Adventures of a Yoga Mom

Eagle along the River

2012-02-08T21:06:00.000-08:00

The other day on the way to work there was a bald eagle flying along the river just in front of the Bessborough. I stopped and watched for a few mintues (I was late anyway). Tim and the kids had seen an eagle (I'm guessing the same one) a few days ago when travelling to one of their activities. I kicked myself for not having my camera with me.

Yesterday, I got back in touch with a friend I knew in Windsor (probably close to 20 years ago now - wow when it's dated like that it seems crazy!). He asked if I was still into photography. I like taking photos but never seem to have my camera with me - something is amiss there. Most photos I do take are of the kids and their activities and such. So I made the point of at least putting my camera in my pannier this morning so I would have it available if the inspiration arose. There are often so many nice sunrises, sunsets, ducks on the water, EAGLES, lots of interesting views on the way to and from work. There's no reason why some of those images can't be captured and posted here.

Of course, today the eagle was not to be spotted. This morning the temperature was about -25C with the windchill, so my hands complained quickly about being exposed to the cold to snap a few shots. Still I enjoyed the moment to capture these couple of photos. I always find the water with its reflections along the river lovely. Pretty nice view to have on the bike ride to the University. Thanks Rick - these ones are for you!

Ice Cycle 2012

2012-02-08T20:28:00.001-08:00

On Sunday February 5, 2012 was the 3rd annual Ice Cycle in Saskatoon.

Tim already posted some photos on his bike blog - you can check them out here.

The weather for the previous two bike parades was really cold but this year it was super nice, maybe -5C or so. Sure beats -4oC! Not warm enough for wearing shorts like one guy I know, but I wasn't wearing my snow pants so you know it must have been warm!

We started off at the Farmer's Market then went up 19th Street...

along Spadina...

past the Bessborough Hotel....

up to 22nd, then to 4th Avenue (map of parade)

and ended up back at the market.

Here's a friend with his bike-mobile that was carrying three young children in the parade.

In the background you can see the climbing structure that was set up for kids to try. Last year ice climbing demos had been set up but alas with the warm weather this February, it would have been more like a waterfall. There was also a huge ice castle complete with slide for kids to enjoy.

Our happy cyclists after the parade were heading across the river for their Irish dance class and I went in the other direction to lead a karma yoga class at Namaskar Yoga in support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (Team in Training).

Grip It Continued!

2012-01-26T17:51:00.001-08:00

We've been going weekly now for almost a month to Grip It and have been having a great time!

Look at that monkey go!

I've been so impressed with this little guy!

Neither of our kids have been much for climbing - not around the house or even outside. I expect it has a lot to do with their over protective mother always telling them to 'be careful' or 'don't do that, you might fall' etc etc.

But I think given the relative safety of being roped in and being encouraged to climb, it has opened this great opportunity and Finnegan has really taken off and UP with it.

We've been totally impressed with Keira too. This past Monday, Tim encouraged her to climb to the top of the low wall. He has the strength to give her that extra boost and help lift her upwards as she's reaching for holds which helps her out a lot.

WOW she did it!

Suzuki Strings Winter Concert

2012-01-26T16:44:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, the kids played their violins in the Saskatoon Suzuki Strings winter concert.
Luckily the weather was really nice and the bike ride across town was definitely not as bad as it could have been - especially for mid-January in Saskatchewan!

The beginner cellos and violins went first.

These little children have only just begun playing the violin since September.

Good patience is needed while either the cellos or violins take their turn.

I love the sound of the cellos. Unfortunately the shear size seems a little more problematic for a family that travels bike bike. Tim reminds me that one of the Suzuki cello teachers lives just across the river. For the time being, I think the kids will stick with the violins - definitely a more portable instrument!

The group starts with the more advanced songs and then gradually more and more kids are standing up playing the music.

I think the group lessons and the opportunity to play together at these concerts is a great experience for the children.

Keira joined in for the final 6 or so songs.

And for the last few violin songs, everyone was up playing the 'twinkles'.

Ladybird Singing in Saskatoon

2012-01-16T21:43:00.001-08:00

I've recently learned that one of the Ladybirds, Melissa McClelland is coming to Saskatoon on April 17th to sing at the Broadway Theatre. Together she and her husband, Luke Doucet, comprise the duo Whitehorse. I am hoping to go see them at the Broadway as it is sure to be a fun night out close to my birthday!

Warrior Friends

2012-01-15T19:43:00.000-08:00

Every Sunday at 10 am at Hot Yoga on 20th, Keira and Finnegan help me out teaching a family yoga class.

It's for children ages 3-7 with their parent/guardian to have fun learning yoga poses in an interactive way. It's a karma class so all donations go directly to charity ($5 minimum suggested donation per family). For the next couple of months, donations will be given to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. This is to help fundraise with my friends Crystal and Darcy who will be running a marathon in April to raise awareness and support for the LLS through Team in Training.

This past Sunday, likely due to the huge snowfall from the night before, unfortunately no one showed up for the family yoga class. That has never stopped us however, as Finnegan and Keira are little yogis who always like to have fun!

Two Down Dogs - I use books, yoga cards, and games to encourage kids (and adults) in the class to try out different poses with the emphasis always on having fun.

Lizard on a Rock - We tried out a lot of the 'partner poses' from the Yoga Pretzel cards. These are really fun cards with lots of great poses for kids of all ages.

Two Boats (I was pretty amazed that they could balance for this one!)

Finnegan - Shark Pose

Keira -Shark Pose

What does a gorilla look like?

Is that a girl or a turtle?

Bridge Pose

I just love this one of Keira in tree pose.

Big brother demonstrating tree pose as well.

And of course some just plain silliness!

Grip It

2012-01-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

The day after Finnegan's birthday, we ventured over to Grip It which is a new climbing gym in Saskatoon.

We had just started going to Climb 306 in 2010 but then shortly afterwards it had closed down. At Climb 306 we arranged with them to instruct a course for homeschooled kids that Finnegan participated in and I also took a learn to climb course from Amy Holowach.

I was very happy to learn that Grip It had opened up in fall 2011 and was still in our neighbourhood, now just located over on Avenue F and 23rd Street.

