Calvin's Katimavik Adventure

Changes

2011-06-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Deer Lake, Newfoundland, July 1, 2006. I was on an extended weekend off, which was celebrated in a way I wasn't quite expecting.

It all began with waking up first thing in the morning, enjoying a quick breakfast, then meeting with local residents outside the Salvation Army hall to participate in a parade through town, finishing up at the local legion with much fanfare.

Later in the day, there was a fair of sorts outside the community centre, with all kinds of fun events and lots of prizes. All this on a beautiful summer day, the kind that I came to remember Newfoundland for (even in spite of it raining for days at a time!)

This sticks in my mind as one of the most memorable things we did during the summer, in amongst our many trips to Gros Morne National Park (if you get a chance, GO THERE) and our overnight trip to the northern peninsula to visit some of the viking settlements (something that to this day still makes people jealous).

Hope you all enjoy your summer and your Canada Day!

4 Years Later, The View from Here

2010-05-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well... Long time no blog. With it coming up fast on 4 years since I finished Katimavik, I thought I would take this time to talk a bit about how I feel the experience still relates to my life today.

These days I'm enrolled to study for my bachelor's degree in Computing and Information Systems and starting to work again after taking a somewhat unwanted hiatus following a month-long work term in Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

I haven't traveled near as much as I'd like, although I am hoping to disappear off to Saskatchewan for a little bit sometime this summer to touch base with a friend that I haven't seen since we parted ways at the end of our first rotation in Katimavik, which brings me to the reflection.

A lot of what I have been able to do over the last few years is things I would have been far less likely to do had it not been for Katimavik. For example, living in New Brunswick for just about 2 years. That was an absolute blast, it's one of the most interesting provinces I hadn't thought of going to, plus I lived just a couple doors down from one of the people I did Katimavik with. I even ended up going skydiving for the first time after getting some encouragement from the one friend in Saskatchewan that I mentioned above and had such a good time that I'm making plans to go visit her this summer and do it again (and maybe watch her do some jumps too).

I've not been nearly as involved in the community as I would have liked, but I volunteered with Rogers TV in New Brunswick for just shy of a year while I was there and since coming back to Calgary have been involved with WorldSkills Calgary, the Calgary International Film Festival and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Calgary. I do plan to do much, much more as time goes on and will also be going back to work for the Katimavik cause again, because I just can't get enough of helping out such an amazing organization (and as alumni, it's nice to give back to a program I've gotten so much from).

A question I often ask myself is if I went back to when I decided to try applying for Katimavik and moving through the process again, would I?

To this day, I'm hard pressed to find reason to say anything but yes. There were good times and there were downright horrible times, but it was an experience I wouldn't trade for the world. The friendships I've made, the places I've seen, the things I've gotten to do, without Katimavik, much of it would likely have never happened.

Rest in Peace, Jacques Hebert

2007-12-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

Senator Jacques Hebert, founder of Katimavik and Canada World Youth, former Canadian Senator and Civil Rights advocate has passed away at age 84, leaving behind a legacy so profound it ripples throughout Canada, impacting the lives of countless individuals in all corners of the country and indeed worldwide with those participating in Canada World Youth or having moved abroad to complete more good works after their experience, even those that have been touched by the works of Senator Hebert or the youth from the two fine programs he fought so strongly for, right down to those whose rights he fought with incredible gusto to defend.

He was a fine man, though I never had the privilege to meet him, I'm certain that he has left an impact in my life through Katimavik.

Rest in Peace Jacques.

Holy Cow...

2007-09-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

It's been over a year now since I completed Katimavik and I can honestly say the time has passed much faster than I expected it to. In the year since my return, I've of course kept up with all my friends from the experience, but I've also started on the path to a promising career in telecommunications.

On the note of my Katimavik friends, I'm actually moving in to an apartment with one of them in the next 11 months. I'm really stoked, mainly because though I'm a prairie kind of guy for all time, I'm kind of getting sick and tired of the way things go in Alberta.

Rotation Two-One Year Later

2007-06-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post this one for a while. Rotation 2 was definitely the scariest for our group in terms of member losses, as we almost ended up losing all but myself and another member. We were fortunate enough to find mercy so only a few left.

The First Rotation: One Year Later

2007-02-11T10:22:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's already been a year since my first rotation. In retrospect, it was great. Save major turbulence within the group, we managed to survive without too much loss within the group. We got along, and sadly had to break off from our peers in Dubreuilville and White River to join the groups in Shawinigan and St. Elie. Little did we know that our group would almost be disbanded because of some of our foolish behaviour.

Well...

