AHHHH

Under 6 Months before I head out on my adventure of a lifetime!

WOW - Where does the time go?

School update: I am kicking ass and loving every minute of it. Right now in the midst of international airline ticketing and fares and I've completed my Apollo ticketing system training.

Keep on rolling baby, only 4 months left!

Invictus

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

~William Ernest Henley

Invictus is a 2009 drama feature film based on Nelson Mandela's life during the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the film stars Morgan Freeman as the then South African President Mandela, and Matt Damon as Francois Pienaar, the South African team captain. The story is based on the John Carlin book Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Changed a Nation.

I just got back from seeing this and am moved. I'm now even more excited to be visiting a country with such a diverse and intense history.

2010 travels will bring me much insight and expose me to many things, some of which I feel I am prepared, some of which I know I am not.

I await the adventure and education.

Oh Walmart

How you give me hours of entertainment ...







http://www.peopleofwalmart.com

QUOTE

An excellent quote sent to me from my sorta-sister-in-law

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." -Dr. Seuss.

H1N1 ... my thoughts

Do we need reminding that in 2005 the World Health Organization predicted that up to 150 million people might die from Avian flu? The eventual death toll was 262 people.

There is substantial evidence that the mortality rate from H1N1 flu is actually much smaller than seasonal flu.

Researchers who have combed through hundreds of flu-vaccine studies find very little evidence that suggests a vaccine will prevent the spread of the virus in the general population.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2009/11/02/f-viewpoint-cassels.html

First off, NO I am not getting the shot. I've never got the regular flu shot so why start now.

I don't recall EVER having even the regular flu so I am not worried about this piggy deal.

I DO however think that those who are chronically ill, or have weakened immune systems should get it. People like my friend J who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis or my bro who suffers from ulcerative colitis - they need to get this shot. Their bodies and immune systems are already messed up and have a hard enough time day to day, toss in a freaky flu and who knows what could happen.

I don't want to find out.

But for me, its a no go.

And I DO think all the media hype is getting way out of control and stirring up more fear than needs be.

Everyone needs to do for themselves what they think is best for them and not be scared into stabbing themselves with a vaccine just because everyone else is panicking

The Human Pin Cushion

Now that my trip to Africa is a full GO its time to really get sorted on entry requirements and vaccinations.

Starting with the vaccinations, it would appear that I am gonna end up being a human pin cushion as of January 2010. Check out this list of shots I’m gonna need to get:

NAMIBIA:

Yellow fever: Although yellow fever does not occur in Namibia, an official yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your itinerary.

Requirement: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. The countries, or parts of countries, included in the endemic zones in Africa and South America are regarded as areas with risk of yellow fever transmission. Travelers on scheduled flights that originated outside the areas with risk of transmission, but who have been in transit through these areas, are not required to possess a certificate provided that they remained at the scheduled airport or in the adjacent town during transit. All passengers whose flights originated in countries with risk of yellow fever transmission or who have been in transit through these countries on unscheduled flights are required to possess a certificate. The certificate is not insisted upon in the case of children under 1 year of age, but such infants may be subject to surveillance.

Depending on your itinerary, your personal risk factors, and the length of your visit, your health care provider may offer you vaccination against cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, rabies, typhoid, or a one time polio booster if you haven't previously received one for travel. Routine immunizations, such as those that prevent tetanus/diphtheria or "childhood" diseases, should be reviewed and updated as needed.

BOTSWANA:

Yellow fever: Although yellow fever does not occur in Botswana, an official yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your itinerary.

Requirement: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over 1 year of age coming from or having passed through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Depending on your itinerary, your personal risk factors, and the length of your visit, your health care provider may offer you vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, rabies, typhoid, or a one time polio booster if you haven't previously received one for travel. Routine immunizations, such as those that prevent tetanus/diphtheria or "childhood" diseases, should be reviewed and updated as needed.

ZAMBIA:

Depending on your itinerary, your personal risk factors, and the length of your visit, your health care provider may offer you vaccination against cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, meningococcal meningitis, rabies, typhoid, or a one time polio booster if you haven't previously received one for travel. Routine immunizations, such as those that prevent tetanus/diphtheria or "childhood" diseases, should be reviewed and updated as needed

SOUTH AFRICA:

Yellow fever: Although yellow fever does not occur in South Africa, an official yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your itinerary.

Requirement: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers over 1 year of age coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Other vaccines: Depending on your itinerary, your personal risk factors, and the length of your visit, your health care provider may offer you vaccination against cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, rabies, or typhoid. Routine immunizations, such as those that prevent tetanus/diphtheria or "childhood" diseases, should be reviewed and updated as needed.

And how fun does this sound:

African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, is caused by the bite of an infected tsetse fly. The disease is very rare in travelers, especially short-term travelers. Sleeping sickness occurs in African countries that lie south of the Sahara Desert; however, South Africa, Lesotho, and Namibia are considered free of transmission. The chronic (Gambian) form of the disease occurs in wooded areas around rivers, mostly among local populations in rural areas; transmission is higher during the dry season. The acute (Rhodesian) form of the disease, however, occurs in areas of savanna and woodlands in Central and East Africa -- the type of environments that tourists come in contact with through tours or safaris.

But this aint gonna stop me – its just part and parcel of travelling to Africa … The Mother Land

Click-Click-Snap-Snap

Finnaly got a flicker account. Picassa just dosent cut it anymore.

Working on getting up snaps from last years travels ...

Check it out:

Click-Click-Snap-Snap

Approved!

**Woot Woot**

P got his holiday time approved for next summer!

Africa is a go - June 13 - July 13 - 4 weeks of sun, sand, soccer and adventure!!

Living It

Easy on the eyes, ethically consious and well travelled - Ewan McGregor just got even better ... as if that was even possible

Living It: Ewan McGregor

Thailand

Here's a glimpse of what lies ahdead for me in Thailand:

Beach Travellers | Thailand 2009 | www.beachtravellers.com from Beach Travellers on Vimeo.

My GF Melissa is also going to be my tour guide as it works out (one of the many cute blonds in the video) and I cannot wait to be able to spend a few months exploring not just Thailand, but also Vietnam and Cambodia with her.