So we've bought a monthly pass to try things out. The plan is to go there at least once a week and make it a family outing, having fun climbing together. And so far it has been a lot of fun. I am totally amazed at how much of a change there has been in Finnegan from two years ago when he had first tried climbing and was pretty fearful about going up to any significant height.

After just a couple attempts he had already climbed to the top of the low wall and then proceeded to climb straight to the top of the 50 ft wall!!!!!!! Who are you and what have you done with my son!

Keira has also been pretty stocked about the climbing too.

She's not quite yet the spiderman that Finnegan seems to have become, but she is also 2.5 years younger and has been doing extraordinarily well.

Even mom gets to give it a try at the end of the session! I can only manage about one, maybe two times up, on the easiest of climbs and by then my forewarms are already aching!

Happy Birthday Finnegan

2012-01-15T19:41:00.001-08:00

It seems only yesterday (except for the added wrinkles) that my water broke and we were heading to the hospital!

A request was made this year for a dragon cake - so that's what was created!

Opened up presents in the morning, played DragonLance with his friends all afternoon and then more friends came over in the evening for cake and ice cream. Pretty good way to spend the day!

It takes some concentration and strategic planning to blow out all eight of those candles!

Christmas Carols and Violin

2012-01-15T19:38:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays Tim and the kids played a couple of violin concerts - one at Oliver Place and the other at Luther Riverside Terrace. At Oliver Place, there were two other families who joined us, as we travelled through the building stopping at various spots and playing a few Christmas tunes.

The residents always really seem to love the kids playing their violins.

I also think it is a great experience for the kids to share their music with others.

"The Brown Trio"

My two favourite fellas playing Minuet #2.

LAS Youth Ambassadors

2012-01-15T19:34:00.001-08:00

The Ladybird Animal Sanctuary has set up a Youth Ambassador Program for children to demonstrate their support of LAS and express their commitment to protecting animals and being concerned the welfare of animals.

From their participation in the 2012 Pet + Pose calendar, Finnegan and Keira were invited to submit a drawing/writing about their experience and were named the first two youth ambassadors of the program. You can check out their submissions on the Ladybird Kids Corner page.

As new youth ambassadors, they each received a Certificate from the Ladybirds and also these awesome t-shirts!

Irish dancing must be in their genes

2012-01-15T19:23:00.001-08:00

Here are a few photos from the Queen Maeve School of Irish Dance winter performance in December. Fortunately this year there was hardly any snow and the temperature was pretty good, so even though we biked to the school again, we didn't have to thaw out a couple of kidsicles like we did last year before they started dancing!

One of the tiniest girls in the class, Keira really enjoys the Irish dancing (she's the one with the long pony tail on the right side).

And Finnegan - boy can that kid dance! I haven't seen him practice for some time and it was truly amazing (OK I'm also pretty biased) but it seemed that many of the girls where watching him to know what steps to do (he's the only boy in that class) and near the end of the show, he was up there taking part in one of the dances with all the adults and he sure could keep up well and knew all the steps and where he was supposed to be dancing.

Everyone on stage for their final bows.

The winter Irish Dance performance was a certainly a fun event, watching Margie, Finnegan, Keira and Sophia dancing their skip-two-threes.

Definitely happy to be with my little dancers!

Yoga books and more from Awesome books

2012-01-15T19:17:00.000-08:00

Last fall, Awesome Books had a contest where they wanted people to post a photo to the Awesome Books facebook page and they would select two winners for 15 pounds towards shopping for books on their site. I had previously bought a few yoga books, plus a number of books for the kids, so of course I was interested in entering.

Unfortunately, I was not a winner....but it was still kinda fun (and it didn't require bmx-ing in the snow!).

Ollie and the Lobster

2012-01-15T19:11:00.000-08:00

As part of the goody package from the Ladybirds in Hamilton, Ollie received a new squeaky toy lobster, for his participation in the Ladybird Animal Sanctuary pet + pose calendar.

He had great fun with it the first day that it was received, but unfortunately it didn't last long and by the next day the lobster was thoroughly de-stuffed!

One girl's outgrown shirt

2012-01-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

...is another girl's new shirt! My friend Susan has two girls who are a couple of years older than Keira and she is often the lucky recipient of a big bag of clothes whenever Erica and/or Eva outgrow their stuff (we just received two bags today in fact!!!). Keira makes good use of the items and then we pass them along to cousin Alivia or other friends who have younger girls.

We are pretty fortunate as we have hardly had to buy much in the way of new clothes for Keira given the volume of clothes from Erica/Eva and also from Auntie Margie who likes to give lovely gifts of clothing for birthdays and Christmas.

Little Ballerinas

2012-01-15T19:04:00.002-08:00

One day last fall (October maybe?? I'm too far behind with these posts!) parents and family were welcomed into the dance classes to observe. Usually they don't like the parents to stay as it can be pretty distracting for some children. Here are a few photos from Keira's pre-primary ballet class.

There are 12 little ballerinas in her class.

They always do some stretching and warm up exercises at the beginning of the class.

Learning the various positions for their feet.

Plies and all that sort of fun stuff.

Working with a partner...

...dancing together.

Then they are moving around the room!

Taking turns to dance across the studio

The smile on her face is priceless.

Keira showing off her sticker from class with one of her friends.

What is in your pocket-sies?

2012-01-15T19:04:00.001-08:00

...or just under your desk?

A few times in the fall I biked to work on my Dahon Mu Uno and for one reason or another needed to leave the bike at work. This folding bike is great for an easy ride around town or to and from work and fits so nicely under my desk! Then the next day I can just unfold it and ride home!

The coaster-type breaks took a little getting used to but the simplicity of the bike, with no gears or cables, makes for a really fun ride for traveling here and there around town and don't have too many hills to worry about. It folds up super quick and is really portable - just the way a folding bike should be. I have to give big thanks again to Momentum Magazine for setting me up with this bike!

Yoga in the Park

2012-01-15T19:03:00.000-08:00

In the early fall, we went over to Victoria Park. It was a beautiful clear day - a perfect afternoon for some yoga in the park and a good opportunity to take some photos.

