Saturday, July 25, 2009

Let the Games Begin!



This weekend is super busy. I spent today at an volunteer orientation for the World Police & Fire Games which are being held here in Vancouver and a number of neighbouring cities. Next to the Olympics & Paralympics in 2010, this is the biggest event being held here in BC. According to organizers, they are expecting over 10,000 athletes for the games which are being held July 31st-August 9th.

Tomorrow, I am heading into the city for training for the specific job I will be doing. I'm going to be doing dispatch for the transportation division. I'm sure it's going to be interesting.

This afternoon, I went and got my credentials (photo ID pass) and some wonderful swag in addition to my uniform. They gave me a black mono strap backpack with the logo (seen above) on it and it was chock full of goodies. I wasn't expecting that, but it was a lovely gesture.

I decided to volunteer for this event because our police and fire fighters put their lives on the line in service to us each and every day and I thought this was a wonderful opportunity to give back. When you think about it, how often do they ask for our help? It just seemed like the right thing to do. It will also give me a small taste of what it will be like when the Olympics are on. It's a good way to get geared up for that and I always enjoy meeting new people.

There are a couple events I am excited about and hoping to be able to go watch. One is the Police Dog Trial. I love watching the dogs and handlers work. It's wonderful to watch the interaction between them. I am also thrilled to find out that The Musical Ride will also be performing. I've seen it several times in my life and every time it just takes my breath away. The horses are simply gorgeous and the RCMP officers so majestic in their red serge. Every time I watch it, it brings tears to my eyes. It's so much a part of the fabric of Canada and it's one of those things that when I see it, I feel a giant swell of patriotism rise up in my heart. It's one of those things you have to see to really know what I mean. If you ever have the chance, go see it-it's something you'll never forget.

I also found time today to head downtown to see Jen, who is a fabulous hair stylist and a great person. She's just so kind and I enjoyed chatting with her while she freshened up my sassy 'do.

The day ended with a spectacular thunder and lightening storm, the likes of which we rarely see around here. It came out of nowhere and I had to shut down in the middle of writing this post. At one point I saw a flash in the middle of the sky across the street and in a fraction of a second after that heard a loud explosion. The lightening hit something-maybe a transformer or a power pole. A few minutes later I heard sirens. While all this was going on, my guys were out in Vancouver waiting for the start of the fireworks festival that was supposed to be on tonight. I called them and let them know the storm was headed their way and that they had better run for cover. They are on their way home now, thank goodness!

Never a dull moment around here!

2 comments:

Sherry said...

This is just so "you" -- from the short time I have known you -- giving and contributing and being part of whatever is going on. It's more than just wanting to give back Lelainia, I see it as more who you are, just this kind of person. I know you will enjoy being part of this event as much as the organizers will be blessed to have you!

Tina said...

I'm so excited for you!