Future Olympians?

It is a week into the Olympics and it has been great!  It’s like guaranteed good news every day- swelling pride and patriotism.

Since Aidan and Brendan have been going to swimming lessons all their lives practically, they stop to watch the swimmers any time it is on.  Aidan likes Michael Phelps (of course).  There is a big Michael Phelps quote he passes at his school every time he swims there.

I love watching gymnastics.  This year’s women’s team – “The Fab 5” – have not disappointed.  They really define teamwork.  It’s been a great lesson for the kids to see.  I explained the significance of the Magnificent 7 to them.  I even pulled an old YouTube clip to show just what teamwork on an Olympic stage looks like.  Well that just made me feel old!  16 years!  Seriously?!  Some of these kids weren’t alive then!  And I remember watching is with my friends and seeing Kerri Strug’s vault and her one foot landing.  Aidan focused on the “weird” clothes.  Hey, it was the 90’s!  And “that you could video back in the 1900’s.”  Thanks, you know that old feeling?- smack in the face.

But really, it brings out the best in youth athletics.  It reminds us of setting goals, pushing ourselves, being dedicated and- most importantly perhaps- you can’t always win but you can try your best.  Great lessons to remember.