Afrika Adventures

The plans are coming together and I am soooo stoked. We will be travelling for a month starting in Namibia and ending in South Africa. The time in S.A. will be focused on the World Cup events that we are attening, as well as a few days in Jo'burg and the rest of the time in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

To start off the adventure, this is the trip we are booking next week:

GAP Adventures: Delta and Falls Experience - 10 days

Introduction: For Africa enthusiasts Botswana is the place to be. Explore the wildlife meccas of Okavango and Chobe, and finish off at the magnificent Victoria Falls, Mosi au Tunya "the smoke that thunders" - a natural wonder of the world

Trip style - Overland: Get back to some old-school adventure travel and hit the open road in one of our all purpose overland trucks. Our trips provide the best of both worlds. Stay in hotels and enjoy the cities and towns, while roughing it on the road
in an overland truck. Expect a real hands-on experience as you set up camp, help out at meal times and team up with your fellow travellers as you cross rivers, plains, plateaus and mountain passes. You could be sleeping out in the open wilderness, or within earshot of a lion’s roar and elephants trumpeting, and waking every morning to a new adventure

Day 1 Arrive Windhoek
Arrive in Windhoek at any time.

Day 2 Kalahari
Cross into Botswana and travel to Ghanzi in the Kalahari Desert region. Take a walk with a local San Bushman to learn fascinating wilderness survival skills.

Day 3 Maun
Head to Maun where the Okavango Delta beckons to be explored. Here you can pick up any supplies and prepare for your unforgettable 2 night/3 day journey deep into the "Delta".

Day 4-5 Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta Excursion is an experience not to be missed. While based at a bush camp within the world's largest inland delta, enjoy game walks and traditional mokoro (dug-out canoe) excursions, marveling at the wide variety of wildlife that calls the delta their home. This is truly an African experience!

Day 6 Gweta
Wake up to the African sun rising over the beauty of the Delta. Today we stop in Maun, and continue to the village of Gweta, located near the salt pans of Makgadikgadi. You will get a feeling of the local environment here as you camp under ancient Baobab trees.

Day 7 Chobe River
Journey to the Chobe River, your base for a visit to Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Southern Africa. The best way to appreciate Botswana's largest national park and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos, is on an afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River. You may also choose to embark on a game drive in search of lions, antelope, and of course elephants.

Day 8-9 Livingstone, Zambia
With time for a morning game drive before departing, we cross the mighty Zambezi River by ferry as we enter into Zambia. Spend the next day exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world. Adventure activities abound - go white-water rafting or canoeing on Zambezi, take an elephant-back safari, bungee jump over the Zambezi River.

Day 10 Depart Livingstone (B)

!!!!UNREAL!!!!
From Zambia we will be flying to Jo'burg (and YES, we are more than aware that crime is a serious problem in Johannesburg - we get the daily emails from P's fam to remind us) to spend 3 days in town visiting family, taking in a Game and visiting the The Apartheid Museum and The Constitution Hill .

Then its off to Cape Town.

I am eager to take in Table Mountain,

Robbin Island, where former South African President and Nobel Laureate Nelson Mandela and former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe, alongside many other political prisoners, spent decades imprisoned during the apartheid era.



The Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach: home to the fabulous jackass Penguins (ok for real, how much do I love that they are called Jackass Penguins beacuse the sound like donkeys - OMG hysterica!),




Add in some serious eating and partying with all those crazy football fans (400,000 are expected to arrive for the event!), and it's gonna be an amazing week at the end of the Earth.

Then for the last part of the adventure, its off to Port Elizabeth, 800 km north east of Cape Town.

P.E. is where we have our second and last game and time to flake out and relax.



Then I'm off to ...

Winged Goddesses with Serpent Hair and Eyes Dripping Blood

My Mom sent this to me today - Never hear of these gals before, but now I am intrigued:

The Erinyes

Three daughters of Gaia were the spirits of conscience, punishment and retribution. The three Erinyes

They are often represented in graphical form as winged goddesses with serpent hair and eyes dripping blood. The relentlessly pursued their victims until the guilty died in a furor of madness and remorse. So devastating was their power, the Ancient Greeks dared not speak their real name for fear of provoking their wrath.

Their names were;

Megaera – the jealous

Tisiphone – the blood avenger

Alecto – the unceasing

So I hit up the good old Wiki and this is what else I found:

In Greek mythology the Erinýes (Ἐρινύες, pl. of Ἐρινύς, Erinýs; lit. "the angry ones") or Eumenídes (Εὐμενίδες, pl. of Εὐμενίς; lit. "the gracious ones") or Furies in Roman mythology were female, chthonic deities of vengeance or supernatural personifications of the anger of the dead. They represent regeneration and the potency of creation, which both consumes and empowers. A formulaic oath in the Iliad (iii.278ff; xix.260ff) invokes them as "those who beneath the earth punish whosoever has sworn a false oath." Burkert suggests they are "an embodiment of the act of self-cursing contained in the oath".[1]

When the mighty Titan Cronus castrated his father Uranus and threw his genitalia into the sea, the Erinyes emerged from the drops of blood, while Aphrodite was born from the seafoam. According to a variant account, they issued from an even more primordial level—from Nyx, "Night". Their number is usually left indeterminate. Virgil, probably working from an Alexandrian source, recognized three: Alecto ("unceasing," who appeared in Virgil's Aeneid), Megaera ("grudging"), and Tisiphone ("avenging murder"). Dante followed Virgil in depicting the same three-charactered triptych of Erinyes. The heads of the Erinyes were wreathed with serpents (compare Gorgon) and their eyes dripped with blood, rendering their appearance rather horrific. Sometimes they had the wings of a bat or bird and the body of a dog.

And this was what I found on http://www.theoi.com/Khthonios/Erinyes.html

THE ERINYES were three netherworld goddesses who avenged crimes against the natural order. They were particularly concerned with homicide, unfilial conduct, crimes against the gods, and perjury. A victim seeking justice could call down the curse of the Erinys upon the criminal. The most powerful of these was the curse of the parent upon the child--for the Erinyes were born of just such a crime, being sprung from the blood of Ouranos, when he was castrated by his son Kronos.

