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Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Engage Yourself

Disengagement.

That was the word used by my boss to describe what happens to people after they move to the West Coast. I had felt the beginnings of it happening to me, unfolding with each night out, each outdoor activity washing away the brainpower reserved for storing knowledge.

It doesn’t come up in conversations, the “seriously west coast” newspaper doesn’t do it justice, and the lure of the ocean and mountains wipes away the inkling of those on the verge of taking notice. I’m talking about national politics, and the events unfolding on the international scale. Don’t get me wrong, I considered myself ill-informed but I make the effort.

I don’t know where the beautiful hiking trails are, or what makes a good mountain bike but shouldn’t everyone be concerned with who might be running this country?

Disengaged.

I guess living in Ottawa has left my politically soiled ass………well, a bit spoiled.

But this is great, Vancouver will whip my lazy East Coast butt into some serious yoga/snowboarding shape while keeping everything else in tact.

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

Renewed focus

My, my it’s been a long time. All I can say is that … I’ve been having too much fun.

This definitely has been one of the best summers……spent many weekends on the beach, salsa dancing Cuban style, working, and breathing.

After coming back from the Ottawa visit, I started a new job in fundraising and it’s turning out to be a great fit; it’s exactly what I wanted. I’m working with a fundraising consultant in a small business (3 of us). So basically we’re helping charities develop their fundraising program. There’s been a lot of learning going on and there’s hardly ever a dull moment.

The wonderful weather went on until the end of September, hell it’s still nice, but it’s refreshing to feel the change in season and recharging from the hustle and bustle of summer fun. And with all the students back in school there’s a sense of renewed focus on education and learning for everyone. I’ve been staying in at home and it feels good.

I feel settled here…..and Vancouver has definitely been redefined as my new home, especially after the trip back from OT. There’s so much beauty in this place and so many things to learn…..