2006-08-17T23:22:00.000-07:00

I arrived home yesterday, during an incredibly stressful travel day. First, my flight to Halifax got diverted to Moncton, and returned to Halifax. Next, as a result of the first note, I missed my flight to Calgary. After I get to Calgary Airport, I find out that Air Canada lost my luggage. I got it back at 12:30 PM today, but it still pissed me off big time. At any rate, things are going good. I have a job interview with WestJet later this month, and have at least two or three other places I'm waiting on for calls.

I'm glad to be home, but I miss the hell out of everyone.

The Homestretch...

2006-08-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

So I'm less than a week away from my return home. The past two weeks have been tons of fun for our cluster. We went to the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland to visit L'anse Aux Meadows two weeks ago and had a mock prom last Thursday.

This week has been fun, if a little short. We were on our 72 hours off from Friday night-Monday, and work up until this Friday, after which we empty out the house and leave for our final debriefing. Today was amazing, the Town of Deer Lake (the employer of three participants myself included) treated all of the Katimavik participants in Deer Lake to an appreciation lunch at the local Pizza Delight. It was a very kind gesture, and contained many sincere thanks from town council, our supervisor, and humourous words from our co-workers. I know I'm going to miss Deer Lake, but I plan to return to the town soon enough.

I'll be posting again in almost a week (which is no surprise in and of itself), because I'll be killer busy for the next 6-5 days. Talk to you guys soon.

Volunteering in Corner Brook

2006-07-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

We volunteered at the Corner Brook Triathlon yesterday, which was a lot of fun. The group was on Security/Traffic Control, but was still able to enjoy the event. Afterwards we took in the post-race celebration at Marble Mountain (roughly 3/4 of the way to Corner Brook).

I have withdrawn my previous statements about the food, as they have since been resolved. Myself and the girl mentioned (now the only 2 meat eaters) finally got our complaint across. Life can be difficult, so I'm not overly worried about it.

Fun Times

2006-07-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

Inventory and cleaning aside, there are fun times ahead for my group. We have 72 hours off the first weekend of August, and our trip to the Northern Peninsula next weekend.

I haven't been posting because I've been busy (somewhat lazy too), and can't find stuff to write about.

The Countdown Begins Again...

2006-07-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

As of this week, I officially have six weeks left until I return home from my whirlwind Katimavik experience. My group is spending it the best way possible, that being... Busy as hell.

We have an excursion practically every weekend for the next little while, we just did a camping trip in Gros Morne National Park.

Nothing but good times ahead it seems.

P.S. HUGE Apology for not posting in nearly a month.

Newfie Night

2006-06-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

We had a newfie night with the Corner Brook group tonight. Had a really good meal, and got screeched in using Purity Syrup in place of Newfoundland Screech (Purity being a brand of Newfoundland food products). Photos of that will follow on the photo page soon.

Going to Stephenville on Sunday, should be fun.

Always on The Go...

2006-06-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Katimavik is always go, go, go. This time it's not Katimavik that's keeping me on my toes though. It's the fact that the program is over in approximately two months, and I have all sorts of affairs to attend to before my return. Getting a job is coming together in my favour, as I've been offered an interview with one of Canada's top airlines, and I have some other companies in mind should that fall through. Getting an apartment is also panning out, as I should be able to move in about two weeks after the end of the program.

On the program front, we get to go to the Northern Peninsula soon, and we go billeting in almost a week now, then it's one month to the end.

Will post again soon, stay tuned.

Looking Ahead-In A Positive Way

2006-06-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

I just received word today that my group got cleared for 72 hours off, which is really cool. What made it interesting is that the Regional Director for the Atlantic was impressed with the letter.

Billeting comes up at the end of the month, which will be awesome. I have had nothing but positive experience with billeting thus far, and am looking forward to this much needed break from the group.

Fun Stuff...

2006-05-29T18:00:00.000-07:00

We went on an excursion to Gros Morne National Park on Sunday, which was fantastic. I would have posted pictures to my photo album, but technical problems did not allow my photos to save, although I did transfer them. It had no problem letting me delete all the pictures though >_<

On an unrelated note, this is post #60, and the one-year anniversiary of my Katimavik Blog! You can look through the archives on the right hand side of the screen. I also encourage you to visit the links in that bar as well. The profile at the top of the bar has some links to my other blogs too.

Have fun, stay decent.

Bug Bites And Dreaming Big...

2006-05-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Looking back on my first week in Newfoundland, I can say that it has been interesting thus far.

I was placed with the town parks department, where I have been doing a lot of grounds maintenance, especially garbage clean-up. As a result, I have a bone to pick with both Tim Horton's and KFC.

It was cloudy and raining for much of the week, but we had a really good day during the week, in which I had to get my neck sunburnt (just the back, but it still hurts).

