The Adventures of Benmar!

Small Stone {30}

2012-01-30T21:36:00.000-05:00

30

The muscles in my neck tighten,
and ache with tension.
Doubt clouds my thoughts
as deadlines loom.
I, the beginner, struggle to focus.

...

What do you do to stay focused? On a day like today, I'd really love to know.

...

wowh :: small stones

Small Stones {26 - 29}

2012-01-29T15:57:00.000-05:00

Fingers clasp my heel,
as I pull my chest to my knee.
The back of my leg burns,
stretched.

Dark clouds lift for the first time today

revealing a strip of soft blue sky.

Dusk's orange light turns the clouds pink
and cast shadows that sway on the window.

28

Snowflakes stream horizontally past the french doors,
Cuddled warm by the fire, I am hypnotized by the surging winds.

29

In perfectly spaced intervals
steam mushrooms from the teapot's spout
only to vanish into the air.

...

wowh :: small stones

Small Stone {25}

2012-01-25T23:14:00.002-05:00

25

Lost in the folds of flannel blankets
we lay curled up,
deliciously warm,
perfectly cozy.

Black skies turned grey
my mind slid between
waking and dreams.

I sank further into my bed.
The beginning of this day would wait.

...

wowh :: small stones

Small Stone { 23 }

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

With force, rain hits the windowpane
creating a splashed mosaic of droplets.

...

The following are links to two blog posts that have moved me over the last week and reinforced why photography and journaling are beautiful and important:

This beautiful blog post by Susannah Conway reminded me of the importance of a daily writing practice.

Janice Squires writes about wonder and using pictures to tell a story over at the Shutter Sisters blog.

wowh :: small stones

Small Stone { 22 }

2012-01-22T20:46:00.001-05:00

22

His old bones prance to life
as the door opens to cold.

His twisting body
presses into the snow,
rolling over, his nose burrows deep.

After chomping at the snow
he settles into his spot and rests.

...

WOWH : Small Stones

Small Stones { 19 - 21 }

2012-01-21T22:10:00.000-05:00

There is no connecting theme in the following three stones. Each one different and unique to the day.

Happy Sunday, friends. Thanks for stopping in. xoxo

19

Warm air
bursts from my mouth
over clasped hands
tight against my lips

Relief to stiff hands.
My numb fingers
tingle to life.
Need mitts.

20

Sounding out the first syllable,

of the first word,
of the first sentence,

he begins to read.

His fingers trace the words, mark his place.

With a wrinkled nose and narrowed eyes,

he is a storyteller.

The autofocus hums
Fine details come into view
Pine needles topped with snow.

A background of bokeh
Red box, green light. Beep.
This moment is locked.

...

WOWH: Small Stones

Small Stones -- The Lake { Jan. 16 - 18 }

2012-01-18T23:07:00.002-05:00

It became ideal, my two-minute walk to work. I had more time to exercise in the morning and to zip home for lunch. I was able to get little tasks like cleaning, making dinner, and emailing done. I loved its convenience.

My current job is a 20-25 minute drive from my home. While I still wish I could walk, I have come to enjoy the commute. I listen to the same radio show every morning, filling my brain with cultural insights, and at night I drive home listening to music that suits my mood as I sift through my thoughts from the day.

This country drive with no stores along the way and not one subdivision to be seen, makes the drive wonderfully scenic. Fields, farms, country homes and markets dot the streets, and at the end of the day when the sun is setting, I relish the beauty of this place. It's vastness and it's charm. Each day, I pass the Lake and each day it shows me something different. The following three stones are moments where I've pulled over my car and just watched for a few minutes.

My words don't quite capture it, but it's a start and I'll get there.

16

The setting sun's yellows,
meets dark blue.
The frozen lake below
shimmers.

17

Rain pelts into the skin of water
above the ice.
Low-lying fog lifts,
rising like steam.

18

Instead of looking left,
I looked right.
A bog, frozen,
dead, barren trees
protrude from below.
A grey sky.

...

WOWH :: Small Stones

Small Stones { week of jan 9 - jan 15}

2012-01-13T22:48:00.002-05:00

Small Stones for the Week of January 9- 15th

Last week was my first week back to work after the holidays. Finding these words, not only on the 12th, proved to be quite a challenge.

However, it's a new week with new words to be found. I'll let you know how it goes...

Slow breaths, air expands his chest,
with each exhale, a hum.
His body gently twitches
as he curls up once more,
prolonging the last of his dreams.

A blazing ribbon of light

burns across the horizon

as dark low-lying clouds

consume it.

Creeping and dense, it drifts in the air

engulfing me.
With eyes narrowed and speeds low,
I travel through it.

...

My body has chosen
not to persist, but to give in
to the sleep that calls it.

The journey begins
as it rolls
towards the meandering maze.

Winding its way,
the coloured labyrinth
carries it forward,
each move triggering the next.

Cold winds swirl,

wrapping around me.

Seen in my breath,
exhaled like smoke.
A gentle quiver
runs through my body.

...

To read more small stones, check out WOWH.

Small Stones {6, 7, 8}

2012-01-07T21:32:00.000-05:00

January 6

High-backed, perfectly upright, velvet red seats.

Each with a number, each in a row.

January 7

The back of my legs are turning red.
I can feel them beginning to sting.
I can't resist the heat, though
and how good it feels.

January 8

Sunday.

I step outside the house.

The morning light streams through the wooden slats that roof the deck.

Long shadows stretch from the picnic table in front.

White powder delicately sits, no wind to take it away.

The creek appears not to move, this place is still.

I'm not shivering, but I can see the breath leaving my mouth.

The smoke from the chimney is a mist against the pale blue.

Next to me, in the tree, birds chirp and squirrels race in spirals.

I open my palms, close my eyes and breathe it all in.

This day. This morning. This moment.

I tell myself, on repeat:

I can do this.

...

For more stones, check out : www.writingourwayhome.com

Small Stones -- The Farm Edition

2012-01-07T12:06:00.001-05:00

2012 began at Ben's family's cottage, Riverwood. Each day spent searching for a stone to cast in the River.

January 1

A constant rain falls, taking snow from the trees.

Lingering on pine needles deep in the forest.

January 2

Sinking into the warmth of tucked in blankets.
Swept out by the tide of her prose.

January 3

Morning.
Sun pours in through the kitchen window.
Just beyond these walls, a new landscape.
Elation.

January 4

Must has settled into my clothes.
It's the smell of this place,
the dust in the corners,
the creak in its stairs.

The wood/oil furnace rumbles below.
Deliciously cold water
still pumps from this century-old well.

January 5

Together, we walk.
Trekking over rabbits' paths.
Snow, lightly falling.

...

If you would like to join me in this writing challenge and cast your own stones into the River, go and check out this beautiful website, Writing our Way Home, for more instructions and inspiration.

Dec 21: Body Delights

2011-12-27T14:52:00.000-05:00

When did you feel most alive, connected, or exuberant in your body this past year? What did you feel, see, hear, smell, or taste in that moment? Delighting in our bodies can help us embody our true, whole, and beautifully imperfect selves.

Prompt contributed by Sarah Garvis at Rebecca's beautiful blog, Relish Life.

Source: masikawa.tumblr.com via etito on Pinterest

I stood at the edge of the pool looking down to the other end of the lane. The water was still, clear. With my hair tied up in a bun on top of my head and my goggles in place, I penciled into the pool. Feet first, straight down. Instantly submerged, enveloped in mute, bubbles rushed from every part of my body making their way to the surface. I followed. With my head tilted back, emerging from the water, I sucked in the air. My right arm leading the way, I pushed off the wall and began.

I spent a lot of time swimming lengths this summer. At first to train for our Try-A-Tri and then to exercise while beating the summer's heat, but what kept bringing me back to the water was the feeling I got once I was in. Everything disappeared but myself, my thoughts and the water. Once the surrounding noises were gone, with each stroke I became more in tune with my thoughts. I'd try to focus on the number of lengths I was doing or how my stroke changed if I altered the way my hand entered the water, but ultimately my mind would wonder. I'd try to focus my but it never worked for long. I learned, in the pool, to let my mind go where it needed to. I learned to listen to my thoughts even if I didn't want to be thinking them, I unravelled and deconstructed.

I am grateful for my summer spent in the pool. With each stroke propelling me, I was able to process my unwanted thoughts, let them float away, while carrying the good ones forward.

Dec 2: Who are you?

2011-12-26T14:13:00.000-05:00

Inspired by the lovely Uncle Typewriter and following in her listed, "I am" post footprints....

Who are you? Describe yourself.

I am a morning person.

I am in awe of people who set out to accomplish incredible feats and one day hope to accomplish something incredible myself. I have no idea what that will be or if it'll happen, but I think I'm in need of an adventure.

I doubt myself and my abilities on a regular basis.

Red wine is my alcoholic beverage of choice.

I am a practical person. I lack glam.

I have been known to talk and sometimes walk in my sleep.

I cried every single day my mom took me to Kindergarten. Prior to my first year at school, a neighbour with a crush on my dad came to my house completely naked while I was playing out front. Imagine a 200+ pound nude woman with long black hair, known for collecting roadkill and displaying it on her lawn at full moons, calling for "Jimmy". I was a scared kid for many years. I did not do sleepovers. I consistently kicked my dad out of his bed at night and I was deemed the stay-at-home, mama's girl, for much of my early childhood.

My first traveling experience outside of North America was to Sri Lanka when I was 20, 5 months after the 2004 tsunami. That trip changed me.

I desire to live in a place where there are mountains and water at my doorstep. My dream home is a quaint stone farmhouse with a red wooden door. I want a garden and a library.

I would love to spend my days wandering in new and foreign places. I think this shocks everyone who ever knew me growing up.

