference between today and yesterday was astonishing...it was like somebody hit the "off button". We had a pleasant meal, tried some excellent local beer (not sold in cans, so we couldn't bring any home) and ate at a leisurely pace.
We stopped at a local art store and had a similar conversation with the proprietor as we had with the waiter. We told her that the city and its people had won us over. We had come for the Olympics but we would be back--for the scenery, the food, the recreation and the activity. We meant it and we think that others who came will feel the same.
We also truly hope that the same energy is there for the Paralympics. We wish we could have gone to both the Olympics and Paralympics; commitments and budget required us to choose. It's too bad that they are separate events and not one Olympics which includes events for all.
We still haven't seen the Closing Ceremonies. We had planned to watch it "On Demand". Unfortunately, there seems to be a technical glitch. It seems wrong not to see the Closing Ceremonies before we leave Vancouver tomorrow. Shaw is supposed to call us when it's fixed. Here's hoping.
We leave tomorrow evening, taking a red eye flight, arriving back in Toronto at 6:00am. During the day tomorrow we plan to take in a Leonardo DaVinci exhibit that, while special for the Olympics, is open until March 2. We may also go to Northern House, which is staying open until April and which was truly breathtaking.
It certainly hasn't all sunk in. We have done and experienced so much in three weeks. We have more than 1000 pictures to sort through, but the photos cannot and do not evoke the true impact of this trip. There will likely be one or two more entries in this blog before we stop to cover the trip home and some final reflections.
Not ready to get back to life and back to reality,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Monday, March 1, 2010
A Day The Country Shared With Us
Yesterday we didn't blog. It was a good day--we went to Northern House, enjoyed dinner at Vij's and then watched the day's Olympic coverage on TV. Not a lot to tell. Different story today.
Today was the last day of the Olympics. It was also the day when the men's ice hockey gold medal match would be played. We knew that if we wanted to watch that game with others but have a seat and something to eat and drink, we would need a plan.
We rose earlier than usual and went to the False Creek pavilions where both Quebec house and Saskatchewan house were. That site didn't open until 10;00 and we got there a bit after nine. There was a line up but it seemed likely that many already in it were going to Molsen Hockey house or Ontario House.
Here we encountered the most disappointing moment of our Olympics. The line went up one side of the street from the gate and down the other side of the street past the gate again and on down the street. When the gate opened finally, the line did not hold. Those in the part of the line down the far side of the street just crossed it and jumped ahead of those who had arrived and waited ahead of them. The best that can be said of the mob desperate to secure a place to watch the big game is that it didn't degenerate to actual violence, but the behaviour was wrong and jarring after so many days of orderly civilized behaviour.
After squeezing past the bottleneck outside Molson Hockey House we went as planned to Maison du Quebec. That pavilion wasn't opening until 11:00 but we arrived to be at the front of that line, instead of well back in the line to Saskatchewan or Ontario house. We waited and watched person after person show up and ask, inanely, if they were playing the game. Many, strangely, left when told the game would have the French commentary, as though it could be heard over the noise of the crowd, anyway.
We were joined by our friend Claire, got in essentially first and secured a seat and food. The food was delicious and we were delighted to find that, while, there were no tables, just chairs, the staff were providing service to the chairs for both food and drink. We didn't use it much, since we stocked up when we arrived, but the fact of it around us created a civilized feeling that we are sure no other pavilion had.
As for the game itself, what can be said? If you watched, you know how exciting it was; if you didn't, no words of ours can convey it. There was, for Canadians, something wonderful not just about cheering with hundreds of others for Canada, but in doing so at Maison du Quebec. After all, whatever differences Quebec may have had with the federation, hockey was always something we shared passionately.
It was a smaller crowd than we had for the first US/Canada game, a more intimate feeling, but every bit as intense. We were across the street, essentially, from Canada Hockey Place where the game was being played. We were literally as close to the game as you could watch it without being in the arena. When we poured out onto the street after the win, we joined with those who had been there pouring onto the street and then with the city.
It was an enormous celebration. Street after street was shut down; in places all one could do was let the tide of the crowd take you and feel yourself a part of it. Threre were unstopping cheers and high fives. There were people climbing on lamp posts and bus shelters and roofs. There was no end of joy and no end of communal celebration.
Eventually after walking to the perimeter of the Robson street walk, we found a patio table to sit, eat and drink and watch the people go by. They continued to call out to us as they went by and reach over the patio fence to high five. One motorcycle went by with a woman topless to the world. We ate delicious food, drank three bottles of celebratory bubbly, and soaked it in. People at other tables had been at the game and we happily talked with them about that, and about their families and anything else that came to mind.
We walked Robson and Granville, (the latter of which was actually busier than Robson), stopped for another drink and walked out again. It was Kim who realized that the perfect way to cap all this off was to rent skates and go for a skate in Robson Square, which is what we did. None of us is a great skater, but we glided as best we could and shared that feeling with so much that we had seen over the Olympics.
Then, drained from skating, emotion, walking with an entire city, and, yes, a day of consistent drinking, we found our weary way home. The Olympics are over and nothing remains but the journey home (and to catch the closing ceremonies--we were too busy taking part in the celebrations to watch them live). Over the next few days we will ponder all that we have seen and done.
Completely satisfied,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Today was the last day of the Olympics. It was also the day when the men's ice hockey gold medal match would be played. We knew that if we wanted to watch that game with others but have a seat and something to eat and drink, we would need a plan.
We rose earlier than usual and went to the False Creek pavilions where both Quebec house and Saskatchewan house were. That site didn't open until 10;00 and we got there a bit after nine. There was a line up but it seemed likely that many already in it were going to Molsen Hockey house or Ontario House.
Here we encountered the most disappointing moment of our Olympics. The line went up one side of the street from the gate and down the other side of the street past the gate again and on down the street. When the gate opened finally, the line did not hold. Those in the part of the line down the far side of the street just crossed it and jumped ahead of those who had arrived and waited ahead of them. The best that can be said of the mob desperate to secure a place to watch the big game is that it didn't degenerate to actual violence, but the behaviour was wrong and jarring after so many days of orderly civilized behaviour.
After squeezing past the bottleneck outside Molson Hockey House we went as planned to Maison du Quebec. That pavilion wasn't opening until 11:00 but we arrived to be at the front of that line, instead of well back in the line to Saskatchewan or Ontario house. We waited and watched person after person show up and ask, inanely, if they were playing the game. Many, strangely, left when told the game would have the French commentary, as though it could be heard over the noise of the crowd, anyway.
We were joined by our friend Claire, got in essentially first and secured a seat and food. The food was delicious and we were delighted to find that, while, there were no tables, just chairs, the staff were providing service to the chairs for both food and drink. We didn't use it much, since we stocked up when we arrived, but the fact of it around us created a civilized feeling that we are sure no other pavilion had.
As for the game itself, what can be said? If you watched, you know how exciting it was; if you didn't, no words of ours can convey it. There was, for Canadians, something wonderful not just about cheering with hundreds of others for Canada, but in doing so at Maison du Quebec. After all, whatever differences Quebec may have had with the federation, hockey was always something we shared passionately.
It was a smaller crowd than we had for the first US/Canada game, a more intimate feeling, but every bit as intense. We were across the street, essentially, from Canada Hockey Place where the game was being played. We were literally as close to the game as you could watch it without being in the arena. When we poured out onto the street after the win, we joined with those who had been there pouring onto the street and then with the city.
It was an enormous celebration. Street after street was shut down; in places all one could do was let the tide of the crowd take you and feel yourself a part of it. Threre were unstopping cheers and high fives. There were people climbing on lamp posts and bus shelters and roofs. There was no end of joy and no end of communal celebration.
Eventually after walking to the perimeter of the Robson street walk, we found a patio table to sit, eat and drink and watch the people go by. They continued to call out to us as they went by and reach over the patio fence to high five. One motorcycle went by with a woman topless to the world. We ate delicious food, drank three bottles of celebratory bubbly, and soaked it in. People at other tables had been at the game and we happily talked with them about that, and about their families and anything else that came to mind.
We walked Robson and Granville, (the latter of which was actually busier than Robson), stopped for another drink and walked out again. It was Kim who realized that the perfect way to cap all this off was to rent skates and go for a skate in Robson Square, which is what we did. None of us is a great skater, but we glided as best we could and shared that feeling with so much that we had seen over the Olympics.
Then, drained from skating, emotion, walking with an entire city, and, yes, a day of consistent drinking, we found our weary way home. The Olympics are over and nothing remains but the journey home (and to catch the closing ceremonies--we were too busy taking part in the celebrations to watch them live). Over the next few days we will ponder all that we have seen and done.
Completely satisfied,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Wow. Another Amazing Day
A little tired after an intense day yesterday, we slept in a bit, went out for breakfast and then headed into the city, passing the time on the bus by discussing some of the strategies and plays in the women's big game yesterday.
We had tickets to a Victory Ceremony tonight, where medals are awarded and Great Big Sea was to be performing. The result was that we were going to miss the semi-final hockey game. Given that there were no Canadians receiving medals today, it is fair to say that neither of us was sure that we wanted to go to the ceremony but we had paid for the tickets, so we decided to go and to coordinate our day around the ceremony. Also, we are both Great Big Sea fans.
We knew we wanted to watch the gold medal match in women's curling. It was to start at 3:00, ending at approximately 6:00 pm, just half an hour before the Victory Ceremony. We decided, therefore, to go to the area near the ceremony and find a place to watch curling.
We chose not to stand in the long line up for Ontario House or Sochi house, and tried Saskatchewan house instead. The Saskatchewan display was about what you'd expect, with lots of information about wheat, flax and oil. What wasn't in the display but we learned from a Saskatchewan native in line and found more interesting was that, according to our source, Saskatchewan has the best pizza in the world. As one person put it, they brought pizza out and the hungry Saskatchewan farmers looked at it and told them to take it back and put some food on it. We are now tempted to go to Saskatchewan, just for the pizza.
Strangely, while there were big screens at Saskatchewan house, they weren't showing any Olympic coverage. We'd have expected curling to be big for Saskatchewan, but evidently not. So we moved on.
We ended up a Maison du Quebec---it was very cool. The food was excellent and a dramatic improvement over the hot dogs and chili we had been eating in the other public viewing tents. Also, they had a system for drinks---you bought a card and then could serve yourself metred drinks from a self serve wine machine which automatically poured for you from nice bottles of wine. No waiting, no tipping, etc. We settled in with wine, cheese and grapes.
Two Quebecois men joined our table. At first they were bemused by the rapt attention being paid by all to the curling. We explained the rules at least so far as we had gleaned them from watching on TV and from the buds on "Hack Radio". On another screen was the men's four man bobsleigh event and we watched some remarkable crashes.
We noted that the guys at our table were wearing Hockey Canada credentials. Paul asked what the affiliation was. They started by somewhat sheepishly saying they knew one of the players. When we didn't behave stupidly, they opened up more--they were Martin Brodeur's golf buddies and long time friends. They told us how they were good naturedly teasing him about how unusual it is for Brodeur to be the back up goalie. Kim told them that he looks good in a baseball cap and, since he doesn't have to worry about playing he should have his hair and makeup done before the game. One of the guys texted a version of the joke to Martin, asking how his makeup was. If Martin Brodeur looked good on the bench tonight, you might have Kim to thank.
One of the guys took our picture. He then asked for our e-mail. We exchanged e-mails and his was "Omerta". He said nothing about it, but his friend explained that "Omerta" is the french name for the CBC mini-series "the Last Chapter"--a Montreal Mob story with Roy Dupuis that Paul and I both enjoyed. This guy was the main writer. It was really cool.
As the guys headed off to the game we told them to say hello to Martin Brodeur for us!
We made the day of a couple of young guys standing behind our table by leaving before the hockey game started; they had been expecting to stand for hours. From their gratitude that we gave them a heads up that we were leaving, you'd think we had taken a bullet for them. As we had seen before, table space leading up to a Canadian hockey game is at a premuim. We will have to plan our placement for the gold medal game carefully.