Myself & the rest of my group started weeding what will be our garden, which allowed me to use a weed-whacker. I took much pleasure in bringing weeds to their violent demise. However, during the gardening, bugs were abundant, and everyone got some bites. Some of mine were conveniently right on top of the sunburnt part of my neck, which made it hurt even more.

We had a workshop with the rest of the cluster called "Dream Big" today. It was about making a plan for our future. The workshop was designed as "A Life Lesson With Tiger Woods," so naturally Tiger was all over the course material. It was a good workshop, but there was way too much Tiger all over it.

The Beginning Of The End...

2006-05-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Newfoundland five days ago, and I start work tomorrow, as while I write this it is the Victoria Day long weekend. I'm kind of shocked because I did not expect the time to be passing as fast as it has.

It started when I arrived in Wawa, and it's carried ever since. Sometimes it feels like an eternity, sometimes it passes in the blink of an eye. I intend to get as much as possible out of my last three months in the program, because it'll be over before you know it.

I found out where I'll be working for this rotation, for the first month I will work for the town, and for the last two months I will work with the local supported employment agency.

Our calendar is fully loaded already, and we've only been here as I said before, five days.

I'll post again soon. I also intend to get more pictures up on the site soon, so stay tuned for both.

ARRRGGGHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-05-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

It's happened again.

This morning another member of my group left. Complications here forced the move. He will be greatly missed, as he was by far the most popular, and for sure the party animal/clown of the group.

Our computer is broken (again). Some think that it's just the video isn't working, but I think it's far worse (Hard Drive Crash). Just goes to show that it's probably best to have different accounts for each person, as ours had only one that could do most anything.

On a happier note, I turn 18 on Sunday! I'm really looking forward to it, since we have free time, I will be able to go out with some people to the bar, or I might just hang out at the house. It's up to me.

I go to Newfoundland on Wednesday, so don't count on a new post for about 1-2 weeks.

À Bientôt!

>_<

2006-05-09T17:42:00.000-07:00

Well, this is perfect.

The group has determined that we are not to have free time on Sunday night, which would have been nice, seeing as how it will be my 18th birthday. We will otherwise have a group activity, which I am not overly amused about, but mainly for the above mentioned reason.

I thought that during Katimavik I would be able to take advantage of the multiple windows of opportunity that have been open to me. However all but two of them were slammed shut with my fingers in them. I often wonder why I'm still in the program, but if I made it this far, I must be here for a reason. If only I knew what it was...

Packing again...

2006-05-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I have two weeks until I go to Newfoundland for my third and final rotation on Katimavik. I've had fun in Trois-Rivières, and I've learned more than I ever imagined I would. I'll likely post again before the end of the rotation, but don't count on anything yet.

Feel free to keep in touch. You can post a comment, or you can send email (there's a link through my full profile, check on the right side of the screen.

After The Weekend

2006-04-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

What a whirlwind! We did so much this weekend that it would be impossible to list it all here, but here's a summary.

On the first day in Québec City, we went to Old Québec (spent a lot of time in that part of town), and we had lunch on the Plains of Abraham, one of the many ancient battlefields in the area, which I found out is a world heritage site. Other than that, we went to Chute de Montmorency, which is a waterfall that is taller than Niagra Falls. On day two, there was a big celebration for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics near L'Assemblée Nationale, as the 2006 Canadian National Olympic Congress was there, so there was a free concert as part of the Star Academie (French version of Canadian Idol) tour, and afterwards found the group from Saint Élie, and we all went to Galleries De La Capital for Mega Salon de L'Été. It was a huge festival in the amusement park at the mall (it's a Québec version of West Edmonton Mall almost). One of the booths was for a boating school that was there to promote awareness of the "Pleasure Craft Operator's Card" which is basically a drivers licence for speedboats (now mandatory for operating a speedboat or other motorized pleasure craft in Canada). They were doing testing there, so I went in and did the test, and passed (narrowly, one more wrong question and I would've failed), so now all I have to do is pay the $40 issuing fee, and I am a licensed pleasure craft operator.

Myself and the other group members have tons of pictures, so I will be posting to my photo album site soon, watch for them!

WEEKEND!!!

2006-04-28T04:26:00.000-07:00

I have quite the weekend lined up. Tonight we have free time, then tomorrow we leave during the morning to go on an overnight trip to Québec City. We have lots of great plans like visiting the Plains of Abraham, and seeing the Chateau Frontenac. I'll try to post pictures on my photo album as soon as I can.

You Know You're A Katima-Victim When... Updated Edition

2006-04-28T04:24:00.000-07:00

You Know You're A Katima-Victim When... Updated Edition It's an old favourite, with holes filled in, and some items added. All credit goes to the original author, as I only added four entries to make the list amount to 210.