I told my dad to 'fuck it' when I was 5. My dad asked me to repeat myself several times and each time, I told him, with a carefree heart, to 'fuck it'. He was speechless, horrified and likely secretly proud. He told me he was leaving this one to my mom to deal with. Needless to say, I was one of the only people in my group of friends growing up who didn't get in serious trouble for saying, 'shit' and 'fuck' in conversation around the rents. My mom and dad were and are well-loved by my friends.

I am in love and have been for 7 years.

I love being active. I am thankful for my body and it's amazing ability to house all that is me.

I called South Korea home for 2+ years and loved every minute of it. Memories of my students, the mountains, delicious food and my lifestyle constantly pull at my heart strings.

Fall is my favourite season.

I currently teach special education to elementary students in a small town outside the city I live in.

I love maps and National Geographic magazines. One of my undergraduate degrees is in Geography.

I love trees, the colour green, twitter, my friends, dawn and dusk, photography, and reading good books.

The world fascinates me.

Dec 1: One Word

2011-12-01T08:31:00.003-05:00

It's Reverb time and I couldn't be more excited.

One Word. Encapsulate the year 2011 in one word. Explain why you are choosing that word. Now, imagine it's one year from today, what would you like the word to be that captures 2012 for you?

2010 was my benchmark year. It kicked a whole lot of ass. The year began with a departure. I was full of fond memories and gratitude as I packed my belongings into boxes and left South Korea, the place I had called home for 2 years. I traversed Asia with my love and my backpack for half the year, taking pictures, living off $20 a day, and exploring new and beautiful countries. As the end of the year drew close, I returned home (after 3 years abroad) to Canada to be reunited with my friends and family. I was heading back to school.

As 2011 approached I had been home for a few months. I was happy, but there was the inevitable, looming dark days of winter. The long days at school were already beginning to ware on me. Some of my family were dealing with devastating change, and I missed my life abroad.

So, I set out to PARTICIPATE in 2011, and I believe I did. I took some chances and dipped my toes in some new things, places, jobs and a language. But as the year progressed, it became clear that it wasn't enough just to participate.

That is why for 2012 I am setting out with a new intention, a new word: ACCOMPLISH. Not just to participate, to set goals and to achieve. To set out with a mission and discover new joys. I hope that in doing so, 2012 is defined by the following words:

ADVENTURE

LOVE

JOY

TRIUMPH

DELICIOUSNESS

BEAUTY

STORIES

---

If you would like to participate and receive daily prompts in your inbox for the next month, click here: http://bit.ly/tn7GuJ. There are a bunch of other people who have created prompts, as well, which you can pick and choose from. An extensive list can be found here: http://reverb11.geekinhard.com/

Do you have a word for the year?

How are you, dear friends?

2011-10-25T15:18:00.004-04:00

Attention is the highest form of love.

I'm carrying this message with me everywhere I go.

I'm applying it to those I meet, those I work with, and those I love.

I'm reminding myself that I, too, am also worthy of this attention.

So, tell me...

How are you all doing today?

Writing prompt via http://gimmepresence.com/

Joy Triggers

2011-10-06T08:04:00.007-04:00

Last week, when Roxanne retweeted an interview with Dr. Jill Biden about her joy triggers, I immediately fell in love with the concept. What things bring me joy and how can I keep those things coming on a consistent basis?

Lately, I've been really feeling quite overwhelmed and coupled with being abnormally busy, I've cut the very things that bring me joy out of my life. This always happens. They're the first things to go.

The following are my joy triggers and things that I am working on getting back into my life on a consistent basis regardless of my schedule.

Running.

Reading.

Listening to music and words that soothe my soul. Currently: Bon Iver, Feist, and Florence & the Machine. And, CBC Radio One, if in the car.

Planting my feet in the grass (or inside now that it's cold again) and doing yoga. Breathing.

Going for walks with my camera. Marvelling at the beauty that surrounds us this fall.

Blogging. Finding inspiration and chatting on twitter. Connecting.

Building relationships with students, staff, and coworkers.

Drinking tea and wearing big fuzzy winter socks.

Chats over beverages with lovely people.

Quiet time. Sleep.

What are your joy triggers and are they close by?

I'd love to hear that things that bring joy into your life. Do share.

The Girl Effect

2011-10-04T00:01:00.006-04:00

The ringing phone jolts me out of bed last night.

Hello.

Hi, Mary. It's Ameena. How are you doing? What time is it now?

A semi-annoyed smile stretches across my face. Over 7 years of crackly telephone calls, Ameena still seems to call only in the middle of the night. I'm okay. It's 3 a.m.

Wonderful, she replies. Good morning to you! Tell me, how have you been?

Ameena is a 23-year-old Sri Lankan Muslim currently living in a small village with her mother and two younger sisters. Shortly after her father's death, her brother left home and the village to be with his new family, leaving the girls and their mother to support themselves.

Ameena's remarkable mother has a modest home that she is able to keep as she now runs her husband's tire shop. This is remarkably courageous as working women, let alone business owners, in this village are rare. She goes to work each day to support her three girls, encouraging them to get an education and follow their dreams. Her two youngest are still in elementary and secondary school. Ameena, the eldest, takes the bus into Kandy each day to study IT, her passion. She dreams of traveling abroad one day.

Farzana is their cousin. Many years ago, Farzana's mother sent her to live with her aunt (Ameena's mom), where she would live with her cousins and be closer to the private English school her family was sending her to. All of the girls had remarkable linguistic skills. Farzana had dreams of becoming an English teacher.

On our last visit to Sri Lanka, Ben and I were saddened when Farzana didn't appear at the door with the others when we arrived. There were three, not four. Where had she gone?

We sat down with Ameena and she told us Farzana's story.

A few years prior, Farzana's parents decided she was going to be pulled from school to marry. They had found her a man. She was 17. Farzana had no choice in the matter and within a few months found herself out of school, married, and expecting her first child.

Ameena pulled out a picture of a dolled up Farzana in her elaborate red wedding dress. Gold bracelets adorned her wrists and neck and her makeup was heavy. But one look into her eyes and one could see that her dress wasn't representative. Her features were filled with a deep and raw sadness.

As we sat in Ameena's living room looking at this picture, I couldn't help but feel completely deflated. Farzana's life path had been drastically altered and her dreams had been taken away. Farzana was completely helpless in her situation.

Tradition determined Farzana's outcome as it does for many girls, especially in the developing world. She never had a genuine choice, and she deserves one.

...

This blog was written as a part of the Girl Effect Blogging Campaign

which you can be a part of this week (Oct.4-11th). Join us.

Read hundreds of other posts here or follow the discussion

on twitter using the hashtag #girleffect.

A New Person: World Peace Day

2011-09-21T15:40:00.004-04:00

You are a new person every year, every morning, every moment.

Early morning backyard fall shot. As the colours of the leaves change, so do I.

Bill Bryson, in A Short History of Nearly Everything writes that "it has been suggested that there isn't a single bit of any of us--not so much as a stray molecule--that was part of us nine years ago". This struck me since Ben has said similar things to me in the past. As our cells have been replaced and rebuilt over the years, so have our ideas and beliefs. Our understandings, desires and dreams have matured, morphed and even completely transformed in some cases.

Every day is different, not like the one before; and with every day that comes we, too, are new. With the ability to choose where we focus our attention, how we interact with people and where we direct our energy, we can look at each new day as a treasured opportunity to be more and to love more.

You are a new person every year, every morning, every moment.

So liberating, isn't it? I may be defined, in part, by the actions of yesterday but that doesn't mean that today, I can't start over again, if I choose to do so.

This prompt coincides well with this Day of Peace, September 21st, a day where the global community hopes to see the largest reduction in global violence in recorded history. May it inspire you to think about yourself as a new person each and every day with the power to make your contribution to be as beautiful and powerful as you'd like it to be.

Writing prompt via http://gimmepresence.com/

This Photographer is seeking clarity & being lifted.

2011-09-12T17:45:00.014-04:00

In the ever-inspiring 'Expressive Photography' Tracey Clark asks:

'Do we shoot, saddled with our sorrow, or jubilant with joy, allowing our intimate vulnerabilities to be exposed through our work? Or, do we instead shoot through our exhaustion and despite our weariness in order to seek some kind of clarity powerful enough to lift us from our fog? Perhaps it's all dependent on what we need more at the moment we click-- to express ourselves or to save ourselves'.

I chose the latter, in an attempt to be lifted and freed from an entirely unnecessary guilt.

I happily agreed when my sister asked if I wanted to join her in housesitting at a friend's. A giddy golden retriever greeted us at the door, and I'm sure the cats were happy to see us, too. Although it was a mere 15 minutes from my parent's house, I needed the escape.

We pulled into the gravel drive-way and I hopped out of the car with my camera ready to take it all in. Just the sight of the old stone home lifted my spirits. Realizing how much stress I was carrying, I was consciously turning the deflated sighs I'd been releasing on the drive into deep, full breaths. I needed the warm autumn wind to soothe me.

My sister made her way inside and I turned to face the road. Perfectly framed by the glowing green leaves was the sun. I was being lifted. This was what I came for and I knew there was most certainly more to be found.

I entered the sunroom of this rustic place. Immediately, I noticed that the familiar musty cottage smell filled the air. I explored, moved in and embraced the cozy nooks. Books lined the shelves, antiques adorned the walls and portraits from yesteryears sat erect. I looked at myself in mirror of the dark room and felt calm as the fading light poured through the windows.

Everything about the house was inviting, begging to be taken in. The hardwood floor creaked beneath my feet, chopped wood lay beside the house's wood stove ready for the cold nights to come, and quilts were draped over the chairs waiting to be snuggled in. Oil lamps sat beside each other on the living room's mantel, stirring romantic ideas of older, simpler times.

Outside was a whole new magical world, for both the child and adult in me. With the cat in tow and my sister leading the way, I followed as we slowly made our way around the property.