We then went to the Victory Ceremony, where they gave us regular updates on the score at the hockey game, which was taking place right next door. The medals were given out and then Great Big Sea began to play. If you've never seen them live, then you are missing something. Kim, frustrated by the fact that all the people in our section had stayed sitting, moved to a railing area where she would not be in anybody's way and began jumping up and down. Anyone who was at PJ O'Brien's with her the night Bang on the Ear played will know the enthusiasm she brought to that exercise. From his seat, Paul saw a number of Olympic officials go up to speak with Kim. He assumed that they were asking her to go back to her seat. Really, they were asking her not to hurt herself, then ensuring that she was having a good time, confirming the number of people in her party and securing upgraded floor level tickets for us!!!!!
Yes, we were upgraded to floor level--a roomy dance floor where people were dancing, jumping and having a great time, and right in front of the stage where the band was playing. Paul has never been closer to the band at a concert this size. This floor is also the set that was used during the opening ceremonies and we were right there--at the stage, under the Olympic rings. The fake snow was still on the ground, and all over were pieces of gold, silver and bronze confetti which had been sprayed into the air when the medals were awarded. We had a blast. We danced, we sang and people kept offering to take our picture!!!!!!!
The concert ended at about 9:00pm, not long after the hockey game got out. We joined the throngs on the street. The public mood was jubilant. High-fives everywhere, chants of CA-NA-DA !!!! CA-NA-DA!!!, performances of the national anthem and repeated over, and over, "We want the Gold". Paul said it was like being on Yonge Street when the Jays won the World Series. The mood was so optimistic, buoyed not only by the hockey victory but also by the four other medals won by Canadians today, one in curling and three in short track speed skating.
We walked back to the condo, caught up on the events we missed during the day and are planning to watch the highlights from the game.
We don't want this to end. Ever. There is a unit for sale in our condo and it's affordable...hmmmmm.....
Soaking it all in,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We had tickets to a Victory Ceremony tonight, where medals are awarded and Great Big Sea was to be performing. The result was that we were going to miss the semi-final hockey game. Given that there were no Canadians receiving medals today, it is fair to say that neither of us was sure that we wanted to go to the ceremony but we had paid for the tickets, so we decided to go and to coordinate our day around the ceremony. Also, we are both Great Big Sea fans.
We knew we wanted to watch the gold medal match in women's curling. It was to start at 3:00, ending at approximately 6:00 pm, just half an hour before the Victory Ceremony. We decided, therefore, to go to the area near the ceremony and find a place to watch curling.
We chose not to stand in the long line up for Ontario House or Sochi house, and tried Saskatchewan house instead. The Saskatchewan display was about what you'd expect, with lots of information about wheat, flax and oil. What wasn't in the display but we learned from a Saskatchewan native in line and found more interesting was that, according to our source, Saskatchewan has the best pizza in the world. As one person put it, they brought pizza out and the hungry Saskatchewan farmers looked at it and told them to take it back and put some food on it. We are now tempted to go to Saskatchewan, just for the pizza.
Strangely, while there were big screens at Saskatchewan house, they weren't showing any Olympic coverage. We'd have expected curling to be big for Saskatchewan, but evidently not. So we moved on.
We ended up a Maison du Quebec---it was very cool. The food was excellent and a dramatic improvement over the hot dogs and chili we had been eating in the other public viewing tents. Also, they had a system for drinks---you bought a card and then could serve yourself metred drinks from a self serve wine machine which automatically poured for you from nice bottles of wine. No waiting, no tipping, etc. We settled in with wine, cheese and grapes.
Two Quebecois men joined our table. At first they were bemused by the rapt attention being paid by all to the curling. We explained the rules at least so far as we had gleaned them from watching on TV and from the buds on "Hack Radio". On another screen was the men's four man bobsleigh event and we watched some remarkable crashes.
We noted that the guys at our table were wearing Hockey Canada credentials. Paul asked what the affiliation was. They started by somewhat sheepishly saying they knew one of the players. When we didn't behave stupidly, they opened up more--they were Martin Brodeur's golf buddies and long time friends. They told us how they were good naturedly teasing him about how unusual it is for Brodeur to be the back up goalie. Kim told them that he looks good in a baseball cap and, since he doesn't have to worry about playing he should have his hair and makeup done before the game. One of the guys texted a version of the joke to Martin, asking how his makeup was. If Martin Brodeur looked good on the bench tonight, you might have Kim to thank.
One of the guys took our picture. He then asked for our e-mail. We exchanged e-mails and his was "Omerta". He said nothing about it, but his friend explained that "Omerta" is the french name for the CBC mini-series "the Last Chapter"--a Montreal Mob story with Roy Dupuis that Paul and I both enjoyed. This guy was the main writer. It was really cool.
As the guys headed off to the game we told them to say hello to Martin Brodeur for us!
We made the day of a couple of young guys standing behind our table by leaving before the hockey game started; they had been expecting to stand for hours. From their gratitude that we gave them a heads up that we were leaving, you'd think we had taken a bullet for them. As we had seen before, table space leading up to a Canadian hockey game is at a premuim. We will have to plan our placement for the gold medal game carefully.
We then went to the Victory Ceremony, where they gave us regular updates on the score at the hockey game, which was taking place right next door. The medals were given out and then Great Big Sea began to play. If you've never seen them live, then you are missing something. Kim, frustrated by the fact that all the people in our section had stayed sitting, moved to a railing area where she would not be in anybody's way and began jumping up and down. Anyone who was at PJ O'Brien's with her the night Bang on the Ear played will know the enthusiasm she brought to that exercise. From his seat, Paul saw a number of Olympic officials go up to speak with Kim. He assumed that they were asking her to go back to her seat. Really, they were asking her not to hurt herself, then ensuring that she was having a good time, confirming the number of people in her party and securing upgraded floor level tickets for us!!!!!
Yes, we were upgraded to floor level--a roomy dance floor where people were dancing, jumping and having a great time, and right in front of the stage where the band was playing. Paul has never been closer to the band at a concert this size. This floor is also the set that was used during the opening ceremonies and we were right there--at the stage, under the Olympic rings. The fake snow was still on the ground, and all over were pieces of gold, silver and bronze confetti which had been sprayed into the air when the medals were awarded. We had a blast. We danced, we sang and people kept offering to take our picture!!!!!!!
The concert ended at about 9:00pm, not long after the hockey game got out. We joined the throngs on the street. The public mood was jubilant. High-fives everywhere, chants of CA-NA-DA !!!! CA-NA-DA!!!, performances of the national anthem and repeated over, and over, "We want the Gold". Paul said it was like being on Yonge Street when the Jays won the World Series. The mood was so optimistic, buoyed not only by the hockey victory but also by the four other medals won by Canadians today, one in curling and three in short track speed skating.
We walked back to the condo, caught up on the events we missed during the day and are planning to watch the highlights from the game.
We don't want this to end. Ever. There is a unit for sale in our condo and it's affordable...hmmmmm.....
Soaking it all in,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Friday, February 26, 2010
Elation and an Old Friend.
We were there. We were at The Game where the women won gold. We were at the third consecutive women's hockey gold. We were at the gold that broke Canada's record for gold medals in any winter games.
Before the game even started though, there are two stories worth telling. First, on the way to the game, we were a little stressed because we had left, while early, not as early for an event as we usually do. Then we just missed the bus we planned to take. Another bus came up to the stop; it was labeled only "special". We asked if it was going near Canada Hockey Place and the driver hemmed and hawed and then said he could drop us near the place. Then when we got to Burrard Station, the driver announced that this was the last stop and all were to leave the bus; Burrard Station is NOT near Canada Hockey Place. We went up to ask and before we could say anything, the driver told us we didn't need to leave the bus; he would drop us off. He then drove the bus several blocks out of his way and dropped us off in easy walking distance of Canada Hockey Place. An outstanding example of Vancouver hospitality and helpfulness.
Then, when we got to the venue, we of course waited before we were let in. Kim wandered down to the water to take pictures of the Athlete's Village. (Paul was running into someone he knew vaguely from the YMCA in Toronto.) But Kim called Paul down to the water because there was something truly remarkable there. It was a stone shoreline. As we've mentioned before, the Inukshuk is one of the symbols of these games. The shoreline for its entire length was populated with stone Inukshuks. There were hundreds and likely thousands extending along the shoreline for as far as the eye could see. It was the kind of powerful and affecting that can never be told, but can only be experienced. We found ourselves telling others in line to be sure to look at them, lest a unique chance be lost to them. The Inukshuk is a marker that says something like "people are here." In these games it seems to say more; it seems to say "ALL people are here."
Returning to hockey, we can't help but think that these women dreamt about this their whole lives: to play in a packed NHL arena for the ultimate prize, and in front of a home crowd to boot. Today the dream came true. They played. They played exceptionally, they won and they brought all of us with them. This game was worth the price of admission. It was worth everything.
We hugged and jumped at the two goals. We gasped and cheered at every American shot and Canadian save. In the way that is cliche, but when real so powerful, we lived and died with our team, Canada's team. We gave no thought to the millions watching on television or to anything but the moment and the women before us on the ice. They earned every attention and respect. We say it again - we were there.
Canadians won and were gracious in victory. When the Americans received their medals we all chanted "U.S.A". They gave us a great game, were terrific guests and it wouldn't have been as sweet without them. It was a grace note of courtesy that was possibly the most open generous gesture we have seen in these games. And if faces are any measure, it was appreciated. We couldn't help but think of the five young women with whom we'd had a picture taken just days before. Our team won, but we respect their effort, play and dedication to the game.
To us, this win means more than if the men win gold. It says more about our country. All over the world men believe they can be anything; it is a gift to live in a country where women are constrained by nothing but the scope of their own imaginations. In Canada you can be a star hockey player and, when you win, you can bring your son on the ice just as Hailey Wickenheiser did today. You can be an athlete, you can have a career, you can be a Mom. Your choice! Thank you, Canada.
After the game the good fortune continued. In Quebec House we bumped into our old friend, Claire. It was a chance meeting that continued a great day. She is living in Vancouver and took us to parts of town we hadn't visited before. We had wine, snacks and great conversation.
While at the restaurant we met an American from Detroit, now living in Hawaii. She said that she was at the U.S. v. Swiss game and that certain Canadians were rude and offensive about Americans. To make up for it, we bought their table a round and told them that we hoped this improved their Canadian experience. We think it did; they reciprocated with a round of tequila for us!
Joannie Rochette had a tremendous and emotional bronze today. We watched it live with Claire at the restaurant. It brought a tear to the eye. The Americans were also touched and the whole place stopped to watch the skate. Joannie's story is much told, and rightly so; people don't need it here; but every story that is on television is more intense even on television, when you are in the Olympic city, feeling the Olympic story, palpable and close.
This had been the day we had been working towards. It exceeded all expectations.
With pride and joy.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Before the game even started though, there are two stories worth telling. First, on the way to the game, we were a little stressed because we had left, while early, not as early for an event as we usually do. Then we just missed the bus we planned to take. Another bus came up to the stop; it was labeled only "special". We asked if it was going near Canada Hockey Place and the driver hemmed and hawed and then said he could drop us near the place. Then when we got to Burrard Station, the driver announced that this was the last stop and all were to leave the bus; Burrard Station is NOT near Canada Hockey Place. We went up to ask and before we could say anything, the driver told us we didn't need to leave the bus; he would drop us off. He then drove the bus several blocks out of his way and dropped us off in easy walking distance of Canada Hockey Place. An outstanding example of Vancouver hospitality and helpfulness.
