Happy New Year!

G'day everyone!

Hope all is well. Everything in the land of Oz is back into normal swing.

To pick up where I left off, I will indulge you in some fun tidbits of my current position. I'm the National Contingent Leader of Canada for this event. It's quiet awesome on one hand, and quiet the stressful on the other. Yesterday was a prime example of the stressful side.

The high of the day was 41. UV index of 14 (that's super bad, back at home it only gets up to 9, and that's a simply atrocious day). There was rumours of an evacution that started to circuilate. All the contingent leaders were asked to calm the panic. We did. Next thing we know as we start to sign up for our offsite activities, a lovely alarm buzz rips threw the air. I knew then.

We were given all of 10 minutes to get a day bag ready. Not that big a deal. I was pulled into a Contingent Leader meeting, and briefed. Away I went to check on my 7 remaining members. They had to have their passports, any flight details, valuables, and wallets on hand. Aka, if the worst thing happened, they could still go home.

That took a while to get sorted, as I had two staff members in my contingent. Both of whom where busy bees getting everyone their lunches, and shutting down a cafe.

I had to dash to pack myself once I had done 4/7 members. I designated someone else to keep an eye out and to ask them if they had their passport.

As luck would have it, 7/9 of the contingent was on a bus. This bus got diverted to do some service, and unload the bags from the coaches. I can only imagine Tyler and Karen's feelings when we were about an hour late getting to the safe spot.

So, it ended up being an impromptu day at the beach. The contingent went to a watering hole and enjoyed some of the local music. To make it a real beach day, we had to quickly run down to the beach, stand in the water, and then get back on the bus to head to our dinner's location. Around 8 pm, after relocating around 10 am, we made it back to Camp with no harm done.

We started the New years celebrations shortly afterwards, since the first ones to have the New Year would be the Kiwi's (New Zealanders).

In the middle of it all, I asked the Camp chief if the Canadians could enter the bar early at 6:30 our time, to celebrate the last of the New years. Every other Contingent has a plan, and we have about 2. At 3:20 we will meet, have some Crown and Coke (of course), to welcome the New year in Ontario where 3 of the members are from. At 6:20 we shall return to the bar, have some champagne, and celebrate the BC New Year, and the last of the celebrants for the world. HUZZZAH!

In other news, I will be off-line till January 7th. (that's January 6th back home). I depart tomorrow for my Rock Climbing expedition, and then when I get back, I believe there will be a Kimmynapping of epic proportions from what my Contingent has led on.

On January 7th, I will be off-site doing a service (like beach clean up)
January 8th, I hop onto a shuttle and head to the beach to surf it up.
January 9th, I will be heading threw a few sanctuaries, meeting a local painter, and doing a brewery tour. (Pretty fab way to spend a day if you ask me!)
January 10th, I will be in the middle of a field off-site Land Yatching.

Then, Last but not least, is January 11th, with the closing of the Moot.

January 12th we will be shipping off the Adelaide airport to head into Sydney to finish off the last days here in Australia.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

Oz Moot!

HUZZAH!

Sorry for the delay, but been a little busy and out of the wifi network.

Since my last blog I've finally made it to Oz Moot. It's about 9pm here, so I'll try to recap the last couple of days.

Boxing day was a day spent exploring the remaining bits of Brisbane (which wasn't much, I have to say) before we got on our bus for the over night ride to Sydney.

It was quiet the boring ride. Palm trees, beaches, random stops. Lots of dark. The normal.

We ended up in Sydney for an eight hour lay over, and ended up running into a contingent member, Mike H. It was quiet the random, especially since there was next to no word about any of the three of us being in Sydney on that day. Once more we get on a bus for an over night to Melbourne.

Repeat the Palm trees, beaches, fields, and dark.

We got into Melbourne around 7 am, I believe.

We signed into our hostel, and went exploring around. Our hostel was based from the CBD (basically the dt), and only a few minutes away from the beach. St. Kilda. That was the district. Or, as they are referred to out here, Precinct.

We moved our bags into our room, grabbed the required items (camera, map, wallet), and headed off on the tram into the CBD.

We got next to nothing accomplished except for the area around the bus depot and realizing it was quiet the happening town. We headed back into the hostel for some good eats, a show of the sun setting and called it an early night.

On the following morning, twas a quick check out and dash to Southern Cross to grab a locker to drop off our packs (they aren't pleasant to carry around beyond an hour). Away we went onto the free city tram, realised it was too packed and couldn't hear a thing, and switched over the the tour bus. Around we went threw all the different precincts. There was on, Queen Elizabeth Market that we wanted to go to, but it didn't open till 5:30. Our bus out was at 8, it takes about and hour to get to the station, we had a dinner meeting with other members, and so fourth, made it a hard place to go to.