Warrior II - Virabhadrasana II

Bound Angle - Baddha Konasana

Triangle Pose - Trikonasana

Extended Triangle Pose - Utthita Trikonasana

Revolved Triangle - Parivrtta Trikonasana

Nemaste

Family Yoga at Hot Yoga on 20th

2011-09-27T20:58:00.001-07:00

Starting October 9th, a family class is going to be offered at Hot Yoga on 20th!

I will teach the class in Hot Yoga's (unheated) studio 2 every Sunday from 10:00-10:45 a.m. It will be a drop-in karma class for children (ages 3-7) with a parent/guardian. We're asking a $5 minimum donation per family, with all proceeds going to a local children's organization each month.
(What does the cow say? MOOOOOO!!!!!)

Little Yogi classes will incorporate books, games, yoga cards and will be very interactive. The focus is always on having fun while learning yoga poses.
(What does the cat say? MEEOOOOWWWW!)

Ladybird Animal Sanctuary 2012 Calendar

2011-09-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

Back in July, the Hot Yoga on 20th newsletter had a link to a photo contest for the Ladybird Animal Sanctuary. On the last day before entries were due our family went into the backyard and had some fun with some yoga poses along with Ollie (that dog has the most amazing downward and upward dogs!). We just learned that one of our submissions was selected for the 2012 calendar - whoo hoo!!! Here's the winning photo.

Here are a few others from that day...

Finnegan showing Ollie his downdog.

Both Ollie and Finnegan doing some pretty nice cobras.

My attempt at a bridge.

Tree pose - Ollie wasn't too interested in this one.

Keira's Warrior II

Keira's Star Pose

I'm not sure this one has a name (maybe jelly legs) - good fun whatever you call it!

Check out the full Ladybird Animal Sanctuary calendar when it become available.

What Women Want

2011-09-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

Check out the new Momentum Magazine that is online. The one and only time I've managed to get over to the skate park this year (needed to keep my skills honed!!!! ...actually I just had drop into the bowl at least once so I wouldn't lose my nerve) ...

landed me a photo in the September digital edition (check out page 35B).

To the Post Office

2011-09-10T17:05:00.000-07:00

Months have passed and I've slacked off on the posting....though I have no end of the photos that have been taken - just haven't made the time to get them on this blog. So enough's enough already! Here are a couple pictures from today.

Here we are heading off to the post office. Long overdue to little Kira in the Northwest Territories!!!

Amazingly warm day again today. I am enjoying these hots days as the snow will be here soon enough.

When we got back home I was feeling kinda zonked and had a rest. I had told Keira I would take her out for a bike ride in just a bit. Tim found her drawing with pen and ink at the table, with as you can see, helmet and gloves on, ready to do at a seconds notice.

May Kidical Mass

2011-05-30T18:11:00.000-07:00

Saskatoon's first Kidical Mass of the year was held on Saturday May 21st. Wow! What a turnout! Probably about 70 or so kids and adults participating.

Tim already did a great job posting photos and snippets from the ride, so check it out here on Tim's Bike Blog! I rode on the new Dahon Mu Uno that I won when I bought Tim a lifetime subscription to Momentum Magazine.

On a separate note, here's a photo of me and the kids on the yuba. I'm totally sold on this bike. Here we are heading to the University. It is so much easier riding with them on the back than pulling the big "bike train" and it seems way safer.

Walking for Alivia

2011-05-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today we participated in the Great Strides Walk to help raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. So many generous donations were made by family, friends and colleagues - our "Walking for Alivia" team raised a total of $1,120 for Cystic Fibrosis Canada and the Saskatoon walk raised over $37,000! I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your fantastic support!!!

Keira and Finnegan excited for the 2.8 km walk!

Last but certainly not least, we made it to the finish line! Here they are showing off their Great Strides Walk tattoos on their hands.

Thanks again very much to everyone who donated to our team to support Cystic Fibrosis Canada!

Grebe on the River

2011-05-29T21:44:00.000-07:00

One of the days in the last couple weeks while riding home across one of the bridges, I saw a grebe out of the water.

My birding skills have waned over the past few years so I have no idea from this distance what exactly it might be, other than a grebe - which onto itself I thought was pretty cool.

Vesnianka Final Performance

2011-05-29T21:42:00.003-07:00

Finnegan's Vesnianka final performance was held on Thursday May 18th, the day after the UofS School of Dance performance (these last couple weeks have been crazy with rehersals and final performances). I love this photo (credit to Tim) - I think it's amazaing!

Here's Finnegan during the Poltava dance (I've probably spelled that wrong?).

Here's one of their Hutzal dance. (Photo credit here to Tim)

On stage for some final remarks and awards to some of the older students who will be leaving as of this year.

Here's the entire Venianka group of students. Vitali sure provides an amazing program for these kids.

Pirate's Search

2011-05-29T21:42:00.001-07:00

The UofS School of Dance year-end performances were spread over two days; with Finnegan dancing on Wednesday May 17th. Unfortunately due to a possible teacher's strike the School of Dance had been advised to find an alternate venue for the final shows. The dances ended up being at the PAC which wasn't as good the threatre the year before but the show was great none-the-less.

Finnegan and his primary ballet "crew" instructed by Miss Sonja danced the "Pirate's Search". Ya-har maties!!! (The credit for the excellent photo goes to Tim as I didn't manage to get my camera out during the performance. This photo was actually taken at the dress rehersal the night before.)

Dance of the Seasons

2011-05-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

The University of Saskatchewan School of Dance had a final performance for all the young children on Sunday May 15th. Keira's creative dance class instructed by Miss Tina performed the "Dance of the Seasons". Keira was one of the spring dancers.

This little girl loves to dance! She is very excited that Miss Sonja (Finnegan's ballet teacher) has given the OK for her to start the pre-primary ballet class in the fall. Photo credit on this one goes to Tim.

Happy Birthday Keira

2011-05-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

Keira turned ...

5 this May!

We headed to the Saskatoon Zoo in the afternoon and met up with a few families to visit the animals.

Afterwards, we had supper in the zoo and then headed to the park outside the zoo (still in the Forestry Farm) to gather and play with some more friends.

Then to sing "Happy Birthday" and share some tasty tasty upcakes and ice cream.

Keira received a few more 'groovy girls' from Nana for her birthday. She has eight in the collection now - as you can see they are close to overtaking the bed but she doesn't seem to mind too much.