Then, when we got to the venue, we of course waited before we were let in. Kim wandered down to the water to take pictures of the Athlete's Village. (Paul was running into someone he knew vaguely from the YMCA in Toronto.) But Kim called Paul down to the water because there was something truly remarkable there. It was a stone shoreline. As we've mentioned before, the Inukshuk is one of the symbols of these games. The shoreline for its entire length was populated with stone Inukshuks. There were hundreds and likely thousands extending along the shoreline for as far as the eye could see. It was the kind of powerful and affecting that can never be told, but can only be experienced. We found ourselves telling others in line to be sure to look at them, lest a unique chance be lost to them. The Inukshuk is a marker that says something like "people are here." In these games it seems to say more; it seems to say "ALL people are here."
Returning to hockey, we can't help but think that these women dreamt about this their whole lives: to play in a packed NHL arena for the ultimate prize, and in front of a home crowd to boot. Today the dream came true. They played. They played exceptionally, they won and they brought all of us with them. This game was worth the price of admission. It was worth everything.
We hugged and jumped at the two goals. We gasped and cheered at every American shot and Canadian save. In the way that is cliche, but when real so powerful, we lived and died with our team, Canada's team. We gave no thought to the millions watching on television or to anything but the moment and the women before us on the ice. They earned every attention and respect. We say it again - we were there.
Canadians won and were gracious in victory. When the Americans received their medals we all chanted "U.S.A". They gave us a great game, were terrific guests and it wouldn't have been as sweet without them. It was a grace note of courtesy that was possibly the most open generous gesture we have seen in these games. And if faces are any measure, it was appreciated. We couldn't help but think of the five young women with whom we'd had a picture taken just days before. Our team won, but we respect their effort, play and dedication to the game.
To us, this win means more than if the men win gold. It says more about our country. All over the world men believe they can be anything; it is a gift to live in a country where women are constrained by nothing but the scope of their own imaginations. In Canada you can be a star hockey player and, when you win, you can bring your son on the ice just as Hailey Wickenheiser did today. You can be an athlete, you can have a career, you can be a Mom. Your choice! Thank you, Canada.
After the game the good fortune continued. In Quebec House we bumped into our old friend, Claire. It was a chance meeting that continued a great day. She is living in Vancouver and took us to parts of town we hadn't visited before. We had wine, snacks and great conversation.
While at the restaurant we met an American from Detroit, now living in Hawaii. She said that she was at the U.S. v. Swiss game and that certain Canadians were rude and offensive about Americans. To make up for it, we bought their table a round and told them that we hoped this improved their Canadian experience. We think it did; they reciprocated with a round of tequila for us!
Joannie Rochette had a tremendous and emotional bronze today. We watched it live with Claire at the restaurant. It brought a tear to the eye. The Americans were also touched and the whole place stopped to watch the skate. Joannie's story is much told, and rightly so; people don't need it here; but every story that is on television is more intense even on television, when you are in the Olympic city, feeling the Olympic story, palpable and close.
This had been the day we had been working towards. It exceeded all expectations.
With pride and joy.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Sausage and Skiis
On Wednesday, we had tickets for the finals of the Ladies' Aerials at Cypress Mountain. It was an evening event, but the travel time meant we had to leave in the mid-afternoon. So we decided to got to German Saxony House, which has been getting good word of mouth on the street.
We got there about 15 minutes before they opened and there was already a line up, but not too long a line up. On the walk over we went through a part of Vancouver we hadn't walked so far. In a park by the beach on English Bay there is a large Inukshuk, which is one of the symbols for these games. Delightfully, someone had hung around its neck a large set of the now iconic Olympic mittens - the red ones from the Bay with the maple leaf on the palm that even Oprah Winfrey is wearing. This is even more appropriate to us, because Kim made mitten strings for her mittens and has been wearing them that way, getting a lot of positive comments as we walk around.
Outside Saxony house is another park, this one with a statue of Robbie Burns. He also had mittens on a string around his neck. Kim is clearly a fashion leader in the statue community.
Others in line at Saxony House told us that the Lions at Lions' Gate Bridge also have mittens.
When Saxony House opened we went in. There were large screen televisions playing Magnum P.I. reruns. No, that was a joke - they were playing the Olympics of course, especially anything in which the Germans were active. It was the food and beer though of which people had talked so we started with a classic grilled German sausage each, Kim's with grilled onions and Paul's with the best saurkraut he has ever tasted. Paul also had a delicious dark German ale.
Paul had a small miscommunication with the German server, and instead of apple pie, he received a plate of an entirely different German delicacy: dark bread covered with, wait for it....bacon fat, and bacon bits, raw onion and gherkin pieces to top it off. The Germans can have it, but it was an experience to try. We have a picture...unappetizing to look at, think about and especially to eat. Eventually Paul got his pie which he liked very much and Kim and Paul shared some pork and saurkraut, which was tasty.
We stood at a table, and ate, and watched the U.S. vs. Switzerland game, and chatted with a few people who came and went to the table. One set of four was a German couple who made friends with the Canadian couple on a Rod Stewart tour in Europe. They were cheerful and we were sad to see them head off quickly to take in other sights, the German regretfully downing the last of his ale.
While we were very excited about the tickets to the Aerials, we were disappointed that we would not be able to watch the hockey semi and that we would miss the speed skating; it all worked out much better than we had hoped.
Eventually we left and caught the bus to the other bus to the Olympic bus to Cypress Mountain. While waiting for the Olympic bus at SFU, we were able to catch the tail end of the long track speed skating and Clara Hughes' bronze medal.
We got to the venue two hours before the event, which was good because we had standing room tickets and were able to get a fairly good position. Since the last time we had been there, Cypress had got some snow, and now looked the absolutely perfect winter scene: big fir trees, mountains and running water breaking through snow and ice.
As we already wrote, we had been feeling a tad of regret that we wouldn't be able to watch the big Canada vs Russia game. When we got to the venue, though, they had a giant T.V. set up on the mountain side, which was intended to show the replays of the aerials, but which they used, while we waited, to show the hockey game. So we stood outside on the side of a mountain and watched hockey with thousands of others. While we watched, three enormous inflated balls (when we say enormous we mean person-sized) were being bounced through the crowd. How cool is that. The world now knows the result of that game, as well as the other Canadian successes of which we received news while we went through our day.
There were no Canadians in the Aerials, but that was, in some ways a good thing. We had a few Australians around us and could cheer with them, but enjoy the wonder of Aerials without the partisan tension of Canadian competition. Aerials are wonderful. They women came off the jumps and flew - they just flew. There were some dramatic falls, though no one was hurt. But mostly, they flew, doing things in the air that defy description and that just aren't fully captured by the magic of TV. We were astounded, and also pleased when an Aussie won gold, to the delight of our neighbours.
By the time we got home it was late, but we stayed up and watched the PVR of the medals won and went to bed satisfied with another wonderful day.
walking in a winter wonderland,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
We got there about 15 minutes before they opened and there was already a line up, but not too long a line up. On the walk over we went through a part of Vancouver we hadn't walked so far. In a park by the beach on English Bay there is a large Inukshuk, which is one of the symbols for these games. Delightfully, someone had hung around its neck a large set of the now iconic Olympic mittens - the red ones from the Bay with the maple leaf on the palm that even Oprah Winfrey is wearing. This is even more appropriate to us, because Kim made mitten strings for her mittens and has been wearing them that way, getting a lot of positive comments as we walk around.
Outside Saxony house is another park, this one with a statue of Robbie Burns. He also had mittens on a string around his neck. Kim is clearly a fashion leader in the statue community.
Others in line at Saxony House told us that the Lions at Lions' Gate Bridge also have mittens.
When Saxony House opened we went in. There were large screen televisions playing Magnum P.I. reruns. No, that was a joke - they were playing the Olympics of course, especially anything in which the Germans were active. It was the food and beer though of which people had talked so we started with a classic grilled German sausage each, Kim's with grilled onions and Paul's with the best saurkraut he has ever tasted. Paul also had a delicious dark German ale.
Paul had a small miscommunication with the German server, and instead of apple pie, he received a plate of an entirely different German delicacy: dark bread covered with, wait for it....bacon fat, and bacon bits, raw onion and gherkin pieces to top it off. The Germans can have it, but it was an experience to try. We have a picture...unappetizing to look at, think about and especially to eat. Eventually Paul got his pie which he liked very much and Kim and Paul shared some pork and saurkraut, which was tasty.
We stood at a table, and ate, and watched the U.S. vs. Switzerland game, and chatted with a few people who came and went to the table. One set of four was a German couple who made friends with the Canadian couple on a Rod Stewart tour in Europe. They were cheerful and we were sad to see them head off quickly to take in other sights, the German regretfully downing the last of his ale.
While we were very excited about the tickets to the Aerials, we were disappointed that we would not be able to watch the hockey semi and that we would miss the speed skating; it all worked out much better than we had hoped.
Eventually we left and caught the bus to the other bus to the Olympic bus to Cypress Mountain. While waiting for the Olympic bus at SFU, we were able to catch the tail end of the long track speed skating and Clara Hughes' bronze medal.
We got to the venue two hours before the event, which was good because we had standing room tickets and were able to get a fairly good position. Since the last time we had been there, Cypress had got some snow, and now looked the absolutely perfect winter scene: big fir trees, mountains and running water breaking through snow and ice.
As we already wrote, we had been feeling a tad of regret that we wouldn't be able to watch the big Canada vs Russia game. When we got to the venue, though, they had a giant T.V. set up on the mountain side, which was intended to show the replays of the aerials, but which they used, while we waited, to show the hockey game. So we stood outside on the side of a mountain and watched hockey with thousands of others. While we watched, three enormous inflated balls (when we say enormous we mean person-sized) were being bounced through the crowd. How cool is that. The world now knows the result of that game, as well as the other Canadian successes of which we received news while we went through our day.
There were no Canadians in the Aerials, but that was, in some ways a good thing. We had a few Australians around us and could cheer with them, but enjoy the wonder of Aerials without the partisan tension of Canadian competition. Aerials are wonderful. They women came off the jumps and flew - they just flew. There were some dramatic falls, though no one was hurt. But mostly, they flew, doing things in the air that defy description and that just aren't fully captured by the magic of TV. We were astounded, and also pleased when an Aussie won gold, to the delight of our neighbours.
By the time we got home it was late, but we stayed up and watched the PVR of the medals won and went to bed satisfied with another wonderful day.
walking in a winter wonderland,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
More Thoughts on Curling
As we said in our last blog entry, we went to watch curling yesterday. Being at the venue is VERY different from watching on TV.
First of all, you get the chance to watch the actual "curl" of the rock. It was interesting to see Kevin Martin start from the left side of the ice in order to curl the rock to the button. On TV, they show the curler, then cut to the rock at the end of the ice. Here, we could just follow the rock.
Secondly, the crowd was loud and knowledgeable. At one point there was a choice between calls for the Kevin Martin rink. The crowd started chanting "go for the eight, go for the eight!" It was a hard and aggressive shot, but they went for it. They didn't make the shot, but won the match anyhow.
Third, watching four matches at once is amazing.
We're not curlers but it was really fun and educational.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
First of all, you get the chance to watch the actual "curl" of the rock. It was interesting to see Kevin Martin start from the left side of the ice in order to curl the rock to the button. On TV, they show the curler, then cut to the rock at the end of the ice. Here, we could just follow the rock.
Secondly, the crowd was loud and knowledgeable. At one point there was a choice between calls for the Kevin Martin rink. The crowd started chanting "go for the eight, go for the eight!" It was a hard and aggressive shot, but they went for it. They didn't make the shot, but won the match anyhow.
Third, watching four matches at once is amazing.
We're not curlers but it was really fun and educational.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Witnessing History...again
After last night's blog entry Virtue and Moir won gold. While neither of us pretends to understand ice dancing, we both appreciated the beauty of the programme and the promise of the young Canadian couple winning gold. Go-Canada-Go!!!!!
Today we had tickets to curling. The venue was about 5.5 kilometres from our condo so we decided to walk and see some of Vancouver. There were genuine mansions on the way that were fun to look at. What stands out about the walk though was the moment walking along Broadway when a small child, maybe 5 - 7 years old, called out to Paul as we walked by, "will you trade with me?" He had noticed the pins on Paul's IIHF federation lanyard. A trade was made; it was a small Oylmpic moment that was touching out of all proportion if you weren't there.
