The Vancouver Olympics From Ajijic, Lake Chapala, Mexico

Vancouver 2010

I must admit that my expectations for the opening ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympics were not very high considering the Beijing opening and closing ceremonies.

However, I was soon filled with pride as I watched all the aboriginal groups of Canada walk into the stadium. Every aboriginal group was represented from coast to coast to coast and proceeded to do ceremonial dances for over an hour in full native dress as they welcomed the athletes from 82 countries parade in front of over 60,000 cheering fans.

My family and my excitement was further heightened by the stunning visual effects. Whether it was whales portrayed on the floor or an aerialist flying through the clouds.

I was particularly impressed by the opening sequence of a snowboarder flying down the majestic mountains of British Columbia and ending up on the stage.

Everything about the entire event was all about Canada and our rich and diverse population and history.

The Olympic flag was carried in by Canadian icons Bobby Orr, hockey great, Anne Murray, singer, Donald Sutherland, actor, Jacques Villeneuve, race car driver, Betty Fox, mother of Terry Fox, Romeo Dallaire, UNAMIR and Julie Payette, astronaut.

Equally as thrilling were the torch bearers. Rick Hanson brought the Olympic torch into the stadium and handed it off in turn to, Catriona Le May Doan, Steve Nash, Nancy Greene and the Great One himself, Wayne Gretsky.

The death of Georgian Luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili at the age of 21 was such a devastating start to these winter games but not only did the IOC embrace this tragedy so did every other Canadian.

Even though there seemed to be a technical blip at the end this did not in any way deter from the brilliant visualization of David Atkins, Artistic Director and Producer. He should be very proud of one of the most spectacular shows ever produced for our country.