We explored threw the Docklands (and yes, it's a dock), but with factory outlets left right and centre in one walk threw mall. Definitely not what I was expecting in the precinct.

I was only expecting to meet with Kit (a member of the contingent) and Gonzo (an Australian friend), but there was also a Matt (Kit's boyfriend), and a Nick (another Contingent Member).

Around 6 am Adelaide time (they are 30 minutes behind the Victoria time zone), we got off of our coach.

The fun part of arriving in a new city, is always trying to figure out how to get to our destination. We have no idea where we start, where our finish point is, or the methods of transpiration available to us. Today, we were needing to get from one end of town, to the complete opposite.

It was by sheer luck that there was a man from Oz Moot checking to see if any Rovers had shown up. His next stop, the airport, exactly where we were heading.

I meet with my various members (the 6 that pass threw the airport at least), and send them on their way to the Moot. Neckers, tees, badges, and letters all finally out of my bag (it was itself about 5 kg of weight!).

Finally, I get in, and find the last two members. I check myself in, deal with some Contingent Leader details, and start to socialise.

At this point, we have completed our Opening ceremonies, gone threw the precautions of the state (the snakes and spiders and fire and sun and... and... and....), the on-site bar has been open for about two hours, enjoyed a gourmet dinner with dessert, and made a few friendly faces.

I am personally beat. The bus into Adelaide, wasn't the best.

So, with that, I will end with a happy note.

Today's high was about 35, tomorrow it's expected to get to about 43. It's not as bad as you would think. It's extremely dry.

I'll do a blog up on my new years. For the day after I will be heading out for my expedition for 5 days in the middle of nowhere (back in Victoria).

Phew. That was long.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

Expect the Unexpected

So, we arrived in Brisbane on Christmas Eve at 6:30 am. This was after we had spent an unexpected evening in Airlie Beach. Due to a misinformed Greyhound representative, the bus we were hoping to get on for the overnight service into Brisbane direct from Townsville, didn’t work out. So, we quickly changed our plans to include a 20 hour layover in the beauty of Airlie beach (our other option was going to MacKay Airport).

I will admit, I wish we had a few more hours at Airlie beach. It was basically a sailing mega site, acting as a gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. We spent the night at Magnums, and enjoyed a really nice set up. The beach was something else too.

Back again on the bus for the overnight haul into Brisbane. It was brutal. The roads were super narrow, I couldn’t believe that the bus was able to fit with other vehicles on the road!

Over all, Christmas eve was a chill day. Wandered through the city, explored into the South banks a bit, and also caught a nap before the Christmas Eve Snow Party. There was a dinner special of a 400 mg steak, salad, and potatoes with a Schroon (size of beer, smaller than a pint) for about $10 each. For the snow party, they had used Peanut packing foam. It was rather, interesting? Kind of pulled off the look, I think at least.

It was an early night due to the rough night on the bus. Today, we waited around for the Orphans Lunch at the hostel. Basically, it was $5 for a roast beef dinner, with potatoes, yams, and veggies on the side. Oh, and an open bar. It’s actually illegal to sell liquor on Christmas in the State we are in (or it could be a federal thing, I’m not exactly sure).

After a lovely lunch, we went through to the Botanical gardens around the old government house. It was interesting to see a few of the native flowers and the bamboo growing. There was also an abundance of Lizards and what I have come to call the “creepy birds”. They are white, have a arched black beak, and are noisy.

On we went over the Pedestrian only bridge towards the South Banks. We walked by pool with sand. It was not what we expected, but then again, nothing really is here. Back we went through the city core and into our hostel to make our dinner, chicken stir fry.

Now, we are going to have a quiet evening and get ready for another couple hours on a bus as we head back into Sydney for 8 hours, and on again towards Melbourne. Once we depart Sydney, we would have completed our tour of the East Coast of Australia.

Pretty cool, and amazing if you ask me.

It’s only 5 days till the moot! We are almost half way done our time here in Australia. On one hand it feels like it’s been a long time, on the other, it feels like we just got in.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

PS, MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone who reads.

From One End To The Other

Today, was an early morning. First thing we are off to Horseshoe bay on the northern-eastern part of the island. Exploring the local town, walking the beach, sampling the fish and chips, and even a quick dip into the ocean was upon our agenda.

We attempt to find the lagoon, but due to the brush, decide against it. There was a sense of flip flops, over grown bushes, unmaintained trail, and snakes known to be in the area that didn’t quiet mix to well in our minds.