The wrath of the Erinyes manifested itself in a number of ways. The most severe of these was the tormenting madness inflicted upon a patricide or matricide. Murderers might suffer illness or disease; and a nation harbouring such a criminal, could suffer dearth, and with it hunger and disease. The wrath of the Erinyes could only be placated with the rite ritual purification and the completion of some task assigned for atonement.

The goddesses were also servants of Haides and Persephone in the underworld where they oversaw the torture of criminals consigned to the Dungeons of the Damned.

The Erinyes were similar to if not the same as the Poinai (Retaliations), Arai (Curses), Praxidikai (Exacters of Justice) and Maniai (Madnesses).

They were depicted as ugly, winged women with hair, arms and waists entwined with poisonous serpents. They wielded whips and were clothed either in the long black robes of mourners, or the short-length skirts and boots of huntress- maidens.

These sisters sound BADDASS ... I think I am liking my name even more now ;)

Holy ...

I just finished watching this and I can tell you that I have watched some scary movies in my life, but this one may take the cake:



Jesus Camp Summary:

Becky Fischer is a Pentacostal minister who holds Evangelical Christian conferences and camps, the latter called "Kids on Fire" which are held in Devil's Lake, North Dakota.

She holds the camps in the hopes of teaching Evangelical Christian children to lay down their life for God. She equates her philosophy to that of extremist Muslims teaching children literally to fight in the name of Islam, but with 'the right' message. She teaches the children at the camps to be outspoken in their beliefs with a passionate fervor, all in the name of Jesus Christ.

Topics presented include the evils of Harry Potter (in Old Testament times, he would have been put to death for being a warlock), the waste of dead churches (where there is no passion in the praising of Jesus), the evils of abortion, and Evangelical Christians taking back government in the United States. The camp attendees soak up the messages like sponges as she is preaching to the converted. Her events are played out against the backdrop of the George W. Bush presidency, he who speaks to

Ted Haggard, the leader of the National Association of Evangelicals, on a weekly basis. Christian radio host Mike Papantonio, who is non-Evangelical, provides his views of what he considers Fischer's indoctrination process, and especially the harm he sees in blurring the line between church and state.

I am sad and scared for these kids.

Since when did God want an army of young troubled children?

Brainwashing is Brainwashing no matter how you want to hide it.

Ted Haggard is a terrifying jackass.

Here are a few more links on this if you want to read more:

http://www.jesuscampthemovie.com/

http://www.jesuscampthemovie.com/haggard_response.html

http://www.jesuscampthemovie.com/Innovators.html

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0486358/

http://movies.nytimes.com/2006/09/22/movies/22camp.html

http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-172839277.html

2010 - An Erin Odyssey

It's official.

I am finally tasking the leap and heading off on my long dreamed of travel adventures.

The plans for this globe trotting gal are looking a little something like this:

May/June:
Costa Rica & Panama
(Internship/work term)

June/July:
South Africa, Botswana & Zambia
(FIFA World Cup, safari adventures and family visits with P)

July/August/September:
Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia
(36 days backpacking in Thailand, 3 weeks in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, and maybe Malaysia ...)

September:
China & Japan (Beijing, the Great Wall, Tokyo and meeting up with friends)

PINCH ME! Is this real??

I can barely contain myself!

Thailand is booked.
Flights are being organized.
Hostels are being researched.
Vaccines are being organized.
Lists are being made ....

Little Bit a Lot EXCITED!

As a child I cannot tell you how much I LOVED this book. I think I wore it out having my Mom read it to me constantly ... AND NOW ITS A MOVIE!

While it's not totally true to the original story, it seems like it's close enough to keep me happy. We'll just have to wait and see.

Until then, I'll keep watching the trailers and getting giddy like I'm a 6 year old again :)

Hmmmmm....

Messing around with RWT (Round The World Ticket) options and came up with this little plan:

Vancouver - Miami - San Jose - Lima - Rio de Janeiro - Sao Paulo - Johannesburg - Harare - Nairobi - London - Madrid - Casablanca - Madrid - Athens - Istanbul - Bangkok - Shanghai - Seoul - Tokyo - Sydney - Vancouver

Burning the Candle at Both Ends ...

Sux!

I am exhausted ...

I am sleeping like shit these days and working my ass off ...

All that keeps me going right now are the plans for next year ...

Internship possibilities arising in in Spain, Indonesia, Brazil, Thailand, Costa Rica, France or England; World Cup, travels and volunteer work in Southern Africa; and some bumming around in Europe to close off the summer ...

Gotta keep my eye on the prize ...

** YAWN **

Back to School

Week One – DONE!

Well, the first week of my Travel & Tourism course is behind me now.

It was a very odd feeling on Sunday night to be packing my backpack and making my lunch for the “First Day of School”

It’s been about 10 years since I had a first day of school and I was a nervous wreck.

So many things went through my head:

What if I was late (I HATE being late)?
What if this was a total mistake?
What if my classmates were uber annoying (and yes, some of them are)?
What if my instructors were idiots?

Oh man, there were so many variables.

But when it was all said and done I had NOTHING to worry about. And if anything, I am WAY ahead of the game.

We started with World Destinations - AKA: Geography - WOOHOO!

Since my passion is for all things travel related, plus the fact that I am a total map geek (I can study maps forever), I was more than prepared in regards to knowing the continents, oceans, country names, cities and capitals.

I have to admit, it was really quite shocking to hear some of the answers to some of the questions we were asked as warm up. Like who doesn’t know where the CN Tower or the Parliament Buildings are? Or where Cape Breton Island or Hudson Bay is?

YIKES!

But whateves, I’m not there to judge … I’m there to learn!

On Day 2, we each had to give 5 minute presentations on our assigned provinces. I was assigned Newfoundland and KILLED IT! But yet again, I was shocked to watch some of the other presentations where non of the required info was presented (we had been assigned very specific things to cover and were suppose to take our notes from each presentation in order to study for today’s test … UGH!)

How hard is a 5 minute presentation?