Saskatoon Suzuki Strings Final Concert

2011-05-29T21:06:00.000-07:00

The Saskatoon Suzuki Strings Final Concert for the year was on May 8th - so I'm somewhat behind with these posts! Live just has a way of passing by...I'm certainly not the blogger I hoped I might be :) Anyway here are a few pictures from the concert. This was after our family had been to see Riverdance at TCU Place. It finished up at 3 pm and then we all scurried over to the Odeon for the concert and fundraising dinner. We shared the table with Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Margie and the Kwon family - it was a good, fun day.

Here are all the violinists up on stage.

I think this little guy in front is even younger than Keira and wow can he ever play!

Looks like a good smile on Finnegan!

Here's Keira and Aura playing along as well.

One of the few songs where Keira was facing in the same direction as the other children.

We had no idea what happened but at some point Keira turned around and was playing in the opposite direction - not watching the instructor and staring at one of the other girls.

What was with that?!?!?!?!?

As Keira explained afterwards, Anika had her hair up in braids with some flowers in with the braids and Keira was quite mesmerized by it - literally!

Keira and Finnegan with their good friend, Aura.

Zebra under the Bridge

2011-05-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

I think the title of the post says it all. I thought this was really cool and for a few weeks now have been enjoying seeing it under the bridge as I pass to and from work.

Nice thing about riding (and sometimes) bringing a camera with you. Actually the first day I saw it, I didn't have a camera with me and of course wished I had....so the next day I brought it specifically to click a picture.

Big 4-0

2011-04-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

So on Thursday last week I hit the big "4-0". I had an awesome day - thanks to Tim and the kids, family and friends.

I took the day off work, so you know it's off to a good start! That and I received two super new paintings to hang up at work.

Finnegan's is a water dragon.

Keira painted the Firebird's crown.

I went to the morning class at Hot Yoga on 20th and had an excellent class (especially since I haven't actually practiced in about 3 weeks!). It was the first time in over a year that I was actually able to sit down in fixed firm pose (albeit still pretty uncomfortable). I'll have to thank Dallas for the sore abs and I do wonder if others sometimes feel the effects the next morning from the classes that I teach? When I had been regularly practicing, I was always feeling great the next day but for about two days after my birthday I sure felt the areas that have not been worked lately!

After lunch, the four of us headed to the Saskatoon Zoo. It's a pretty small place by zoo standards but I like the fact that most of the animals that are housed there are either orphans or are wildlife that have been injured. There are some non-native animals (like the lions!) but for the most part many of the animals are fairly regional.

All along the paths set up for Earth Day were questions about the environment and saving energy. Finnegan read them to us as we visited the animals.

The kids had a good laugh from this swan that was bobbing for something tasty at the bottom of the pond.

Lots of new babies out at this time of year.

We had dinner at Alexander's and then headed home for cupcakes to share with Tim's parents who were supposed to be coming over at 6:30 pm to join us. Originally the plan had been for Tim and I to go out to a movie but with his folks in the process of moving that idea had been cancelled as they were pretty busy (and tired) with the move.

When we arrived home, Keira announced that she "Really had to go pee" so that I would quickly take her into the house. I had a moment's panic as our door was not locked and the alarm didn't seem to be on. Moments later I realized that our house was full of friend's waiting for our arrival with a big surprise party!

Truly a great surprise and I'm so glad that many people stopped by with their birthday wishes and to share the cupcakes and ice cream. We had the best birthday cupcakes you could imagine!

And a pretty nice Bicycle Smile birthday t-shirt too! So far not much different being 40. A few more gray hairs perhaps but nothing that I quick (well 3 hour) trip to Sunday Morning Spa and Salon couldn't fix. Yes - that is purple you see and my daughter didn't paint it on with cool-aid!

Sight Seeing in Chicago

2011-04-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

What would we ever do without digital cameras? Take way fewer photos and have less opportunity for sharing online. On my recent trip to Chicago I took about 300 photos. Many of course just didn't turn out well and simply get deleted (that's the beauty of it) but there are also plenty of one's that I like.

Here're are some of the sights I saw in Chicago. Lots of amazingly tall buildings - especially for a prairie girl from Saskatoon!

Unfortunately no commentary....perhaps to be filled in at later date. Just too tired this evening.

Lincoln Park Zoo

2011-04-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

While sight seeing in Chicago last month, my mom and I spent the better part of a day at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

It's a great place and even better that admission is free (I'm still not quite sure how they manage to function without I guess major sponsors or subsidies from the City?)

Here are are a number of photos from the trip to the zoo.

This guy was really interested in the birds in the trees.

The otter was soooo fast! I took probably over 30+ photos and this was probably the best of the bunch though still pretty blurry.

A lot of great sculptures throughout the park.

The Children's area had this fantastic climbing structure indoors. I'm sure Finnegan and Keira would have had a blast on it.

This silver back ape weighs in at over 400 lbs.

Finnegan's favourite animal (at the moment) is the rhino.

Flowers - lots of beautiful flowers in the conservatory.

I promise I did take some more pictures of animals. I love photographing flowers because unlike the animals they don't move (except on really windy days) so they are so much easier to capture.

Can you tell that I liked these particular water lilies?

OK back to the animals now!

The tail end of the polar bear was all we were able to see.

I think these were African Wild Dogs - what amazing coat colouring the have!

All in all a great day at the Lincoln Park Zoo!

Fluevog Shoes Chicago

2011-04-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

On the weekend that I was sightseeing in Chicago with my mom, after the IACUC conference, we went spent most of one day strolling around the Wicker Park area and then going downtown to walk the Magnificent Mile and along the Navy Pier.

Along the way, it was a pleasant surprise to come across Chicago's Fluevog shop. While it wasn't on my "must get there and check it out list" of things to do, it was most definitely a fun place to visit.

Crazy tourist that I was, they didn't mind me taking a few photos to post here.

The store was amazing. As I recall it was an old theatre that had been renovated for the shoe store.

And of course, the shoes were truly awesome - unique soles for unique souls.

I did try on a few pairs but unfortunately nothing fit as well as my Angel's at home to temp me to buy anything that day.