Away we went upon the bus to “The Forts”. This was a moderate/easy 4 km hike through the national forest to a site used in WW2 high in the mountains. We saw a gunnery, the lookout point, the range plateau, where the old workshop once stood, and a few other historical landmarks. We also happened to see rare things. TWO, yes my friends, TWO wild Koalas perched in the trees. Sleeping. One of them happened to wake up in the middle of our watching them/photographing.

When we finally got down from “The Forts”, we cruise threw Acadia Bay and back to our hostel for a quick dip in the pool. We have our lunch, and head off to Picnic bay. Unfortunately, it leaves much to be desired. Just a lot of empty buildings, and a pier. There was a giant boat though. And I do mean giant. It had three sets of “oars” that when moved back and forth like and elliptical machine, the prop on the back would move. Not overly fast, but still was moving.

Currently, we are packing and preparing to be on a bus for about, oh, 36 hours? Luckily/ironically we get to have a layover that’s about a day long in Mackay Airport. Next stop, Brisbane!

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

Various Palm Trees

Today was a five hour bus ride down from Cairns into Townsville. Townsville is a larger town then Cairns, slightly cooler (temp wise), and with a giant pile of dirt called Castle Hill. A gentle man was trying to give Townsville a mountain via carting up dirt. He never succeeded; instead there is one of the oddest hills ever.

A twenty minute ferry ride later and we are on Magnetic Island. I’m personally in love with the island. It’s small, takes 30 minutes to drive from one end to the other, and has beaches galore. Well, bays technically. It is also 80% national rainforest.

Our hostel is quiet the unique. It’s actually on the beach. The in house bar, dance floor/patio, pool, and even our room is all ocean front. There is also Scotty’s rentals if we want to rent a moped.

When I actually wrote this blog it was just after we had finished our dinner. What happens when you cross DeadMau5, a warm day, clouds, and a covered patio? One interesting Tropical Thunderstorm show. It was a lovely show. I actually prefer this thunder over the thunder at home. What’s the difference? I have no idea.

Tomorrow there is talk of walking to picnic beach (1km away), and then hopping on the local bus for the day and heading around to the other end of the island at Horseshoe Bay. We would then enjoy that bay and hope our way back to our hostel for some dinner.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

I Found Nemo!

Yesterday was so amazing. Despite the early morning, it turned out to be one of the best experience of my life. We got onto the catamaran around 8 am, and were off soon afterwards. With morning tea, yummy muffins, and the great blue a head, nothing seemed wrong. For about an hour we cruised out to our first destination, Paradise reef. There was a quick breifing about the snorkles and the perimeters of the ocean we could explore.

The water was refreshing and clear as day. It was quiet the breath taking to see a few of the fishies swimming around, close enough to touch. (And because I'm a smart lady I brought my waterproof camera and have some pretty wicked shots!)

Most of the coral was bleached (this is from the wearther and the coral trying to live when it's living conditions have turned). But still very lively.

After an hour or so of trolling around, we head aboard the Catamaran and enjoy lunch. Fresh fruits, salads, cold cuts, and rolls. We are then back on our way to our second dive location (I can't remember the name of it :-( fooey.) And back into the water we go! It's a little chillier, but still refreshing. It's quiet a change at this location though. First thing I see is a bit of a swim, but soo much colour.

The reef is much more healthier, and full of life. With in moments I swim over a little enenimy with two clown fishes swimming around and brushing them selves. Nemo and Merlin! I was disappointed when I couldn't find Dory though. I continue to investigate. There was a jelly fish, about the size of a mandrin orange floating right by my face. Scary at first, but so cool to watch it swim by. Next, I run into Crush, a sea turtle. There is a picture of me swimming beside it. It was so much better then going to the aquarium and watching them swim over head.

I have to say, if there is one thing you HAVE to do in this country, is go and explore the reef.
We got back around 5 pm, and sat down at the grill in our hostel to a Atlanic Cod and Kangaroo dinner. Believe it or not, so long as you dont think about the super cute Hoppers, you can enjoy the tasty meat.
We made a few friends, like Pekay who are simply hilarious. So many shennanigans. I learned how to do a back flip off of Tyler's shoulders, in the pool of course.

Today we have had a chill day. Went into town and enjoy the city. From the mall, to the casino, to exploring the option of going into the biodome (we found another option instead), we enjoyed all the city had to offer. The prominade along the ocean was nice. The weather is simply great. Nothing but sun all day. Our room is a/c, and every time I go between it and outside, my glasses fog up. I dont thing that's ever happened at home.
This evening we are packing up, and getting ready to say goodbye to Cairns as we head off to Townsville and Magnetic Island for the next couple of days.

Afterwards we are going down to Brisbane for Christmas.

Till next time,
Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xox

Arrival/ Cairns

On Dec 17, around 8:10 am, I took my first steps into Australia. Aside from some intense Customs, SYN was a lovely airport. With me is my best friend, boyfriend and fellow Rover, Tyler.