Sheesh, if some of my classmates want to pursue careers in customer based industry I am scared for them … hopefully its just the age and experience talking here, since I am pretty sure that I one of the oldest in the class (by a long shot) and one of only 2 students who have had REAL jobs in the past ….

Looks like all my real estate and retail customer service expertise will be a total leg up!

Today we had our first test – A Canada based geography test. Basic stuff: label a map, name the federal capital etc, along with some global geography (oceans, continents, where is the tropic of cancer … etc) and I am pretty sure I nailed it. But well see on Monday … don’t want to get too cocky too soon ;)

Now for me to get cracking on researching for my presentation on Monday: Utah here I come.

I am RETARDED with Excitement!

The plans are coming together .... and I can't wait!

Here's why:

Camping in Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites in national parks and outside towns. Campsite facilities in southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. There are generally small restaurants and/or bars, washing facilities and occasionally telephones available.

The camps have flush toilets, and showers at some camps are outdoors, having simple reed enclosures for privacy. Additionally, warm water is available at most sites, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance.

All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including camp mattresses, which are warm and comfortable. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari canvas tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate, as they have a base area of approximately 4 square meters. These tents are regularly treated with a waterproofing agent, but under certain rainy conditions, the tent fabric may become saturated to the point where seepage or leakage may occur. All tents have built-in mesh insect netting on the windows and doors.

We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.

In camping within the national parks and conservation areas, some camp sites are enclosed for keeping the resident wildlife out. Other camps are open to the natural environment – care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.

Your camping experience in the Okavango Delta is fondly called “bush camping”. This will be the most basic two nights of our trip, as there is no running water, no showers, nor toilets facilities. You will be truly camping in the wild, away from civilization and its comforts, and completely surrounded by nature – an unbelievable experience some in fact feel is the highlight of the trip.

Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the African stars, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.

Every have a life changing vacation?

I had my second one this past July/August and its amazing how just spending time with your loved ones can make you re-examine and review your life and where you are going with it ….

After spending 18 days moving about Southern Ontario, visiting my Mom and fam, my Dad and fam, my Brother and all my wonderful, wonderful friends and now their young families, it is clear to me that what I may have thought about my life, even just 2 years ago, has now changed.

I want things I didn’t think I wanted and I want them NOW!

BUT I know I cannot make things happed just by snapping my fingers, and I’m totally fine with that.

However, I do know with clarity and certainty that want things now that I never thought I cared about before.

Let’s see how this all pans out, shall we?

Recap

Ack! It’s been almost a most since my last post. I had hoped that I was going to be able to keep up the blogging better this summer but clearly that is failing me...

Oh well.

there is lots to say but here are the Coles Notes:

I quit my job at the end of June and have been just enjoying the beautiful summer and relaxing ever since - Its a tough gig but someone has to do it ;)

I had an amazing and totally spur of the moment 3rd Anniversary trip to Nelson and Kelowna and spend a wonderful 5 days taking in the beauty and the mellow vibes.

I am stoked to report that I have started my new job at Big City Cupcakes and am loving it.

Also super excited for my visit home starting on July 28th! I've not been in the Big Smoke since September 2008 and am DYING to see my Mom, Dad,Brother and all my amazing friends.

I have tons planned for my trip home but also am looking forward to spending lazy days pool side at my Dad's house.

I'll have to get all the relaxing in over the 3 weeks in Ontario since once I am back to Vancouver its GAME ON. School starts on August 24th, with orientation on August 21st. Travel & tourism, here I come - I can’t wait!

Man, life really can move fast sometimes … but I love that!

TELL ME THIS IS A JOKE

BlindGossip: If you think that the family has been rocked this week, just wait! It’s going to get bad. Here are just a few of the truths that they will deny in the coming weeks: He was a drug addict. He was alcoholic. He was anorexic. He was bald. His children are not biologically related to them. He had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He was gay. His boyfriend is a young adult male outside the music industry. Why will they deny everything? Because they know there will be a backlash against them for enabling him for years. They had to enable him because they relied on his money. If they admit that they knew these things and didn’t do anything about them, they will never get the kids. And they absolutely want those kids.

OK, its no secret MJ was a tad, ummm, eccentric ... but some of these accusations are insane!

I DID IT!

** EDIT **

More deets to come later, but I could not wait to inform you all that I have in fact completed the RIDE TO CONQUER CANCER, cycling 180 km from Vancouver to Seattle in an effort to raise funds for the BC Cancer foundation.

I was able to raise over $2500 and overall the event raised 6.9 MILLION!!!

My Team, the Cushman Cancer Crushers raised a WHOPPING $102,550.64!!

With 1,701 riders it was an event like nothing else I have even been involved with.

My body hurts from the tops of my toes to my eyelashes and I am exhausted.

A full play-by-play will be posted as soon as this little cyclist rests up a bit more, but until then, here is a clip of the Opening Ceremonies and if you look closely you can see Phil and I heading out:




Phil = 20:25 in a yellow helmet and brown and black jacket on a red bike
Moi = 20:11 in a turquoise jacket and silver helmet, looking very small ;)

Cheers,
E.

Rediscovering the Sopranos

As I sit here on my sore ass, I decided to watch The Sopranos Season 5 & 6, since I never did see the end of the series as I was too broke to afford HBO at the time.

I had forgotten just down damn funny it can be:

What kind of person does that? It's like Judas or something. Eating that last supper with Jesus and the whole time he knows they're gonna crucify him. I mean, at least Judas didn't go into any apostle protection program. He hung himself. He knew what he did.

- Rosalie Aprile

EDIT: As I watch this show, I suddenly realize that in a past life & without the crime, I have lived a Soprano style life ...


* this picture is not a representation of my past life, this is just my favorite one of them

Reason 1,000,000,000,000 Why I Love This Woman

“She called her Gay, had him go to the store and get a nice Pyrex plate, then they call the Chef at the Beverly Hills Hotel and that’s who lasagne you ate. She’s Paris Hilton, she can’t spell LASAGNA, she doesn’t know what it is”

“Hold on, hold on. Did you say she wrote you a note? OK so you think she can write?”

