Seeing as I can't remember the last time I wrote a journal entry, I decided that it was probably about time I settled back into it. Since my return from the UK and the 2012 London Olympics, I have been kept extremely busy both meeting teams and giving talks. I have really enjoyed both.

 I have met so many amazing young men and women that I am very optimistic about sport in Quebec and Canada's future. I have told many parents along the way that their kids are easily way ahead of where my level of play was at their age. I am not being nice, nor am I lying. I saw one amazing house league Under U8 game where the Lions and the Puma had a real battle in the finals; the level of skill, technique and play was outstanding - congratulations to both teams!

As well as the talks, meetings and visits I have been working on a writing project. I have just completed a piece on leadership for A.S.K (Athletes Submitting Knowledge), which is supported by AthletesCan. Both organizations do some exceptional work, and I was pleased to write an article for them. The piece is included on this website. The link is http://www.riseathlete.com/apps/blog/leadership-to-london-beyond.

As I remember from school, writing is hard work and I was nervous about writing it. There is always a fine line to walk when you are writing about a team. It can be difficult to convey your message without stepping on anyone's toes. However, I am happy how this piece turned out and the responses I have received are generally positive. The writing is a good way for me to analyze what happened and to see what I think.

I shall miss being with my Olympic teammates in Ottawa in the House of Commons, and I shall miss them in the Olympic parade in downtown Toronto. However, I have had to return to work and reality. Yesterday I landed back in Lillestrom, Norway.

I have played for this club team, LSK Kvinner, for a number of years and was thrilled to be offered another opportunity to play here again.  As soon as I landed, I was reminded again why I love Norway so much. It is a gorgeous country and in many ways similar to Canada. Even though I most definitely have not packed appropriately for a Norwegian fall and early Winter, the place is still stunning visually, and this somehow helps you forget that you are freezing cold.  I will have to partake of a famous Norwegian waffle with oodles of jam to help me get over it :)

On Saturday first place LSK Kvinner and I will be playing the second place team, Stabaek. The match will be a tough one and I am really looking forward to it. What better way to get back into the run of things than to play against the very best!