The Torch warms our hearts

Back in July while on a visit home, I first learned that the Olympic torch was coming to Sarnia on Christmas Eve. There was a little article in the local paper that said the torch would be coming to Sarnia again after its visit in 1988 for the Calgary Olympics. I made a "note-to-self" to remember to include this event in our holiday plans.



That seems so long ago now - but the time came that we were home and excited to see the torch again. I never thought that Julia and I see it twice in the same torch relay -- what a privelege--and to be able to share it with our family in Sarnia -- even better. Noreen landed home with Olympic mitts for everyone -- here she is with the swag that RBC was handing out. What a proud sponsor she is.

We were positioned outside the bank b/c there was going to be switch in runners there that we would be able to see. Here you can see the torch "kiss".

It was a cold day -- no snow in Sarnia mind you -- Carmel and I huddle and high five to keep warm.

Unfortunately, Julia left her Canada hat back home, but we were warm in our Canada mitts and Olympic fleece sweaters that will come with us when we go to China.

Papa joins in the fun with the Metro signs.

Goofy grin from Ralph.

This is the bus that carries the torch bearers and back-up torches. The mitt out the window belongs to the last runner who was going to bring the torch the final 300 metres to the Olympic cauldron for lighting. Carmel is grinning and crying with excitment and emotion.

This runner became an instant celebrity -- every one wanted pictures taken with him.He was the buddy that ran by us - see video below. I found out after that he's from Newmarket - what a coincidence.

Another three seconds of excellence. We look forward to seeing the last runner bring the torch into the Olympic stadium in Vancouver on February 12, 2010.