OMG - Busting a gut right now ... Some of the best stuff is around the 5:15 ... HYSTERICAL

This is Why I Love Kathy Griffin ...

"Her lesbian haircut is ridiculous. It looks like one of those kids got the scissors!"

- Kathy Griffin on Kate Gosselin's hair

Life and Whats Been Going On!

I have no idea where to start

So much has happened over the last month and only now am I finding the time to get it all down …

Let’s start with Coles Notes and I’ll elaborate where I can:

First off, I finished up my Mountain Biking Progression Session with Endless Biking and LOVED every second of it and improved leaps and bounds. Made some great new friends and have been out riding as much as I can.

I did manage to get hurt pretty bad on my bike a few times though, causing loads of gnarly blue, purple and black bruises to cover my legs and arms for weeks. Also scored a nasty pedal cut across the back of my calf which gushed for about an hour but I rode it out and finally I almost broke my wrist in a bail … sounds terrible I know, but its all in a good month of riding.

I also helped out at the North Shore Bike Fest with my mountain biking club the Muddbunnies, raising funds for our club with a Bike Wash and Lube Station. We managed to raise almost $200 and I got my picture splashed all over the web on various bike sites. Who could miss a purple haired gal toting around a HUGE sign with a giant pink bunny head on it?

I’ve been keeping up with my fitness training 3 time a week with my crazy Kiwi Trainer Dave at the gym and have started to see some great results. Its just weeks now till my visit home and I can’t wait to hop in the pool at my Dad’s. This girl is getting FIT! Never done so many lunges and squats before but I can really see and more importantly feel the changes and improvements in my body.

In 3 days I will ride from Vancouver to Seattle on the Ride to Conquer Cancer, a 2 day 200km ride to benefit Cancer Research and the BC Cancer Foundation. I am scared shitless at the idea of riding that far, but keeping it in perspective. Cancer is hard, this will be nothing close to that kind of hard.

Ummm, what else …

I am in the midst of planning a fundraiser for the Muddbunnies. It’s a 40’s themed event and one of the first that we are hosting that is open to to the boys, being that we are a ladies only club. I have committed to making all the food and appies for the event so its gonna be a good few days of hard work in the kitchen to make it all come together. The menu consists of  Olive & Red Pepper Tapenade, Goat Cheese & Onion Bruschetta, Cucumber Coins with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon, Chicken Satays with Spicy Peanut Sauce, Crab stuffed Mushroom Caps and Spinach Bits with Yogurt Sauce – YUMMY!!

And finally I AM SUPER STOKED to be heading home for a well overdue and much needed visit with my Family and Friends in July/August. I cannot wait to see everyone and catch up properly with my friends over cold beers and never ending glasses of wine.

So I guess that’s it … phew ….

Oh right, there is one more thing to announce:

I QUIT MY JOB!!!

That’s right, just a few more weeks and I will no longer be under the thumb of Cushman & Wakefield.

Some of you may be shocked to read this, but the decision to leave has not been a snap one or one without lots of thought. It’s been a very hard 6 months at the office and to keep myself sane and true it is clear that its now time to leave.

I have decided to follow my dreams and make a career out of travelling and working in the travel and tourism industry. I have signed up to take a Travel & Tourism diploma program at the Canadian Tourism Collage and will be starting up on August 24th.

It’s a part time course, ending in February May 2010

After I graduate I am making plans to travel to New Zealand to work for a few months before heading off to meet P in South Africa for our month long World Cup and African Adventure.

And can I just mention this one more time please?

P is amazing, so unconditionally supportive, and while he and I both know that me going back to school will be tough on the finances, its nothing we've not had to deal with before and that at the end of the day, allowing me to following my dreams is what matters most.

So as of June 30th I am a free bird and I have never felt better - Here’s to following your dreams and being true to your self!



Phew ….

The White Lies

My absolutely new favourite band. I cannot stop listening to their LP

Their sound is gritty, dark, tight and clean.

I got hooked on them a short while before seeing their killer set at Coachella.

Good old English lads with a touch of Joy Division to their sound.

Check them out here: http://www.whitelies.com/home.html

This is my fave track - Can't stop moving when I hear it - TIME TO CRANK IT!



Keep on runnin' Keep Keep on runnin' There's no PLACE LIKE HOME!
Keep on runnin' Keep Keep on runnin' There's no PLACE LIKE HOME!
Keep on runnin' Keep Keep on runnin' There's no PLACE LIKE HOME!

Confession

Ok so I watch Jon & Kate and I have sine day one

I cant stop

At first I wanted to hug her - and now I want to punch her

Yes, I am wrapped up in all that crap that’s all over the newsstands and gossip blogs

I am watching TLC now and just witnessed Jon take shots at it all in the American Chopper: Jon & Kate + 8 episode and it was the greatest thing to happen on the show so far

You go JON – Take your balls back!

My god how that woman has turned into a famewhore, child labouring bitch

Yes, she needs to be organized and on top of things. Yes, she needs to have a plan

Yes, yes I get all that

She can have all that and not be a total ‘effing cow

She used to be a little flirty & sarcastic and a little funny & cute even

Now she is bent and angry and it’s so annoying

And he poor kids, shit, what a therapy bill that’s gonna be

Opps – Commercial Break Over … back to the show ….

Oh gross, now the Cow is at the Spa with Mickey ….

It’s a god dammed train wreck and I CANT LOOK AWAY ….

My New Addiction

Is riding bikes

Big, strong mountain bikes

It’s a rush, a conquest, a thrill

It’s dangerous and fast and hard

I love ripping down the trails with the smell of pine and dirt rushing across my face

I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes from reaching new milestones

I love discovering new sights and sounds of the forest

I love riding in the sun and even more in the rain

I love getting covered in dirt and mud

I love that I can do it all in my backyard

My Passion

Over the years, I have come to assume that I was one of those people who did not have a Passion.

Nothing ever seemed to stir up the feelings in me that are required in order to be deemed Passionate about something

At least, so I thought.

It seems that things may have taken a turn, and I may in fact have found my Passion.

When I really sit down and think about it, I can't believe it’s taken this long to realize.