Once we figured a way into the actual city and to the hostel we were staying at, we had to store our packs till 2 when we would be able to check into the hostel. Away we went to explore the foriegn city. From the Sydney Aquarium and Zoo, around a scenic harbour wall, under the bridge, and threw the Rocks we ventured.

While we were situated under the bridge around the old fort, we heard clanging. When we looked up, there was a group of people teathered off to the walkways of the bridge. First thought was a service crew. Till they stopped and took pictures. Intergued we were. It was Bridge Climb. An unique experience that people like Jodie Foster, Keith Urban, and Nicole Kidman have all experieneced. When the price tag was revieled, we humbly walked out the door.

After locating the train station and the grey hound station, we explored one of my manditory places, Chinatown. Sydney boasts their Chinatown to be one of the largests, outside of China of course. There was a mall. About 4 stories. The ground floor was an flea/open air market. Go up a floor, and it's a pristine food court. Up another floor was the factory outlets. Up to the last one, and it was actual stores. Never have I scene such a dynamic building.

We wandered back down to the hostel and tasted a Tooney beer. It was super easy to drink. Most likely will be my beer of choice while here. Next on my list will be a wine.

After being awake for about 14 hours, I finally gave up. Given it was about 8 pm here in Australia, and about 1 am at home, I feel I did good.

This morning I woke up, still running on PST. Highly amusing. It didn't take much for me to fall back asleep for a few more hours. I'm quiet happily set to this silly aussie time.

It was a quick pack up and check out of the hostel. Off we went to the train station and off to the airport once more. I can honsetly say, Domestic flights in Australia have the most lax secuirity. So lax that I volunteered for ion testing (bombs). It felt like the right thing to do.

After about a three hour flight, and another time change, we landed in Cairns. It was a giant change. So much heat, so much humidity, so much more of what I expected back in Sydney. It was at least 32 degrees today, with the humidity, felt like it was in the forties.

It was a pretty chill day in Cairns (said like Cannes). Checked into the new hostel, Calypso, and fell in love with it. Can we say Tiki feel? We have a private room with A/C. Feels so nice.

Exploration commenced right away. We had a specific task to look after. Booking ourselves into the Great Barrier Reef. We were lucky and got in for tomorrow morning! It'll be super awesome.

We breifely watched a demonstration of various styles of fire spinning on the beach. Followed by a line dancing tutorial in the center square.

With it being approx 10 pm for me, I'm saving this and posting it later tomorrow after the adventures on the Reef.

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

The Next Adventure

It's about to begin!

After a year and a half, and hours of work, I'm bound for Australia!

I depart Dec 14th PST and will Arrive in Sydney on Dec 16th (time change).

Gathering new gear, getting paperwork sorted, and preparing for Oz Moot is what's apart of my agenda over the next 27 days. I learned recently I will be going Rock Climbing for my expedition, so I have to get my body prepared for the brutality that is ahead.

I will be going to Sydney, Cairns, Melbourne and Adelaide. Final travel and events are slowly coming together.

Stay tuned for updates on my travels!

YIS

Kimberly McGilvray

Almost!

I've now made it into Calgary. I'm happy to report that I'm finding the transit back to be very swift and easy. Though I expect the last 16 hours of my trip to be the worst, for obvious reasons.

When I got to Regina, I took a quick walk around the block. I found a Casino, mall, and a ton of closed signs. (I was there 7pm to 8 pm).

Once I was back on my bus, it was a rough evening filled with shifting, on again off again sleep, and a familular site, Calgary.

I'm currently waiting for my next transfer to Vancouver. My last bus. My last time zone change. I'm hoping that I get to sleep threw the altitude changes, but I doubt I'll be so lucky. I'm due in to Langely (new point of pick up) at 8:30 pm. I can only hope that we arrive early, though I doubt it will happen.

Till next blog,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Tavelling

So, I spent all of three hours in Winnipeg. Saw 90% of the airport, and got onto my new bus. Due to feeling extremely ill and not being able to keep anything in my stomache, I've decided to just head home for the sake of my health.

I will continue on my original route, via Regina and Calgary, but without stopping aside from my layovers.
It's unfortunate, but I'll probably come back out this way in a few years with friends to check it out. I glanced at the Parliment and the Mint, and it's nothing super special, at least from the outside. I saw the Mint Pavillion while it was in Vancouver for the Olympics, so I can wait. ;)

I was lucky enough to find myself a shot glass in the airport, so I'm super happy. Hopefully I can pull the same in Regina :D But, who knows?