We were a little concerned that we didn't have the knowledge base to follow the today's curling action, but we heard an announcement during figure skating that you could buy closed circuit radios for curling, sledge hockey and figure skating, so we made a beeline to the concession stand at curling and sure enough radios were for sale. Thank goodness for the radios or else we would have been helplessly lost trying to follow four sheets of curling action. "Hack Radio", as it was called, was not all we'd hoped--not an in depth analysis of strategy or tactics--but three "buds" who seemed to have had a few before the match. Think your average morning radio show with a couple of drinks at a curling match. Fun, nonetheless.
We called this blog entry "witnessing history" because we were there for the first time that any curling team has ever gone undefeated in round robin play---that team is CANADA and it was awesome.
The curling venue was managed as expected--catering to an older and quite Scottish crowd. There were Mounties in full dress uniform posing with spectators. The concessions included "Cornish Pasties". The man sitting to the left of Kim was older, born in Scotland, moved to Canada later in life and played curling...his observations were in many respects more insightful than those of "Hack Radio".
Curling ended just after the Canada v. Germany game started. No chance of getting into Saxony House today, so we didn't even try. We went to what we thought was a local pub, the "Smoking Dog" pub. It turned out that the food was WAY better than any pub food we are used to. It had perhaps the best french onion soup Kim has ever had outside of Quebec. Although the food was excellent, the atmosphere was casual and we were able to watch what remained of the hockey game and cheer freely.
While we were out watching the curling Ashley McIvor won gold for Canada. Awesome. While we missed the competition, we saw the medal ceremony live. While we were at the Smoking Dog Ashley McIvor received her gold...we stood, we sang and we enjoyed. We wish we could say others stood and sang with us, but mostly they watched. None frowned though, and other tables smiled while we sang of told us we had done well when it was over. And, by the way, in an aside to Sports Illustrated, Ms McIvor is WAY hotter than Ms Vonn.
We got home and watched the women's short programme in figure skating. What a story: Joannie Rochette lost her mother tragically and unexpectedly in the week before the Olympics. Kim, as someone who lost a parent when she least expected it, was particularly affected by the story. Joannie skated awesomely: third after the short program. What an amazing accomplishment.
Tomorrow we will try to get into Saxony House before heading to the women's aerials at Cypress. There are no Canadian women in the finals tomorrow, so we'll just enjoy the show; flying people are always entertaining.
We still can't believe we're here.
Wow.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Today we had tickets to curling. The venue was about 5.5 kilometres from our condo so we decided to walk and see some of Vancouver. There were genuine mansions on the way that were fun to look at. What stands out about the walk though was the moment walking along Broadway when a small child, maybe 5 - 7 years old, called out to Paul as we walked by, "will you trade with me?" He had noticed the pins on Paul's IIHF federation lanyard. A trade was made; it was a small Oylmpic moment that was touching out of all proportion if you weren't there.
We were a little concerned that we didn't have the knowledge base to follow the today's curling action, but we heard an announcement during figure skating that you could buy closed circuit radios for curling, sledge hockey and figure skating, so we made a beeline to the concession stand at curling and sure enough radios were for sale. Thank goodness for the radios or else we would have been helplessly lost trying to follow four sheets of curling action. "Hack Radio", as it was called, was not all we'd hoped--not an in depth analysis of strategy or tactics--but three "buds" who seemed to have had a few before the match. Think your average morning radio show with a couple of drinks at a curling match. Fun, nonetheless.
We called this blog entry "witnessing history" because we were there for the first time that any curling team has ever gone undefeated in round robin play---that team is CANADA and it was awesome.
The curling venue was managed as expected--catering to an older and quite Scottish crowd. There were Mounties in full dress uniform posing with spectators. The concessions included "Cornish Pasties". The man sitting to the left of Kim was older, born in Scotland, moved to Canada later in life and played curling...his observations were in many respects more insightful than those of "Hack Radio".
Curling ended just after the Canada v. Germany game started. No chance of getting into Saxony House today, so we didn't even try. We went to what we thought was a local pub, the "Smoking Dog" pub. It turned out that the food was WAY better than any pub food we are used to. It had perhaps the best french onion soup Kim has ever had outside of Quebec. Although the food was excellent, the atmosphere was casual and we were able to watch what remained of the hockey game and cheer freely.
While we were out watching the curling Ashley McIvor won gold for Canada. Awesome. While we missed the competition, we saw the medal ceremony live. While we were at the Smoking Dog Ashley McIvor received her gold...we stood, we sang and we enjoyed. We wish we could say others stood and sang with us, but mostly they watched. None frowned though, and other tables smiled while we sang of told us we had done well when it was over. And, by the way, in an aside to Sports Illustrated, Ms McIvor is WAY hotter than Ms Vonn.
We got home and watched the women's short programme in figure skating. What a story: Joannie Rochette lost her mother tragically and unexpectedly in the week before the Olympics. Kim, as someone who lost a parent when she least expected it, was particularly affected by the story. Joannie skated awesomely: third after the short program. What an amazing accomplishment.
Tomorrow we will try to get into Saxony House before heading to the women's aerials at Cypress. There are no Canadian women in the finals tomorrow, so we'll just enjoy the show; flying people are always entertaining.
We still can't believe we're here.
Wow.
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Monday, February 22, 2010
Hockey Day in Vancouver
We had tickets to the U.S. v. Sweden women's semi final in hockey today. It was a bit of a scouting mission to see who would play against Canada in the gold medal game. Remember, we met five members of the U.S. team a few days back and had genuinely wished them luck against Sweden. It turned out that they didn't need our luck--the American team was very good and won a decisive victory. We couldn't help but cheer a bit for Sweden-not because we wanted them to win but because we both have a soft spot for the underdog and a deeply held belief in the truth of Cinderella stories.
The U.S. game ended at about 2:30pm and there was no chance of finding a good spot to watch the Canada v. Finland semi final so we went back to the condo and watched from the comfort of our couch. It was actually a welcome break, particularly for Kim whose lungs reacted very badly to the ubiquitous pot smoke, particularly in the porta-potties at LiveCity yesterday. She's still coughing.
Canada's game was a good one. It seemed that the Finns played better than the Swedes did against the U.S. It remains to be seen what will happen in the final.
We are now watching the ice dancing after enjoying a home-cooked meal prepared by Paul.
We have more events tomorrow.
Until tomorrow,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
The U.S. game ended at about 2:30pm and there was no chance of finding a good spot to watch the Canada v. Finland semi final so we went back to the condo and watched from the comfort of our couch. It was actually a welcome break, particularly for Kim whose lungs reacted very badly to the ubiquitous pot smoke, particularly in the porta-potties at LiveCity yesterday. She's still coughing.
Canada's game was a good one. It seemed that the Finns played better than the Swedes did against the U.S. It remains to be seen what will happen in the final.
We are now watching the ice dancing after enjoying a home-cooked meal prepared by Paul.
We have more events tomorrow.
Until tomorrow,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
A Good Day With Mixed Results
Today we knew that Canada was playing the U.S. in hockey. We had no event tickets, so we planned to leave early enough to get a seat at Live City downtown to watch. The game didn't start until 4:40 p.m. but we knew that competition for tables at Live City would be almost as fierce as competition on the ice.
We got in at about 12:30 and the place was packed. Kim had a sharp eye and noticed that, while most of the tables were clearly occupied by other people there early for the game, one table had a family with small children. She rightly reasoned that they would not stay long, and, after helping them with directions to the Olympic torch, we got the table. It was the last table to come available before the game ended.
It was a large table, though, and others joined us. Here we again had the luck that has followed us most of these games. We were joined by a foursome of three ladies and one gentleman. They were our age and older, without being old; they were drinkers without being foolish; They were, of course, hockey fans. They were, in short, perfectly suited to be our company for the day. And delightful companions they were.
While waiting for the game, we watched speed skating (a silver for Canada) and curling (Canada won another round robin match), and we talked. The three ladies were all in education and the fellow was a city councilor and had worked in security and catering, we think. He was one of those guys who seemed to know everyone and was constantly introducing us to people like the the security staff and the guy in charge of catering the pavillion.
How can we describe watching the game? Canadians across the country must have gathered to watch, but watching with hundreds of Canadians (and four or five Americans who were good naturedly reviled), in Vancouver, was a whole other thing. It was as close to being at the game as you could get without actually being at the game. At one point, the crowd started taunting Ryan Miller as though he could hear them. Never has the magic of television been more clear. We were completely caught up. We knew that it was not just those in that pavillion watching together, but it was the whole country - but we knew we were at the centre of that audience. If the people at the game were the heart of Canada for the time the game lasted, we felt the aorta and other main blood vessels, carrying the pulse of the game outwards from the arena to the country. If you weren't there, that metaphore seems enormously overblown. We were there; and it isn't.
Of course, the result was not what Canada wanted. But leaving the pavilion and walking out into Vancouver, there was none of the resigned sad sack feeling that accompanies so many, for instance, Maple Leaf games. The patriotic fervor of the crowds on Robson St. and throughout the city, was undiminished. The enthusiasm seems now, genuinely to be for Canada, and not for any success of failure of our team in this or that game or event.
As an aside, after days of essentially non-stop crowd partying on Robson street, the street itself is ... clean. Yes, clean. There is no litter to be seen and no sign that this isn't day 1 of celebration, rather than day 11. We don't know how this is possible, but it is.
Now, a couple of days ago we mistakenly obtained two tickets to the 5th/6th place game for women's hockey tomorrow with Switzerland and Russia. We can't use them, because we will, somewhere, be watching the semi with the Canadian women's team. So, we went to Swiss house, which is set up essentially as a restaurant, and Kim found a couple of Swiss who were delighted to go. We hope they will enjoy the game and then go home and tell everyone how nice Canadians are. We enjoyed fondue and B.C. wine made by a Swiss and then went home to bed.
With true patriot love,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kimberly Boara Alexander
We got in at about 12:30 and the place was packed. Kim had a sharp eye and noticed that, while most of the tables were clearly occupied by other people there early for the game, one table had a family with small children. She rightly reasoned that they would not stay long, and, after helping them with directions to the Olympic torch, we got the table. It was the last table to come available before the game ended.
It was a large table, though, and others joined us. Here we again had the luck that has followed us most of these games. We were joined by a foursome of three ladies and one gentleman. They were our age and older, without being old; they were drinkers without being foolish; They were, of course, hockey fans. They were, in short, perfectly suited to be our company for the day. And delightful companions they were.
While waiting for the game, we watched speed skating (a silver for Canada) and curling (Canada won another round robin match), and we talked. The three ladies were all in education and the fellow was a city councilor and had worked in security and catering, we think. He was one of those guys who seemed to know everyone and was constantly introducing us to people like the the security staff and the guy in charge of catering the pavillion.
How can we describe watching the game? Canadians across the country must have gathered to watch, but watching with hundreds of Canadians (and four or five Americans who were good naturedly reviled), in Vancouver, was a whole other thing. It was as close to being at the game as you could get without actually being at the game. At one point, the crowd started taunting Ryan Miller as though he could hear them. Never has the magic of television been more clear. We were completely caught up. We knew that it was not just those in that pavillion watching together, but it was the whole country - but we knew we were at the centre of that audience. If the people at the game were the heart of Canada for the time the game lasted, we felt the aorta and other main blood vessels, carrying the pulse of the game outwards from the arena to the country. If you weren't there, that metaphore seems enormously overblown. We were there; and it isn't.
Of course, the result was not what Canada wanted. But leaving the pavilion and walking out into Vancouver, there was none of the resigned sad sack feeling that accompanies so many, for instance, Maple Leaf games. The patriotic fervor of the crowds on Robson St. and throughout the city, was undiminished. The enthusiasm seems now, genuinely to be for Canada, and not for any success of failure of our team in this or that game or event.