Three Weeks to Newfoundland

2006-04-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

As of today (April 24), my group has about three weeks until we travel to Newfoundland for our final rotation for Katimavik.

I for one am filled with a sensation of surprise and excitement. I'm surprised that I have survived thus far, and we have only about three months left at this point. I'm excited as well by the fact that the program is almost over, and I will be able to return to my hometown and see my friends and family again.

Will try to post again later, but I can't promise anything, as Blogger has an outage scheduled later tonight, so I won't be able to get in to add any posts for a while.

Billeting Finishes

2006-04-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

Billeting was fun, my family this time was really cool. My first night with them, they sent me to a Cabane À Sucre with the kids, which was really fun, ate a lot of food, all served with maple syrup (not that stuff that my family gets out west, the real stuff). I tried my hand at curling for the first time in two years. I failed miserably (at least in my opinion).

We did a lot of activities together, like game nights, and going out for walks, or travelling to town. It was definately a highlight of the rotation.

72 Hours-1 Objective

2006-04-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

We started our 72 hours off last night, and for most of the group, we kicked it off by seeing Les Cowboys Fringants live here in Trois-Rivières. They are amazing live, if I get the chance to see them again, I would take it. But otherwise, the objective is to do as little as possible on our 72 hours off (around the house at least).

Since we are responsible for our own food, me and another participant went off shopping, and of course returned with as much processed food as possible, since that type of food is, by the standards of a Katima-Victim, a luxury item around the house. I myself plan to get a long overdue tune-up done on the house computer. It runs really slow sometimes, so with everyone out for the weekend, I should be able to have it fixed for when they come back.

I will post an update on billeting right away.

Cool... I Think...

2006-04-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

Well, Billeting is almost over. I had a lot of fun with my family, going to cabane à sucre and just playing games at the house. But I also realized that there is but one rotation left in Katimavik for me. I'm amazed that I have made it this far, and I look forward to the end of the program (somewhat). It's not that this is a bad program, but it could sometimes drive one to insanity.

Bon Matin!

2006-03-31T03:55:00.000-08:00

Allo tout le monde!

Hébergement pour les groupes dans mon triade (Trois-Rivières, Shawinigan et St. Élie) commencer ce soir. Apres travail, les participants et participantes obtenir a pris par leurs familles, et éxperience la vie avec leurs familles. Je suis excité!

Dernier Cours de Français

2006-03-30T16:13:00.000-08:00

Le dernier cours de Français pour mon groupe est ce soir. Mon Français est mieux que avant Katimavik. Hébergement commencer Vendredi soir, donc même mieux!

Aujourd'hui, j'avais le meilleur jour à travail! Je pense c'est parce que le printemps est ici, mais je sais pas.

In english now...

The last French course for my group is tonight. My French is better than before Katimavik. Billeting starts Friday night, so even better!

Today, I had the best day at work! I think it's because spring is here, but I don't know.

Good News!

2006-03-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

First off, my problem with Piczo was only temporary, and the site is running as normal.

Second, I start billeting at the end of the week. I'm unsure about my computer access, but I will attempt to post.

I'm going to a Les Cowboys Fringants concert at the start of my 72 hours, which begins the last night of billeting. They're a Québec band, and happen to be one of my favorites right now.

Website issues

2006-03-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

I'll have to apologize if you can't view some of my pictures, Piczo is really bad for handling photos. In the meantime, you can view what's there, and I am going to be working on finding a better host for my photos.

This Really Sucks...

2006-03-22T20:45:00.000-08:00

I can't say I didn't see this coming, but I never actually expected it to happen. It turns out that another member of the group is leaving us. She talked about it every now and then, but no one really paid any mind to her talk, we were expecting her to be one of the few that actually complete the program. But the deed is done, we can't change her mind now.

On the not so heavy side, we go billeting in two weeks. I find it really funny because I appear to have gotten the only really bilingual family of the bunch. I'm looking forward to billeting and getting a taste of Quebecois culture, as the Quebecois are the people of Canada that I've never really been able to understand. That and Newfoundland people, but I'll come to that soon enough.

72 Hours Could Mean Something

2006-03-20T18:33:00.000-08:00

We just got our computer back, so I'm going to do a little update now.

We went on an excursion to Montreal on Saturday. It was pretty cool, we went and saw the Bîodome nature museum, the Planetarium, the Old Port, and had lunch at Mont Royal. I'll have pictures up on my photo album as soon as I can get a hold of them.

Our group is working to get an extension on our time off during the easter weekend. I've sent off our request and am expecting a reply on it soon. If it does get approved, then that means that I'll have a chance to spend two nights away from the house, which I'm planning to do in town, just away from the Katimavik house.