I'm due home Tuesday at 8 50 pm (coming threw Coquitlam). I will have my final post up on Wed.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Coaching

I'm currently at the Toronto Coach Terminal, waiting for my bus. (1 am departure). I'm super excited to be starting my treck home. I've enjoyed the Central of Canada, kinda wanna stay longer, but I'm wanting to come home.

There was an announcement that Justin Beibers in the terminal. I think it's a little hokey, but that's ok.

So, today. Quiet the day.

I spent most of it going threw my gear, and double checking I had everything done and set to go.

I also happened to go threw a traditional Rover Investiture (via 1st Whitby). It was rather interesting, but at the same time, extremely bland. Made me think of how I'm going to do Cubs this year. Gotta be something cool.....

After wards, we went into another ceremony, Knighthood. Before we started with the super secret things, I was asked a question, and it was one i have ironically spent a long time thinking about. "If you weren't involved in Scouting, would you be where you are today? Be where your going? Being the person you are?" I couldn't help but smile. Because I know my answer is "no". There's a wonderfully long list of the reasons, but I'm much to lazy to type it out.

We proceded with the knighthood. And yes, there was a REAL sword. Had to kneel, and get dubbed. I'm now "Sir Kimefur". Unfortuatley, I dont feel any different.

We then when to Whalley's World for a burger. Now this isn't any old burger, it's a death burger. it hurts. It was followed by a Dairy World Twisted Oreo Ice Cream/Bizarre creation. My stomache still hasn't forgiven me.

I then packed up, and said good bye to the people I've met and enjoyed the last week with.

I've gotta jet to get into line. Boo!

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Great Big Sea

I have to admit, yesterday was one heck of a day. I spent most of it pre-packing and waiting for Millie to come over. We went for Greek (simply delicious!), and headed into the downtown core. It was simply nuts! With all the events going on, it boggled my mind.

I never did make it IN to the CNE, but I did get a good view from the Princess Gates.

We finally got to the concert, and it was mind blowing. I always appreciate a musician more when they sound the same live, if not better. Great Big Sea was definitely better live. We were 4th Row from the stage, in the pits. Simply marvelous. I was even given a set list off the stage! :D It's totally getting taped to my wall.

After wards, given it's my last night in Toronto, we went into the night life. It's pretty much the same as Vancouver, just a little more crowded. We ended up at a high class restaurant near Keith's place. I experienced a few Czech traditions, and was invested into the "Order of the Buffalo". I just hope that Vancouver is ready to be Buffaloed....

And that was pretty much yesterday.

Today, aside from packing and saying good bye, I'm going to be Invested and Knighted into 1st Whitby.

Should be an experience. Hopefully I can bring the Knight theme BACK to Vancouver, just because it's super cool (to me).

Other then that, I'm not exactly sure when I will have the net next. I'm hoping to in Winnipeg, but who knows!

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Toronto Part 3

Yesterday I started my day at the St. Lawrence Market. It's just like the Public Market on Granville Island, only in an old brick building and two stories. It also smells a lot like fish. I picked up a lovely fruit salad for a dollar, and continued on my way. I found the day to be extremely warm so I thought I'd be smart and tour the underground walk ways. Not exactly what I was expecting, but still interesting. I found it easier and quicker to walk underground then above ground.

During my lunch break, I called Brad Olson (my Contingent Advisor) and gathered information for the other two member I was going to met with later that day.

I finished navigating my way back to Union station. I purchased my Go Train ticket, and struggled with which platform I was to board on. As I learned, it was 3. It's not actually on the ticket, you have to watch the television and it tells you.

Meeting with Karen and Adam was a lovely evening. I found Coffee Culture, enjoyed a quiet Mocha, and got down to business. I did a quick tour of Brampton, and headed back to Toronto.

Not exactly the most exciting day, but that's alright. It was pretty chill.

Today, I'm doing my laundry, pre-packing, and getting my ducks in line for the long haul to Winnipeg. Later today, I'm going to the CNE with Keith and Millie. Around 7, I will be going to the Amphitheater to watch, Great Big Sea. I've always wanted to see them, and I finally get to!

I'm not exactly sure what's on the agenda tomorrow, aside from me getting on a bus in the later evening. I may get a chance to blog or I may not. I'll do my best to write in Winnipeg. I should be there on Monday.

If not, I'll be leaving Winnipeg the same day and heading to Regina for Tuesday. I'm still not sure about stopping in Calgary as my relatives and the council haven't responded to me as of yet.

Depending on how it all comes together, I'll be back in the Lower Mainland on Wednesday or Thursday. :)

Till next time,

Yours In Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Possibilities

So yesterday I ended up walking up to the GO train (much like our West Coast Express). I ended up at Union station (at the very base of the heart of the city). It took me a while to figure out exactly where I was located, but found myself once I was away from the station. It was then I thought it be a good idea to go check out Casa Loma.