I climbed trees, testing my limits. How high I could get?

I peered down the narrow, dug out tunnels that functioned as short passageways from one part of the property to the other, obviously dug out by the previous owners. An intensely mysterious and secret world for a child, right? A bit too small and creepy, for my tastes, although I certainly appreciated the uniqueness of it all. Something about secret passageways.

I delighted in the potentials of the large, unattended garden bed. Raspberries still hung from the vine, green grapes dangled, and the large bed of flowers and vegetables grew wildly, competing for space and light.

A hammock was strung outside on the porch of a second, smaller home on the property that I imagined, if my own home, would function as some sort of artist's studio. A place where easels would hold half-painted works. Colourful paints would sit together on tables with pencils, charcoal and marked palettes. Fresh flowers would sit atop an old wooden desk. An old typewriter, love notes, and an inviting chair would wait for the writer (who would be using her laptop, but still..). Found treasures scattered--a unique rock, a fallen leaf, a pressed flower. Pictures, doodles, and pieces of writing would hang on the walls. A hot cup of tea, or a cold glass of lemonade would be necessary, as would a book and a clear mind.

...

A path led us through tall grass and bushes. Trees enveloped us and large soy fields surrounded the property. Signs of fall were all around: the withering flowers, only the slight humming of pesky bugs, leaves already turned bold, bright reds, and a cool evening wind.

As it always does, natures finest intricacies and beauty, pulled me out of a rut in which I'd been stuck for far too long. In making time for this simple outing and allowing myself to revel in it, camera in hand, I gained a little levity.

I will hold this moment, and the feelings that arose, close to me as a constant reminder that it's okay to take breaks, leave my problems and the guilt that comes with not tending to them, and go and sit--in nature--in love.

Just Make a Mark.

2011-09-05T17:04:00.022-04:00

Find something you do poorly and do it anyway. Who cares? It's the doing that matters.

A defeated Vashti, in Reynold's, "The Dot", draws a black dot in frustration.

Jump in! Go for it! Give it a try, I encouraged them.

I ached almost, whole-heartedly wishing my students would just throw their inhibitions to the wind and dive in to whatever new challenge greeted them. When I saw hints of their fears and insecurities rising up, I would put everything I had into encouraging them, in hopes of steering them back on track.

Don't be discouraged, I'd repeat.

You can do this. You are so capable.

When I witness a student taking a leap, trying something new or persevering when they're not succeeding, my heart simply overflows. Their determined eyes, their deep concentration and the occasional smile that stretches across their faces during moments of success, put it all into perspective for me. This is where talents and passions begin.

So, it's curious that when I'm advising myself to 'do it anyway', I sometimes find it really difficult to take my own advice. My approach is to throw myself into a new situation after I've tested the waters, privately. I do this to ensure that I will not be a complete failure. I won't be in a position where I might hold those around me back, and hopefully, I will be able to somewhat enjoy myself while doing the activity. Because honestly, thinking you suck at something feels pretty damn awful.

One of my favourite children's book characters, Vashti, in Peter Reynold's, The Dot, is deflated and believes she can't draw. Her school teacher encourages her to put a mark on the paper and sign it. She stabs the paper with her pencil. The next day this dot is in a gold frame and on display. Seeing this Vashti knows she can do better. Her days become filled with drawing endless dots of different colours and sizes.

Vashti is no longer stuck.

Vashti's Dot Art Gallery Display

Like Vashti, I am finding ways to make my mark. I am learning through the moments of frustration and hopelessness, that it has to start somewhere. And, even if I end up going in directions that don't suit me, there are an endless number of paths. I just need to muster up the courage to follow a few of them.

Where do you gather your strength
to test the waters in new terrain
or to continue when you think you can't?

How do you 'do it anyway'?

...

If you would like to join me in this project and receive random writing prompts or simply prompts to get you thinking visit http://gimmepresence.com/ or follow @gimmepresence or @kstancik on twitter.

If you haven't read The Dot (or Ish, for that matter) go out and read these incredible picture books. Read them for yourself or to the young ones in your life. They're worth it.

Balcony Beginnings.

2011-08-26T15:45:00.011-04:00

After some indecision about whether we should continue on, we decided to stay one more night in Muang Ngoi Neau (Laos). If we had continued we may have never met our now dear friends, Ori and Anat. That night we found ourselves sharing a balcony, their room next to ours. I had no idea at the time that these two would forever have a place in my heart but what I did know was that Ori and Anat were two people worth getting to know.

They ooze wonderfulness. Simple as that.

We found ourselves spending each night chatting about the dreams we'd had the night before, the latest book we were reading, or the movies that were making us think. We talked each night, about religion, life, food, the planet. For the next 3 weeks, this continued. We'd spent each day together exploring new and fascinating places and our evenings eating, drinking, and playing cards.

With Ori and Anat living in Israel and Ben and I in Canada, we didn't know when our paths would cross again and we certainly didn't expect to be seeing one another just a year later. But as life (or luck) would have it, we are now on the same continent. A reunion was in order.

We headed up to Ben's farm, a lovely little northern retreat and true to our fashion, we cracked open the wine and dawned our serious faces for a game of late-night poker.

Anat and Ori:

אנחנו אוהבים אותך.

ההרפתקאות שלנו מאי יחד לא מפסיקים.

Quiet.

2011-08-25T10:12:00.000-04:00

I've been quietly trying to figure out the next steps in my life. Thank goodness for this project because I really don't have much to say. I'm trying to find my words (and honestly can't wait for when I do).

The job search hasn't been easy but I suppose it's not when you're not entirely sure what you want. I know it will work out. It always does. I just need to be patient and trust in the process.

'Courageous action happens in spite of doubts and insecurities and bewilderment. It happens like the fast-forward blossoming of a flower- breathtaking and unstoppable.'

-Janice Holly Booth

Where are you finding your courage these days?

Blissful Sky Gazing

2011-08-06T11:52:00.004-04:00

Bliss:

New friends

Cozy picnic blanket

Gazing up into the afternoon sky

Watching the clouds float by

Gorging on delicious vegan-friendly (who knew!?) fuzzy peaches (well some of us, anyways)!

Parc National de La Mauricie, Summer 2011

An Urban Cabaret

2011-08-05T11:22:00.002-04:00

When Ben and I learned of the free, outdoor Cirque de Soleil show in Quebec City, we knew we had to get there. Cirque de Soleil is a Canadian (I had no idea) company that creates incredible shows combining a dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment. The result is absolute mind-blowing awesomeness.

Le Royaume de Tole was the third chapter of Les Chemins Invisibles. This was the third year this show was being performed under the Dufferin highway overpass in the district of Saint-Roch. For the duration of the show, I was completely captivated. Such freaky goodness! I couldn't get enough.

St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, VT

2011-08-04T14:12:00.004-04:00

Libraries are magical places. In a quiet room with books stacked floor to ceiling, one can't help but get lost. Everything about it is calming. The old wooden floors creak as you shuffle from one stack to the next, the big empty tables beckon for you to grab something off the shelves and come relax. Each book containing it's own story by it's own storyteller, each with something unique to teach us.

The following pictures were taken at the lovely St. Johnsbury Athenaeum in Vermont.

To see more beautiful libraries, and in particular these 'modest' home libraries, follow this link: http://www.beautiful-libraries.com/1000-1.html

One can dream, right?

A.M Judo Rolls

2011-08-02T12:22:00.004-04:00

For photography projects like this one and I suppose in general, I often spend way too much time thinking about what photos I should put up. I feel the need to put up my 'best' shots. The pictures that have good composition, perfect light, originality, ...

However, The August Break, is a 'no pressure' kind of project and that's precisely what I'm looking for. So, the following three pictures are straight out of the camera.

Quebec City. A sunny Saturday morning last month. We were waiting for a friend to arrive and had decided that cartwheels, handsprings, and judo rolls would be the most logical way to pass the time. It actually turned out to be a really good decision. There's nothing better than being ridiculous and getting grass stains early in the a.m.

It set the mood for the rest of the day.

The August Break.

2011-08-01T23:06:00.002-04:00

Montreal, 1 Juillet 2011, avec mes colocataires merveilleuse.

I tried - a -tri: the guelph lake try-a-tri!

2011-06-24T14:50:00.006-04:00

Try-A-Tri Swim: 375m Sprint Swim: 750m Olympic Tri Swim: 1.5 km

Try-A-Tri Bike: 10km Sprint Bike: 20 km Olympic Tri Bike: 40 km

Try-A-Tri Run: 2.5km Sprint Run: 5km Olympic Tri Run: 10km

I recently completed a Try-A-Tri with my two sisters. A Try-A-Tri is a beginner's triathlon where everything is scaled way down and therefore, quite manageable, for newbies to the sport.

We started the race in the 69 degree lake for the swim. This was definitely the most nerve-racking part of the race, for all of us. Divided into 4 heats of approximately 100 people, we would soon be racing into the dark water, together. People went from upright or horizontal blaze of flailing limbs. I was surrounded, barely able to move with so many people so close to me. It was all I could do to maintain a steady doggie-paddle.

Having heard stories of people being kicked in the face, clawed at and swum over, I was somewhat prepared for these possibilities, but what I wasn't expecting was the big left hook from my sister which got me square in the temple. With all the adrenaline though it wasn't so bad.

Swim ~ Bike

Next came the bike and then the run.

You're almost there! Great job. Go, go, gooooo!

Nothing compared to seeing my personal cheering squad (my mom & dad, my grandma, my sister's best chum & her toddler, and my other sister's partner & her son Jinu). There was so much positive energy. I devoured every last bit of it, and at last I crossed the finish line. 50 minutes and 40 seconds.