It's so very clear.

Reasons why I’ve not acknowledged it before I do not know.

I have has this Passion since I was a child.

Yet I always ignored it, pushing it aside for things I thought better suited for the role.

Why?

It’s not controversial or unacceptable.

I have acted on this Passion numerous times and I long for the next opportunities to do so again.

Why did it take me so long to notice what was right in front of me?

And how I did I come to find my Passion, you may ask.

Brace yourself for it, because it’s deep …

I found my Passion while I was …………………



watching T.V.



I told you it was a deep one.

BUT, is it not more important to focus on the fact that I have now established and am embracing my Passion, then to dwell on HOW I actually came to realize it?

So I digress,

I have found my Passion.

And now there is a sense of calm about me.

A feeling that I no longer have to search for something.

A feeling that what ever was missing before has now been found.

How do I know I have found my Passion?

Well, according to these sites, I have the perquisites for deeming it my Passion:

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/how-to-find-your-passion.html
http://www.wikihow.com/Find-Your-Passion

And so now it is time.

Time to act on my new found Passion.

I am Excited and Scared.

I am Nervous and Energized.

What is my Passion?

My Passion is the WORLD.

In every way and with everything that is has to offer.

Culture, Lands, People, Food, Language

The diversity and uniqueness that is at every turn.

The ability to learn and grow and absorb from every angle.

That is my Passion.

Time for an Adventure

Thanks to the Epic Show this weekend at the Vancouver Convention Centre, I am more stoked than ever to get working on our 2010 plans to travel Southern Africa.

Th whole show was actually quite good for us outcome wise this year. We got great advice on moving, recycling, and travel.

After talking with the very friendly reps at the G.A.P. booth, we had some excellent plan options presented to use.

I am starting to get the feeling that this will be a trip that leaves a lasting impression on me.

As of right now, we have tickets to a World Cup game on June 27th in Johannesburg, and so that is the only part of the plan that is set in stone.

According to P, he suggested that we should spend a grand total of 48 hours in Jo’berg. Enough time to enjoy the game and festivities and then get the hell outta dodge. I think can agree with that. It’s a city with a lot of issues, violence & crime being the big ones, and since P has been before, once the game and any obligatory family visits are out of the way, so are we.

So, it would seem that we will be hoping to fly to Johannesburg as our first stop, then head to Durban for a few days to flake out on the beach before then heading to Cape Town. We’ll spend a few days in the city, touring about and taking in the sites, sounds and all the chaos that will still be World Cup insanity.

From Cape Town the real adventure should begin. It is here that we meet up with our travel group and start on our 21 day journey travelling north through South Africa to Namibia, then moving east through Botswana, ending in Zambia.

I cannot even express how excited I am.

The trip we are planning on booking (aptly named Dunes, Deltas and Falls) is described as:

The ultimate south western Africa expedition encompassing the wildlife, culture and scenery of this fascinating region. Highlights include game drives, the world's highest sand dunes, bush walking in the Kalahari, wilderness camping, canoeing in the Okavango Delta and visiting the mighty Victoria Falls.

HELLO!! The Kalahari?! Victoria Falls?! The Okavango Delta?! Camp under ancient Baobab trees, white-water rafting, elephant-back safaris, walks with local San Bushman ...

It just too much for me. I don’t think I’ll be able to stand the wait of the next 13 months.

Motivational Writers with Beards

I am a long standing Spinal Tap fan and this is exactly why:

Michael Hogan sat down with the boys from Squatney and This Is Spinal Tap’s director, Marty DiBergi (who bears a striking resemblance to Rob Reiner), to talk about the anniversary, the new tour, and the triumphs and travails experienced by rockers of a certain age.

David and Nigel, how has your relationship developed in the 25 years since the film came out?

David St. Hubbins: Now that Jeanine is out of the picture, everything’s fine. He never got along with my ex.

Nigel Tufnel: Once they split, we got back together again.

St. Hubbins: We made a vow never to marry—not Nigel and myself, Jeanine and I—never to marry in a year with a nine in it. So we had to wait until the year 2000 anyway, and by that time we were so fucking sick of each other we had to move on.

Tufnel: Their breakup has been great for us, because I’ve seen him a bit more. My interests have changed. I’ve been breeding miniature horses. The very small ones, even smaller than the Mongolian horses, it turns out. And trying to find a business venture where I would race them. But I’m trying to find jockeys that are basically 26, 28 inches tall—and that’s been a problem, actually.

How about the dwarves from the “Stonehenge” setup?

Tufnel: They’re way too big.… I don’t know the answer, but I was captivated by these little horses, they’re so sweet. They don’t run terribly fast … but from an environmental standpoint it’s great, because they’re using less of everything.

Derek Smalls: Well, it’s less horseshit.

Tufnel: Less horseshit. Less grass in the infield … Less dirt. Saddles are smaller—less leather. Less money, it turns out, because no one actually wants to see it. Less interest. It’s a less is more.

St. Hubbins: I’ve been managing acts. Actually, recently I was really excited by the success of some female tribute bands: AC/DShe and Lez Zeppelin. So I’ve gone out on the road with some bands, Girl Jam. And of course R.E.Emma­—very successful. And we’re branching out into the oldies field. Blood Sweat & Cramps. Manfried Woman. And I just made a deal with Alice Cooper. It’s called Jim Cooper

How do you stay relevant after all these years?

Smalls: We never were relevant. That’s the key.

St. Hubbins: We never had the pain of seeing relevance slip away from us.

Tufnel: You can’t chase relevance. You can’t be wed to it. You can’t look at it like a religion. If you look in the mirror and see it, you’ve made a mistake. That’s your first mistake.

What about groupies? What would you say is the average age of a Spinal Tap groupie in the year 2008?

Smalls: It’s not the age, it’s the circumference that’s worrying.

St. Hubbins: For some reason, because of a certain song, we do attract the larger south end.

Tufnel: Once in awhile there’s a granddaughter of someone from the original days, and that’s always interesting. The typical age: I would say between 50 and 70.

St. Hubbins: But we’re talking a young 70 and an old 50.