Anyhow, I'll be back to my whenever-I-feel-like-it updates over the next little while, so stay tuned.

Compy Troubles...

2006-03-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

Please be patient if you don't see many posts soon, our computer got sent to Montreal for repairs, so I won't be posting as often.

Til then...

Super Canadian

2006-03-11T04:14:00.000-08:00

Went to watch a hockey game in Shawinigan last night. Group stopped at Tim's on the way. That's a summary of the picture.

The hockey game was fun, Shawinigan won 9-6. Afterwards we went home and I baked until 2:45 AM. Have a workshop later today with the rest of the cluster. They're all really cool people, which is good, because that means the next two rotations will actually be fun. Not that my last cluster wasn't cool, but we seldom did things together, partially due to our lack-of-PLness.

Revenge In A Plastic Container

2006-03-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

Flatulence is serious business. Aside from being rather disgusting, it's entertainment value is usually nil. But I'm gonna enjoy this. Beans, Jalapeno peppers, rice and chicken. Beans were deliberately added.

To be honest, this is really more of a joke post than anything. I have been getting mildly annoyed by my group of late during my term as house manager, and they have to put up with the aftermath of this concoction. Hence, my revenge.

My Favourite Task...

2006-03-09T05:19:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I come to hate being house manager by midweek. First off, the group (with the exception of a couple people) acts like a bunch of slobs. Second, they raid things that are budgeted to have two at supper, for example (talking about juice). Our house right now has a fridge that's for house manager/PL use only, and they go in that all the time.

I can't wait until monday, when I'm back to work.

My Project Moves Forward...

2006-03-06T12:03:00.000-08:00

The Bell Walk for Kids Help Phone has just opened registration, and I am working to have Katimavik be involved in the event in the Trois-Rivières area. I have registered a team for Katimavik, and am also going to have us possibly volunteer at the event, and have a recruitment booth at the event. This all happens May 7. If you like, you may pledge me here.

Wow

2006-03-01T14:42:00.000-08:00

Pardon the lateness of this post. I've been rather busy over the last couple weeks with work and other Katima-life related stuff.

We lost another participant on Feb.27. She was well liked in the group, so she'll be missed.

We went to a special journee de cabane a sucre at a local park on the weekend, and it was the first time I've tried maple syrup on snow (it's really good, if you get a chance to try it, do so).

Work has been going well thus far, with me being at the above mentioned park this week, as one of my work placements is closed for March break, and the other doesn't really require me this week (maybe it's because I'm an anglophone, but I'm not sure).

If you want to get in touch, email me at calvin@katimavik33030.cjb.net.

Till next time, Croque la vie!

Travail commencer Lundi Matin

2006-02-18T04:05:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

Just thought I'd post to let you all know how the placement interviews went. Everyone did surprisingly well, as there are a couple people that still have very little french. I ended up getting chosen for two work placements, as I was the only person to want those placements. I will work at one four days a week, and at the other on Fridays.

We arrive in Quebec...

2006-02-17T04:50:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Trois-Rivieres about 2 days ago. All I can say is "so far, so good." Luckily I have a decent grasp of the language, so I haven't had any real mishaps of yet. However, interviews for work are today, so that leaves some room for me to mess up.

While I was travelling, I ended up with a five hour wait in the Montreal airport before I was able to get on the bus to come here. As a result of rotation, I lost approximately 24 hours of sleep. Oh well, such is life in Katimavik.

Last Day of Billetting... And Work...

2006-02-03T17:49:00.000-08:00

Today was both my last day of billetting, and my last day of work for this rotation. Billetting was really fun, and work was too. Today when I got to work, I was told by my supervisor that he was taking me to town hall at 3 PM. When he wouldn't tell me why, I started getting worried that I was in trouble. When the time came however, it turned out that the staff at town hall had organized a farewell get together for me. It was a really nice gesture, and I'll miss all the people I worked with there. Now, I'm house manager once again, and otherwise I have rotation camp approaching in close to one week. Anyways, I look forward to telling you all about goings on over the next little while. Talk to you all soon!

P.S. I made a message board for everyone to check out. Link is on the right.

The End and The Beginning...

2006-01-31T17:40:00.000-08:00

My first trimester in Katimavik is drawing to a close in two weeks, and my group appears to be having trouble getting stuff sorted out. Granted, we are still billetting right now, and there's limited time to get stuff done, but it's all getting a little hectic. Our final presentation takes place in a week, and from what I know, everyone else is just starting to get ready now. I've been in the mindset for the past 2 weeks. Anyhow, the end appears to be acting much like the beginning.

Til Next Time.

Little Details...

2006-01-28T19:17:00.000-08:00

I've been reviewing my blog archives, and it would appear that I've neglected some details.

