Getting sorted

Hello to anyone who chooses to read this (eg. mum and dad but hopefully some others!),

I arrived in Canmore, AB, CANADA on Saturday the 20th of November after a long flight. I felt like I had been anywhere and everywhere after flying Melbourne, Sydney, LA, Denver, Calgary. Waiting at Calgary was my soon to be housemate Justin. He could not have been kinder making me feel very welcome in Canada despite the best efforts of immigration to send me home again.

After a short drive we arrived at our little cabin in the woods... literally. I am living a little out of town, with Justin (from Calgary) and Nathaniel (french-canadian), both racers on my team. We are probably a little further from civilization than I had expected. But it is very warm, comfortable and fully furnished. Plus there is apparently an awesome view. Though it has been fairly foggy since I arrived so I'm yet to enjoy. The boys have been very good at driving me around which hopefully doesn't wear thin too soon as it is a bit of a trek into town!

Sunday was the first day on snow. No serious training but seriously cold, it was about -20 when it warmed up. There is only a little of Lake Louise open thus far but from what I could see it looks like the next few months are going to be great fun. Adam, the coach, is very young, very focussed and terribly accommodating. I can't wait to get into this more!

Due to it being way too cold (about -30) Monday on snow training was cancelled for two gym sessions. I am really glad that I have been training pretty hard at home, because there was no mucking around here! Also, given that the Canadian Cross Country team are the only other people who use the gym I wouldn't want to feel anymore unfit. I already kind of look like a behemoth compared to their tiny lithe bodies!

So, on first impressions this winter should be great. I am feeling really happy with my choice to come here and am confident that there will be lots of improving done.

Heres to hoping it warms up pretty soon...