I lost my Vancouver V-Card and This Is How It Went...

First of all, driving to Vancouver was one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life. That I-5, man... who knew? There were a few stretches along the way that were simply heaven. I literally could have died at one point just South of the Canadian border. There is way too much beauty to take in!

When I did reach the border, they were pretty harsh with me. I failed to notice the slow speed limit posted right before the border. Three guys searched my entire car and yelled at me. I was embarrassed, but kinda liked how seriously they took these matters. Being yelled at by a young man in uniform is something everyone should experience :)

I arrived at Foxy Haus in East Vancouver where I am occupying a room. This place and its people (and kitty) are just lovely.

So much charm and creative energy! I feel especially privileged to be staying in the room I'm in. Every little corner has something beautiful to experience. I've been soaking in the creative vibes and loving the time I have to meditate on unblocking my inner artist... (Thanks Leia <3 )

Much of my week was spent "working" during the NAFSA Conference. It was actually a great conference! 9,000 international educators unite! I went two years ago when it was in L.A. Now on my second go, I had more 'ins'... Which is what NAFSA seems to be all about. The days are spent networking and the nights are spent

attending all the parties and receptions you manage to get yourself invited to. Some of them are pretty exclusive and fancy. Brazil, for instance. Among my generation of Nafsans, getting the Brazil invite is a status symbol. Hahaha! In L.A. I didn't get an invite to their party. So uncool! So this year my boss and I went first thing to the Brazil booth for our invite. We were among the first to sport our Brazilian invite sticker on our name badge...

Oh, the pride! But I only stayed

about an hour at the party after an exhausting day.

Other great wining and dining events were sponsored by Scotland, Germany, Australia, and a couple program providers and organizations.

All schmoozing aside, I have to say this conference does wonders for my professional development. It's a tiring event, but I

somehow feel re-charged, re-inspired, and motivated to be an even more kick-ass Study Abroad Advisor!

I've had personal intentions to focus on during this trip as well. As I mentioned, I'm working on 'unblocking'. For me, it is almost necessary for me to physically leave town every once in a while to reconnect with myself. This experience has been exactly what I needed. The drive, the foxy haus, the solitude, the music, the books, the new city, and the people I'm meeting have all played a role in helping me to get back to the loving source of life. I've renewed my vows to practice this awareness and connectedness in my daily life. Even if I fall off course, as I expect I will, I think it's very important to not give up trying.

Friday was my first and only free day in Vancouver. Thankfully, the sun was bright and shiny all day!

I took the Skytrain and bus down to Stanley Park. I rented a bicycle and took an incredible ride around the enormous park. The wildlife I encountered was simply amazing! Here's a seagull with a starfish in its mouth.

Apparently, this is quite common 'round these

parts.

I also met this little guy while I was photographing flowers. He just came on out to check the scene. Sweet :)

I came back and hung out some with the Foxies. Then I ended up going with some new girlfriends to a jam session. Jillian is a beautiful poet and Chelsea is a great, soulful musician. Mando playing Lynn drove us in her sweet burgundy van. She's got a voice too! It was a great night except that it was my first and only night to chill with folks here. I'm looking forward to touring, but I'm sad I have to leave Vancouver already! My dear friend Michael was right when he said I would fall in love with this place. It's very easy to do...

And now it's been 5 days. Onto Seattle! I am very excited for the show tonight!! Also stoked about this great weather! Peace!!!!!!