That one time I went to the Opening Ceremonies (rehearsal)!

Probably one of the most exciting and largest scale events I have EVER been a part of or ever will be happened last night! I don't even know where to begin!

Our boss had a few extra tickets and, for the price of a bottle of Grey Goose vodka, we were set to go -- with a ride down, to boot! It was a momentus day with just that on my mind but wouldn't you know it that my dear friend Celine was on Oprah, too?!??! I was just tickled inside and SO pumped! Especially since I am

CONVINCED that she is going to perform at the ceremonies! Now, I can't say anything about them but I'll just say there is still opportunity for a surprise appearance (especially since she was on Oprah AND she has a new movie coming out on the 17th.........it's all good marketing...but don't get me started!)!!

Ok, where was I? Right, the tickets! We got to work early yesterday with our bags packed to change into a white shirt (yes, Celine's shirt made it...) and then we left after lunch (a lovely lamb roast with a side of apple squash ginger soup!). Our first stop was to Tim Hortons (no, Kendra, not the guy who lost his leg and ran across the country...) for a quick coffee and a treat and we were off! Unfortunately, we couldn't take pictures but in actual fact, I'm happy about that rule so I could be focused on what was going on and not be distracted by having to take photos. So this dashboard shot is the only one from the evening...I love Canada!

It was pouring rain in Vancouver, as per usual, as we boarded an incredibly stuffed bus from North Van to the city and then had to walk all the way around BC Place and GM Place (felt like 3 km!)...or rather, Canada Hockey Place...to go through security and join the crowds! It was so exciting...and so west coast! By west coast, I mean that people are too reserved to show their excitement...but the time will come!

The show was just FANTASTIC! If I wasn't Canadian, I sure would wish that I could be!! It was simple and awesome and I can't WAIT to see it on TV tomorrow! The performances were amazing! I was basically sitting on the edge of my seat the entire time with my mouth dropped open at what was going on! I also loved that I could share the experience with my Mom and Aunt who had seats on the other side of BC Place -- they stopped by our seats for a little hello before it all got started! Surprisingly I didn't cry...but I'm pretty sure I will tomorrow and, like Karen said, everyday for the next 2 weeks!

Leaving the building was an adventure too as BC Place is a pressurized building, they can only let a certain amount of people out the door at a time...so that was fun, too. Not to mention all the volunteers with loud speakers outside shouting out directions to the options of transit! Loved it! I even tried to give my number to the guy who was sitting beside us (I don't know what came over me...just for fun, I guess!)...but he was taken. Ha! I still laugh!

Anyway, we made it back to our van and got home just after midnight. Thankfully I have today and tomorrow off to just relish in the moment...and even perhaps to ski tomorrow before finding a great place to watch the excitement to unfold on tv.

I'm excited for the element of surprise that awaits the world tomorrow! Be proud, Canada!