The day following our work placement interviews, I found out that I had been placed with the local Township, working in arena maintenance two days a week, in Leisure Services/Tourism another two days a week, and as an administrative clerk at town hall on the remaining day. One thing I really enjoyed about the job is that I was given my own office by the Leisure Service/Tourism department, and have been working out of there for a while now.

We've had three participants leave the group, with two planning to visit us in Quebec.

That's about all I can think of right now. I'll wade through my archives to see if I can find more. You can also view the archives by viewing the archives sidebar on the right of the screen (but that's obvious now isn't it?).

Til Next Time.

Billeting-Week 2

2006-01-28T19:08:00.000-08:00

The second and final week of billeting in my first rotation is underway. I've had an interesting week, I found out from one of my work supervisors (I have three. I'll explain later) that I will get to drive the "Olympia" this week. Olympia is an ice resurfacing machine competing with Zamboni. Anyways, my billet family took me to a "fish fry" fundraiser, which had extremely good food. We've also gone on two hikes, one of which I did for the second time, but this time with about 1.5 feet of snow on the trail.

This is also the three week mark before we go to our next stop, Trois-Rivieres, Quebec. I'm really excited to go, but I'm really nervous too, because I'm only just getting a grip on the French language. But I'll do fine, if I don't make a fool out of myself first.

Til next time, Don't Get Eliminated!

Billetting Begins...

2006-01-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

Everyone started billetting tonight. All I can say right now is so far, so good. My family is pretty cool, their kids are all out of the house, so I get my own room which during Katimavik, is a luxury in and of itself. There's a TV in my room, which is a luxury that can only be experienced during billetting. I'll post later on, as I haven't been here for really long, and I should be getting to bed soon.

Giving 'Er

2006-01-12T16:44:00.000-08:00

My group goes up to White River for a dodgeball tournament on Saturday. I'm pretty sure we'll school them, so I don't worry about it. It will be so awesome, and I can't wait! Afterwards, I've heard there will be a dance party, which is really fun. I'll be posting more photos up on the web soon, I'm just having problems with the store I gave them to for developing, but I'm expecting them by next week. Keep looking for them.

On another note, my group is going to Quebec in almost a month. It's really weird, mainly because I still know very little French (I've learned some, but I still won't last in Quebec). I go billetting soon, so I'll be spending two weeks living with a family in the community. I'm hoping I get placed with a bilingual family so I have an opportunity to practice my French. I'll keep you posted.

The Beginning of A New Life

2006-01-10T04:04:00.000-08:00

Our house has been re-energized at last. Our new PL arrived on Saturday afternoon, and she's been willing to interact and have fun with the group. We get along (when we have to), and butt heads (when we need to). Otherwise, it's good to have some stability restored in the house.

When 48 Hours Means Something:Part 2

2006-01-10T03:54:00.000-08:00

WTF?!? Part 2 now? You may say, but I have good reason. I'm house manager this week, and have had very little opportunity to do much of anything with my blog. Anyways, here's how the 48 hours went.

I slept in until 11 AM on Saturday. Went for a walk, and got to meet our new permanent PL, later went to play pool with another participant. That night, our PL came and played poker with us.

That's my summary of the weekend. I hope to have a better report in my next rotations, so keep looking.

When 48 Hours Means Something

2006-01-06T07:49:00.000-08:00

My group goes for their 48 hours off tonight. That means that we're free to do what we would like to do, within reason and the norm of course. I don't plan to do much this time around, but when we all go to Quebec, then I have some big plans. I'll try to post sometime over the weekend to let you know how it's going.

Happy New Year!!!

2006-01-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

Well, it's new years day! We went up to White River for a new years party, which was pretty cool. We had a huge fire in the yard, and a dance party inside the house, with board games in the kitchen. They even had a ton of snacks (more than one would think necessary, but we had like 21 people). Everyone really enjoyed themselves, and I even got into a hockey shootout in the basement. By that I mean "break excess Christmas ornaments by shooting hockey pucks at them". Anyways, hope your new year is a good one.

Christmas, Among Other Things...

2005-12-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas was fun, everyone got gifts from secret santa people in the group, and we went tobogganing during the evening. Everyone enjoyed themselves, even a visitor one of the participants had.

On a sadder note, another one of our participants is leaving, this time one of our french-speaking participants. That puts us down to one for the time being, until our new participant arrives in January.

Anyways, that's all for now.

Sad Day

2005-12-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

We found out that one of our participants is leaving. He was one of the well liked members of the group, so it's a real surprise that he's gone. But sometimes, life throws you a curve ball, and you have to move on and face the day. A song by The Offspring actually kind of summarizes what I think of it all.