To Sarah and Laura: I'm so glad we were able to do this race together. You guys kicked some serious ass. Love to you both. And, to our cheering squad (and that includes you lovely folks here on the interweb), thanks for your support! It really means so much to me to have people out there who care. Thank you.

Images of Kenya

2011-06-21T14:51:00.007-04:00

'Fiona'!! [Insert wild, flailing mov't here]

2011-06-14T22:40:00.012-04:00

Out in the open field, next to the classroom, we assembled ourselves into a big circle. The grade 7s looked at Aliesha and I with curiosity and definitely a bit of fear. But, I could sense a tinge of excitement from them, too. This was not a part of their daily routine.

It was our job to get the students expressing themselves through movement. We wanted the students to move without thinking, in unusual, unexpected ways. Each student would say their name with a corresponding movement. We as a group, would repeat. Once the movement was finished we would stay in that contorted position until the next person went.

From the start the boys were confident, they just went for it.

'Peter', he bellowed, as he turned his body and saluted us.

The girls, on the other hand, were a bit more timid. As they called their name, their corresponding movement would ultimately launch them behind the person next to them, where they were blocked from view. Giggles ensued, naturally.

It wasn't until we got to Fiona (pictured below, on the right) that the momentum changed for the girls. With everything she had, she yelled her name as she spun around, flicking her leg and arms back. Her classmates erupted with cheers, clapping, and laughing.

Fiona was the game-changer. Once we had completed the circle, the students surprised us by asking if we could do it again. They now had to show us what they were really capable of. We, of course, agreed. And, round two was AWESOME.

So, to Fiona: thanks for taking a leap. Thanks for going for it when no one else would. Thanks for making us laugh and, thanks for making us all step up our game. It's girls like you, who are going to change the world. You rock.

Teaching with Tuei

2011-06-13T22:58:00.008-04:00

A teacher's ability to be flexible and adaptable is extremely important. Things change, roads diverge and you never know which way a lesson will go. Curveballs are constantly being thrown in your direction, and learning to swing at them is essential. Especially as a new teacher, you say 'yes' to every opportunity that is presented to you. Try it all. Learn from it. Grow.

The always lovely, Mr. Tuei & his younger sister

This message went through my head as Mr. Tuei, the Kenyan teacher I would be working with, asked Aliesha, my good friend and teaching partner, how good our Swahili was. We responded immediately by telling him that our Swahili was as bare minimum as one could imagine.

Signal for curveball.

He responded by telling us that he was the Swahili teacher for the grade 6, 7 and 8 classes and the lesson we'd be responsible for teaching was a Swahili story about friendship.

Although Aliesha and I were hesitant and perplexed by how we'd pull it off, we smiled and laughed with one another nervously. 'Us? Teaching Swahili'?! Alright, then. We had some work to do.

That night, at camp, we sought all the help we could find. We had the story, new vocabulary and the follow-up questions translated. We had statements like, 'What does it mean?', 'Excuse our poor Swahili', and 'Can someone translate this to English, please', translated and memorized.

The story told of two boys, best friends, who were lost. Deep in the forest, they encountered a leopard who felt sorry for them. Instead of killing the boy who was playing dead, but was clearly not, the leopard imparted some very helpful advice. He told the boys about the value of friendship and that it was the most important relationship they would have.

He tells them that friends always help each other. But, the leopard also tells them that boys need discipline. Boys must study hard, stay away from hard drugs and smoking, and have safe sex.

After the leopard had disappeared and as they made their way home, they realized that they didn't have anything in their hands, no berries or treats to take home, but what they did have was some useful and important information.

The discussion Aliesha and I had with our class afterward, although challenging at first, was amazing. We were speaking English by this point (our translations only allowed us to get so far) and the students who at first were quite shy, turned out to be delightful. The students shared some of the characteristics they admired in their friends and classmates.

"I like my friend because he is honest and disciplined'.

'My friend is hardworking and kind'.

Aliesha and I, left the class relieved. We had shared our story of friendship and they had shared theirs. We had also discussed the importance of making good choices and where those choices would lead us. It was a perfect introduction to our teaching experiences in Kenya.

Foundations

2011-06-13T10:51:00.011-04:00

Primary education in Kenya is free and as of 2003, a legal requirement. As you can imagine, the government is playing catch up to accommodate the millions of new students. Free the Children is working in some of Kenya's most rural communities to help not only make education more accessible, but to create healthy communities through their four pillars model: education, alternative income, health care and water & sanitation. Their goal is to help lift these communities out of poverty and work with them to create the foundations for a sustainable and prosperous future.

Part of our role on this trip was to help build some of these desperately needed schools. In our community, our school's enrolment was already at approximately 1000 students and was continually growing each year. We were responsible for working on a couple of different classrooms and to begin the school's library foundation.

Digging foundation trenches, mixing cement, or chiseling at the walls, the conversations and friendships that stemmed from these hours spent under the sun were some of the most wonderful times on the trip. Big, low-lying clouds filled the sky and we were surrounded by far off mountains and vast expanses of field leading to them. A dozen individual classrooms had already ben erected and were full of school children, each day, eager to learn.

Surrounded by this beauty, and the sounds of children singing in their classes while we picked at the ground made for a very rewarding experience.

Into the Rift

2011-05-29T10:43:00.008-04:00

The cool breeze is refreshing. There are a few dark clouds that loom overhead, but I think the African sun will win the day’s battle.

We load our packs into the truck and begin the journey. The smell of exhaust fills the air from the trucks and cars ahead but the drivers in Niarobi, East Africa's most populous city, are calm. There is no horn honking to be heard. It’s not long before we’re out of the city and surrounded by the vast grasslands of rural Kenya, stretching for as far as our eyes could see.

There is one paved road that will take us southwest. Before long, the cars become fewer and the view outside changes. Donkeys graze the grasses, if they’re not hauling carts full of items destined for a town’s market. Small wooden shacks adorn the road’s edge and are painted red with Coca-Cola advertisements. Inside vendors sell foodstuffs to the people passing through. Women walk the streets with water, food or wood strapped over their heads or resting on their backs. People wave and yell, 'Jambo', as we pass. Already, I feel welcome.

After a couple hours' drive, we make it to the lookout point for the Great Rift Valley. The valley in which our soon to be home of Salabwek, a rural community located in the Narok South District, close to the Tanzanian border, is located. This is a 9,600 km valley that reaches all the way from Israel to Mozambique. The continental drift has left this desert valley barren and vast. Green trees line the sides of the mountains but deep in the valley is a dusty and dry land, one I’m excited to get into and be a part of. It’s a stark comparison to where we are standing. That land, down there, will be our temporary home. I’m so excited. This is the Kenya I imagined.

The Great Rift Valley (from above), Kenya

Where to begin?

2011-04-04T19:38:00.005-04:00

We celebrated our last day of classes yesterday in true OISE style; with songs, drama, poems and words of appreciation commemorating a year of discovery. It was a year that at times felt overwhelming and exhausting, but that ultimately was enriching and extremely gratifying.

In a couple of weeks, I will be heading off to complete an internship working with Me to We in Salabwek village in Maasi Mara, Kenya. Then it’s off to Quebec to study French at the University of Trois-Rivieres for the summer. Hopefully we’ll be able to squeeze in a National Park (or two) somewhere in there as well. It’s all so incredibly wonderful and exciting. I am truly grateful.

It’s what comes next that I’m struggling with. Ben and I have tried to sit down and sort out our options for the fall but every time we do we end up just looking at each other, eyes wide and clueless.

We both feel like we’re being pulled in so many different directions, making it excruciatingly difficult to choose which way to go, each option with it’s beautiful appeal or its terrifying unknowns.

While teaching is something Ben and I both love and are passionate about, we both hold other interests that we’re interested in exploring, too. Those interests, along with teaching, seem to be calling. So does the wider world. Ben has a deep-rooted desire to make films and I have a keen interest in exploring the not for profit sector in some way.

We have no idea where to start

...but we both know we'll be okay.

Spring Awakening.

2011-03-19T11:06:00.001-04:00

The cold air hits my lungs and a piercing chill runs through my nostrils. I focus on my breathing; slowly, in through my nose, and out through my mouth. It's sharp, this morning's air.

My body begins to work, slowly warming up. One leg after the other, arms swinging to cheer them along. The five minutes it takes me to adjust feels like an eternity. But once those five minutes have passed my muscles begins to relax. Now the cold air that stung at first refreshes and rejuvenates. It propels me forward. Ahh, the beautiful outdoors, good morning!

My pace quickens as the sun warms my back. I see my first robin of the year. My mind burdened by the grey winter brings, begins to shift, too.

I am grateful for the changing seasons and the coming of spring.

The winter that is school is almost finished :). In not too long, I'll be making decisions about what's to come in my spring.

Here's to getting through all that needs to be done and to looking forward to all that awaits.

Light

2011-02-26T16:53:00.006-05:00

'In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary'. ~Aaron Rose

KENYA!

2011-02-16T17:21:00.004-05:00

Come May I will be on a plane, destination: KENYA! A self-chosen internship is the last requirement for completion of my BEd. and I couldn't be more thrilled to be finishing off my school year in Kenya!

I'm feeling really good about this opportunity, for so many different reasons. The biggest reason is that this opportunity feels like it is the best 'next step' in this journey I'm on to find what it is I'm supposed to be doing with my life. I really enjoy teaching, and while I absolutely love being in the classroom, it isn't my only passion. I long for a connection to the wider world and the opportunity to work in different areas; locations where help is needed.

With this particular trip, there are a group of teacher-candidates who will head to Kenya with Free The Children's Me-to-We organization to participate in a Kenya study and leadership experience. I have a real appreciation for the work Free The Children does and believe whole-heartedly in the organization. Working in Toronto schools and leading students in Me to We extra-curriculars at lunch has been such a rewarding experience. Sitting with grade 5, 6, 7, and 8 students and discussing different social and political issues affecting children in particular, is remarkable, really eye-opening. These students are curious, passionate and genuinely want to change the world. Me to We and their We Day events have inspired thousands of students across not only Toronto but the country to be educated and inspired to learn more and take action.

