Shakin' Not Stirred in the Bahamas

Traveling the world and making videos is truly a dream come true for me. I love the creative process with audio, video and the internet. I've learned to appreciate the work that goes into video/tv/movie production. I know how hard I work to get that one shot here or a certain angle there. Believe me, the magic is in making it look easy. I can't even imagine the work that goes into making action/adventure movies.

Which brings me to this photo. While in Nassau, Bahamas, we were strolling along the marina near the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island when we came upon this fantastic yacht with the name-sake "Casino Royal". Of course, the first thing that popped into my mind was the one and only "James Bond". As is turns out, this is the actual boat/ship used in the making of that movie as some of the scenes were filmed here in the Bahamas. Very cool, indeed! It was fun to allow my mind to wonder and pretend as if I were in a scene from James Bond; the night sky, marina, Bahamas, music in the background.

Unfortunately, I quickly realized that instead of being in a Bond movie, I was simply in a good spot for a photo opportunity. Oh, well, it's fun to dream! (And travel to cool places!).

A Christmas Message For 2010

There are few people in the world that inspire me to remember what is important in life; but my friend Bob from Pine Falls, Manitoba is one of them. He's not interested in what you do for a living or how much money you make; what kind of car you drive or "who" you are wearing. Bob likes to spend time with you talking about real things like life, music, and family. And when he likes you or loves you, he tells you.

I guess to some people this might not seem like a very strong reason to write about Bob. But that's exactly the challenge today. How many people do you know actually talk with you? I mean, really talk and care about what you are saying? The reality is, most people talk with you only to have a channel to hear themselves speak; to tell you what they know, who they know, what they own, etc. You know that's true. That's why is is also sad.

Bob inspires me to be the person I want to be. Kind; caring; thoughtful; unassuming; peaceful. As you move into this new decade, perhaps you can use Bob as your inspiration to be the change you wish to see in the world. Thanks, Bob.

In this photo, Bob tells me that he loves me like his brother and looks forward to seeing me again soon. Yes, me too, my friend.

Happy Holidays from RED TV Canada!

Where does a year go? Amazing!

What an incredible year for us. We focused on two main goals for 2009 and both of them came to fruition. First, we had the unbelievable opportunity to travel to Rwanda with World Vision Canada. There, we found sponsors for 24 children and lives were changed forever; including our own. Along with many other life lessons, we learned how blessed we are to live in Canada. The people and energy in Rwanda was amazing and we highly recommend anyone thinking of traveling there to stop thinking and just go!

Our second goal was to continue our strong relationship with Westjet. And that, we have done! With several locations already under our belts, we are excited about 2010 and where we are going with this partnership. If you are thinking about escaping the cold Canadian winter, please visit www.westjetvacations.com to find your next getaway!

Thank-you to everyone that we met this year. There are just so many people to thank and send warm wishes! We hope you all have a safe and joyful holiday season.

In this photo, we model our Santa hats as we overlook the town of Zihuatanejo (Ixtapa) in Mexico.

Wave of Hospitality

One thing that I've learned since being in Mexico is that the people here are incredibly hard-working. It amazes me to see the level of dedication and commitment they have in providing a world-class vacation experience. From the early hours of dawn to the late night and beyond, the service workers in Cancun are eager to assist you in any way they can to ensure your experience is positive, friendly, and memorable. The hospitality here comes in waves and, like the tide, is tireless.

There is indeed an energy here that is hard to describe. People are actually happy! They are very appreciative of the work they have; and it shows. A special thank-you to the people at the Royal in Cancun for the spectacular accomodations. Do yourself a favour and stay here while in Cancun! As well, thanks to  Best Day for our ground transportation and local tours. A special thanks to our driver (now, good friend) Eddie for his thoughfulness and professionalism. Of course, you can find this and more at Westjet Vacations

In this photo, I am about to be swamped by a glorious turquois wave on the beach at the Royal in Cancun. And, yes, this wave is bigger than it looks!

Humble Human

WOW! Words cannot describe the feelings we experienced while visiting Dolphinaris in Cozumel. These animals are simply in a league of their own. Intelligent; majestic; powerful; gentle; graceful. The people at Dolphinaris take great care and pride in their work with the dolphins and use the facility to focus on education and understanding.

This is not a dog & pony show. The facility indeed uses engaging and entertaining techniques so that humans and dolphins can share these great moments together. But, believe me, no one can make a 450 lb brilliant animal do something it does not want to do. The interaction is respectful and intimate. And, for me, incredibly emotional. I have no shame in saying that I cried like a baby after my encounter. I was so humbled and thankful to have shared the same space and time with these wonders of nature.

As the song goes: "Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble..". Well, visit Dolphinaris in Cozumel and see how great humility can feel.

In this picture, Renuka shares an amazing moment with our new best friend, Electra.

Just A Flicker In Time

Sitting next to Kilauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii is humbling, to say the least. It is estimated that Kilauea started to form somewhere between 300,000 - 600,000 years ago; and, it rose from the sea between 50,000 - 100,000 years ago. Yet, these time frames are also very short when compared to the age of the Earth or the Universe itself.

Now, think about your own life. Let's suppose that you live to be 85-years-old and have a full life. This time is just a flicker in history; a pebble on the beach in comparison to the larger concept of time. It almost feels unfair. Yet, this is what we've been giving, God willing. So how will you spend that time? Will you add value to the world or take from it? Will you live a life of significance or simply accumulate things to try and prove your value in being here? Does it matter at all?

No, I'm not saying that nothing matters. Of course, we all want to enjoy long prosperous lives and experience the wonders of human ingenuity and technology. But think about it. Does it really matter if you can get your email on an airplane at 40,000 feet or pick-up that phone call on the edge of a mountain? Will this make our lives significant?

While standing in the presence of Kilauea volcano, you can only feel a sense of vulnerability and humility; and a sense of awe. And while this volcano will be here long after we're gone, we are determined to live a life that matters, to us and to others. Light a fire with your short flicker!

Here, Renuka and I pose with Kilauea volcano (in the hazy background!) on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Dawn Of A New Day

There is something simply magical about rising at the break of dawn. All seems to be right with the world. You giggle as you enjoy a quiet moment while others are still asleep; almost believing you are getting a little more than your allotted 24-hours. Many spiritual teachers suggest that this is the best time for you to meditate and get in touch with the peace of mind we all seem to chase. While I have yet learned how to meditate, I can truly say there is some peace found in watching the sun rise on this wondrous rock in the cosmos. You can live life but one day at a time; each starting with the promise of a new opportunity; the dawn of a new day. Your day. Make it count.

Here, Renuka captures me as I film the incredible sunrise this morning at the Hilton Kauai Beach Resort, on Kauai, in the Hawaiian Islands.

Peace.

Photo by: Renuka Mohan