The Olympics are Here!

 

I am not an Olympic geek, but I do enjoy the excitement of something that only comes along every two to four years. After missing it last summer, I looked forward to celebrating with all of the athletes who had worked hard, when they could, despite the restrictions of a global pandemic.

The back stories of the athletes are often fascinating. Seeing our young men and women, from a 15-year-old swimmer to a 57-year-old equestrian. In an article with AARP (oh Lord!), Phillip Dutton, said competing in 2021 is no less a thrill than it was the first time 25 years ago. Good “old” Phil has participated in 6 or 7 previous Olympics.

Anyway, it’s been fun to watch. Surprisingly, my parents are getting into it. They really love the swimming and gymnastics. Not sure they’ll stay up late for surfing or skateboarding, but they are cheering for everyone on Team USA.

This week with the jaw-dropping news of the Simone Biles dropping out of the team competition, I found so much controversy on social media. It went from “sore loser” “suck it up” “thought you were the GOAT (greatest of all time)” to “you are a great role model to young girls” and “taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical wellbeing” and so much more. I’m thinking there was more support for her than disappointment in her, but nonetheless, I didn’t expect so much backlash.

I watched her on more than one occasion doing interviews and she always said it was a lot of pressure, to perform and live up to the past efforts. People are always expecting perfection and she was feeling it.

Now, I’m no athlete, but I have felt pressure, on occasions, and I am a people pleaser so when I don’t live up to other’s expectations, I take it personally and to heart. I have to say I have more compassion than distain for her. I hope she reaches out to Michael Phelps, who has lived this, and because I know that she is not alone in this pressure filled world.

Next, I have found it fascinating that the Norwegian women are a big topic of conversation because of their uniforms. What in the hell is going on??? So the beach handball team is being fined $1500 euros (of $1770 in US), which PINK has agreed to pay. They are being fined for wearing shorts instead of bikini bottoms. WTH? I’m guessing it’s a board of men that make these rules, but honestly, the fact that it is an issue should not even be discussed. How they keep those skimpy bottoms on while diving for balls or into the sand is something I will never get! I know there is more to this but I really don’t care except for the ridiculous sexism of it all. UGH!! Gosh, I know when I dive/jump into the pool, I'm either pulling up my straps or pulling my wedgie out before I dare come out of the water! 

I know lots of people have chosen not to watch for various reasons. Some say it’s too political. Some say they shouldn’t have hosted them due to covid. Some say the Olympics are no longer the real sporting event they used to be. I say, it’s okay. For me, it beats reruns and for whatever reason, (competition, back stories, history, etc...) it’s so cool!

Now for the real news…in just 2+ days, I will be taking a “mother/daughter” trip with my Katie. We are going to a resort spa in Bedford Springs, PA. There will be luxurious pajamas, lounging at the pool and in our cabana, amazing meals, a cocktail or two for this girl, massages (prenatal for Katie and therapeutic for me!), Bedford Bath (going from hot to cold temps) for me as well (pregnant daughter will have to skep that part!) Both of us have said one of the highlights will be cranking the a/c down and keeping the room cold! LOL!! With her pregnancy, she's always hot and here at the retirement home, it's sometimes a bit toasty! The simple pleasures!

So…I will not be posting next Wednesday as I will be on the road. Rest assured I’ll report back to all of you on August 11! In the meantime, stay safe and healthy! Wear your masks in large indoor crowds and please get vaccinated if you haven’t already! Love ya!