We will be located in a safari camp on the edge of the Maasai Mara, Africa’s richest wildlife reserve. I can't tell you how pumped I am about our location. Apparently, the Maasai Mara is home to the world’s greatest migration of zebra and wildebeest during the summer. I am crossing my fingers that we will have the chance to see some of these wild animals crossing from the Tanzanian Serengeti to the Kenyan Mara while we're there. How exciting!

The majority of our time will be spent teaching and volunteering at a local school. We'll also be responsible for building classrooms. To add to the excitement of it all, one of my good friends, Aliesha, is also taking part in this trip. Our plan is to stay after our internship and do a little traveling of our own. For both of us, this will be our first trip to Africa and what is even more exciting is that Aliesha's mom is from Tanzania. So our plan is to go and see some of the beautiful places her mom recommends and perhaps even visit the village where she was raised. I am so excited to be able to share this experience with Aliesha.

Unfortunately, once we arrive in Kenya we will have no access to the Internet so I'll have to share our experiences once we are home. I can't wait!

Average Day

2011-02-06T00:00:00.009-05:00

Last year around this time I stumbled across a video contest organized by a group called Project-Reason. I was immediately sold on attempting to put something together for the next year's contest, and that next year has arrived!

I love what Project-Reason stands for, and the purpose of the video contests is to create three minute shorts that promote scientific thinking and secular values.

Here is my entry to the contest for 2011:

There is a vetting process over the next two weeks, during which up to ten finalists will be chosen. All of those fortunate enough to make it to the top ten are then voted on by members of the Project-Reason community.

Would love to hear what you all think of it :)

December 31 - Core Story

2010-12-31T18:33:00.002-05:00

December 31 - Core Story

What central story is at the core of you, and how do you share it with the world? (Author: Molly O’Neill)

Well, it may have taken me 2.5 months to finish this #reverb10 project--but I did it! I enjoyed the challenge and the amount of writing that came out of it. As instructed, I went over all of the posts from this month and was looking for a theme or a link I might not have noticed and what I found was that 2010, my benchmark year, was a year full of simple pleasures.

One of the most valuable things I have experienced this year has been the repeated realization of how lovely it is to take a step back and enjoy the moments I'm in.

I'm really trying to take this lesson and apply it now that I am back home and in school. I struggle with balancing my school work and my personal life. I don't take enough time to unwind. But I'm getting better, making more time to separate myself from the busyness of life.

December 30 - Gift

2010-12-30T18:31:00.005-05:00

December 30 - Gift

This month, gifts and gift-giving can seem inescapable. What’s the most memorable gift, tangible or emotional, you received this year? (Author: Holly Root)

Ameena, Bazeera and Rihana, are three sisters who were students of mine 6 years ago when Ben and I were volunteering in a community program in a small village in Digana, Sri Lanka. They were absolutely delightful to teach and a big source of joy each day. A joy we never forgot. We'd share stories in class, discuss different issues, and enjoyed learning about each other's lives. If we weren't teaching them that day, they'd make sure to drop into the temple on their walk home from school to say hi. It's amazing how far a genuinely cheerful 'hello' and 'I'm so glad to see you' can make you feel.

Rihana 6 years ago

These young women are beautiful. They live modestly with their mother, their father having died a few years ago, supporting each other in a society where men and women still occupy traditional roles. Without a male in their home, you can imagine some of the difficulties they face. They rely on their uncle to buy them school supplies, new shoes, and many other things. Their mother now runs the tire shop their father once owned and operated. The girls play an integral role in making sure meals are cooked, and the house is clean. They have lived through a civil war and watched their country in turmoil. They live in a community where they are the minority, where their cultural and religious identity is different. They take care of each other and their resilience is something that I really admire.

When we went to visit them in the summer, five-years later, we were greeted with arms wide open. There was no sign of unhappiness, distraught, or pain. They were joyful and full of life. They fed us, invited us into their home and allowed us to stay with them. Upon leaving, they wanted us to make sure we had something to take with us, as if they hadn't already given us enough. They wanted to gift us with treasures they had collected over the years. We had occasionally sent cute notebooks, stationary, pencils, etc. to learn that they had never written a word in them or used any of it. To them, they were too precious to be used, and instead were kept stored away. So, when they gave us beaded necklaces, plastic flowers, cute stickers, and other little treasures they had collected over the years, these cheap little trinkets became precious somehow. The gesture gave them new meaning.

It's remarkable how giving people are and how much a seemingly small action can affect you in such a big way.

So to Ameena, Bazeera, Rihana and their mother, thank you; for everything. We love you.

December 29 - Defining Moment

2010-12-29T18:29:00.002-05:00

December 29 - Defining Moment

Describe a defining moment or series of events that has affected your life this year. (Author: Katryn Fitmaurice)

I've been scouring my journal for the last couple of days trying to think of what might constitute as my defining moment' for 2010. Truth be told, 2010, was an unbelievably fantastic year and every moment, both big and small, affected me in some way.

2010 was full of defining moments. Moments that moved, shocked, humbled, and freed me. So, instead of choosing just one of those moments, I will use 2010, the year, as a benchmark, a reference point by which I can measure all things to come and remember that the best moments are those that are spent with the people you love most doing that things that make you the happiest.

December 28 - Achieve

2010-12-28T18:27:00.002-05:00

December 28- Achieve

What's the thing you most want to achieve this year? How do you imagine you'll feel when you get it? Free? Happy? Complete? Blissful? Write that feeling down. Than brainstorm 10 things you can do, or 10 new thoughts you can think, in order to experience that feeling today. (Author: Tara Sophia Mohr)

This year I want to finish school, travel, learn French and get a job. These are the big goals. There are, of course, the little and more personal goals, too. I want to journal. I want to exercise as often as I can. I want to love my family and friends. I want to have fun and I want to take pictures.

With every goal, there are many unknowns. Accomplishing certain goals leads you down new paths. New paths take you in unexpected directions. That's the beauty of life and decision making that I really do love that.

If, though, I had to choose just one thing to accomplish by the end of this year, it's that I'd like to feel like I have used my time as best I could. Whether or not I reach all of the goals I've mentioned, I want to know that I spent my time trying.

Today, I can feel this sense of accomplishment and awesomeness by:

1. Doing the things I need to get done, first! That's you, Mr. Essay. You're next.

2. Take breaks.

3. Flickr some pictures!

4. Enjoy some family time.

5. Embrace the journey back to Ben's and the inevitable wait times we'll experience along the way.

6. Catch up on the small errands I need to get done.

7. Read, even just a few pages, from my book.

8. Start a page in my journal.

9. Get to bed at a decent time.

10. Be okay with whatever happens.

Day 27 - Ordinary Joy

2010-12-27T18:17:00.002-05:00

December 27 - Ordinary Joy

Our most profound joy is often experienced during ordinary moments. What was one of your most joyful ordinary moments this year? (Author: Brene Brown)

Being away from home in 2010 really made me appreciate so many of the 'ordinary' moments that occurred at home and brought me great joy. This winter, when I go to visit my parents, I find so much joy sitting in front of their wood stove curled up, sipping a cup of tea while chatting with my family. It's so warm, cozy and super relaxing. I often follow these chats with a wee nap curled up on the floor. This summer, I enjoyed waking up and having a family breakfast outside on the back porch. It's amazing how much joy my family can bring to me and how the best moments are often when we're just sitting around the house, enjoying each other's company. Tea and conversations...always a winning combination at my house.

Day 26: Soul Food

2010-12-26T17:48:00.004-05:00

December 26 - Soul Food

What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth and touched your soul? (Author: Elise Marie Collins)

Having lived and traveled through Asia, I have experienced some pretty wild food and I have definitely had some unforgettable eating experiences. Re: pig's blood (VERY politely refused although I ate the meat from it), shared local whisky from bamboo shoots (enjoyed thoroughly), snake (not brave enough for that), jerked venison (extremely dry), etc.

However, when I sit back and think about a food that entered my mouth and touched me, my mind automatically goes to one place: Gimbap lady's restaurant (although I'm not sure restaurant is the proper classification).

It was a tiny, no frills place, a few steps underground. Toilet paper served as napkins, you served yourself water (the only beverage available) and for a mere $3.50, I would eat the most delicious hot pot stew, a fried egg, rice, seaweed and an array of vegetable side dishes. Scrumptious.

Most nights I enjoyed this meal with my foreign family/coworkers chatting about life. I will never forget the deliciousness and coziness of that little eating place.

The simplest of places are often the best.

December 25 - Photo: A Present to Yourself

2010-12-25T22:04:00.003-05:00

December 25 - Photo.

Sift through all the photos of you from the past year. Choose one that best captures you; either who you are, or who you strive to be. Find the shot of you that is worth a thousand words. Share the image, who shot it, where, and what it best reveals about you. (Author: Tracey Clark)

Ben took this picture of me on our last evening in the Himalayas last summer.

I was bundled up and doing my best to keep warm while enjoying the last moments of daylight. As the sun set behind the mountains, I was able to reflect on our journey. I felt extremely grateful, accomplished, in awe, and humbled. Mountains have super powers--really.

When I think about myself during this trip, I automatically think about how good I felt. I was so happy. Each morning I woke up to a new and exciting experience.

But what I've learned from this experience is that every day regardless of where you are or what you're doing has the potential to be wonderful. I carry this sentiment with me now as I bundle up each morning and head off to the train station.

Today has so much potential and I love that.

Another reason I chose this photo is because it's all me. (yikes). I've never been one for solo portraits but I'm actually hoping that in 2011, I will be brave enough and dabble with self-portraits (gulp). I'll let you know how that goes! I've seen some incredible collections of self-portraits and I think it's about time I gave it a try.