If I had actually won the "No, You're Weird Contest" then I certainly could have been persuaded!

Bikes in Chicago

2011-04-25T19:25:00.001-07:00

So I've been a little slack in getting these photos posted. I should probably just load all the photos from my trip to Chicago up on Facebook where more friends would likely see and enjoy but somehow thought this would be the venue.

So here they are...photos from my trip to Chicago last month! I just snapped a few pictures here and there whenever bikes were parked in placed that I visited. I am sure my mom thought I was nuts.

For all the bike geeks out there....enjoy!

I loved these bikes by the National Autism week. I had just seen the movie "Temple Grandin" with Claire Danes - which was an amazing movie about Temple's life.

So much traffic - vehicles and people.

It was pretty neat by this one subway there were lots of racks so that you could ride your bike to the station and then lock it up and travel via subway to wherever you needed to go then pick up your bike and ride home at the end of the day.

This was at the entrance to the subway in the Wicker Park area.

I stopped by Kozy Cycles which is one of Chicago's largest bike shops.

Tim had previously looked it up and knew that they had a sale on some of their winter gear, so I picked up a Pearl Izumi hoody for a good deal.

These are obviously not bikes but I thought they were pretty shiny and worth a click.

During the summer I image that this Navy Pier area is just full of locals and tourists. There seem to be quite a few bike rental places available which would have been fun if we had had a few more days to actually toodle around town more.

Again, not a bike but it was cool to see the four legged traffic.

Bright lights - big city!

I quite liked this bike and the photo.

In case you can't quite read the sign across the street - condos are selling starting at $1.4 million.

PRIM&R Blog Squad

2011-04-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

Last week I attended the PRIM&R 2011 IACUC conference in Chicago. I hope to get a bunch of photos posted soon from the trip. The conference was from Tuesday-Friday and I met up on Friday evening with my mom and we stayed the weekend to see a few sights of the city. As a member of the PRIM&R blog squad, I submitted a number of posts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) that are on the PRIM&R blog Ampersand.

The 'windy city' is famous for its deep dish pizza - so of course one of the nights during the conference I had to go out and try some! Delicious!

Great Strides Walk for Alivia

2011-04-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

For last year's adventure, I took up the challenge of participating in the 2010 Saskatchewan Marathon in honour of my little niece Alivia and to support Cystic Fibrosis Canada (formerly Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation), as my small, personal effort to help Cystic Fibrosis Canada raise funds for investment in vital programs to support research, care and education in their fight against cystic fibrosis.

This year, and hopefully for years going forward, our family is going to participate in the Great Strides Walk on May 29th to help raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. If you would like to join our team or support Finnegan and Keira in their efforts by making a donation, we thank you and pass along the sincere thanks of Alivia's parents, Elaine and Damian, as well as Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

What is Cystic Fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common, fatal genetic disease affecting young Canadians. About one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has cystic fibrosis (~70,000 people worldwide). CF is a multi-organ disease, primarily affecting the lungs and digestive system.

A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and causes severe breathing problems. It may be difficult to clear bacteria from the lungs, leading to cycles of infection and inflammation, which damage the delicate lung tissues. Thick mucus also blocks the ducts of the pancreas and prevents natural enzymes from reaching the intestines and helping the body break down and absorb food. People with CF must consume a large amount of artificial enzyme with every meal and snack, to help digest and absorb adequate nutrition from food.

In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

For more information on cystic fibrosis please visit the Cystic Fibrosis Canada website.

Spring has NOT yet Arrived

2011-03-22T21:59:00.001-07:00

March 22nd and the spring bunny has definitely not arrived. Winter wonderland is more like it and the bunny must be hiding somewhere else warm.

Here are a few pics of my trusty Rocky Mountain as I headed home from work today.

It's taken some time to wear in this seat but I'm starting to like it. Never a good sign though when it's got that layer of slow with ice crusted underneath! Kinda like the streets actually...most of the paths have a layer of ice underneath all the fresh snow. Not a great way to ride home. I actually took the streets for most of the way as the traffic created for more slush than ice.

The "Peace" "Love" and "Happiness" stickers have been on this bike since about 1995 when I arrived in Saskatoon!

Tuesdays are always a scramble since as soon as I'm home, Finnegan and I head out to his Ukrainian dance class.

Tonight it was back to snowpants and trudging through the snow drifts.

Once back from dance class, I gobble down a quick supper and head out again to Hot Yoga on 20th to teach the 8 pm class (every other Tuesday night). I teach the 'Hot Foundation' class which is a set series of postures specific to Hot Yoga on 20th.

Dallas offers a great deal for new students to the studio - $20 for unlimited yoga for a week. Who needs to go to Cuba to escape the snow when you can sweat it out here!

Peter and the Wolf

2011-03-22T21:51:00.001-07:00

On Sunday afternoon, the kids and I headed to TCU Place and met up with grandma and grandad to listen to the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra's Classics for Kids performance of Peter and the Wolf - which was a special performance they had arranged for families. Finnegan and Keira both knew the tunes well as they have listened to the music often at home.

A local children's performer, Sylvia Chave, narrated the performance. Afterwards the kids, with their friend Aura, had their picture taken together with Sylvia.

Back at home, Keira enjoyed a few left over smarties that grandma had brought for them. Mmmmmmmmm chocolate!!!!!

Climbing at the PAC

2011-03-22T21:39:00.000-07:00

For the last 5 or so weeks, on Saturdays while Keira is in her creative dance class, Finnegan has been having fun on the climbing wall at the PAC.

Finally last weekend he made it up to the crevice which has been his major goal from the get-go.

He's still a longs ways from the top, so no doubt there will be plenty of climbing days ahead of us. Mom hopes to give it a try one of these evenings with her friend from work!

Practice Makes Perfect

2011-03-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Tonight Finnegan had an extra practice for Ukrainian dance as the children prepare for one of their upcoming performances.

This is a fun dance where the children circle together and let out an "ieee"!

And again, "ieee"!

Whirl and twirl - look at those kids go!

All lined up for their final curtseys and bows (not sure if you "cursey" in Ukrainian dancing"?).

Hoar Frost Morning

2011-03-09T20:06:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos from my bike ride to work this morning.

It was a beautiful (albeit still cold) morning with hoar frost on all the trees.

