It's a wrap - Memories from BEIJING 2008

I didn't think I'd spend 4 blogs on the same subject but ..here goes. Beijing 2008 wasn't free of controversy or it's ups and downs. But.. I don't think I've ever seen a country or a people so proud to present the Olympic Games. Not that all of the other host cities/nations haven't been proud, but the history of China with it's past closed from the world doors, just made this one special.

Some of my favorite memories were... of course..Michael Phelps and his 8 Gold medal wins (two of which were so close!). US winning both Golds in Basketball... Kudo's to men's coach Mike Krzyzewski! ( Go Blue Devils! ), US in both men's and women's Beach Volley Ball, US Diver Laura Wilkinson's constant smile as she knew it was her last competition, Australian diver Matthew Helms Gold that stopped China from sweeping the diving medals, Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin's gymnastic performances, Usain Bolt lighting up the track, and most of all.. 41 year old Dara Torres of the US showing the young ones what championship swimming looks like!

The opening and closing ceremonies were so beautiful and the countless volunteers and children really warmed my heart! Like I said in my earlier blog..Vancouver and London have their work cut out for them. I look forward to seeing many of the athletes returning and have been privileged to see the ones who gave us their final bows. In summary.. Thank You Beijing.

Michael Phelps... HE DID IT!

I just witnessed sports history, on my TV of course but... 8 for 8 GOLD MEDALS ! So glad I got to see this in my lifetime! Thank You Michael for representing the USA with such class and sportsmanship. I'm in total amazement!

BEIJING 2008 continued... Michael Phelps

I have had the best time watching this young man swim for the US! No..it's not a crush as I'm old enough to be his favorite aunt! Ha! Just his character and dedication to the sport he loves makes it so special. It was amazing watching him lead the relay team in that Gold Medal victory over France and to see him win Gold ten times in his career. Phenomenal! and...he's not even finished!

Amazed by BEIJING 2008

I have to say I'm not what one would consider a sports fanatic. But.. every two years I find myself glued to the TV for two weeks during the Olympic Games. I think it's the concept of athletes from all nations and cultures assembling in the name of sportsmanship. I watch sports I would never dream of watching any other time. Each time the host nation has never ceased to amaze me with their creativity and hospitality. Beijing, China is no exception. The faces of the participants, especially the beautiful children in the opening ceremonies really touched me. The lighting of the flame by Li Ning was simply breathtaking! I hope during these two weeks the world can put aside differences and show support for these athletes that have worked so hard to get to this moment in their lives. I'm really looking forward to seeing all the events and can only imagine what they have in store for the closing ceremonies! All I can say is Vancouver 2010 and London 2012 has some big shoes to fill!! Best of luck to all the athletes. And I can't end this with out saying....

GO USA!!

Justice?!

I work in a courtroom at least twice a week and see everything from the ridiculous to the sublime. People guilty as sin let go and good people getting the "book thrown at them" when it shouldn't be. The same repeat offenders getting away with the same thing over and over. It makes no sense and I find it hard to have sympathy for them! Children.. and I mean young children being brought in for adult crimes. Judges sometime are too harsh and sometimes too soft. Where is the line drawn? It's an endless cycle that sees no end. It's hard not to bring it home, but sometimes I do. I've fought back laughter, tears, stress, and anger all in a few hours time. Still, I feel our justice system here needs many changes. I'm more for the rights of victims and not criminals. They didn't care about the rights of the others when they committed their crimes. I hope that eventually enough people will speak out and get laws changed for the better. I know crime will never be fully defeated, but at least there could be a chance to have better justice in the end.