About Miles
One of the many outfits I've worn playing Ultimate.
In my spare time I find incredible satisfaction playing the sport of Ultimate. I’ve played with TUC in Toronto as a member and am looking forward to meeting people in my new Ultimate community of the Durham region. Ultimate is more than just a sport for me. It encompasses so much of what I value. The sport – at its best – is self governed, involves significant contributions from every member on a team, involves men and women (each bringing different strengths to the game) and is about pushing yourself to the limits in a supported environment. I can’t say enough good things about this sport!
When I lived in Kingston I was an avid indoor wall climber. I have yet to find a gym near where I live in Port Hope and may have to travel to get my climbing fix in the future! Wall climbing challenges me to slow down, to think carefully about where I am going. Staying on the wall requires being aware of my surroundings, taking time to rest, knowing where I am supported, and continually looking ahead to where I am going. On the wall, I’m in meditation.
I spend a significant amount of my time dabbling in cooking and nutrition. I’m particularly fascinated by the power and longevity that is within our grasp by way of what we put in our bodies. When I can, I eat vegetarian — I enjoy the cooking techniques and results that come from removing meat as a basis for flavour — but I am not a zealot about it an can appreciate lamb and duck as much as the next guy. My eating style is an important reflection of my decision to actively reduce my impact on this planet. I strive to purchase local and organic produce in an effort to support the local economy and to provide myself with fresh and sustainable nutrition.
Speaking of impact, I’m a huge proponent of sustainable living and a green lifestyle. I don’t own a car, and remodeled my last house to make it more energy efficient. I’m sure the same chores will need to be performed on my new house in Port Hope as well! I love discovering new ways to live that involve less energy, or fewer exogenous chemicals, or a simple return to our roots. Who needs to buy everything when you can grow it or make it?! I regularly read blogs that teach me how to use naturally sourced materials (e.g., cleaning my house without chemicals) to obtain the things I want for my life.
Standing atop Waynu Picchu
There is a large component of me that refuses to release my childhood wonder. I retain this by reading comic books, reveling in the joys of animation and by allowing myself to be amazed at the incredible learning that we as a species have yet to be exposed to. There are very few limits to what I believe humanity is capable. I recently reconnected with the sheer enormity of this concept upon seeing Machu Picchu for the first time. It remains my favourite moment of my life.
I’m working on getting more involved in the community as well. I’m particularly interested in work that provides individuals with a voice, or that works toward protecting the inalienable rights of the individual. For me, this is best achieved through organizations that educate and inspire youth. If you know a worthwhile cause, leave a comment!
Oh, and one last thing. I live for a good jumping photo! There’s nothing quite as gratifying as capturing the the dynamic excitement that I am filled with for being alive on this planet in a static photo. I take them everywhere and with everyone. And, I highly recommend you try it too!
Graduated Jump
