The sunshine and summer heat have finally arrived in Vancouver. It seems like every year, we Vancouverites bemoan the lack of summer, and applaud gently when it finally lands, with comments like, “that took a long time” or “well…finally”. I am pretty sure that it’s like this every year to be honest, and I am not sure from what memory we make the assumption that it should be 25+ in early June. Anyway, it is here, and that’s all that matters.

It is July 7^th, and that means I am just over a month away from travel to Singapore for the Youth Olympic Games. The team is nearly at full capacity, and I have had the chance to Facebook meet most of the athletes. It definitely reminds me of being an athlete in that age group, (mind you, ten years ago we weren’t Facebook heroes yet.) Ohhhhh! Just dated myself. (I’ve always wanted to write that, haha)

I remember being really dedicated to my sport. It was interesting because that dedication framed how I related to my world, whether that meant friends, family or other things. When it came to friends, it was tough to explain why I always went to be before 10 PM, or brought in bagged lunches that weighed 15 lbs. To my buddies that were non-athletes, it never resonated.

In seeing these Youth Olympians, those who are already connected with some of their Youth Olympic teammates on Facebook, it reminds me of the common ground I found with other athletes.

They just understood. It didn’t matter where they were from, what team, city, or province. When I eventually began competing internationally, I made friends just as quickly, because country was irrelevant, all that mattered was the sport.

Anyways, it’s been a cool flashback to meet and connect with our Canadian Youth Olympians thus far. They are inspiring people. I am sure I’ll be reminded of a lot more in the coming weeks, and no doubt learn a lot too.

I’d like to preface this by saying that I’ve just had a litre of McDonald’s free coffee, cream and sugar.

So I’ve recently purchased a bicycle and joined the ranks of cyclists in Vancouver. I suppose this is a part of my gradual transformation into a full-time working person, in the downtown core, or something like that. Nonetheless, I have become aware of an entire world that before last month I would likely have otherwise ignored entirely.

First of all, I decided to buy a bike frame, with only the fork, crank and derailleur accompanying the package. My dialogue with cyclist friends after the purchase usually included me uttering the phrase, “now, all I need are wheels and I’m set to go!”. Haha, then they laughed at me and the conversation ended abruptly.

Callum’s understanding of bike parts in February:

Frame, wheels

It turns out that bikes also require:

Cassette, chain, pedals, shifters, two sets of cables, two sets of housing, a saddle, bar tape, both colours of lights,  tires and tubes, bar brakes, grease, brake pads, an intelligent owner.

I had none of these things until a few days ago, but with the help of a friend of a friend, some impulse buys, and actually coming to the realization that I am an idiot…I have a bike.

The good part is that I love this thing. Every time I look at it I laugh, because it is pretty much a heap of stories, all assembled into a functional object.

I have ridden to work twice. So far, I know what to do, and haven’t really missed the inclusion of an engine.

We also noticed, and mused about this morning, (the NG Farrell team), how pedestrians are really nice to cyclists and will even let you cross ahead of them at a red light. This is utterly illogical Sean pointed out, because those same pedestrians will storm out in front of cars just to prove a point.

Bah, I digress, I ride a bike, that’s the point of this post. Which means either the car or motorcycle will have to go and a little part of the Alberta boy in me will die.

Callum and the bike. Shocking.

Here is what I find dismaying about anti-Olympic protests. At the moment I am watching the Torch Relay wind through West Hastings Street, re-routed because of protesters. Ironically enough, a man named Matt Lee lit his torch in the heart of the downtown Eastside, a recovering addict, and a great story. A way the Games can have a positive impact on ANYBODY, whatever opinion you hold regarding their existence in Vancouver.

Alright, moving on, today is the big day. To be honest, I am a whole lot of excited with a little bit of anxious. After weeks of rehearsal, and practicing, waiting and imagining, the moment is here.

Just don’t trip Callum, just don’t trip. Apparently a lot of people will be watching this on TV. Haha, I’m kidding, I am a now an excellent walker. Watch for me halfway through the parade, it’s the closest I’ll ever get to membership in an Opening Ceremonies parade so I’m going to enjoy every part of the experience.

