For someone who doesn't like crowds, I can't get enough of them here in Vancouver.

I stood down by the waterfront today, a very risky move, feeling completely consumed by the thousands of people streaming by me. Normally, I would be panicking at that point but I couldn't help but take a look around and soak it all in.

I was surrounded by thousands of families and friends who wouldn't have chosen to be anywhere else in the world than right there. It only lasted 30 seconds before I had to start moving as the crowd was getting bigger and faster as the Olympic flame started to come into view.

I found myself falling into rhythm with the people around me as the momentum of the crowd pushed me further and further along. As we got closer to the Olympic cauldron I felt like a little kid again. I couldn't wipe the goofy smile off my face and found myself scrambling to get into that prime location for the perfect picture. I didn't get it of course, but no picture could ever compare with seeing it with your own eyes.
 
The cauldron is so much more impressive than I could have ever imagined. Not only is it beautiful, but its commanding presence exudes an energy that warms you from the inside out. Staring into the flame I thought of our Canadian athletes and what this means for them to be here. As long as this flame is burning, we all stand strong together as one.
 
I was asked yesterday to describe the Olympics in three words and the first one that came to mind was unity. The Games brings people together from all different races, religions and beliefs through the love of sport. For athletes, every team becomes a family. Whether you know everyone or not, you stand by each other, a part of every disappointment and every triumph. They share this incredible experience with one another, unifying themselves and their nation.

The spirit and energy of the Canadian team has strengthened the bond that connects us from coast to coast. I haven't been this inspired and this proud to be Canadian since I competed in Beijing.

Keep it up Canada!