Let’s see, what’ve we got in the ol’ idea bucket today.
Ah, the Olympics are timely! What about that?
Fun fact: I haven’t missed watching an Olympic games since I was born. My mom was in labor at the hospital watching the 1984 games, and I’ve seen every one since. It’s a point of pride for me really.
I’ve always wanted to be an Olympian, but I lack the motivation and drive. I did when I was little and I still do. I don’t think it was helped by being told I was too fat to be a ballerina when I was like 5. (Yes I am aware ballet is not an Olympic sport, but it was a Thing I wanted to be good at too.) Dreams getting dashed early! I found this in a random meme ages ago and I laughed SO HARD:
People who have that level of commitment are truly incredible to me. Like….how? What is that like? What’s it like to want something SO MUCH you dedicate your whole life to being the best at it? It’s phenomenal and truly inspiring.
I will continue to be here not being a ballerina, or a gymnast, or a figure skater, and watch those that pursue their dreams. Watching from the couch with my gluten free cinnamon bun and ginger tea.
I was lucky enough to go to the Vancouver games because my friend and former college roommate called and said, “My sister and I got tickets to the Olympics but she’s pregnant now and can’t go. Do you want to go with me?” Um. Yes. Yes I do.
We saw a women’s hockey match and a women’s curling match. The curling was incredible really. I was sitting next to a really lovely Canadian woman and she said to me, “Are you familiar with curling?” I told her no, not really. She got so exited and then spent the whole match explaining to me what they were doing, why it’s strategic, what each person on the team does…..just really wanted me to enjoy the sport. The Canadian women were playing that particular match and it went into overtime. They were sliding the last stone to the middle and as the stone got closer to the center the entire crowd was slowly standing up with it, watching it go. It bumped the other team out, giving the Canadians the win, and please believe me when I tell you it is most joyous event I’ve ever attended. I’m surprised the roof stayed on that building. And I honestly think about that story during every Olympics I watch, summer or winter, and just remember how united people can be and it makes me feel less grumpy.
This was also the occasion that got me my first tattoo. Because, I thought, what better way to commemorate this bucket list item than to get it emblazed on my body. I’m up to 4 tattoos now, since I only get them every few years because it’s an expensive hobby. But the Olympics started it.
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