True North Strong and Free

With less than a week to go before Opening Ceremonies, the excitement is building toward the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games. This will be the second time in my life that Canada welcomes the world in this most prestigious athletic event. The last time the Games were held in the Great North, I was a pimply, pre-pubescent lass.

These Olympics will be very special because I will share them with my son for the first time. Doing so reminds me of the first time I remember sharing the Games with my dad. Those Games were in 1984, in Los Angeles. I remember watching track and gymnastics with him. For me, it was very special.

These Games will be more special because we will make the trip to Vancouver - actually Whistler - where all the alpine skiing events will be held. The B who works for a Canadian broadcaster will be helping to cover the Games. He's been assigned the downhill ski events which is great because both of us are avid skiers. (Last year at this time we were actually skiing on the Swiss Alps.)

I'm so excited. And I even went out and bought Olympic finery that matches that of my young son! (I know, so nerdy! But hey, very patriotic!)

In addition to my skis, I will pack my running shoes. I'm very hopeful that I will be able to do a few LSD runs among the mountains - one of my most favourite places to be. (I told The B that when we retire, I want to live in the mountains and ski every day!) During the weekend of our engagement, I brought my runners and did a few long runs along Lake Simcoe and during my honeymoon a few years ago, between rounds of golf, I ran through Palm Desert, California. For the last few vacations, running has been important. I find it relaxing and besides, running is also a great way to see your vacation spot.

Anyhoo, the countdown to the Games begins with the Opening Ceremonies set to hit the stage at Vancouver Place on Friday.