As an aside, after days of essentially non-stop crowd partying on Robson street, the street itself is ... clean. Yes, clean. There is no litter to be seen and no sign that this isn't day 1 of celebration, rather than day 11. We don't know how this is possible, but it is.
Now, a couple of days ago we mistakenly obtained two tickets to the 5th/6th place game for women's hockey tomorrow with Switzerland and Russia. We can't use them, because we will, somewhere, be watching the semi with the Canadian women's team. So, we went to Swiss house, which is set up essentially as a restaurant, and Kim found a couple of Swiss who were delighted to go. We hope they will enjoy the game and then go home and tell everyone how nice Canadians are. We enjoyed fondue and B.C. wine made by a Swiss and then went home to bed.
With true patriot love,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kimberly Boara Alexander
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Heartbreak, joy and Missed Opportunities
Even during the Olympics, the mundane must intrude, so we spent some time this morning doing laundry. A bit later than usual, therefore, we sallied forth.
It was a hard day for Canadian Olympic athletes and sitting with hundreds of fellow Olympic watchers at LiveCity Downtown we felt we took part in the disappointment. It's amazing to think that we can feel that someone has "underachieved" by coming in only 4th or 5th in the world in short track speed skating. Really, it's not about underachievement it's about the moment lost. For the fans its about anticipation unrealized; for the athletes its about years of training and sacrifices coming down to one race with the outcome determined by tenths or one hundredths of a second.
This has to be compared with the joy that comes from success. They played the medal ceremonies at LiveCity and we saw John Montgomery receive his gold. Everyone stood up and sang the anthem loudly and proudly. Despite the disappointing results today, the Canadian pride was not dampened in the least. The city is like Ottawa on Canada Day, except it's every day. After watching the last curling match of the day (a win for Canada!), we walked through the throngs on Robson St. It's packed and the energy is incredible. People are wearing the colours, are wrapped in flags and "Oh Canada" breaks out spontaneously and constantly. As another example, as we walked home, three young men saw Paul, decked in Canada jacket, scarf and hat, and yelled "Canada! We love you man!" They then swarmed Paul with a group hug. Yes, he checked and he still had his wallet after - it was exactly the spontaneous, patriotic coming together it seemed.
The crowds are large enough that one fears that it may become unruly--stampedes, riots, etc. However, the mood is festive while somehow remaining orderly. That being said, you can't walk very far without smelling marijuana which is being smoked openly on the streets.
On our walk home from LiveCity we watched the light show over English Bay and the fireworks over Canada Place.
We were supposed to meet my cousin, Linda, for dinner. Unfortunately, the timing didn't really work out. I guess that's just an excuse for us to come out west again soon to call in that rain cheque.
Tomorrow is a big day for Canadian competitors. While we sleep well tonight no doubt those athletes will be anxiously awaiting their big day. We will be there for them tomorrow to celebrate their achievements and, if necessary, commiserate with their disappointments. Throughout we will revel in being Canadians.
We stand on guard for thee,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
It was a hard day for Canadian Olympic athletes and sitting with hundreds of fellow Olympic watchers at LiveCity Downtown we felt we took part in the disappointment. It's amazing to think that we can feel that someone has "underachieved" by coming in only 4th or 5th in the world in short track speed skating. Really, it's not about underachievement it's about the moment lost. For the fans its about anticipation unrealized; for the athletes its about years of training and sacrifices coming down to one race with the outcome determined by tenths or one hundredths of a second.
This has to be compared with the joy that comes from success. They played the medal ceremonies at LiveCity and we saw John Montgomery receive his gold. Everyone stood up and sang the anthem loudly and proudly. Despite the disappointing results today, the Canadian pride was not dampened in the least. The city is like Ottawa on Canada Day, except it's every day. After watching the last curling match of the day (a win for Canada!), we walked through the throngs on Robson St. It's packed and the energy is incredible. People are wearing the colours, are wrapped in flags and "Oh Canada" breaks out spontaneously and constantly. As another example, as we walked home, three young men saw Paul, decked in Canada jacket, scarf and hat, and yelled "Canada! We love you man!" They then swarmed Paul with a group hug. Yes, he checked and he still had his wallet after - it was exactly the spontaneous, patriotic coming together it seemed.
The crowds are large enough that one fears that it may become unruly--stampedes, riots, etc. However, the mood is festive while somehow remaining orderly. That being said, you can't walk very far without smelling marijuana which is being smoked openly on the streets.
On our walk home from LiveCity we watched the light show over English Bay and the fireworks over Canada Place.
We were supposed to meet my cousin, Linda, for dinner. Unfortunately, the timing didn't really work out. I guess that's just an excuse for us to come out west again soon to call in that rain cheque.
Tomorrow is a big day for Canadian competitors. While we sleep well tonight no doubt those athletes will be anxiously awaiting their big day. We will be there for them tomorrow to celebrate their achievements and, if necessary, commiserate with their disappointments. Throughout we will revel in being Canadians.
We stand on guard for thee,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Saturday, February 20, 2010
A Day in the City
Today was the first day that we had nothing scheduled by way of an event so we stayed at the condo a bit taking care of some telephone errands and doing some internet research. Then we went into town to take in some of the non-sports experiences.
As we walked into town we were walking along next to some young and rowdy folk. Five women in what looked like US team gear walked by. The young folk called out to them. We noticed that they tensed a bit, perhaps worried about the kind of anti-American antagonism that the people sitting near us for the snowboarding talked about. When they told us they were on the US women's hockey team, though, any fears were erased as the youth and we begged them to let us take pictures with them. They graciously agreed. One of our errands in the morning had involved picking up tickets for the semi with the US and Sweden, so we wished them luck and let them go on their way without bothering them more. It was, as they say, WAY COOL.
Then we went and stood in line for 45 minutes to have lunch and a drink and watch Mellisa Hollingsworth's skeleton final with other Canadians at the downtown Live City site. With hundreds of other Canadians we cheered and gasped at a run that was not what we might have wished. It was, notwithstanding the result, a wonderful, communal, experience.
Looking for something truly Olympic, we then went to join the line for the the Canadian Mint Pavillion. The line was reported to be three hours long, but lasted only two. It felt shorter though because we met such nice people in line. There was a foursome of friends: a couple who came from Astralia 37 years ago and a couple who have been here all their lives. They had a lively sense of humour, told engaging stories and made a long wait seem a short one. We have had similar luck in many of the line ups here and are enjoying the line ups more than we could ever have predicted.
The Royal Candian Mint was responsible for making the actual Olympic medals and there was an exhibit that included Olympic medals that we were able to touch and hold, (albeit only with light gloves given us by the mint for the purpose). They are heavy. One of the technicians who worked on the medals was there to answer questions and he told us that the athletes requested that the medals be heave because they wanted to FEEL them hanging around their necks. We also learned that one aspect of the medals, the woodgrain-like backround, was originally a flaw caused by the laser engraving process. The mint intended to repair the flaw but VANOC told them not to, that the woodgrain look was perfect. We agree. Let it be said again, we got to touch and hold Olympic medals. Wow. The technician who was there told Kim that he had worked on the metal for the Mars lander and in his view working on the Olympic medals was much cooler.
We finished off the day with dinner at Guu, Kim's favourite Vancouver restaurant. Its atmosphere is a little like a Japanese "Licks" with dishes being called loudly back and forth across the restaurant. The food is much better than Licks' food though. Sharkfin and jellyfish salad, scallops and a beef salad among other things made for a good dinner. The perfect drink on a day when Canada won another gold was Guu's "Gold Medal" drink: white wine, aloe juice and tonic. It was quite tasty.
We had thought of going to German Saxony house but the line was too long. It looked like a really rocking place though, and we hope to go back there before all is done. Really there is too much to do here, even in all the time we are here. The youth wandering the streets at all hours, cheering Canada at any opportunity provide infectious enthusiasm, and make one want never to go home to bed. But there is tomorrow still and sleep is needed to be able enjoy that day.
Stuffed With Experiences Galore,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
As we walked into town we were walking along next to some young and rowdy folk. Five women in what looked like US team gear walked by. The young folk called out to them. We noticed that they tensed a bit, perhaps worried about the kind of anti-American antagonism that the people sitting near us for the snowboarding talked about. When they told us they were on the US women's hockey team, though, any fears were erased as the youth and we begged them to let us take pictures with them. They graciously agreed. One of our errands in the morning had involved picking up tickets for the semi with the US and Sweden, so we wished them luck and let them go on their way without bothering them more. It was, as they say, WAY COOL.
Then we went and stood in line for 45 minutes to have lunch and a drink and watch Mellisa Hollingsworth's skeleton final with other Canadians at the downtown Live City site. With hundreds of other Canadians we cheered and gasped at a run that was not what we might have wished. It was, notwithstanding the result, a wonderful, communal, experience.
Looking for something truly Olympic, we then went to join the line for the the Canadian Mint Pavillion. The line was reported to be three hours long, but lasted only two. It felt shorter though because we met such nice people in line. There was a foursome of friends: a couple who came from Astralia 37 years ago and a couple who have been here all their lives. They had a lively sense of humour, told engaging stories and made a long wait seem a short one. We have had similar luck in many of the line ups here and are enjoying the line ups more than we could ever have predicted.
The Royal Candian Mint was responsible for making the actual Olympic medals and there was an exhibit that included Olympic medals that we were able to touch and hold, (albeit only with light gloves given us by the mint for the purpose). They are heavy. One of the technicians who worked on the medals was there to answer questions and he told us that the athletes requested that the medals be heave because they wanted to FEEL them hanging around their necks. We also learned that one aspect of the medals, the woodgrain-like backround, was originally a flaw caused by the laser engraving process. The mint intended to repair the flaw but VANOC told them not to, that the woodgrain look was perfect. We agree. Let it be said again, we got to touch and hold Olympic medals. Wow. The technician who was there told Kim that he had worked on the metal for the Mars lander and in his view working on the Olympic medals was much cooler.
We finished off the day with dinner at Guu, Kim's favourite Vancouver restaurant. Its atmosphere is a little like a Japanese "Licks" with dishes being called loudly back and forth across the restaurant. The food is much better than Licks' food though. Sharkfin and jellyfish salad, scallops and a beef salad among other things made for a good dinner. The perfect drink on a day when Canada won another gold was Guu's "Gold Medal" drink: white wine, aloe juice and tonic. It was quite tasty.
We had thought of going to German Saxony house but the line was too long. It looked like a really rocking place though, and we hope to go back there before all is done. Really there is too much to do here, even in all the time we are here. The youth wandering the streets at all hours, cheering Canada at any opportunity provide infectious enthusiasm, and make one want never to go home to bed. But there is tomorrow still and sleep is needed to be able enjoy that day.
Stuffed With Experiences Galore,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Friday, February 19, 2010
Road Trip
Today was our first event outside of the reach of transit - Ladies' Half Pipe Snowboard. We got up earlier than we have been and took two transit buses out to Simon Fraser University, where we caught an Olympic Bus Network bus to Cypress Mountain. There was no wait for the bus and the scenery on the ride was beautiful.
There was virtually no wait at security, but oddly they decided not to confiscate an open bottle of water in Paul's satchel. After climbing a lot of stairs we arrived at out seats. We were lucky to have seats, especially since the standing room tickets had been canceled because the standing area had become unsafe.
We were surrounded by Americans. Interestingly a lot of them said that they weren't wearing American Olympic gear because they still felt that the U.S. was disliked abroad and they didn't want to deal with the resentment. Paul took the opportunity to make them feel welcome by giving the American behind him one of the pins Paul had bought the night before for the man's daughter who traded pins at youth events. He seemed surprised and genuinely grateful.
The day was warmer than it had any business being. We knew that the weather at Cypress was the warmest in 100 years, but there were people bare chested (men only), and Kim was comfortable in just a tank top. The sun was blazing down on us very intensely. Kim even borrowed sun block from the woman next to her, who was the massage therapist for a number of the American snowboarders we were watching today.