And, I'd also like to mention how much I adore Tracey Clark (creator of Shutter Sisters). Her websites have been a huge source of inspiration to me over the last year. What I saw and experienced on her websites inspired me to actually give photography a try. The writing featured on her site is so inspiring and especially encouraging. Last spring when she featured one of my pictures on her website I was beyond moved. I was so thrilled.

So, Tracey, thank you so much for being such a huge source of inspiration to me this year.

Day 24 - Everything's OK.

2010-12-24T21:26:00.001-05:00

December 24 - Everything's OK.
What was the best moment that could serve as proof that everything is going to be alright? And how will you incorporate that discovery into the year ahead? (Author: Kate Inglis)

Everything IS going to be alright!

This was 2010's mantra and believing in it got me through many of our more interesting travel moments.

Let me reflect on just a few:

Sketchy bus rides teetering on enormous mountain edges...it's going to be alright.

Wildly rocking boat rides with my most cherished possessions on board....it's going to be alright.

No clean underwear...it's going to be alright.

Sweating my way through the sights in 45 degree weather...it's going to be alright.

Sharing a bedroom with many unique creatures at night...it's going to be alright.

Running out of money in a place with no bank machine...it's going to be alright.

And, when things were not so alright, they made for a pretty damn good story.

This mantra and the crazy experiences I had abroad will certainly be remembered and in 2011 will serve as a great reminder that, in fact, everything...is going to be alright!

Day 23 - New Name.

2010-12-23T20:47:00.007-05:00

December 23 - New Name

Let's meet again, for the first time. If you could introduce yourself to srangers by another name for just one day, what would it be and why?

(Author: Becca Wilcott)

Growing up I always thought I had an old lady name and I was really self-conscious having Leach as my last name. Mary, the old blood-sucker. Awesome.

However, as I matured, I came to really appreciate it.

I’m Mary Leach, and I love that.

December 22 - Travel

2010-12-22T17:24:00.000-05:00

December 22 - Travel

How did you travel in 2010? How and/or where would you like to travel to next year? (Author: Tara Hunt)

2010 began at the bottom of one of the most beautiful mountain ranges and one of my all time favourite places, Seoraksan National Park in Sokcho, South Korea. We rang in the New Year with Ben’s family (who were visiting) and some of our close friends. It was the beginning of what would be an absolutely incredible year.

It looked a little something like this:

January and February:

-saying our goodbyes and finishing our 2.5 years in Daejeon, South Korea

March:

-beginning of our journey home to Canada

-Singapore and Malaysia

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

April/May:

-Thailand and Loas

Village Boys, Loas

May:

-Laos and Vietnam

A bike ride through Hue, Vietnam

June:

-Cambodia to India

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The Ghats. Varanasi, India

July:

-India and Sri Lanka

Former student and young monk. Digana, Sri Lanka

August:

-home to Canada and my family and friends (for the first time in almost 3 years) where I’ve been ever since schooling it up in Toronto.

Family in Elora, Canada

As for 2011:

It looks like I'll be going to Kenya for an internship for the month of May where I'll be building a school, working in the local community and teaching. After that, it's one big (but exciting) mystery!

December 21 - Future Self

2010-12-21T15:42:00.000-05:00

December 21 - Future Self

Imagine yourself 5 years from now. What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead? (Author: Jenny Blake)

Live this year for you. Do the things that will make you happy. Love your family and your friends. Make time for them. Don't be afraid to take risks.

And, hug, a lot.

December 20 - Beyond Avoidance

2010-12-20T21:46:00.001-05:00

December 20 - Beyond Avoidance

What should you have done this year but didn't because you were too scared, worried, unsure, busy, or otherwise deterred from doing? (Author: Jake Nickell)

I've always had a very strong desire to work for an international non-government organization but always been a little hesitant in pursuing such a position. While teaching in Korea, I toyed over what I would do next and what the future held for me. I knew that I wanted to travel the world and I wanted to help. The idea of going back to school and focusing on international development excited but also frightened me. I felt I didn't have the experience, the qualifications, or the appropriate background and when it finally came down to making a decision, I backed out. I was scared and I had decided that I wasn't good enough.

I am currently in school working on my Bachelor of Education. I've always desired a teaching degree and I love that in a few months I will be certified to teach in Canada. The experiences, thus far, in the program have been great and I know that in completing my BEd. many new opportunities will be available to me (that's what I hope anyway).

Teaching has always been something that I've been passionate about pursuing, but deep down, my passion has never ended there, there has always been something missing and I believe that thing is international service. I want to mix the two; Put them together and see what happens.

My experience is Sri Lanka mixed with my more recent travels has confirmed that I have the desire to help. Now, I just need to take the leap.

I'm currently applying for a 5 week, self-chosen internship to complete my program and although I'm late in the application process, I am going to try to see if they'll bend the rules and look at my application for an international placement.

I'll keep you all informed on how it turns out.

December 19 - Healing

2010-12-19T01:07:00.003-05:00

December 19 - Healing

What healed you this year? Was it sudden, or a drip-by-drip evolution? How would you like to be healed in 2011? (Author: Leonie Allan)

(floating through the lake in Srinigar, India)

The experience of being on the road this year, really did heal me. The joy of waking up in the morning without obligations, and having the freedom to do exactly what I wanted was a feeling that I'd never truly felt or appreciated until 2010.

This joy wasn't a sudden realization. At the beginning of our trip, I (characteristically) would wake up early, already with a plan, and be in execute mode. GO. GO. GO. SEE. SEE. SEE. DO. DO. DO.

It wasn't until I started to wear myself out, started needing to take things more slowly (which happened sooner than I'd thought it might) that I really began to feel free. I would exercise, journal, and enjoy my surroundings, my situation, and my partner.

In 2010 I had the privilege to be able to live this way and while the same isn't exactly feasible for 2011 (thanks, school), the lesson is still the same: Do the things you want to do and take life slowly. Appreciate your surroundings, your relationships, your life.

Day 18: Try

2010-12-18T00:56:00.006-05:00

December 18 – Try

What do you want to try next year? Is there something you wanted to try in 2010? What happened when you did / didn’t go for it? (Author: Kaileen Elise)

There are so many new things that I would like to try this year. I'd love to navigate my way through a new country. Eat a new food. Work for an NGO. Get up in a hot air balloon...

But there is one thing that I would really love to try to accomplish over everything else, and that is learning (or starting to learn) a new language. I would really love to take up studying French again. While traveling, Ben and I gave a half-assed attempt to learn it on our iPods, we worked through the first few lessons but didn't make it very far.

The idea of learning a second language is a bit scary. I have no idea if it is actually possible for me to pick it up not to mention that I'm terrible with pronunciation and accents!

However, in saying that, I'd really love to try....in Quebec City? Montreal? ;)

Day 17: Lesson Learned

2010-12-17T09:37:00.000-05:00

What was the best thing you learned about yourself this past year? And how will you apply that lesson going forward? (Author: Tara Weaver)

I believe I have always been adaptable, able and (usually) willing to change in different situations. However, traveling in Asia this year confirmed it for me. I am adaptable. For the most part, you can throw me into a situation and I'll make it work.

While traveling, we encountered many fellow wanderers and one thing that Ben and I took pride in was being low-key and trying to fit in as much as possible wherever we might be. We were conscious of what we wore, how we behaved, and how we interacted with people and in being so, we experienced some amazingly authentic and beautiful things (even in the most unexpected places).

I have no idea where I will be once school is finished. Come June, it's all one giant mystery. But I do know that wherever I go and wherever I end up, it will all be okay.

Day 16: Friendship

2010-12-16T22:28:00.004-05:00

December 16 – Friendship

How has a friend changed you or your perspective on the world this year?

(Author: Martha Mihalick)

The people in my life, new friends and old, are a constant source of inspiration. These relationships have always challenged me to reinvent myself, to ask questions, to explore my own and other's perspectives. When I look at my friends I am amazed at how wonderfully unique each one is.

What's so amazing about friendship is that even as we grow and change, we still can come together and relate.

To all of my lovely friends, I LOVE YOU!

Day 15: 5 Minutes

2010-12-16T22:24:00.003-05:00

December 15 – 5 Minutes

Imagine you will completely lose your memory of 2010 in five minutes. Set an alarm for five minutes and capture the things you most want to remember about 2010. (Author: Patti Digh)

celebrating New Years hiking at Seoraksan National Park (South Korea), playing in the snow and cozying with visiting family and friends
Eating dwenjang jigae at our little local restaurant in Daejeon
Learning and playing with elephants for a day in Thailand
Trekking in Laos and visiting remote boat in villages
Meeting Anat and Ori and traveling with them for 3 weeks through Laos and Vietnam
Having time to read and journal
Connecting with Sarah through A Perspective Project each week!
Chilling at our mountain bungalow in southern Cambodia looking out to the Gulf of Thailand
Experiencing India. Wow.
Eating at the Golden Temple
Trekking in Kashmir and the Himalayas
The amazing reunion with Brian and Laura in Delhi at Wood Castle
Going to Sri Lanka and reuniting with old friends
Coming home and seeing my family for the first time in a long time
Going back to school and meeting some great new friends
Canadian winter beginning--I'm excited for the snow!

2010 was truly unbelievable. It is definitely a year I never want to forget.

Day 14: Appreciate

2010-12-14T22:54:00.003-05:00

December 14 – Appreciate

What’s the one thing you have come to appreciate most in the past year? How do you express gratitude for it? (Author: Victoria Klein)

India in the hot season is almost indescribable and traveling in it is almost, almost, unbearable. The sun rises early and by 7 a.m, it has already been out cooking things for a couple of hours. There's not a drop of water in the lakes or the rivers and everyone/everything is yearning for it. An instant sweat covers your entire body the moment you step outside. Within a few minutes of walking your already tired and parched. You could quite possibly drink all day and still not have to go to the washroom. By mid-afternoon, temperatures are well into the 40's and closing in on 50. You drag your heavy legs along, constantly seeking out shade in every situation.