A lovely 3 hour walk later, I found myself staring at the building used for the school in X-men. If you are ever in Toronto, I highly suggest venturing threw Casa Loma. It's being fully restored to it's pride and joy. It has the separate Lady and Sir's rooms (walk in closets, separate bath) and even a guest room. The Scottish tower was one of my favorite features. Also, they have self guided tours with an audio accompaniment. It's probably my favorite part of Toronto right now.

I then used for the first time the Maps application in my cell phone. I found where I was, and requested it to find my way to my current residence. From what I could figure in my mind, wasn't too far. It claimed 9 minutes. I was a little leery of that, but went with the idea. Of course, it was a 9 minute drive, and a 3 plus hour walk.

On my way, I passed the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) which was closed when I got around. I also happened to cross another Museum with secret treasures of the Geisha and Samaria. As that one turns out, it's nothing but porcelain bowls and vases. j

I also happened to stroll threw Little Greece. Interesting neighborhood. Haven't gone threw one like that before. Mainly built up of restaurant, there was very little to do with the Greek culture. I also happened to see my first Amish person. I've only read about them, and have always been fascinated by their way of life. Actually getting to see one, was pretty exhilarating. (Odd, I know, but it's me).

After my long walk, I sat down, rubbed my sore feet, and watched Glee for the first time.

Today, after getting lost in the subway system (really, Montreal has THE BEST subway ever), I found myself not quiet where I wanted to be. It took me about an hour longer than I'd want to get to the CN tower. In the end, I decided against it. Mainly due to the overall 90 minute wait. Just didn't seem worth it.

I moved onto the Design Exchange (dx.org). It is more or less a quick show of local design as well as design history. I only had time to check out the two shows. They also utilized a GR application (basically you take a funny picture with your blackberry phone, it decodes said image and links you to a website with information). It's a great way to have information available and save paper.

I had to dash up King Street to make it to my meeting at MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op). I arrive a few minutes early, so i popped in to check out what was so different. Aside from the layout and it being two stories, not too much. Over all the exact same product, and friendly service.

I met up with Robert Skinner (Contingent member), and chatted with him about Oz Moot, his ideas, what he wants from the Contingent, concerns, etc. Over all, pretty chill guy. He comes from a town of a few hundred just outside of Toronto. Their down town consists of a gas station. I have to say, that's a little bit too country.

I then met with Kevin Dunn for dinner. He's a retired Rover from the Ottawa area who is currently crew-less. We chatted about all things scouting. From Steve Kent (Chief Commissioner) to the joys of being a Beaver Leader. Over all, pretty cool guy. Lots of advise, information, and support.

Tomorrow, I'm heading off to Brampton in the later afternoon. In the morning, I hope to maybe explore the islands, and possibly make it over to the fort. But again, depends on time.

In other pretty awesome news, I'm going to a concert on Friday. Specifically, Great Big Sea. The camp I had intended on attending has been post-poned till further notice. I plan to depart Toronto late Saturday night and start trekking home.

OH! I also did a social experiment today. I didn't wear my hat (cowboy/bush hat)! I was treated differently. No longer like an alien. It's odd, but interesting for me. I can't decide if I want to wear it tomorrow or not. Still deciding.

Aside from that, I'm starting to miss Vancouver. As familiar as Toronto feels, it's not Vancouver.

Yours in Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Toronto, Part 1

Good morning!

So, it's been three days since I blogged last, roughly.

In that time, I have changed accommodations, AGAIN. I am now staying with one of my Contingent Members in the outskirts of the downtown (not too far away). It's pretty nice, saved me quiet a bit in comparison to the hostel.

On Sunday, I went threw Kensington Market and Chinatown. I also happened to stumble upon the Parliament building (technically the Legislative Assembly, but that's semantics). I have to say of the three spots, Kensington was my favorite. It's just an open air market, that the general area developed. The first story of their home is the shop, and they live above. Not really that new of a concept, but that there is an ENTIRE neighborhood dedicated to this is pretty awesome.

That's all that really happened on Sunday. Nothing to special.

Yesterday, I met up with David Millie (Council Youth Commissioner for White Pine) and one of his Rovers, Derick. We ended up cruising into Hamilton, a bit of the Niagara region, and all the way into Whitby. The summary of the day is: Hard Rock Cafe for lunch, Hershey's store for entertainment and novelty, Go Karting for the kid inside of me, Wine tasting for the adult, and meeting up with the other Rovers of Whitby to socialize.

That's about it for my adventures.

Today, I plan on speaking to my other Contingent Members, firming up plans, and go to the CN tower. Hopefully I'll get another blog posted tonight.