Part TWO

Bring on the Olympics! Plenty of anticipation for Friday’s kickoff to the Games as the sporting world turns its attention to Vancouver, (or at least in a few days after the Superbowl hangover wears off). Tonight I have a big dress rehearsal for the Ceremonies, complete with a partial audience. If you’re going, you’re lucky! It’s going to be fun.

Thanks to Davis Wuolle, NG Farrell just finished up a slick page for Georgia, at www.georgiasimmerling.com. She’s training at the moment, but up to Whistler in a few days. You can follow her @gsimmerling

Trying to figure out how to best spend my free time during the Games, so I’m open to suggestions? There’s plenty to do, both in Vancouver and Richmond. If you’re up for the bus ride, I’m sure Whistler has an abundance of activities. I’ll be at the O Zone in Richmond with ActNow BC, to spread the message of healthy living, no doubt this might include a visit to Heineken Holland House which is somewhat counter to that message BUT I’d like to add that a positive dose of fun doesn’t hurt your health at all!

The best part of this week will have to be picking up my mom from the airport tomorrow, and showing her around Olympic Vancouver. She was the catalyst for my love of sport. My aunts always tell me how my mom was never idle from some sort of athletic activity, much like me. We’ll have fun together. My morning runs will be less lonely for a few days!

Alright enough about student politics, because let’s not lie, nobody cares anyways.

I want to start the discussion about the Olympics.

Our wonderful little city is slowly but surely putting in the final preparations for the Games. Banners are being hung, tents put up, and in a few days each of the country’s respective Mission Staff will begin landing at YVR.

The village opens February 4^th, but no doubt there are thousands of athletes situated in nearby time zones, staging and acclimatizing for the big event.

While for some, the Olympics are about the sport, and the drama that unfolds therein.

But for others it could be different aspects of the experience.

For me, my Olympic experience will revolve around my, (okay I’ll let it slip), role in the Opening and Closing ceremonies. (That’s all I can say! It’s a secret). For you it may be the simple walk around town, and the spectators, coaches, support staff and athletes you’ll meet along the way.

Do you have tickets? What events are you going to? Where are you going to watch Canada’s athletes?

Let’s get the conversation going…please post below, and perhaps you can get a great idea from someone else about how to best enjoy what will be an incredible, once in a lifetime journey.

For me, other than the Ceremonies, I am looking forward to just sharing time with my friends, cheering for my country, and showing visitors that Canadians and Vancouverites are special, thoughtful people.

What about you!?

Day 12 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Re-connecting with old friends

Today was the final day of my Community Christmas Challenge. It was also Christmas Day. It was, to be frank, one of the best Christmas Day’s in recent memory. I am very lucky to have family traditions that survive age, busy schedules, my missing religion and other obstacles that commonly destroy annual re-occurrences. The morning saw presents and stockings, still thoughtfully stuffed by my mom. My brother and I then walked to the rink and proceeded to skate for no less than 4 hours. We returned home to a Christmas dinner with friends and family, topped off by a trip to the theatres to see RDJ and Jude Law play Holmes and Watson. Filed throughout the day, in between the texts to closer friends I decided that I would send messages to a few people that I hadn’t heard from in some time. (Friends that were at one time a larger part of my life, but who have since moved slightly out of touch) It’s important to remind others that you haven’t forgotten their positive impact on your life. Anyhow, that was today’s act. Funniest part of the day? Going to the cinema 2 hours early because I thought it would be busy, (sometimes I’m quite stupid), and sharing our best college prank stories while keeping warm in the downtown Sheraton. Laughing like absolute idiots while people had their Christmas dinner in the adjacent restaurant. Haha, I’m surprised we didn’t get kicked out.

Day 11 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Going to church

At this time, I am not religious. I was brought up in a Christian home, and we went to church regularly until I was old enough to object in a convincing enough fashion, at which point I stayed at home. As I’ve grown into adult life I have slowly but consciously become non-religious. As Jeff put it on this week’s Community, (NBC), “Religion is like Paul Rudd, I wouldn’t take it away from anybody but I wouldn’t stand in line for it either.” All the same, my parents have remained diligent church goers and so on Christmas Eve I was asked to attend church. A real, live, church. Hard wood pews, over-friendly people, kids with the topmost button of their dress shirts buttoned, no cell phones, hymn singing. Church. I could easily have said no. But there’s no way I’m going to make my mother unhappy on Christmas Eve. Plus, my brother already gave his assent so I can’t look that bad. Therefore, I quietly accompanied my parents, to their delight and sat through a desperately bad service. For those who know my pain, this is easily today’s good deed.