"I can't hold onto what's been done
I can't grab onto what's to come"

That's actually two lines of the first verse of "Can't Repeat". It's quite a good song.

Holiday Update

2005-12-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

We have been making plans for our holidays, and have received some exciting news. We will likely be going to White River for our New Year's Holiday, and that we will be having everyone come to Wawa for Christmas. It's all totally awesome!

On another note, I learned how to pebble curling ice today. If you haven't played curling before, the "pebbles" are actually little bits of ice sprayed onto the curling sheets. When the rocks travel down the sheet, the pebbles turn to water, and creates a fast surface for the rock to travel on. They're even going to teach me how to use the ice resurfacer.

Christmas time!!!

2005-12-16T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today was pretty cool, the township had their staff Christmas party today, which means that I not only got off early, I got to hang out with the other people for a while. There was free food, and door prizes (I won a hat!) Anyhow, I have my photo album up and running, just follow the link on the right. There isn't much there now, but be patient, I'll have more when I get them. I have a film camera, and have to get my pictures scanned to a CD when I order photos. Anyways, enjoy cruising through what's there, and have fun!

The house mellows out again...

2005-12-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

Our temp PL left us tonight. There were some bitter feelings towards him, but the house is so quiet without him around to talk to, and we aren't getting someone for another five days. But the house will still be really quiet for some time.

On an unrelated note, I suck at ping pong! A bunch of us went to the local community centre to work out, and they had just gotten a new ping pong table. I already knew about it because I work with the Township, but that doesn't change the fact that I still suck at ping pong. Anyways, I lost. Miserably. I should probably cut this short because the PL needs the comp, so I'll go for now.

Of A Lack of Sleep and Other PLs

2005-12-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

We had the PL from Dubreuilville come down to do some work because his computer wasn't working. He arrived shortly after 7 PM, and was asleep on the couch when I woke up.

With regard to a lack of sleep, that's generally what happens for me and the other guys in our group. We talk, laugh, fart, and laugh some more. We're really weird like that...

I think there was gonna be more to this post, but I'll put it up later.

Holiday Invasion Part 2

2005-12-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

I found out immediately after dinner yesterday that the trip to Dubreuilville I was planning got called off at the last minute. We pushed the snowmobile club celebration over the limit of attendees placed on their licence for the event, so we were asked not to come. I got so pissed off when I found out, mostly because I had been working on the trip for the past few days, and was almost ready to send my forms to regional for approval. But life goes on. We still get to invade White River Later.

On another unrelated note, a bunch of us were issued CTI's last night (if you're in Katimavik, you'll know what I mean). I was one of them, but I wasn't even involved in the problem that made people get them to begin with, and the PL even gave one guy a final! All for talking a little loudly in the kitchen!!! Since this is a temp PL, I really don't need to say that everyone was pissed, but I will anyhow.

The Holiday Invasion

2005-12-13T09:54:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is almost upon us, and that means a chance for the Katima-Groups to invade each others communities. I am presently organizing a trip to Dubreuilville, a small francophone community north of us for new years. Another member of the group is organizing a trip to White River, a community two hours north of here. They will be coming back to Wawa, but only for the rotation camp at the end of the trimester, then we won't be able to see them for a while.

PL B-DAY!!!

2005-12-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

Some heavy stuff happened at the house, and a PL that I mentioned earlier in this blog was sent home. On a lighter note, we got a temp PL and today was his birthday. We helped at a food drive at the local Subway restaurant, and the owner gave the group free footlong meal deals for dinner, and free subs and drinks for lunch. He said that it was because they were grateful that we were there helping. It was cool, and I'm totally forgetting what I was going to write... GOTT VERDAMMEN ES!!!

OMG KATIMA-ALARM Part 2

2005-12-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

The nearby town showed up in the afternoon, and we chilled a bit while some of them went to pick up proper boots at a nearby store. Afterwards, we all went on a hike near Lake Superior (really beautiful, I'll post pics later). When that was done, we came back to the house for dinner, which was easy to make because we had about six people in the kitchen working. After dinner, we all went to the local bowling alley for disco night. I wore a white t-shirt, and it drove me crazy how bright it was. It was fun anyhow. The other group left after bowling, and we went off for the rest of the free time.

OMG KATIMA-ALARM!!!

2005-12-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

I just received word that another town in our cluster will be spending the day with our group. I'm House Manager, so I'm in a panic right now. I'll post later to let you know if it's as bad as I think it is.

OMG, I'm House Manager!!!

2005-11-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

I've been scheduled to be house manager for the week. That mean's I'm off work, but I have to do housekeeping stuff. I'm hoping it won't be so bad, but I'll post as the week goes on to update on the experience.

