Toronto Open Competition

I've gained more experience from this trip than any other competition trip I've ever undertaken. Therea re so much to take into account that at one point I just want to explode and give up. Alot of the trouble can be avoided simply by paying a little bit more, but I can't do that since my dance partner demand the absolute minimum amount of money to spend, believing that I am trying to ruin her life in every decision.

This trip taught her what happens when you try to cheapen out on things. We rented a car for 140 for the 2 days and carpooled with 2 people charging 60 for Toronto and 30 for Kingston. The extra planning required to get people to come isn't worth it if all the trip depends on if you can squeeze 5 people in a car. (Which is what she pushes for all the time).

The hostel we decided to stay in turn out to be only 10 dollar cheaper than a hotel after tax. A hostel, although great for single travellers doesn't return as much when there's 2 people in the trip. Since a hostel usually charge per person, it is cheaper to get a room with a Bed and breakfast that offer all accomodation and breakfast or a hotel that charges per room. I think the fact that the hostel we stayed in resides in a very shady area with lots of graffiti scared my dance partner. She won't even let me drop her off across the street and walk back to the hostel at night. I had to park in front of the hostel and watch her get in….

Planning the driving route to Toronto is another adventure. I studied the map as much as I could and fail safe routes if one doesn't work. Since my partner complains and belittle me at the slightest hint of being on the wrong road ( c'mon she asked people if we are on the right road when we were on the 401 heading east to come back to montreal. ) Don valley pkway was closed when we entered Toronto. That is just amazing because it's the most important intersection in Toronto. My luck is really great.

But what was most amazing about this trip was the two peole that carpooled with us. Rebecca is a go getter who can manipulate logics, not to get what she wants, but to better her life. Some of the things she ask for is just a plus in her life and not necessary for survival. But believe me if she see something unfair, she's going to voice it and get what she wants… then apologize for giving you a hard time… She got us a 10% discount to the rental rate after an upgrade from a small car to a huge Buick. What's amazing is that she doesn't mind fighting for the rights of others. If I ever need to be on a negotiation table for a contract, I'd have her with me.

Alexandra is the next one. She is just… so supportive on everything. She think for your comfort and provides what is needed before you even ask for them. Also, she never complains.

Having Sarah side by side with them, suddenly make all her faults stand out just that much more. I was able to see clearly what bothered me most about her. Alot of the norm that she held in high regard is absurd as the norm of society. I was able to see her demands for special treatment as that. Demand for special treatment when she doesn't deserve it. I accomodated, but not because I was weak, but because I am a gentleman and have nothing else to do on this trip anyway. Her habits and needs are so annoying that you can't do anything you enjoy yourself if you live with her.