Day 10 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Back in the game, literally.

One feature I now appreciate about Calgary is an open rink on a warm, sunny day. Since taking up residence in Vancouver, as well as the sport of hockey, I have discovered how damn hard it is to get a good skate in. However, today, bright and early, I found myself trudging through fresh powder to an empty sheet of ice. It was the purest of Canadian experiences, long johns and toques, scarves and two pairs of socks. Frozen rubber and cold hands. Perfect. What was also included was a little community service. My brother and I cleared the entire 200 ft, with a few shovels and some determination. The rest of the day would see local citizens come and go, and so we made sure that pucks would be gliding freely all day. (Albeit Scotty and I benefited as well for a few hours)

Day 9 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: stumbled

So today was a blistery Tuesday, and I am sorry to say that nothing of record was accomplished for Callum’s CCCCC. I caught a plane back to Calgary with my brother, and I was dismayed to find no opportunities throughout the day. Upon landing at the airport, I did give my mom a huge hug, and for the last few hours of day 9, I filled her in on the latest in my life. I know she was happy to me home for a few days at Christmas, and so at least I have that.

Day 8 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: A little food for the bank

There’d been a lot of talk around the lower mainland about food bank shortages this Christmas. I knew from the beginning that this was something I wanted to contribute to, so off I went again, texting everybody I knew and no doubt annoying a few. In the end, I put together a few boxes of unwanted food. I mean, how much Kraft dinner can I possibly eat? Not only that, but why do I even have French Pea soup. (The psychological dysfunction associated with the purchase of 12 cans is another story) Anyways, not much more to it than that, food for people who need it. Day 8 finito.

Day 7 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Helping an Organization in Need

Today spelled a different direction for Callum’s CCCCC. (If you don’t know by now what the multiple Cs represent, well…sigh) Being an athlete for a long time, I understand how important it is that athletes be given a forum from which to voice their opinions and positions. That is why I was honoured to be nominated for the BC Athlete Voice Board of Directors, and, on this rainy Sunday, to be elected to join a talented and accomplished Board. In the spirit of the community challenge, I calculate that my time throughout the year can be of service to such an organization, and I am pleased to join the BCAV team! If you’d like to know more about BC Athlete Voice, you can find their website at: http://www.bcathletevoice.ca/content/Home.asp You might recognize someone in the video on the homepage. I have NO idea how he got there.

Day 6 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Monster Spatula versus Giant Whisk!

Enter Horn, John Horn. This friendly Daily Gumboot editor who is always mindful of community development extended the invitation for a nice stint of holiday volunteerism. John, myself, my good pal Alexei Bergeron and 2 other nice dudes spent a few hours dishwashing at the downtown Salvation Army. We had to negotiate these large army issue food containers into the high pressure dishwashing machine, which proved difficult but also rewarding, and definitely a lot of fun. The afternoon ended with the discovery of a UGH, (utensil growth hormone), pumped whisk and spatula which John and I proceeded to battle with. I merrily stirred John’s pot while he retaliated with some masterful scooping until we mutually agreed on a draw after everyone else ran out of clever puns for the situation.

Preparing for the duel

Day 5 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Rewarding a bad parking job?!

Today was a busy day, it was after the last Friday before Christmas which means a lot of loose ends to tie up! Nonetheless, I was driving down 4^th and pulled in to pick up a last minute, long ago ordered Christmas gift. On my way back to my car I noticed that someone has taken the spot next to me, and as I arrived at my car it became totally apparent that this person has executed Vancouver’s worst stall parking job of 2009. To frame it in a less negative tone, had this individual been trying to halt within 1 inch or less of my driver’s side door, they had triumphantly succeeded! As I crawled in through my passenger door I muttered a few expletives and shortly after maneuvering into the driver’s chair I noticed that God’s gift to the driving community had a desperately flat front right tire. Today’s CCCCCC effort was small, but significant to me because instead of driving off and allowing some degree of catastrophe occur, to someone who had made the last 30 seconds of my life inconvenient, I pulled out a pen, found a piece of paper, and ensured that the rest of their day would proceed safely. I left a note on the windshield, in a visible spot, pointing out the flat. Sometimes in the bustle of life, I get a little short tempered, allowing simple acts of decency and etiquette to be forgotten. Today’s CCCCCC is a reminder of that.