*Things to note in this picture:

Ben: the 'bag' tummy sweat, the big brown bag full of H2O, the flop sweat covering him head to toe.

Mary: the wet hair, the bandana sweat rag, the baggiest pants I could find to ensure maximum breathing room (down there), glowing arms, chest and face.

Interestingly enough, we're touching in this photo which was a RARE moment. In India, in that heat, there was a hands off rule. Touching was often an enormously uncomfortable thing.

So, while traveling in India this summer, I came to appreciate air conditioning. In certain situations, I now understand the need. Growing up in a house where AC was never used and believing myself, in general, that it wasn't necessary, this past summer I came to appreciate it in a whole new way.

I was grateful. I shut the door and closed the windows, shutting the sun out as quickly as I could. My gratitude was expressed by my stripping down to the bare minimum, and basking in the cool breeze.

Thank you, AC, for saving me in India. At times, I may not have survived without you.

Day 13: Action

2010-12-13T19:16:00.003-05:00

December 13 – Action

When it comes to aspirations, it’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. What’s your next step? (Author: Scott Belsky)

A Perspective Project was a photography project that Sarah and I started last March. We were going to be apart and this was our way of connecting and keeping in touch. It was a personal challenge to inspire each other to stop the hustle and bustle, take a moment and do something creative. It was also a way for us to improve our photography skills and really get to know how to use our cameras.

We did so well while Sarah was in Korea and while I was on the road, but since we've both returned home, our project has been moved to the back burner. I suppose the collapse of this project was partly because both of our lives completely changed once we were back in Canada. We were busy trying to get reacquainted with our new lives. Then, you know the story, you get busy, and other things become more important and the project that used to connect you is knocked down on the priority list.

That is until NOW. My next step is to kick myself in the ass and get this project started back up! Sarah and I have agreed that every Sunday, we are going to post our regular weekly photographs. And, it's ben said a few time since we've been home, but it's for real this time!!

As you can probably imagine, with 5 months of inactivity (mostly), we could use a little encouragement! Join us over at A Perspective Project on Sunday for a NEW post. Come say hi and join in the conversation.

Day 12: Body

2010-12-12T18:11:00.007-05:00

December 12 – Body Integration

This year, when did you feel the most integrated with your body? Did you have a moment where there wasn’t mind and body, but simply a cohesive YOU, alive and present? (Author: Patrick Reynolds)

I set off for my run down the winding country road. The day was coming to an end and the sun hadn’t made an appearance all day. Dark grey clouds hung low overhead. A cool wind blew past me as I stepped outside. With my Ipod playing some of my old favourites, I reminisced.

Even with the music playing in my ears, I sensed the still quietness that surrounded me. Nothing but me, my music, and the occasional tail wind to push me along. I took it slow. I felt so relaxed, alone with my thoughts and at peace.

A hawk slowly circled above me. A doe and her baby walked out onto the road, stopping to stare at me for a few seconds before leaping off into the woods.

I’d reached half way and I turned back to return home. Just minutes before I arrived, one of the most beautiful skies I’d ever seen opened up. Through the thick clouds, the sun made a blazing first appearance. It sun was low and it shone hard. That one spot was the only break in the clouds.

Shadows of the beautiful evergreens were cast across the road. My own ran along next to me. I basked in the moment.

Day 11:Things

2010-12-11T12:11:00.005-05:00

Day 11: Things

What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011? How will you go about eliminating them? How will getting rid of these 11 things change your life? (Author: Sam Davidson)

1. Worry

2. Doubt

3. Creative Nothingness

4. Inactivity

5. Distractions

6. Excuses

7. Negative Self Talk

8. Inefficient Time Use

9. Guilt

10. Buying coffees instead of making them at home

11. Chewing too much gum

Eliminating these 11 things will make for a happier me!

Day 10: Wisdom

2010-12-10T20:52:00.007-05:00

December 10 – Wisdom.

What was the wisest decision you made this year, and how did it play out? (Author: Susannah Conway)

We sat at the temple talking to the monk we had volunteered for 5 years before. We were reminiscing about the days when children filled the temple after school for their English lessons and how much things had changed. We asked about some of our former students who we learned had left Digana, a small village in central Sri Lanka, and were married, studying at university or pursuing a career in a different city. It was great to hear how everyone was doing, but we were particularly curious about one family we had become very close with during our time in the village. In a predominantly Buddhist community, we were looking to find a Muslim family. The monk had told us that he believed they no longer lived in Digana. He was sure they had moved away after their father had died a few years prior.

We were disappointed by this news, but I wasn't ready to give up just yet. Through hand-written letters, we had kept in touch for 4+ years with this family and it wasn't until the last year that our contact became limited. So, we set out to see for ourselves if they had really left. We used our memory to lead us to their street and, with the help of our Sri Lankan brother, Ushantha, we began to ask some of the people in the community if they had, in fact, left. Nobody had a straight answer for us. We carried on.

Finally, we reached their house and after a little hesitation, we ventured up the path. We reached the front of their house and with timid excitement, I called, 'Hello. Is anyone home?'. Sure enough, within seconds, Bazeera, the middle child (now 18) came running out and threw her arms around me.

We spent the next couple days with their family, eating, sipping tea and talking. Of course, our visit would have been incomplete had we not had a dress up session and some dancing.

Day 9: Party

2010-12-09T10:41:00.003-05:00

December 9 – Party.

What social gathering rocked your socks off in 2010? Describe the people, music, food, drink, clothes, shenanigans. (Author: Shauna Reid)

Our 2nd annual Eat So They Can dinner was one of the best social gatherings for me, all year. Having been abroad for as long as I was, having my closest friends and family all under one roof was truly heart warming. Given that all of these lovely people came out to support such an amazing cause, I was ecstatic, beaming all night! It meant a lot to me that so many of my nearest and dearest participated.

They brought food and we ate, and ate, and ate. We chatted, laughed, and shared drinks and stories.

I am so grateful for my family and friends.

I think I should have these types of gatherings more often.

Thanks again to all of you lovely folks who supported us. I love you.

Day 8: Beautifully Different

2010-12-08T23:10:00.004-05:00

December 8 – Beautifully Different.

Think about what makes you different and what you do that lights people up. Reflect on all the things that make you different – you’ll find they’re what make you beautiful. (Author: Karen Walrond)

I'm in the process of finding out what I can offer to the world that no one else can, but it is precisely that: A PROCESS. Slow and (sometimes) steady.

I suppose what I can say is that as I try to find my niche, where exactly I fit, and what it is I'm meant to do, I spend my time giving and learning. And, in doing these things, I believe not only I benefit but so do those around me.

Day 7: Community

2010-12-07T21:08:00.007-05:00

December 7 – Community.

Where have you discovered community, online or otherwise, in 2010? What community would you like to join, create or more deeply connect with in 2011? (Author: Cali Harris)

For most of 2010, Ben and I were traveling from country to country, just the two of us. We met some amazing people (Hi, Ori and Anat!) along the way, but constantly being on the move, we were never able to become a part of a community. Since coming home and beginning school, I have been fortunate enough to find myself in a community of amazing student teachers here in Toronto.

Although we all have our own interests and strengths, we’re drawn together through common interests in teaching and learning. We discuss and debate in class, we drink after school, we eat and we talk, a lot. I am fortunate to be with such a great group of people this year at school.

As for 2011, I would love to build more of a community online, both here on my blog, over at A Perspective Project and on flickr. I’m constantly inspired by the different bloggers, writers, photographers, and artists out there, so much that I want to become a part of these communities. I want to use the inspiration they provide to ignite my creativity and to work on my stick-to-itiveness.

Day 6: Make

2010-12-06T20:16:00.005-05:00

December 6 – Make.

What was the last thing you made? What materials did you use? Is there something you want to make, but you need to clear some time for it? (Author: Gretchen Rubin)

Forget about the lesson plans, reflections, essays, and all of the other wonderfully fun things that all of us student teachers must get done before the holidays because, for me, those just don't count!

The last thing I made and really enjoyed was an origami paper crane.

Myself and another teacher-candidate decided it would be a nice Remembrance Day activity to make paper cranes with our extra-curricular 'me to we' school group during lunch. We started by reading the incredibly powerful picture book, 'Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes'. Following the story, we discussed remembrance, the importance of friendship and the power of peace. To remember our discussion, we had each student fold a paper crane to take home and remember.

Day 5: Let Go

2010-12-05T16:55:00.003-05:00

December 5 – Let Go.

What (or whom) did you let go of this year? Why? (Author: Alice Bradley)

I've learned to let go of my own (and others) expectations for how it was thought my life should turn out. I've replaced those expectations with hopes and goals, so that I may still plan for my future but in doing so make sure that there is also room for the unexpected.

If you plan for the future but expect no more than the unexpected, then you may often find yourself pleasantly surprised. This year was full of some pretty wonderful surprises.

Day 4: Wonder

2010-12-04T20:17:00.003-05:00

December 4 – Wonder.

How did you cultivate a sense of wonder in your life this year? (Author: Jeffrey Davis)

It wasn't until a certain person came into my life that I really began to wonder. I've always been curious and certainly I've always been amazed by life, but I mostly took what I was presented with at face value and rarely stopped to delve deeper.

It's a completely different story now. The more I learn about the planet and our universe, the more amazed I am and the more I wonder. The more incredible people that come into my life and the more opportunities that come my way, the fuller I feel. I wonder at the wonder of it all. Always. And in doing so, I find myself much happier.