Our Introduction

2005-11-21T23:19:00.000-08:00

Today we had our work placement interviews and should be finding out about where we're all going tomorrow. Tonight was also a welcoming meet & greet held by the town. We got to meet some of the billeting families, as well as some of the work sponsors. It was just so amazing, it showed me just how much the town has benefitted in the past, and how much they were looking forward to having us in town. I'm looking forward to my work placement and the next couple of months here. Till next time, Don't Get Eliminated!!! ^_^

The Katima-Conference Closes:Interviews Tomorrow

2005-11-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

The Mass Orientation ended today, and the final activity was to talk about what we'll be taking away from the experience. I talked about making new friends, and to lighten the mood, I turned to one of my friends next to me and yelled "I love you man!!!," with laughs coming from all around. Tomorrow is the interviews for our work placements, and I'm just so excited to be able to just get them over with.

The Katima-Conference: Mass Orientation

2005-11-18T22:38:00.000-08:00

Today we began our mass orientation, otherwise referred to by the name in the title as "The Katima-Conference". This involves the other groups in the area coming to our town , and meeting with each other, and learning about what exactly we got ourselves into. After dinner, we all went outside and travelled downtown to do some shopping, and a small snowball fight broke out both en route to the respective shops, and in the street on our way back. About 20-25 minutes later, that turned into a full-scale snowball war with everyone making little alliances and pelting each other with snowballs. It was fun, then our Project Coordinatior (PC) came outside after the staff meeting, and we had to tone it down as the respective groups made their ways back to the Katima-Houses in their communities (some of them up to 2.5 hours away!) Otherwise, not much going on. All the action with the work assignments begins next week, so I'll keep posting as time goes on.

The Almighty Arrival

2005-11-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

I've arrived in Wawa, and survived my first two flights (it was awesome, the clouds looked like a huge blanket).

My group got to our Katima-house around 11 PM, and I was playing cards until around 2:30 AM with some of the other participants, and from there didn't get to sleep until around 4 AM. I have no idea how long I was asleep, but my Project Leader (PL) woke up not long after I did (the PL won't stop singing either). I start my work assignment next week, and will fill you all in as soon as that happens.

Finally...

2005-11-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

I never thought this would come, but I've finally hit the point where I have only one week until my departure. Hell, it seems like I was only hearing that I was selected yesterday. I'm so excited, and I'm kinda spooked at the same time, mainly because it'll be my first time travelling without my family in tow. The other factor is because I'll be on a plane, but that one is not much of an issue at the moment (I'm starting to get over it). Otherwise, my next post will be coming to you when I arrive at my first stop: Wawa, Ontario.

Wow...

2005-10-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

I leave in a month... Amazing... I think that Katimavik (even before starting) is the most mentally taxing experience I've ever had...

So Clever I'm Stupid

2005-10-07T04:34:00.000-07:00

It's close to five weeks before I leave, and I just leaped a major hurdle:how the hell was I going to pack my sleeping bag? It's mandatory to have it, so I can't leave it behind, but if I take it, I'm getting charged for excess baggage, right? Wrong! This is where I tell you the idea that inspired this posts title. I measured my carry-on, and discovered that it was a little smaller than a stuff sack, so I decided to test the idea of packing my sleeping bag in my carry-on, and it worked! All while staying inside the maximum dimensions set by airlines for carry-on luggage! Score one for the creative genius! Or am I an idiot? At least I found a loophole. I guess that makes me a genius.

6 weeks to the experience...

2005-10-03T08:43:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Wow, feels like forever since I last posted. Well, I've been officially accepted for Katimavik, and I leave in 6 weeks. Sad as it sounds, I've already started packing. Nothing too major, just a pile of T-shirts I don't wear, my dress pants, a dress shirt, and 2 golf shirts (dress shirt and golf shirts used to be work uniforms, go figure).

Counting Down The Days...

2005-09-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

It's September now, and I should be hearing back from Katimavik soon about where I'm going, my insurance and what not. But otherwise, it doesn't really matter. I'm getting involved with donating blood (not nearly as painful as you think), and I'm gonna be looking for a second job soon. I've started a new website that should hold all the photos I take while I'm gone. You can visit it at www.katimavikadventure.piczo.com Till next time, don't get eliminated.

It's Official!!!

2005-08-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

I have just received an Email from the Katimavik Participant's Office, and it says that I am now officially accepted to the program starting on November 16! I will be posting more info on where I'm going as I get it, so stay tuned!

It all begins...

2005-05-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Today is the beginning of the adventure of a lifetime. I just recieved a message saying that I have been selected for Katimavik, a nine month youth service program for Canadian youth aged 17-21. Although I don't start until November, I thought that now is as good a time as any to start a bit of a system, so that I could chronicle my journey. I look forward to telling you about this experience of a lifetime!