Hoar frost (also called radiation frost or hoarfrost or pruina) refers to the white ice crystals, loosely deposited on the ground or exposed objects, that form on cold clear nights when heat losses into the open skies cause objects to become colder than the surrounding air. What would we do without Wikipedia? Look it up in a book I guess!

This is the Victoria Bridge which has been deemed to be unsafe by the City engineers and so has been closed off to all traffic (pedestrian and vehicular) since this past summer. It would make for a perfect pedestrian/cyclist only bridge - to help connect the east and west sides of the city as a gateway from the Broadway area over to the River Landing and downtown areas. It would be an excellent chance to really show the City of Saskatoon is a city for the people (and not for cars), but unfortunately that's not going to happen. The City of Saskatoon apparently doesn't have enough other bridges for cars to cross. There's my little rant for evening!

Hmm... a bit of snow to melt when the weather decides to warm up. Which could be tomorrow. Riding home this evening, it was definitely warmer.

Here's a picture of the Vimy Memorial Bandshell. It was built in 1937 and dedicated on September 1 of that year to honour Canada's participation in the First World War at the 1917 Battle of Vimy Ridge. (I did not know that ....had to look it up!)

And of course, the Delta Bessborough Hotel (castle by the river).

Still Darn Tootin' Cold Out There

2011-03-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures from the cold ride to work this morning.

Let's here it for clear trails!!!!

Brrrrrr.....it's a cold one out there today!

Sun coming up and mist rising off the river.

Here's the trusty steed - my Rocky Mountain Stratos - 18 years old and still going strong (still with some original parts!). Not a smart idea to have hands out of mittens for any length of time though!

The good thing about Saskatoon is that even though it gets mighty cold here in the winters, the sun is usually always out smiling and the clear blue skies make for really bright days.

Better get to work!!!

The Path is Clear

2011-03-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

While the -36oC with the windchill is still downright cold for cycling, at least most of the trails were clear this morning, as I headed to work. I went up and around by the Farmer's since the paths near our house were still not ridable and then back to the Meewasin Trail. Coming home this evening, the 'force' must have been with me as the ride was smooth sailing (still cold!) but the paths were completely clear all the way through Victoria park. This winter, the City has been really good about clearing the paths within 1-2 days after a snowfall so biking (while still very cold....do you get the sense I'm quite sick of winter) has been pretty good. It has taken a good week however for the paths to be cleared after our last snowfall. When the paths aren't clear it's almost impossible I find to travel by bike; so I really noticed it this past week when that white stuff didn't get plowed away in a timely fashion.

I can vividly remember arriving in Saskatoon back in 1995, the last week in April, waking up, looking out the window of the hostel and seeing the snow falling, and thinking, "Where on Earth have I come to!!" Raised in Windsor, snow in April just never happens. I'm glad the paths will be clear so that I can ride again tomorrow....assuming no more snowflakes overnight!

On a totally unrelated note...here's a really cool video that Tim sent to me. I think I actually screamed at one point when the guy gets some air between one platform and the next! And watch out for the dog!

VCA 2010 RACE RUN from changoman on Vimeo.

Power of Movement - February 27, 2011

2011-03-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Last week, I participated in the Power of Movement Yoga Challenge led by Jan Henrikson, the lovely guru from Joos Yoga Downtown. This was an incredible event organized to raise awareness and support of arthritis and autoimmune research. I certainly wish I had brought my camera to capture an image of the number of people gathered together in Saskatoon for this mega yoga challenge. There must have been about 150 people on their mats last Sunday - so you can imagine the energy in the loft of the Albert Community Centre was pretty amazing. This was the first year the event was hosted in Saskatoon and we had more participants than any of the other ten centres, next to Toronto. Next year's yoga challenge is planned for March 4, 2012.

Later that afternoon, we got the yoga mat out to do a few postures. Keira's favourite is 'hand-to-toe' because that is what "the ballerina's like to do". She is getting pretty good at it too!

Here's mom and daughter both giving it a try!

Here are a couple little videos promoting the Power of Movement that I quite like. Remember - Anyone can do yoga.....

A Prairie Life by Wide Open

2011-03-06T20:06:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, Janet and I took Finnegan and Keira, along with Auntie Margie, Darren and Sophia, to see "A Prairie Life" which was an amazingly fun puppet show put on by Wide Open at the Refinery. We have been to many of the Wide Open performances over the past couple years and they have always been great fun for the kids. Wide Open also very generously donated to the CF raffle that I coordinated last year by contributing a season family pass!

This most recent performance was an all new puppet show based on the bestselling books by Jo Bannatyne-Cugnet, illustrated by Yvette Moore (A Prairie Year, Heartland, a Prairie sampler and A Prairie Alphabet). For the adults too it was a totally funny and entertaining show! We all can't wait for the upcoming "Marvelous Munsch!" which will be playing at Easter time.

It was especially fun last weekend because on Sunday while the kids were out at Irish dance with Tim, I received a phone call from Jacklyn Green, Artistic Director of Wide Open, saying that Finnegan had won the draw for the sock puppet prize! Finnegan answered the door to receive his gift and was pretty surprised indeed! Since there are four puppets in the craft kit, Finnegan has thought it best that we all get to make a puppet. One of these weekends when the activities slow down and we all manage to be home together, we plan to have a craft day and put them together.

Thanks to Wide Open! We look forward to more smiles and laughter with their puppets at the Refinery!

Swan Lake

2011-03-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

About two weeks ago (that's how behind I am with any sort of posts!) Grandma came over with a new ballet outfit for Keira. At Christmas she had made a 'firebird' outfit ad that is Keira's all-time favourite ballet - having watched a couple renditions of it on DVD.

In November I took her to TCU Place to see Swan Lake which was being performed by the Moscow Ballet Company.

Keira is quite certain she is going to be a ballerina teacher when she grows up! She certainly loves to dance - creative (at the U of S School of Dance) and Irish (at Queen Maeve School of Irish Dance) but ballet is certainly her favourite.
We put on the record with the "Swan Lake" music and the performance began. Full of twirls and twists and leaps.

Grandma helped out with a full lift in the air!

Of course the show wouldn't be complete without the splits and a curtsey at the end! Bravo Keira!

