An Elephant Scientist.

That was the "best" answer I heard last week when 50 boys between the ages of four and six were asked what they wanted to be when they grew up.

The kids were attending a Beavers sleepover event with their parents, and the experience of finding out what these kids dreamt of becoming was wonderful for me. It reminded me to keep my mind open to all of life's possibilities.

I never know when inspiration will hit or what triggers it, but there are certainly moments that guide our lives down paths we never expected. As I'm now committed to the path of rehab, I'm looking for what opportunities will arise, what will be the next thing to change the course of my life.

Who knows? Perhaps I'm destined to be an Elephant Scientist. But I plan to win a few more World Cup alpine medals before that happens.

Olympic update

Although I won't be competing in the Vancouver Games, I'll be participating in a different way. I'll be working with CTV as their alpine correspondent, going over what happened on the slopes that day and what to expect in upcoming events.

I'll be a part of the afternoon and evening shows that highlight and update the days' activities, working with host Michael Landsberg during the day and Jennifer Hedger for the evening show. I'll slot into the shows when it fits and I'll likely have about five to 10 minutes of air time twice a day. I'm very excited about this opportunity and look forward
to learning. Although I'm nervous since this is out of my element (I prefer having two boards strapped to my feet while going 130 km/h), I do look forward to embracing this incredible opportunity.

Degree Watch

Drum roll, please... 53 degrees of flexion! Two weeks ago, I was at 25 degrees, so I'm extremely happy with the progress my knee is making. I have a long way to go before I reach my goal of touching my heel to my butt, but at least I'm making progress and this keeps me motivated through the long and often painful exercises.

Media spotlight

I'm continually shocked to see the exposure I've been getting since my injury. Of my last four physio appointments, I've had media in attendance for three of them: CBC, CTV and a local paper each sat in on one. Having this kind of interest and support has helped me realize how many Canadians care about me and follow my career.  I can think of no better motivation as I make my way back to the hill.

More than a Games

As I'm now preparing for the Olympics as a TV personality (I'm not sure I'm quite a personality yet, but hey, I just may be crazy enough to fit the title), I'm learning that I love more than ever what sport brings out in people, organizations, communities, and nations. Chilliwack, B.C., my community, is preparing for the arrival of the Olympic torch on Feb. 7.  I can feel the buzz and the excitement as the Games near. 

Yes, the Olympics are a two-week festival of sporting excellence, but they're also so much more. They've got a quality about them that brings people together, connecting us in ways that few things can. Although I will not be competing at these Games, I am still honoured to be a part of this event that will indelibly mark Canada's history and touch millions of people's hearts in ways we can only imagine.