Day 3: Moments

2010-12-03T08:29:00.019-05:00

December 3 – Moment.

Pick one moment during which you felt most alive this year. (Author: Ali Edwards)

The Himalaya Trek in Kashmir, India

I felt most alive this summer while trekking through the Himalayas in Kashmir, India. It was one of the most challenging, fulfilling, intense, fun and calming things that we did on our trip. Everything about this hike made me feel alive. From the pain in my legs, to the rain on my face. From the arduous climb up to the days spent amongst the peaks, the delicious cups of hot Kasmiri tea and the conversations around the campfire, the hail storms, the snow, the sun and the rain, the perseverance it took to reach the top,

the awe the moment-to-moment shifts in weather inspired,

the remarkable people and creatures met along the way,

the companions who journeyed up with me,

the calm and peaceful moments found for quiet reflection,

the lush greens, the tall trees, the sun peeking through from behind the clouds,

the smell and the heat of the fire, and the icy air beyond them,

the view.

Mountains make me feel alive, and the Himalayas may just be the mother of all mountain ranges for me. This particular hike was undoubtedly one of the most rewarding moments of 2010.

Day 2: #Reverb10

2010-12-02T22:35:00.004-05:00

December 2 - Writing.
What do you do each day that doesn’t contribute to your writing — and can you eliminate it?
(Author: Leo Babauta)

I pondered over this question all day thinking about things I could eliminate from my day, but I really couldn't think of a thing. Sure, there are parts of my day that are less than exciting, but with everything I do and everyone I encounter, I am constantly being fed information, ideas and inspiration.

So, no, there is nothing I would eliminate!

Reverb10 Challenge.

2010-12-01T22:29:00.008-05:00

I've got a challenge to complete and I'm so looking forward to turning on my creative side and perhaps even picking up my camera and doing something thoughtful and fun!

'Reverb 10 is an annual event and online initiative to reflect on your year and manifest what’s next. The end of the year is an opportunity to reflect on what's happened, and to send out reverberations for the year ahead.'

Each day for the month of December, Reverb sends out a prompt and today's prompt is:

December 1 One Word.
Encapsulate the year 2010 in one word. Explain why you’re choosing that word. Now, imagine it’s one year from today, what would you like the word to be that captures 2011 for you? (Author: Gwen Bell)

My word for 2010 is ADVENTURE.

Not only did 2010 take me to nine different and amazing countries around the world, but it also brought me home and every experience was and is an amazing adventure!

I would love my one word for 2011 to be: PARTICIPATION

I would love to see myself in some new situations in 2011. I'd love to take some risks and put myself out there with regards to different job and volunteering opportunities.

Life is for Sharing

2010-11-27T14:25:00.001-05:00

This video will instantly make you happy!

Refocusing.

2010-11-14T13:52:00.006-05:00

I've been back home in Canada now for 4 months and while this time has truly flown by, it feels like I've been home for a lot longer. My life has undergone a complete 180 from my days of traveling. Now that I am back at school full-time, I am consumed with work and committed to doing the best job I can; I do love it, but somewhere along the way, I've disconnected from all of my creative outlets.

And, I absolutely hate that I've stopped creating. No blog posts, no photography, no journaling, no reading (for leisure, that is). I am beyond craving all of these things, and more, at this point.

Starting today, on this rainy and gray November afternoon, I am going to make a conscious effort to regain my creative life back.

So, today I am gathering all of my scattered hopes...

... and I am setting them free.

It starts here and it starts now.

Check A Perspective Project later on today and you might just be surprised to see a post there, too!

Here's to making a little time for the things we need to do for ourselves.

I BELIEVE SHE'S AMAZING.

2010-07-27T10:48:00.004-04:00

Hi, everyone!

We're home sweet home and it feel so nice to be back! Once things have calmed down a bit, we'll be sure to get some stories up here but until then I wanted to share this video and a little message to my sweet sisters...

1. Watch this video and go and check out this amazing website: I Believe She's Amazing.

2. Register your amazing person HERE. I registered my sisters, Laura and Sarah. Leave me a message in the comments with who you are registering! I'd love to hear about the amazing women in your life.

3. Donate what you can to help women with cancer: money, time, love, hope, ...

To all of the other amazing women in my life, I love you.

I'm so excited to be home and I can't wait to see all of you.

Enjoy this video:

I-N-D-I-A!

2010-07-02T05:23:00.011-04:00

Hello, friends.

We know, we know...it's been 2 million years since we've updated. Blame India.

We have so many stories to share and not enough time to share them (ugh)! So, instead I've collected a few of my favourite pictures from India thus far and will say that while the heat is intense, the touts are persistent and the dirt on our faces is ever present, we are having a great time!

India has been one wild adventure and it's about to get even wilder. We're sitting here in our hotel in Delhi anxiously waiting for Papa Tuck and Laura to arrive. We've got about 6 hours to go and we couldn't be more excited.

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves for now.

Love to you all!

Jinu, we miss you!

2010-06-26T12:55:00.003-04:00

For those of you who've seen this, you already know just how amazing Jinu's dance skills are. While we were in Cambodia, we decided to respond to Jinu's dancing with a little something of our own.

So, sweet Jinu, this one's for YOU:

Jinu, we miss you so much and we can't wait to see you in just a few short weeks. Sending you and mommy lots of hugs and smooches.

WE LOVE YOU, SARAH and JINU!

Balli Ga -- Short Film

2010-06-07T10:20:00.017-04:00

빨리가 (Balli Ga) from benldt on Vimeo.

A man's got a package to deliver. 빨리가 directly translates to "Quickly, go."

So there we were, sitting next to the water discussing our dreams of future selves. Myles and I have similar, rather lofty aspirations; hopes of becoming great film makers—no easy task. We agreed then and there, that we’d do it. We’d start with something small, a minute long, a production workflow test, as it were, but it would be something.

We decided that we’d try to make a short that would incorporate some important and common shots or themes that pop up in films on a regular basis. We had the idea of doing something about a minute in length, and that would involve a short action-esque sequence. So we wrote a few ideas down until we had something pretty firm on paper. Then we spent a few mornings walking around Daejeon, scouting locations and storyboarding by taking pictures of one another in the locations and doing the actions. We were feeling pretty good about the whole thing.

I’d purchased a nice little full HD Canon camcorder the previous summer, and we thought that would suit our purposes just fine. After having a little play we soon realized that the lack of control over the limited depth of field capabilities of the camera would be a big hindrance in terms of getting the coveted “film look”. So I improvised, I bought up the parts I’d need to make a DOF adapter, which would allow me to attach SLR lenses to the camera.

The result, though, was nothing like what I‘d hoped. Because it involved an extra focusing screen, there were huge light loss, vignette, and flipped image issues:

Not to mention the form factor (which was ridiculous) of the whole contraption. Some of the pictures taken with this setup were beautiful, but ultimately, for what we hoped to do, it was unusable the way it was. After having attempted some shooting with it, and not having very successful results, we ended up putting the little project on the backburner. We got side tracked with other personal projects, and it began to look like the plan might go the way of, various, extinct, animals.

Enter the Canon EOS 7D. Mary and I had been planning to buy a camera together for this trip, and we decided that this new Canon was perfect. It took amazing stills, and it also had great video capabilities. We all went away the weekend after the camera arrived to Sorak Mountain for New Year, and Myles and I had a play with the camera. This is what he cut together that weekend.

We were all pretty blown away by the quality of the video, and all of the problems from the previous camera setup disappeared. Things were back on track! Since we didn’t have any contacts of people who were interested in film in SK, we decided one of us would have to play the role of the main character. Myles asked if I could run quickly and I told him back in grade four I won a second place ribbon in track and field, so I was elected to be the one. We filmed it over seven days, in the mornings and evenings when we had a bit of time away from the progress reports and phone calls.

We made a quick cut of the footage before Mary and I started traveling, and Myles and I have been sending project and audio files back and forth by e-mail for the past three months. Just yesterday we finished the last of the edits, since the 7^th was the release date we’d chosen to post it. Of course, there are always little things one wishes he/she could change about a creative project, but all things considered we’re both happy with the result. Have a watch, and I hope you enjoy! Any comments and/or critiques would be very much appreciated. See more on this from Myles at his website.

Keep your balls peeled over the coming weeks for a “making of” post I’ll be putting together :)

Sharing Sundays Week 1

2010-06-02T23:05:00.009-04:00

I love a good challenge, so this 20/20 project suits me very well. What I love about a good challenge is that it always motivates me to go a little bit further.

Part 1: Exercise

I exercised everyday this week and it felt really good. I'm determined to do 20 consecutive awesome push-ups by the end of this project. I'm doing 20 right now but they're damn hard to do and I take breaks.

Part 2: Book Recommendation

I just finished reading 'Freakonomics' by Stephen Dubner and Steven Levitt and loved it. It's nothing like any of the books I've been reading, so it was a nice change of pace. I thought it was brilliant. Levitt is an economist and in this book he explores the 'hidden side of everything'. It's really interesting and I'm looking forward to reading Super Freakonomics.

You can read their awesome blog here: http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/

Part 3: Simple Pleasure

Take a picture AND print it!

I've been accumulating 1000's of pictures over the years and it's a rare occasion that they ever get printed. It's such a nice thing to be able to hold a picture in your hands, or to put it up on your wall. So, having my Fujifilm camera is great because I can print the occasional picture and include it in my journal.

Also, I've found that giving away pictures is such a delightful gift for the receiver and for me. So many giggles and smiles...

Bring on week 2!

PS. You may be thinking these two pictures were taken on the same day since I'm wearing the SAME thing but no, no...I wear this shirt ALMOST everyday. It's an every-other-day-at-least kind of shirt. I wear and immediately wash. It's awesome. The joys of travelling light!

Can't wait to hear about all of your projects this week. Love to you all.