Power of Movement Yoga Challenge

2011-02-16T19:31:00.001-08:00

I've registered for the Power of Movement; the largest yoga fundraiser in Canada raising funds for arthritis research! Anyone can do yoga, so why not do it for a good cause to beat arthritis and autoimmune conditions? On Sunday February 27th thousands of Canadians across the country in twelve major cities will come together to practice yoga in their communities. You can also join in online through a virtual challenge.

In Saskatoon, the yoga Mega Session will be held at the Albert Community Centre at 11 am and will be lead by Jan Henrikson, Advanced Certified Jivamukti Yoga Instructor.

If you'd like to register to attend this session you can sign up online, or if you'd like to make a pledge for this event please visit my personal page and support my challenge!

Arthritis is a misunderstood disease. It is not just a condition that the elderly are affected by; arthritis and related autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis affect people of all ages, even kids. There are over 4.2 million Canadians who need our support!

For more information about Power of Movement visit www.powerofmovement.ca.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-16T19:15:00.000-08:00

Mmm...mmm...you sure can't beat a chocolate cupcake with a great big heart on it for Valentine's Day - except perhaps the homemade cards with hearts and "I love you mom" from your kids!

That Boy Can Dance!

2011-02-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

On Saturday evening Finnegan danced his first Ukrainian dance performance. He and the other children were doing their Hutzul dance.

Unfortunately I was standing behind as they were practicing so mostly took a lot of pictures of his back.

Keira was quite impressed by all the young dancers. They did look spectacular in the lovely costumes.

Here's a fun one of Finnegan (missing a tooth but with an amazing grin nonetheless) and his pretty partner.

Things I See From My Bicycle

2011-02-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

On Friday I needed to take the yuba to work to haul home some dog food. Earlier in the week I had bought a 35 lb bag from the WCVM but needed to wait for a day when Tim wouldn't be going out with the kids to any activities so that I could use the ultimate hauling bicycle to get the bag home.

I finally got a battery charged and found a memory card for my camera and figured that I really should start carrying it with me to capture any moments that I see by bike. The past few days the sunrises and sunsets had been amazing, and it has left me always thinking, "I should have had a camera with me!" So no more excuses!. The kids and Tim even saw an eagle the other night on their way to violin group lesson.

There were a bunch of mallard ducks on the water Friday morning, plus the sky was amazing. Here are a few shots from my morning ride to work.

The trail along the river is such an excellent way to travel from our house to the University by bike or by walking.

Man, those ducks must be cold!!!

My return ride was not as enjoyable due to hauling all that dog food - the bike being a little lope-sided and harder to maneuver. I had a near wipeout just under the bridge because I didn't have the required momentum nor leg strength to get up the hill and started slipping back on the icy path. I had a few moments of panic that seemed more like minutes as I tried just to keep upright and prevent sliding back down the hill. Luckily I managed to shimmy over to the side of the path and get off the bike and then was able to push it to the top of the path and then carry on my merry way home!

Hot, Hot, Hot

2011-02-03T20:33:00.000-08:00

For some reason I had the Cure's Hot Hot Hot stuck in my head as I walked to Hot Yoga on 20th this evening.

Hey hey hey!!!
But I like it when that lightening comes
Hey hey hey!!!
Yes I like it alot
Hey hey hey!!!
Yes I'm jumping like a jumping jack
Dancing screaming itching squealing fevered
Feeling hot hot hot!!!

I bet I could even find the cassette tape somewhere in a box upstairs!

I received this photo today of the group of us who completed teacher training with Dallas in the fall. Check out the Hot Yoga on 20th schedule and come feel hot, hot, hot!

Come in from the cold and enjoy the heat

2011-02-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

I taught my 3rd hot yoga class at Hot Yoga on 20th this past Tuesday. Still very new to teaching the class, there were a few bobbles here and there and a couple moments where I had to actually pause and think to myself "What the heck comes next!" but all in all I thought it went well and it's good fun. It was fabulous to see Curtis and Janelle practicing yoga together on their anniversary!

Where else can you go from freezing at -30oC to enjoying a yoga practice at +38oC?
Only in Saskatchewan!!

Ice Cycle 2011

2011-02-03T10:50:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, we participated in the 2nd Annual Ice Cycle - the coldest bicycle parade on the planet. We started at the Saskatoon Farmer's Market and toured through downtown ending back at the market. About 200+ riders showed up on a day that was -42oC with the windchill! It was fabulous to see all the cyclists out, especially those who dressed up!

As part of the PotashCorp Wintershines Saskatoon there were all sorts of amazing ice sculptures on display. Finnegan and Keira particularly liked the ice fort with slide!

Tim and the kids were on the yuba and I was on my trusty 18-year-old Rocky Mountain! Thanks to 'Wayne' who posted this photo on The Weather Network.

Since we had to scurry off to Irish dance class right after the ride, we unfortunately had to wait until later to have some hot chocolate at home rather than enjoying it with the other cyclists after the parade.

The sense of community was great amongst all the cyclists, especially given the cold temperature and wind. I was also really impressed that the coordinators had worked with the City Police and so every intersection throughout the route had a police officer stationed to stop and conduct traffic to allow all the riders to travel as one unit for the parade. To me it seemed like a city sanctioned critical mass - though I guess the fact that it was referred to as a "parade" is what makes the difference? Whatever you want to call it, it was great fun and I'm sure no matter the weather next year, our family will be cycling in the 2012 Ice Cycle!

Check out a video from the 1st Annual Ice Cycle and more photos from this year's event will be posted on Tim's Bike Blog soon. Our friend Don Cook put together this great video of the ride - enjoy!

Blog Squad Application

2011-01-27T14:20:00.000-08:00

Down to the wire...the Blog Squad Application for the 2011 IACUC Conference is due tomorrow.

I've enlisted the fine artistic talent of Tim Brown to do the comic illustrations to go along with my 'statement of purpose'. It's been said that a "picture is worth a thousand words". In the case of this application, I'm limited to 500 words, so we'll see what happens! Please remember all images are copyright of Tim Brown.

Take Life by the Handlebars

2011-01-27T14:17:00.000-08:00

In December when I ordered a lifetime subscription to Momentum magazine, I also received this great "Take Life by the Handlebars" t-shirt!