For now, I have an adventure to experience!

Yours In Scouting/Rovering

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Relocated

HEY!

So, it's been about three? days since my last blog? Sounds about right.

Since last time I have relocated myself into Toronto (that's pretty much what I spent yesterday doing). Today was more or less my traditional quick run about, gathering resources, and recovering from the bus ride.

On my full/last/only day in Ottawa, I went to Scouts Canada Head Quarters. It was nice, and highly informative. I meet with a few of the behind the scenes persons, and got to go threw the Museum that's currently being put together via a retired scouters (has over 75 years of service). It was pretty cool to see the uniforms from around the world, different badges, and gear from groups that have unfortunately fallen.

I chilled in the scout shop and learned more about the Rover program from an aged out Rover. I got a badge I'm going for this year, the Rover Rambler. :)

Afterwards, I headed towards Parliment Hill. I went on a tour of the East Block (the building where John A. MacDonalds Office once was, and two other individuals). Even got to go into the original Privy Chamber. It was pretty cool. Seeing the original Crown modling, how they would heat&cool the building in the summer, and just the genearl luxery that these gentlemen had. Also, I learned that there is a new builing, thats not an original part of Parliment hill. It's where the current Primier's office is located. They got underground tunnels that connent all four blocks. Unfortuately due to security, we didn't get to see it.

I then went on a tour of the Center block (where the House of Commons meets, Sentate, and Libary is). It was pretty cool. Lots of super stitions, traditions, and symbolizim. I even got to check out two new rooms that have just been opened to the public. The Francophones, and native (basically rooms traditaionally dressed to support these culters). I even went to the top of the Peace tower (the clock tower), and a war memorial.

Afterwards, I grabbed a hot dog, and settled on the grass to watch the parts of Fortissimo I missed the night prior. I even got my favourite parts on video. I left after the highland dancers due to my camera beign full, and needing to find accomidations in Toronto. I caught the tale end of Mosaika and got taht on video.

THe following morning, I did one last run about, and packed up. On the bus i was yet again and heading into toronto. I got in at a decent time, and just stayed in, had a bit of a nap, and found another accomidation (the original one didn't do it for me).

I moved this morning, and did a quick run about the city. I came back early and haven't gone out again due to feeling a little ill. (got a bit of a cold, ick). I spent a good part of earlier today asleep (which i blame on my pervious hostel, people coming in super late and being stupid loud). I got myself a map, and am currently making plans for tomorrow.

I'm going to start to call my Contingent members, and see what's up with them. Also, going to see if I'm going on the camp this coming weekend or not.

Anyways, till next time.

Yours in Scouting/Rovering

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Fortissimo

Great news!

I'm currently in Ottawa, and will most likely be here till Friday or Saturday. I received word that the Lock out wasn't going to happen beacuse a deal was made. All that needs to happen is a vote via the union on it, and going from there. I will be percautious, but continuing on with my tour as originally planned.

After hoping off the bus to Sudbury, I grabed a OC (Ottawa's Translink) back to the downtown. I quickly put my name into the HI Ottawa (Hostel International), and set myself up. A fun fact. The Hostel, is literally an old jail. My dorm room is actually a renovated jail cell. Needless to say, I'm entralled.

Since the evening was early, I grabbed a map and started to explore. My feet and ears led me straight to Parliment Hill. I was delighted by Fortissimo, the Canadian Ceremonial Guard. Quiet the experience. I only stayed for Life and Times (a prelude to Mozaic), as I had no idea what was going on. I'm definetly going again tomorrow night. (http://www.army.forces.gc.ca/land-terre/cg-gc/events-evenements/index-eng.asp)

Speaking of tomorrow, on the agenda is a few items. For one, go INTO parliment on a tour. Very excited for that. Second, explore the downtown. Third, hit up Scout House, National. Also, the local Scout shop. Aside from that, see what time I have left over, and maybe check out a few of the exibits, tour University of Ottawa.

I will admit, I'm definately feeling more in Canada now. It's odd though, it's so, British/European out here. No where near as "modern" as I'm use to. Take Victoria, and blend it with the downtown of Vancouver, specifially around Commerial. It's the best way to explain it so far.

OH! Something I didn't write about. The patio culter in Montreal. It's GIANT. When I get my pictures up, you will notice that most of the houses have "porches". Really they are patios. The residence will sit and chill on there, socialize with people who walk by, and just have a relaxing experience. I partook in this experience at the hostel. True, I was upstairs and couldn't overally socialize with people, but it was still relaxing. It's quiet different from having a back patio. Stil not sure why.

Anyways, It's been a long day for me, and the lights are finally being turned off.

Till next time,

Yours In Rovers/Scouting

Kimberly McGilvray
xo

Lock Out

Bonjour!