Between 60 qualifying runs (each of 30 boarders got two runs), a break, 24 semi-final runs, a break, and 12 final runs, the event lasted the whole day and was more fun than you could shake a stick at. Snowboarders have a sense of hummour and comraderie that other sports often lack. You don't see figure skaters, for instance, bust out a break dancing move and a grin while waiting for their scores. The sport also has the drama of big tricks performed in the air and falls that happen when the big tricks don't work.
It also has its risks. One boarder, on a training run before the semi, had what looked like an ordinary fall, but just didn't get up. It took a while for the hosts/announcers to realize what was going on and there was a surreal moment when we were being asked to "make some noise" while half a dozen people, including medics, clustered around a still form on the snow. The spectre of the dead luger hovered. The fallen boarder was removed on a stretcher and was unable to compete. We hope that she will be ok, apart from the disappointment of missing her event.
Once the sun went down behind the mountains, things actually got chilly and we went from late spring to winter, albeit a mild winter. The final was exciting, and while Canadians didn't medal, one, Mercedes Nichol we think was the name, did better than she was expected to, and the boarders were so likable you found yourself drawn into their attitude and cheering a good run from anyone and consoling a fall regardless of the origin of the boarder.
After the Olympic bus, another bus, two trains and a walk home we ordered pizza and are now watching recorded Olympic coverage. We rejoice over Canada's third gold and are pleased as well, for the sake of the Dutch we spoke to yesterday, to hear that the Netherlands earned a silver. We are dismayed that Canada needed a shootout to beat the Swiss.
Tomorrow is the first of a few days without events and we look forward to the time to investigate some national houses and other aspects of this Olympic city. Vij's anyone?
With memories of sun and snow,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
There was virtually no wait at security, but oddly they decided not to confiscate an open bottle of water in Paul's satchel. After climbing a lot of stairs we arrived at out seats. We were lucky to have seats, especially since the standing room tickets had been canceled because the standing area had become unsafe.
We were surrounded by Americans. Interestingly a lot of them said that they weren't wearing American Olympic gear because they still felt that the U.S. was disliked abroad and they didn't want to deal with the resentment. Paul took the opportunity to make them feel welcome by giving the American behind him one of the pins Paul had bought the night before for the man's daughter who traded pins at youth events. He seemed surprised and genuinely grateful.
The day was warmer than it had any business being. We knew that the weather at Cypress was the warmest in 100 years, but there were people bare chested (men only), and Kim was comfortable in just a tank top. The sun was blazing down on us very intensely. Kim even borrowed sun block from the woman next to her, who was the massage therapist for a number of the American snowboarders we were watching today.
Between 60 qualifying runs (each of 30 boarders got two runs), a break, 24 semi-final runs, a break, and 12 final runs, the event lasted the whole day and was more fun than you could shake a stick at. Snowboarders have a sense of hummour and comraderie that other sports often lack. You don't see figure skaters, for instance, bust out a break dancing move and a grin while waiting for their scores. The sport also has the drama of big tricks performed in the air and falls that happen when the big tricks don't work.
It also has its risks. One boarder, on a training run before the semi, had what looked like an ordinary fall, but just didn't get up. It took a while for the hosts/announcers to realize what was going on and there was a surreal moment when we were being asked to "make some noise" while half a dozen people, including medics, clustered around a still form on the snow. The spectre of the dead luger hovered. The fallen boarder was removed on a stretcher and was unable to compete. We hope that she will be ok, apart from the disappointment of missing her event.
Once the sun went down behind the mountains, things actually got chilly and we went from late spring to winter, albeit a mild winter. The final was exciting, and while Canadians didn't medal, one, Mercedes Nichol we think was the name, did better than she was expected to, and the boarders were so likable you found yourself drawn into their attitude and cheering a good run from anyone and consoling a fall regardless of the origin of the boarder.
After the Olympic bus, another bus, two trains and a walk home we ordered pizza and are now watching recorded Olympic coverage. We rejoice over Canada's third gold and are pleased as well, for the sake of the Dutch we spoke to yesterday, to hear that the Netherlands earned a silver. We are dismayed that Canada needed a shootout to beat the Swiss.
Tomorrow is the first of a few days without events and we look forward to the time to investigate some national houses and other aspects of this Olympic city. Vij's anyone?
With memories of sun and snow,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Meetings and Close Encounters
After breakfast at "Sophie's Cosmic Cafe"--a local favourite--we went to Richmond to see the men's 1000 m long track speed skating event. We took the new Olympic Line streetcar to the new Canada Line train straight to Richmond-terrific Olympic infrastructure that will benefit Vancouver for years.
The train was full of Dutch skating fans, decked out in orange prepared to cheer their skaters—a total of four in the event. Once we were off the train we weren't sure of the route to the Olympic Oval so we simply followed the orange beacons. The Dutch are VERY dedicated to speed skating. In line we spoke with a Dutch couple who were neighbours of one of the athletes. They told us that they were hoping for a 1-2-3 finish for Holland. Interestingly, they told us that they had been to the 2006 Olympics in Turin and in their view the Vancouver Olympics were much better organized. They were very complimentary about our country and spoke of the deep ties between Holland and Canada.
Security into the venue was a bit of an adventure for Kim. Each venue has security that is comparable to airport level---metal detectors, security men with wands and X-ray machines for your bags. Today Kim set off the metal detector. The man came to wand her and was told by a more senior supervising security officer that we had to wait for female security officer to be available, in case there had to be a pat down. Thousands of people were being delayed behind me. Kim said that if it was a consent issue, she was fine with a male security officer doing a pat down. The supervisor relented and she was wanded again. However, the supervisor was not satisfied with the throughness of the wanding and insisted that Kim be searched again. At that point the junior security officer said to Kim "are you hiding anything, 'cause if you are I can't find it." That was when the junior officer was taken off of wand duty and Kim was waved in.
Once in we were able to appreciate just how long the long track oval really is. It's a big, bright and beautiful ice surface. We soon realized we were seated about 100ft from Catriona Le May Doan; Kim is pretty sure that Elizabeth Manley was sitting in the fancy lounge only 10 ft behind us. Later, Stephen Colbert arrived and we were about 50 ft from him (we have pictures of both, including ones of Colbert hamming it up). The Dutch brought their own omm-pa-pa band and the orange-filled seats were rocking.
We watched the event and, unfortunately, the Canadian competitors did not place as well as hoped. Sadly for the Dutch, none of their four skaters medalled either. Stephen Colbert was not disappointed, however with the USA placing first and third.
We then headed downtown to soak up the atmosphere. The city is alive. Music is playing everywhere, the streets are full of people and CTV is broadcasting from a booth in the middle of the road. We saw the cauldron (beautiful!) and the Olympic rings in the Bay. We have pictures, but no photo can capture the energy that was in the air around us.
We had an obscenely inexpensive Japanese meal and then got in line to go to the Bay. That's right, we waited about an hour to shop at the Bay!!!!!!! It's the International Olympic Store and almost everything we actually wanted was sold out. But we met nice people in line—a mother and two daughters from Victoria (although the older daughter is living in Vancouver and going to UBC). We swapped Olympic stories---theirs was awesome. The daughter's boss had signed up to billet people for the Olympics. Nobody took the boss up on the offer until one week before the Olympics when he got a call asking if he could put up an athlete and his coach. At that point the boss said it was not enough notice and the house was not ready. A little while later the boss got a call from Patrick Chan's coach saying that the request was for them—Patrick did not want the distraction of staying in the Olympic Village and didn't mind if the house was a mess. The boss is now hosting Patrick Chan.
While in line Paul was able to make someone's day by giving them our tickets for the women's super combined in Whistler tomorrow—we can't go because as a result of a cancellation it now conflicts with the women's half pipe. The guy was thrilled.
We're back home now, pumped for tomorrow's event at Cypress.
With Olympic flame in our hearts,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Another Great Day - Figure Skating
There's a lot to write about today. We got up and watched curling on T.V. That will help us follow the curling we'll be seeing live, alhough we learned today that we can buy radios on site that will broadcast the commentary to us, and we think we'll do that.
Then we caught the 4 bus to the Pacific Coliseum for the Men's short programme figure skating. We weren't the first in line but were right near the front. Kim went to see if there were other tickets at the box office and Paul stayed in line.
While waiting in line Paul chatted with a fellow just ahead of him. The guy had decided days ago to come and spent thousands of dollars to be there, taking flights that forced him to stay in Calgary and Winnipeg overnight each way. Kim reentered the conversation at about the point when Paul asked if he had had any trouble getting tickets.
It turned out that he had no trouble getting tickets to either the men's short program event (tonight's event) or the men's long program event since he managed Patrick Chan's skating equipment. His family and Chan's were neighours. His daughter was in skating too and the families had known each other for years. His daughter had sent him with a scrapbook of pictures of things like her and Chan in a school play, which he showed us. He told us that his daughter, the skater, had complained that each time her skate was sharpened it took days to adjust to the variations that hand sharpening inevitably brought. He was a retired engineer and thought he could do better. So he researched skate blades. He called the British company that made the best blades in the world and they agreed to let him spend a couple of days in their factory if he flew himself over. Eventually, he invented a machine that would ensure the same pattern of sharpening every time. He now has a small list of clients, including Chan, whose equipment he manages. He's retired and doesn't want too much business. Neither does he want the hasstle of worrying about patents. And this guy is just standing in line with us. We were almost regretful when the gates opened, because we would have liked to hear more of his story. This so couldn't have happened to us in Toronto.
When we went in we took pictures and enjoyed the atmosphere until the skating started. To Paul's right were a couple of older women who were figure skating veterans. They talked familiarly about the skating quirks of skaters the names of which Paul barely recognized and Kim recognized not at all. (Paul is older, of course). More to the point, they acted as our guides for the evening, answering questions about how it all worked, including the vagaries of scoring.. They were the kinds of enthusiasts who believed that this was all it would take to get us hooked on figure skating for life. That may not happen but we had a great time watching the event. The things people can do on skates would be beyond belief if you weren't watching.
After the event, we met up with some colleagues of Paul's and had a very pleasant dinner. And now we are sitting watching the coverage that was taped during the day. Way to go Maelle Ricker! Tomorrow speed skating and whatever new adventures come.
With continuing elation,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Then we caught the 4 bus to the Pacific Coliseum for the Men's short programme figure skating. We weren't the first in line but were right near the front. Kim went to see if there were other tickets at the box office and Paul stayed in line.
While waiting in line Paul chatted with a fellow just ahead of him. The guy had decided days ago to come and spent thousands of dollars to be there, taking flights that forced him to stay in Calgary and Winnipeg overnight each way. Kim reentered the conversation at about the point when Paul asked if he had had any trouble getting tickets.
It turned out that he had no trouble getting tickets to either the men's short program event (tonight's event) or the men's long program event since he managed Patrick Chan's skating equipment. His family and Chan's were neighours. His daughter was in skating too and the families had known each other for years. His daughter had sent him with a scrapbook of pictures of things like her and Chan in a school play, which he showed us. He told us that his daughter, the skater, had complained that each time her skate was sharpened it took days to adjust to the variations that hand sharpening inevitably brought. He was a retired engineer and thought he could do better. So he researched skate blades. He called the British company that made the best blades in the world and they agreed to let him spend a couple of days in their factory if he flew himself over. Eventually, he invented a machine that would ensure the same pattern of sharpening every time. He now has a small list of clients, including Chan, whose equipment he manages. He's retired and doesn't want too much business. Neither does he want the hasstle of worrying about patents. And this guy is just standing in line with us. We were almost regretful when the gates opened, because we would have liked to hear more of his story. This so couldn't have happened to us in Toronto.