Momentum provides urban cyclists with the inspiration, information and resources to fully enjoy their riding experience and connect with local and global cycling communities. They have a couple blogs on their site, one specifically for Families on Bikes that is written by Kathleen Wilker from Ottawa. Once all the snow here in Saskatoon has finally melted (perhaps May or so!), I'll send in a post for Families on Bikes to highlight the adventures of riding my new Dahon MU UNO folding bicycle with our kids.

As Luck Would Have It...

2011-01-14T19:45:00.001-08:00

In December, I bought for Tim a lifetime subscription to Momentum - the magazine for self-propelled people and my name was entered into a draw for a Dahon folding bike. What an amazing surprise to receive (on Finnegan's birthday) an email from the office manager at Momentum and learn I had won the bike! Today, a lovely new Dahon MU UNO folding bicycle arrived.

Keira and Finnegan were surprised to know that a bike could actually fit into a box this small!

It certainly folds up small and looks awesome when unfolded! I can't wait to try it out, although it may have to wait until the spring. I will likely bring it with me when I visit my good friend Natalie, in Ottawa this summer.

Tim is impressed by the fancy Schwalbe marathon racer tires. He did a review of them for BicycleSmile and it's on his bike blog as well.

Thanks so very much to Momentum and Dahon for this great new bike!

IACUC Blog Squad

2011-01-13T11:30:00.001-08:00

Blog Squad applications must also submit a writing sample relating to animal care and use and research ethics. While not a blog, here’s a link to our UCACS Animal Care Course Registration / Login Information which is used to give animal users details about our Education and Training Program and the process for registering and logging in for the online course that all animals users must complete before their protocol is approved. Also relating to training, on the Research Ethics Office website, one can find a poster I developed to highlight our program - Meeting Responsibilities: The institutional animal user education and training program at the University of Saskatchewan (which was even presented at the 2009 IACUC Conference in San Diego, CA).

2011 IACUC Conference - I'd like to join the Blog Quad!

2011-01-12T20:17:00.001-08:00

In late March, I will be attending the 2011 IACUC Conference in Chicago, IL. In my current position, as the Animal Ethics Research Facilitator in the Research Ethics Office at theUniversity of Saskatchewan, this is a great opportunity to meet with others in field of research ethics administration. This is a conference sponsored by Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R), an organization dedicated to advancing the highest ethical standards in the conduct of research.

This year, they are putting together a PRIM&R Blog Squad. While I don’t normally blog about research ethics issues (my only other blog to date has been the one I created last year to track my fundraising marathon for my niece, Alivia), I am keen to give it a whirl, especially since the blog squad members receive a complimentary registration to PRIM&R's 2011 IACUC Conference! The PRIM&R Blog Squad will post articles, or other information about IACUC Conference speakers, events, and the city of Chicago. All posts will appear on PRIM&R's blog, Ampersand.

So as part of my application to be considered as member of the PRIM&R Blog Squad, in the coming days I’m going to post my ‘statement of purpose’ to let the PRIM&R conference coordinators know why I would be a great addition to their Blog Squad.

Please note that all artwork from the comic panels is copyright of Tim Brown – artist and bike geek extraordinaire!

Yoga for Little People

2011-01-12T20:15:00.000-08:00

Today, I biked over to the Refinery to teach a Yoga for Little People (and their parents!) class but unfortunately no one showed up! Having taught three sessions now for the Riversdale Community Association on Monday evenings from 6:00-6:45 pm, where only my kids, plus my neighbour and sometimes one or two other families would show up, I thought a class during the day might be of more interest to people – perhaps not! Mind you, it was the first time this type of class has been offered at the Refinery so perhaps a bit more patience is needed to spark some interest. Hopefully we will try again in the spring and then the fall. I am totally keen to lead a young children’s class, so I would be interested to know the preferred times and days that would suit family schedule’s best! This JOOS-Y class (as with all the yoga classes at the Refinery) was coordinated through Jivamukti guru, Jan Henrikson, at Joos Yoga Downtown – another fabulous place to practice yoga!

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-12T20:04:00.000-08:00

Winter certainly brings its share of challenges when living in Saskatoon and trying to walk, bike or bus as much as possible. On the weekend, Keira and I headed out to catch a bus to get to dance class at the University and after about 20 minutes of waiting I figured we had either missed the bus or had the schedule wrong (Note to self - always check the bus schedule the night before instead of just assuming you know otherwise you could be waiting for a long time if the buses only run every hour!!).

So we headed back home, grabbed helmets and hauled it over to Miss Tina's creative dance class - better late than never.

It was a fair bit of effort to pull just one child over to campus and certainly gave me renewed appreciation for Tim's efforts in chauffeuring the kids around to all their activities on the yuba!

Yoga Training

2011-01-12T15:25:00.000-08:00

I recently completed teacher training at Hot Yoga on 20th after an intensive three month program instructed by Dallas Kruszelnicki. Hot Yoga on 20th is a beautiful purpose-built yoga studio which just opened up over a year ago and is conveniently only a 10 minute walk from my house. As of the New Year, there are many new classes being offered (check out their schedule), and new students can go to unlimited classes for a week for just $20 which is an awesome deal. I taught my first class there last Tuesday and will hopefully continue to teach every other Tuesday night at 8 pm; alternating with Wendy, one of the other five fabulous teacher trainees with whom I completed the training.

What really got me started on this yoga teaching journey was my two children. I had been practicing yoga on and off for a few years and somehow picked up a few children’s yoga videos to do with Finnegan and Keira. One thing lead to another and I decided I’d like to offer a class for young kids in our neighbourhood and arrangements were easily made with our local community association to host a class. Having committed myself to teaching a class it quickly dawned on me that though I enjoyed practicing yoga, I really had no clue about teaching it! Fate must have played a hand as I serendipitously learned about Kathleen’s Yoga Studio – Namaskar Yoga and a Level 1 workshop was being offered with perfect timing. While I was crazy nervous at that first workshop, the yoga teaching bug stuck and I’ve been working towards a 200 hour RYT certificate for the past year and a half. This weekend I’ll be completing the 8th out of ten 20 hour workshops.