Well, after a nice quiet night in and figuring out the dates for the rest of my trip; Dad calls me and tells me that Greyhound East (Quebec and Ontario) is going into a lock down over contract. Quickly, I researched other options. First, I'm leaving Quebec tomorrow night, no doubt. Second, I'm going to Sudbury and will wait to hear what's going on. If the lock out is a for sure thing, I'm giving up Ontario, and trecking home. I'll be stopping in Regina and Winnipeg still, but after Regina, coming home to Vancouver. My ETA as it stands is Sunday, August 16th, 8:50 PM PST. With the trip is it will be, I would have gone 9704 km (approximately).

If for some magical reason the Lock out doesn't happen, I"ll be routing from Sudbury to Niagara Falls, then onto Ottawa, finally Toronto for the trip I've had planned. With that lovely detour, my trip will be anout 11, 678 km (approx), and my eta back is August 28th (I can't remember the time).

But as it looks, I'm going to be giving trouble to Greyhound. I've already let my counter parts in Ottawa and Toronto know this information.

Meanwhile, while trying to find OTHER solutions to my problem, I did the last bits of my Montreal tour. I visited the Montreal Scout house and shop (got a pin), spoke to a lady about my ticket and how Greyhound will go about it (really she had no idea, but assured me I'd get some sort of compensation), and continued on to Little Italy. Of course, I got a little lost finding, but enjoyed the sights when I finally did go the right direction. I also ended up going to the West end of the island (yes, Montreal is an Island). I go all the way over to MacDonald Campus (i believe it's a University).

While at the Scout House I learned quiet a bit about the Montreal Scouts. For one, they have a different program all together (it's not just a "french" verson). They run ages 7-21 (verses our program which is 5-26), and actually changed the "Rover" section from 25 to 21 a few years ago.

The "Cub" program's uniform is a green uniform. The youth in "Scouts" to "Rovers" wear a green shirt with a single pocket and have a yellow with a blue trim necker. Where as the leaders have a green shirt with a blue and yellow trim necker. (Massively wierd if you ask me). They dont have any awards like Scouts Canada (Cheif scout, Queens Venture), and even the bigger awards (like the Medal of Maple) dont exist. They are completely different. The core fundamentals of the programs are kinda the same, but the goals are different.

In our Cubs, we have 6 Stars. Home&Community, Creative Expression, Health, Canada&the World, The Natural World, and The Outdoors. Their Cub program as 5 badges. Creative, Sport, Community, Nature, and Resourcefulness. They also have a few other, but they weren't explained to me. They are; Patt-Cross of the Jungle, Red Flower of the Jungle, Skin of Shere Khan, and Grey Wolf Jugle Trail. I didn't get much information about the other programs aside from their names. They call Cubs " Louveteaux" (which oddly does mean Cubs in French).

A fun fact about all sections, they have a woggle that's a clip on of the Turks braid (WB Lvl 1). It's for all sections).
Here are their programs:
Castors (7-8) -Beavers
Hirondelles (7-8)- Swallows (the same program as a Beaver, and i believe is co-ed)
Louveteaux (9-11)- Cubs
Exploratrices (9-11)- Explorers (same program cubs, but for girls only)
Scouts Eclaireurs (11-14/17)- The Explorers (Scouts)
Intrepides (11-14/17) - The Intrepid (Guides, girls only)
Eclaireaurs Adventuriers (12-16/11-17)- The Pathfinders Adventuers (Co-ed, like venturers)
Scouts Marins (12-16/11-17) - Sea Scouts (Co-ed, like Venturers, but Water Based. Speacial Blue Uniform)
Scout Sapeurs (12-16/11-17) - Fire Fighter Scout (Co-ed, like Venturers, but Fire Fighter based and is done in joint with the Montreal Fire Fighters.
Pionniers (14-17/11-17) - Pioneers (They have a red shirt, and are like regular scouts, i believe?)
Scouts Adults (17+) - Rovers (Routiers)/Leaders (They have a gray uniform)

I spent a good part of my day thinking of a new plan, and trying to find the Scout house&shop. I'll be on the 9:00 pm bus tomrorow to Sudbury. I'm hopign to quickly hit the remainder of Downtown and the Olympic park (as I had originally planned). I'll lock my pack up at the greyhound station, and be on my way to Sudbury like no ones business.

Till I either get to Winnipeg (a joyful 36 hour bus ride) or Niagara (a much prefered 8 hour bus ride), I will be unable to post anything else. With the weather miserable (rainy), and my upcoming journey, I'm off to the kitchette to cook up some pasta and to do some laundry.

Until next time,

Yours In Scouting&Rovering,

Kimberly McGilvray
xoxo