Day 4 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Twitter graphics!

Today marks the debut of the reader’s suggestion to Callum’s CCCCC. The first contributor is the very intelligent Davis Wuolle, UBC Thunderbird, engineering undergrad and all around good guy. Davis commented on my adventures, and then offered to do twitter backgrounds for any needy not-for-profits. If you are curious what a fantastic twitter design looks like, you can check out my twitter, or Move: The Company, both of which Davis masterfully designed. Anyways, I must also thank Peter Reek of Smart + Savvy and Sharon Peters at Catalyst + Co, who connected me with the good people at The Vantage Point, (formerly Volunteer Vancouver). Without further banter, TA DA! The Vantage Point has a slick new twitter background!

Day 3 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Plant a Tree!

I guess the eco-friendly buzz from Day 2 had me going, as Day 3 featured another green deed. Two weeks ago, I attended UBC’s Blue and Gold Revue. (Post on that adventure here) Attendees to the event received a gift bag in which I found a little sphere of goodness. It’s a Clean Air Tree Kit…and it is nothing less than a tiny tree, (well seedlings), ready for planting. With my wide array of horticultural experience, if by wide I mean narrow and by array I mean, well…hmmm that doesn’t make sense, okay basically I have NO experience whatsoever. Nonetheless, a glorious tree was born. Well, some dirt in a Jerry pot with some water, placed inside half a 2 L coke bottle. All the same, it’s 3-4 months of daily nurturing, and my humble act for Day 3! In other news, I went to my Ceremonies 2010 audition last night, which was undoubtedly the most fun I have had in months. Imagine a clumsy swimmer trying to dance, multiply that by 47 other dudes in the room doing the same thing. Hilarious, outrageous and fun are the three words I choose.

Clean Air Tree Kit

Day 2 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Write and Deliver Thank You notes to people with brilliant Christmas decorations with a reminder to turn them off while sleeping.

The second day of Callum’s CCCCC was a neighbourly effort in my local Kitsilano. Many people here have tastefully decorated their homes with Christmas lights of every colour, (a lot more LED lights this year!), holiday wreaths, blow up Santas and Snowmen, even the odd gigantic menorah. There is an intangible value to this type holiday spirit, but also a very measurable cost. I decided to achieve some community good faith along with a little kickback to the environment by writing a handful of greeting cards! Each one thanked people for their spirit, and reminded them to shut off or unplug at the end of the evening. I hand delivered the cards. I hope it worked!

Thank you notes!

Day 1 of Callum’s Crazy but Cheap Community Christmas Challenge: Collect Warm Winter Clothing for the Realtor’s Care Blanket Drive

Day 1 wrapped up last night with some final pick-ups and a lot of walking through slushy snow. At the end of the day I collected about 4 garbage bags full of warm winter clothing

that just about filled my back seat and trunk. I was pretty happy with the result, considering that at about 3:30 PM all I had was a few jackets and jeans. The idea was prompted in the AM by a quick excerpt on the radio, and in support of the Real Estate Board’s, Realtor’s Care Blanket Drive. This year extended due to the colder weather. You can find out more at http://www.rebgv.org/blanket-drive Day 2 awaits!

TEDx Vancouver

Tomorrow I am headed to TEDx Vancouver. This is the first time a TEDx event has been organized in Vancouver, and though I don’t know exactly what to expect, I know it’s going to be good. TED talks have always been inspirational, led me to hunger for a new dream, made me laugh, at times made me wonder, or become more imaginative and have usually motivated me.

Saturday, November 21^st is a day I have been waiting on for some time, I’m ready for new friends, challenges and the electricity that comes from a room full of interesting people. I hope I have something to bring to the table, check out my twitter feed all day for updates!

-C