Tufnel: We have a code when we’re doing a show—backstage, if some women come back. We’ll look at each other, with a sly look, and David will say, “Six.” And that’s the number of teeth they might have.…

How come there has never been a Spinal Tap sex-tape scandal?

Tufnel: We tried. There was no interest.

What group that’s popular today reminds you of yourselves when you were the New Originals?

Smalls: We do. We really remind us of ourselves.

Tufnel: We have to, because no one else will.

St. Hubbins: But the great thing about the Internet—I’m sorry to bring it up—is every day a new group will appear and then disappear and never be heard from again. And I think it’s wonderful. That’s the way it should be.

Tufnel: That reminds me of us.

What about the look? Have you thought about updating your look—maybe getting a makeover for the new tour?

St. Hubbins: I actually grew this beard. I’ve authored a self-help book. And they won’t let you appear on the cover of a self-help book unless you have facial hair.… It’s called BYOM: Be Your Own Me. Don’t be my you. Be your own me. And also, don’t be so sad. That’s the main message: Don’t be sad. Take your sadness and shove it up your ass.

What would you say are the influences on the Spinal Tap sound?

Smalls: I would say that a great and unrecognized influence on our sound has been sonar. A lot of our records, if you have the right system, you can hear messages to marine creatures.

Can you explain the sponsorship strategy?

St. Hubbins: Desperation. Desperation. We are really looking for serious sponsorship. We want to make some profit this time.

Smalls: We want to be the most heavily sponsored group in the history of rock ’n’ roll. We don’t want there to be a single square centimeter of anything that is not covered by a sponsor.

St. Hubbins: We want to make nascar look like—

Smalls: The public library.

And that’s because?

Smalls: This is the new rock ’n’ roll. This is the new phase of rock ’n’ roll. It’s all for sale. Buy it.

Does that make you sad—a lost ideal of the 60s?

St. Hubbins: You know what you can do with your sadness. I’ve already told you.

Coachella Videos

Just noticed that some of my videos from Coachella actually posted to Picasa - I thought that they were too big and I didn't have the room - Nice suprise.

I'll see if I can get the rest of them up there too now ...

Enjoy!

Coachella 2009 - The Movies

Also, here's the photo link again ... if you feel so inclined

Coachella Road Trip 2009

World Cup 2010 … Let the dream begin!

Its official, somehow, P and I had some serious luck on our side and it seems that we have been awarded 2 tickets to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

INSANITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We applied in March and I really held out no hope that we would be getting tickets. Especially after reading this earlier in April:

The first phase of ticket sales for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa ended at midnight on 31 March with applications for a total of 1,635,136 tickets since tickets first went on sale on 20 February 2009. Approximately 30% of the applications have come from South African residents, with 70% from the rest of the world.

Applications were received from 205 countries, with tickets for the opening match and the final in Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium on 11 July 2010 in most demand.

Team specific ticket series applications account for more than 50% of the applications. There were no problems experienced with the order procedures during the first ticket sales phase. The highest number of ticket applications came from residents in South Africa, followed by those from the USA, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and Australia, in that order. The most popular category on average was Category 3.

WHOLLY SHIT!

AMAZING that out of that mess of people, little old us somehow managed to get drawn and scored two tickets to the pre-quarter final round in Johannesburg on Sunday, June 27th.

And they aren’t bad seat either – According to the FIFA site: Seats for Category 3 tickets are generally located adjacent to Category 2 behind the goals or in the corners

Works for US!

SO ... in true E-Dot styles … I have started planning the trip (Insert laugh, groan, eye rolls ... whathaveyou HERE)

So far, this is the plan:

We will be going for 4 weeks

We will be stopping over in Hong Kong for 3 days before heading to Johannesburg

We will be travelling to Zimbabwe and Namibia

I AM RETARDED WITH EXCITEMENT

Are you a Make Up Geek?

I know I am ... I LOVE creating new looks and playing with colours and product.

I have a TON of different products, brushes, tools and love collecting new ones every chance I get. HELLO! Can we just admit that I have a massive addiction to SEPHORA?

And when I say a TON I mean it, I just recently had to buy a new & bigger 3 drawer organizer just to make the stuff fit ... well, and to get the MAN off my back about my eye shadows and brushes being everywhere ... sheesh ...

However, I am a far cry from a pro and sometime need help getting the look I want ... that is when I turn to Marlena ... the one and only

http://www.makeupgeek.com/

Just look at some of her amazing colour choices and styles and her awesome HOW TO's PLUS she dose awesome celeb recreations, think Pammy, Mila, Christina ... and of course Dita!:







Viva GLAM all the way to the basics ... LOVES IT

New Ink

** UPDATE ***

Inking postponed until next weekend when I am free of the gnarly flu that has taken up residence in my body ...


Momma's gonna get some new ink this weekend ... hawt damn its about time ...

Coachella 2009 - The Adventure

Well, it has come and gone, it is all but a memory now ... and its only 360 till the next one and I cant wait.

Another fully scuccessful Coachella.

The weather was HOT and DRY, the bands were great, the company was exceptional.

All the photos are here:

Coachella Road Trip 2009

Highlights of the Trip:
SanFran
The Avenue of the Giants
Sea Lions
Montery
Big Sur
Elephant Seals
Santa Barbara

Highlights of Coachella:
White Lies
Henery Rollins
Friendly Fires
The Presets
MSTRKFT
The Chemical Brothers
Paul MacCartney

Coachella Bound!

Well, its that time of year again, P and I are packing the car up and hitting the 101 South to Palm Springs for 4 days of sun, mountains, art and amazing tunes.

And this time we have more than enough memory card power, as the events of last years trip were compromised due to inadequate photo storage, a mistake not to be repeated.