When we went in we took pictures and enjoyed the atmosphere until the skating started. To Paul's right were a couple of older women who were figure skating veterans. They talked familiarly about the skating quirks of skaters the names of which Paul barely recognized and Kim recognized not at all. (Paul is older, of course). More to the point, they acted as our guides for the evening, answering questions about how it all worked, including the vagaries of scoring.. They were the kinds of enthusiasts who believed that this was all it would take to get us hooked on figure skating for life. That may not happen but we had a great time watching the event. The things people can do on skates would be beyond belief if you weren't watching.
After the event, we met up with some colleagues of Paul's and had a very pleasant dinner. And now we are sitting watching the coverage that was taped during the day. Way to go Maelle Ricker! Tomorrow speed skating and whatever new adventures come.
With continuing elation,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Golden Moment
Today we walked over the Burrard Street Bridge and spent the day in Vancouver. We saw a native dance with hoops and watched the downhill skiing and snowboard cross qualifications in a pub. The people sitting next us worked with some of the Canadian skiiers and cheered enthusiastically, even though the results weren't what they hoped for; they were very disappointed for Manuel Osborne-Paradis. A couple from Boulder Colorado at the table on the other side asked us for advice on tipping in Canada. He had volunteered at the rink during the Salt Lake City Olympics and told us that at first when they heard about the "lucky looney" they were amused. Then they realized they ought not to have been amused and weren't anymore.
Then we went to the Live City Downtown location and watched the snowboard cross in the beer garden with a few hundred other Canadians. A silver for Canada, celebrated with other Canadians. We think we will go back and watch more there.
But the event of the day was the victory ceremony. This time we weren't literally the first in line but we were close. The victory ceremonies include thematic concerts and the theme tonight was Quebec which was fitting, since Bilodeau is Quebecois.
There aren't words to describe watching the historic medal hung around a Canadian neck and singing along with the national anthem as the flag is raised. It was stirring and uplifting and beautiful. It did not disappoint.
While many left after the victory ceremonies, we stayed to savour the moment and watched the rest of the concert. It was energetic and fun. We felt bad for the singer, Gregoire Charles, since so many left, but you had to admire the way he just kept working hard, singing medley after medley of classics. He was good, although for us the performance of the night was by five school-aged children who spontaneously burst into "Oh Canada" as we left the building...the crowd joined in and we left as one singing throng.
Tonight we will sleep with O Canada ringing in our ears,
With Glowing Hearts,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Then we went to the Live City Downtown location and watched the snowboard cross in the beer garden with a few hundred other Canadians. A silver for Canada, celebrated with other Canadians. We think we will go back and watch more there.
But the event of the day was the victory ceremony. This time we weren't literally the first in line but we were close. The victory ceremonies include thematic concerts and the theme tonight was Quebec which was fitting, since Bilodeau is Quebecois.
There aren't words to describe watching the historic medal hung around a Canadian neck and singing along with the national anthem as the flag is raised. It was stirring and uplifting and beautiful. It did not disappoint.
While many left after the victory ceremonies, we stayed to savour the moment and watched the rest of the concert. It was energetic and fun. We felt bad for the singer, Gregoire Charles, since so many left, but you had to admire the way he just kept working hard, singing medley after medley of classics. He was good, although for us the performance of the night was by five school-aged children who spontaneously burst into "Oh Canada" as we left the building...the crowd joined in and we left as one singing throng.
Tonight we will sleep with O Canada ringing in our ears,
With Glowing Hearts,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Witnessing History
We weren't at the men's moguls competition. In fact, we weren't anywhere today since our alpine event was postponed to February 18th (on the same day as the women's halfpipe, so we're not sure what we'll do about that), but we WILL be there tomorrow--to see Alexandre Bilodeau get Canada's first gold on home soil. Every night there is a Victory Ceremony where the medals are bestowed and we have tickets to tomorrow's Victory Ceremony. We will see the flag raised and hear the national anthem played. It is soooooo worth the price of admission!
A word about Vancouver: The food is awesome! Today we went to Granville Market and put together a charcuterie plate that we could not have afforded in Toronto. Last night we had awesome Thai food. We have yet to be disappointed. Even the food at the venue yesterday was surprisingly good. Also, the environment is incredible. Today was sunny and warm. The trees are blooming. There is green everywhere. The mountains are awe-inspiring. We are staying minutes from the beach. We can't say enough. Wow.
Also something you don't need to have been in Vancouver to have seen: Bilodeau wins a historic gold, and, when interviewed, bothers to thank VANOC and the volunteers. Let it be said that a Canadian thinks that way and NO American would. We are gracious not just in defeat, but in victory as well. We are proud on many levels.
With true hearts strong and free,
The Entity
Paul.M. Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
A word about Vancouver: The food is awesome! Today we went to Granville Market and put together a charcuterie plate that we could not have afforded in Toronto. Last night we had awesome Thai food. We have yet to be disappointed. Even the food at the venue yesterday was surprisingly good. Also, the environment is incredible. Today was sunny and warm. The trees are blooming. There is green everywhere. The mountains are awe-inspiring. We are staying minutes from the beach. We can't say enough. Wow.
Also something you don't need to have been in Vancouver to have seen: Bilodeau wins a historic gold, and, when interviewed, bothers to thank VANOC and the volunteers. Let it be said that a Canadian thinks that way and NO American would. We are gracious not just in defeat, but in victory as well. We are proud on many levels.
With true hearts strong and free,
The Entity
Paul.M. Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
First Event - Short Track Speed Skating
Today we went to our first event. After a breakfast of cereal and blueberries and some coverage on T.V., we left for the Pacific Coliseum. The spectators' guide said to arrive early because it could take up to three hours for everyone to get through security. After our close shave with the line for watching the opening ceremonies at David Lam Park, we decided to arrive extra early and got to the venue at about 1:40.
We were, literally, the first in line. For a while we were the ONLY ones in line. But eventually others joined and we whiled away the wait chatting pleasantly with an elderly couple from B.C. and a less elderly couple from Seattle. We talked about vacations and public health care and found it easy to ignore the rain.
Finally the gates opened. (Ironically for the first in line, our gate opened last of the several gates.) Our seats were in the very last row, but that worked out perfectly. There was a rail in front of us from which Kim hung the flag that saved Canada. And the view was as clear as day. The zoom lens on our camera got close up pictures and the naked eye caught the big picture without problem.
We were there for the whole warm up skate and were struck anew by the beauty of the speed skater leaning into the turn hand down to the ice as though caressing it affectionately. Paul found himself grinning like an idiot just to be there. We were there; we were really, finally there - at the Olympics. As an extra bonus, the food available was better than any "arena food" we have every seen, including NHL arenas. And not extortionately priced either.
Then the races began. There was excitement and drama and a whole lot of fun. There were races of different kinds: men's women's and women's relay. No medals for Canada, but so be it.
On the way home, we stopped for Thai food and are now three for three on wonderful Vancouver restaurants. We continue to be blown away by the kindness of the locals. There was the woman on the bus who helped us find an alternate route home, chatted with us about the Olympics and told us about the Chinese New Year celebrations going on tomorrow--a good tip since our event for tomorrow, the super combined, has been postponed. Then, when our bus route didn't work out as we had hoped a woman overheard us discussing the streets, asked us where we were going and gave us very practical advice which got us home promptly and inexpensively.
We are catching up on other events on T.V.
With giiddy excitment,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
We were, literally, the first in line. For a while we were the ONLY ones in line. But eventually others joined and we whiled away the wait chatting pleasantly with an elderly couple from B.C. and a less elderly couple from Seattle. We talked about vacations and public health care and found it easy to ignore the rain.
Finally the gates opened. (Ironically for the first in line, our gate opened last of the several gates.) Our seats were in the very last row, but that worked out perfectly. There was a rail in front of us from which Kim hung the flag that saved Canada. And the view was as clear as day. The zoom lens on our camera got close up pictures and the naked eye caught the big picture without problem.
We were there for the whole warm up skate and were struck anew by the beauty of the speed skater leaning into the turn hand down to the ice as though caressing it affectionately. Paul found himself grinning like an idiot just to be there. We were there; we were really, finally there - at the Olympics. As an extra bonus, the food available was better than any "arena food" we have every seen, including NHL arenas. And not extortionately priced either.
Then the races began. There was excitement and drama and a whole lot of fun. There were races of different kinds: men's women's and women's relay. No medals for Canada, but so be it.
On the way home, we stopped for Thai food and are now three for three on wonderful Vancouver restaurants. We continue to be blown away by the kindness of the locals. There was the woman on the bus who helped us find an alternate route home, chatted with us about the Olympics and told us about the Chinese New Year celebrations going on tomorrow--a good tip since our event for tomorrow, the super combined, has been postponed. Then, when our bus route didn't work out as we had hoped a woman overheard us discussing the streets, asked us where we were going and gave us very practical advice which got us home promptly and inexpensively.
We are catching up on other events on T.V.
With giiddy excitment,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Opening Ceremony
We didn't have tickets to the Opening Ceremony and could have watched on TV. Then again, we could have done that at home. While we were watching the flame relay, a local guy told us that there were big screens set up in David Lam park. In the typical helpful Vancouver way he described the event, gave us directions and wished us well.
When we arrived at the park, more than two hours before the event, the line up went for blocks and blocks. It was the the longest line up either of us has ever been in. We were concerned that we might not make it in, but others were still getting in line and the helpful "Blue Coat Volunteer" told us we would get into the venu. With some nervousness, we joined the line. We then worried. The line moved slowly and time was ticking towards 6:00pm. Impressively, the people in line stayed calm and friendly. One pair of older women behind us a bit were particularly delightful, making sure they finished the wine they had brought before they got to security and relying on us to tell them what they didn't catch from the Blue Coat about the chances of getting in. When it looked like, instead of watching the Opening Ceremony, we would be standing on the street in the rain missing the show, and others were giving up and leaving, the ladies told us they were counting on Kim's positive attitude to get us, and them, in.. Another Blue Coat assured the line that there was room for everyone (the venue holds 8000) but that the problem was that security screening--almost at airport security level--was slowing things down and we may not get in before the start.
We made it to the front gate RIGHT ON TIME. It was awesome. It was raining, we were cold and by the end of the show, after six or so hours of combined walking and standing, we were sore. But we are so glad we did it. During the parade of athletes people at the venue from the different countries cheered for their favourites. There was a group of Russians in front of us, one in a Kovalchuk jersey, there was a confusing South American contingent who cheered for Chile, Brazil and Mexico but booed for Argentina and were silent for Peru, there was a loud cheer for the US and Paul was the only one who cheered for New Zealand, (he is also a Kiwi citizen, thanks to his mother). The loudest cheer of all by far was, of course, for Canada.
We thought the ceremony was amazing--it was much more about Canada than just about Vancouver. Kim loved the slam poet.
Our first sporting event is today--short track speed skating at 5:00pm. We are pumped.
With awe and joy,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
When we arrived at the park, more than two hours before the event, the line up went for blocks and blocks. It was the the longest line up either of us has ever been in. We were concerned that we might not make it in, but others were still getting in line and the helpful "Blue Coat Volunteer" told us we would get into the venu. With some nervousness, we joined the line. We then worried. The line moved slowly and time was ticking towards 6:00pm. Impressively, the people in line stayed calm and friendly. One pair of older women behind us a bit were particularly delightful, making sure they finished the wine they had brought before they got to security and relying on us to tell them what they didn't catch from the Blue Coat about the chances of getting in. When it looked like, instead of watching the Opening Ceremony, we would be standing on the street in the rain missing the show, and others were giving up and leaving, the ladies told us they were counting on Kim's positive attitude to get us, and them, in.. Another Blue Coat assured the line that there was room for everyone (the venue holds 8000) but that the problem was that security screening--almost at airport security level--was slowing things down and we may not get in before the start.