This years line up is stellar, regardless of some of the bad vibes on the message boards. I'm particularly excited to see the following:

Crystal Castles
Felix da Housecat
Franz Ferdinand
Ghostland Observatory
Girl Talk
Morrissey
Noah and the Whale
Paul McCartney How insane will it be to be in the prescene of a BEATLE?!
The Crystal Method
The Black Keys
The Presets I am retarded excited for this set ... my heart is racing already ....
The Ting Tings
We Are Scientists
White Lies
TV On The Radio
The Chemical Brothers (DJ Set)
MSTRKRFT Junior Boys
Mastodon
The Cure
Perry Farrell
Peter Bjorn and John
Glasvegas
Henry Rollins - spoken word
Fleet Foxes
Etienne De Crecy
Billy Talent

Here are some of my fave moments from last year (bear in mind that the Roger Waters video is not from Coachella but its the same song that moved me to tears):


This was INSANE!!! I was sweating my ass off but I could not stop dancing!!


Chills ... that's all I can say


I had actually never heard this song before his set at Coachella and I was moved to tears, as were most of us...


Jack is the MAN


I fell in love with MGMT in this tent and the affair is still going strong...


The ones that started it all ...


FUCKING UNREAL!!!!

Exciting!

A MUST LISTEN

Daniel Merriweather - Water and a Flame (Feat. Adele)

http://www.mediafire.com/?xj5q01izteo

Food for Thought

How much of your own food do you produce?

Where would you go to get food if all the stores were closed?

11% DOWN - 89% to GO!!!

OK everyone, I need your help!

As you know I am participating in the Ride to Conquer Cancer on June 20-21, riding 200km from Vancouver to Seattle to raise funds for the BC Cancer Foundation & the BC Cancer Agency.

I have committed to raising $2,500, but have set my personal goal at $3,000.

So far I am at 11% or $315 and still have a long way to go.

This is where I ask you to step in. If even for $10, every penny counts. I will ensure that you receive a tax receipt and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me at erintravis@hotmail.com

Thanks in advance for your support and I will keep you posted on my progress.

xoxox

Er!n

Six Things To Share...

Six names I go by: (present and past)
1. Erin
2. EDot
3. Tiny
4. Er
5. ET
6. Erinsky (that one is reserved for my Dad only!)

Six Jobs I have had in my life
1. Retail Sales
2. Office Manager
3. Assistant Department Manager
4. Receptionist
5. Dry Cleaner Runner (most horrid job ever!)
6. Admin/Sales Assistant

Six Places I have lived
1. Mississauga, ON
2. Toronto, ON
3. Vancouver, BC
4. And that’s all folks

Six Favorite drinks
1. Stoli & Cran
2. Perrier with lemon
3. Starbuck Skinny Late
4. Coffee with milk
5. Green Tea
6. Skim Milk

Six TV Shows that I watch
1. Bones
2. Dexter
3. House
4. The Office
5. Coronation Street
6. 90210 (ya, ya, I know what you're thinking ...)

Six places I have been
1. London, England
2. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
3. Berlin, Germany
4. Prague, Czech Republic.
5. Barbados
6. Dominican Republic

Six people that e- mail me regularly
1. Phil
2. Kristen
3. Linda
4. Andrea
5. My Mom
6. My Bro - Dave

Six of my favorite foods
1. Chicken & Veggie Stir-fry
2. My Lasagna ;P
3. Sushi
4. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream (sadly, it has not touched my lips in ages)
5. Turkey Burgers with all the fixin’s
6. Anything Mom Made

Six favorite things to do
1. Traveling
2. Skiing
3. Mountain Biking
4. Reading
5. Cooking
6. Road Trips!

Six least favorite things to do
1. Cleaning of any kind
2. Laying the smack down at work, cuz no one else has the balls too
3. Getting Angry/Yelling
4. Working overtime
5. Getting up when there is a 5 on the alarm clock (sadly this happens FAR too often these days)
6. Weekly Retail, Industrial and Research meetings (OMG, SO boring but yet mandatory, ugh!)

Six Things I am looking forward to
1. Coachella!!
2. My visit home in August!!!!!
3. Bike season
4. Summer BBQ’s on the beach
5. My next inking ;)
6. Finally getting out of DEBT!!

Six friends I think will respond
1. Andrea.
2. Kim.
3. Kristen
4. Dave
5. Linda
6. ???

I need your HELP!! Support Me in the Ride to Conquer Cancer‏

Well HELLO THERE,

Lets get straight to the point ... I need your CASH!!!

Ya, ya, I know its hard times and everyone is tightening the purse strings, but frankly, I don't care.

And now that I've gotten your attention I'll tell you why:

On June 20 - 21, I'll be participating in a two-day major cycling event called The Ride to Conquer Cancer benefiting BC Cancer Foundation.

I'll be cycling from Vancouver to Seattle with thousands of other Riders. All the proceeds will go to BC Cancer Foundation to support cancer research, treatment, and services. BC Cancer Foundation is a leading comprehensive institution devoted to cancer research and care, and the work they're doing is cutting-edge.

I've agreed to raise at least $2,500, but I've set my personal goal to $3,000. So here's where you come in, because I need your help to do that. Could you please consider making a donation of $100? Use the link at the bottom of this email to go visit my webpage, and please take the time to support me. Please keep in mind the commitment I'm making to end this heartbreaking disease and the personal efforts I'll have to make to accomplish this.

When I say "heartbreaking," here's what I mean: according to the National Cancer Institute of Canada, over 153,100 new cases of cancer and 70,400 deaths from cancer were estimated to occur in 2006. Men outnumber women for new cases by 5% and mortality by 11%. That's why I'm riding. To do something BIG about cancer. I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Click here to visit my personal page.
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://www.conquercancer.ca/site/TR/Events/Vancouver2009?px=1799722&pg=personal&fr_id=1281&fl=en_US&et=hDLcnoBUEKG4eAl_3A1aOQ..&s_tafId=148671

Click here to view the team page for Cushman Cancer Crushers
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://www.conquercancer.ca/site/TR/Events/Vancouver2009?team_id=14450&pg=team&fr_id=1281&fl=en_US&et=h0nXSNdHt_prUelrAR4dBA..&s_tafId=148671 ?

Pow Pow and Sunshine

What more could a girl ask for in a long weekend of ripping? Just look at what I have in store for me: (dont be a hater!)

Whistler - 77cms of fresh snow in 3 days!

Mt. Baldy - 20 cm in the past 5 days