We made it to the front gate RIGHT ON TIME. It was awesome. It was raining, we were cold and by the end of the show, after six or so hours of combined walking and standing, we were sore. But we are so glad we did it. During the parade of athletes people at the venue from the different countries cheered for their favourites. There was a group of Russians in front of us, one in a Kovalchuk jersey, there was a confusing South American contingent who cheered for Chile, Brazil and Mexico but booed for Argentina and were silent for Peru, there was a loud cheer for the US and Paul was the only one who cheered for New Zealand, (he is also a Kiwi citizen, thanks to his mother). The loudest cheer of all by far was, of course, for Canada.
We thought the ceremony was amazing--it was much more about Canada than just about Vancouver. Kim loved the slam poet.
Our first sporting event is today--short track speed skating at 5:00pm. We are pumped.
With awe and joy,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Friday, February 12, 2010
The Flame in the Olympic City
We woke this morning to watch Arnold Schwarzenegger carry the torch in Stanley Park and were keenly aware that what we were seeing on TV was happening only a few minutes' walk from where we were sitting. We kept watching the TV coverage long enough to see Terry Fox's dad carry the torch, a very moving experience, and to see Walter Gretzky's turn with the flame.
We walked our neighbourhood, had a tremendous breakfast and stocked up on food and wine. Then we went to see the flame live and in person. We were located right under the entrance to Granville Island. The flame passed and then we joined the procession, the crowd walking united following the torchbearer's beacon. We followed to the water, where the flame was exchanged on a dragon boat.
The city is alive with energy, spirit and comraderie. The locals are helpful beyond measure. Of course, the tragic luge accident has affected the the mood and it remains to be seen how that will influence the opening ceremonies which are scheduled to begin in just four hours.
Our plan for the opening ceremonies is to go to watch in a public space and be part of a larger experience. No doubt we will have more to report.
With awe,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We walked our neighbourhood, had a tremendous breakfast and stocked up on food and wine. Then we went to see the flame live and in person. We were located right under the entrance to Granville Island. The flame passed and then we joined the procession, the crowd walking united following the torchbearer's beacon. We followed to the water, where the flame was exchanged on a dragon boat.
The city is alive with energy, spirit and comraderie. The locals are helpful beyond measure. Of course, the tragic luge accident has affected the the mood and it remains to be seen how that will influence the opening ceremonies which are scheduled to begin in just four hours.
Our plan for the opening ceremonies is to go to watch in a public space and be part of a larger experience. No doubt we will have more to report.
With awe,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We Arrive
Blessed with, second only to each other, good friends, we were given a ride to the airport by Tracy. She was so helpful that she was willing to consider taking the speaker, (which, by the way, is the biggest car speaker Paul, at least, has ever seen), out of her car to make room for the luggage. That wasn't necessary though. Her good company and help made the setting out easy, pleasant and convivial.
After an ordinary Westjet flight we arrived in Vancouver. The new Canada Line was easy to find and worked well. For that at least, to judge by the number of people on the train, the city is getting bang for its Olympic infrastructure buck.
The condo is nicer than we had any hope for. Arnold and Anne met us at the condo and were incredibly nice. Arnold said he had never planned so much for someone else's vacation. They had clipped recent news articles and guides and the place itself is much better than the student digs we had expected. All is perfect.
Tired but hungry, we went out in search of food, deciding that, if we found nothing within a block's walk on 4th street, we would give up. But the luck continued. We found a place called Refuel, where we ordered chorizo sausage, pate, bread, olives and a local Pinot Noir. When we asked if there was any cheese we were told there wasn't, but mere minutes later Jamie, our server, returned to say that, while it wasn't on the menu, the chef was tasting some blue cheese and we could have some. It was the perfect, relaxing end to the day.
All is now in place and there is nothing to do but go forth every day and enjoy. We can't help but feel lucky beyond all merit.
In Place At Last,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
After an ordinary Westjet flight we arrived in Vancouver. The new Canada Line was easy to find and worked well. For that at least, to judge by the number of people on the train, the city is getting bang for its Olympic infrastructure buck.
The condo is nicer than we had any hope for. Arnold and Anne met us at the condo and were incredibly nice. Arnold said he had never planned so much for someone else's vacation. They had clipped recent news articles and guides and the place itself is much better than the student digs we had expected. All is perfect.
Tired but hungry, we went out in search of food, deciding that, if we found nothing within a block's walk on 4th street, we would give up. But the luck continued. We found a place called Refuel, where we ordered chorizo sausage, pate, bread, olives and a local Pinot Noir. When we asked if there was any cheese we were told there wasn't, but mere minutes later Jamie, our server, returned to say that, while it wasn't on the menu, the chef was tasting some blue cheese and we could have some. It was the perfect, relaxing end to the day.
All is now in place and there is nothing to do but go forth every day and enjoy. We can't help but feel lucky beyond all merit.
In Place At Last,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Waiting
We're packed; we've got the tickets organized by time and date; we've printed the airline itinerary and selected our seats online; we've got another HOUR before we have to leave for the airport! We will be sleeping in Vancouver tonight. We will be in the Olympic City. However, right now we have NOTHING to do but wait.
With unbearable anticipation
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
With unbearable anticipation
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Final Preparations
We leave tomorrow and are making final preparations. Last night we actually spoke to the fellow who is renting us the condo in Vancouver. It was reassuring, after reading/hearing in the news about some scams that are going on, to hear his voice. He told us that the condo (originally purchased for his son when in university) had only been used previously by friends and family and that, by using it, we were now included in that group. He said we were stuck with him and his wife. It was sweet. He and his wife will be waiting for us at the condo when we get in.
The camera is charged and the memory chip has been wiped. Olympic bus tickets and flight itineraries have been printed. Now all that is left to do is actually pack. We'll need a suitcase for all the Olympic wear alone!
A friend from Paul's work, who lived in Vancouver, just emailed restaurant advice. Other people have made suggestions and really everyone has been helpful and enthusiastic, from the guy at work who said we could stay with his friend if our condo turned out to be a scam, to the folks who run the dry cleaner down the street who are closing early during the Olympics to go home and watch, to the receptionist at the dentist who insisted on pictures at the next cleaning, to the strangers on the street who, more than once, have cheered or called to us just because we were decked out in Olympic gear. One of the best things so far, even before we leave, is how the Olympic spirit makes this vacation about so much more than "our" vacation. We get to feel part of something larger, something communal.
So thanks to all those people. And Go Canada!
With shared anticipation,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
The camera is charged and the memory chip has been wiped. Olympic bus tickets and flight itineraries have been printed. Now all that is left to do is actually pack. We'll need a suitcase for all the Olympic wear alone!
A friend from Paul's work, who lived in Vancouver, just emailed restaurant advice. Other people have made suggestions and really everyone has been helpful and enthusiastic, from the guy at work who said we could stay with his friend if our condo turned out to be a scam, to the folks who run the dry cleaner down the street who are closing early during the Olympics to go home and watch, to the receptionist at the dentist who insisted on pictures at the next cleaning, to the strangers on the street who, more than once, have cheered or called to us just because we were decked out in Olympic gear. One of the best things so far, even before we leave, is how the Olympic spirit makes this vacation about so much more than "our" vacation. We get to feel part of something larger, something communal.
So thanks to all those people. And Go Canada!
With shared anticipation,
The Entity
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Kim Boara Alexander
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Tickets
People keep asking us what events we will be attending. Here's the list:
Feb 13: Short Track Speed Skating;
Feb 14: Alpine Skiing
Feb15: Victory Ceremony
Feb16: Figure Skating (Men's Short Program)
Feb 17: Speed Skating
Feb 18: Snowboard (Women's Halfpipe)
Feb 18-22: Check out the sights, soak in the atmosphere
Feb 23: Curling
Feb 24: Freestyle Skiing (Aerials)
Feb 25: Ice Hockey--Women's Gold Medal Game!!!!!
Feb 26: Victory Ceremony
Feb 27-March 2: Check out the sights, soak in the atmosphere.
It's all so unreal. The journey begins in just one week.
With abounding anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Feb 13: Short Track Speed Skating;
Feb 14: Alpine Skiing
Feb15: Victory Ceremony
Feb16: Figure Skating (Men's Short Program)
Feb 17: Speed Skating
Feb 18: Snowboard (Women's Halfpipe)
Feb 18-22: Check out the sights, soak in the atmosphere
Feb 23: Curling
Feb 24: Freestyle Skiing (Aerials)
Feb 25: Ice Hockey--Women's Gold Medal Game!!!!!
Feb 26: Victory Ceremony
Feb 27-March 2: Check out the sights, soak in the atmosphere.
It's all so unreal. The journey begins in just one week.
With abounding anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Accommodations
We're outfitted (sort of, since Kim still doesn't have her white parka), our flights are booked and now we've officially paid in full for our lodgings. Accommodations were a challenge. For a while we were on waiting lists for hotels, cruise ships, RVs and RV parks while also pricing tents at Canadian Tire and checking out vagrancy laws applicable to overnight stays in Stanley Park. But we found private accommodations, renting a condo from what seem to be very nice people who bought a place in Kitsilano for their son while he was in university.
We got an e-mail from the nice people today. They reiterated that it wasn't luxurious but that the condo was being wired for cable, the 30+ inch LCD tv had arrived and that they had repainted just for us. It cost less than a hotel and it sounds homey. Plus it has a kitchen. Let's hope we haven't been sending our money to the west coast just to find out that we're the victims of a minor fraud under (technical Criminal Code speak). We don't think so; they really do seem like nice people with a son (who has a facebook page), a husband who really did show up as faculty at the appropriate university and whose music is available online and a wife who, compared to her male relatives is a bit of a mystery.
Well, that's it for now. We've paid; here's to hoping we've paid for something.
With mounting anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We got an e-mail from the nice people today. They reiterated that it wasn't luxurious but that the condo was being wired for cable, the 30+ inch LCD tv had arrived and that they had repainted just for us. It cost less than a hotel and it sounds homey. Plus it has a kitchen. Let's hope we haven't been sending our money to the west coast just to find out that we're the victims of a minor fraud under (technical Criminal Code speak). We don't think so; they really do seem like nice people with a son (who has a facebook page), a husband who really did show up as faculty at the appropriate university and whose music is available online and a wife who, compared to her male relatives is a bit of a mystery.
Well, that's it for now. We've paid; here's to hoping we've paid for something.
With mounting anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Outfitting
We leave Feb. 11. All the planning is coming together. Now we're going overboard.
We admit, we're suckers for Olympic wear. Even for past Olympics when we got no closer than our living room we were fully decked out in official Team Canada gear. You can only imagine how obsessed we've become this time, when we will be there live and in person. Knowing our natures, friends and family outfitted us generously at Christmas. However, we've taken it to a new level. We searched the city today because I want the women's parka; I bought red yarn, braided it and with it I attached my Olympic mittens to eachother and then threaded them through my coat; we bought an Olympic onesy for a couple we know to be expecting and a hoodie for our great nephew. Hey, at this point it's what we can do since we can't make the Olympics happen any sooner...we're biding our time and spending our money. A marketer's dream. Of course, it IS a once in a lifetime for us.
So the thought behind this blog is this: people keep saying that they want to hear "all about" our trip. Well, be careful what you wish for! We'll be posting details of our adventure for all to read. Enjoy. We certainly intend to.
With anxious anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
We admit, we're suckers for Olympic wear. Even for past Olympics when we got no closer than our living room we were fully decked out in official Team Canada gear. You can only imagine how obsessed we've become this time, when we will be there live and in person. Knowing our natures, friends and family outfitted us generously at Christmas. However, we've taken it to a new level. We searched the city today because I want the women's parka; I bought red yarn, braided it and with it I attached my Olympic mittens to eachother and then threaded them through my coat; we bought an Olympic onesy for a couple we know to be expecting and a hoodie for our great nephew. Hey, at this point it's what we can do since we can't make the Olympics happen any sooner...we're biding our time and spending our money. A marketer's dream. Of course, it IS a once in a lifetime for us.
So the thought behind this blog is this: people keep saying that they want to hear "all about" our trip. Well, be careful what you wish for! We'll be posting details of our adventure for all to read. Enjoy. We certainly intend to.
With anxious anticipation,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
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