Early this morning, we had the opportunity to see women's individual all-around gymnastics.
It was quite the cab ride/walk/heat etc to get to it.. but it was well worth it.
This is Nastia Luikin (the gold medalist) on bars. She is amazing and so fun to watch.
This is our Olympian Shani, and my bestest best friend, before she got back on the bus to get ready for her competition.
The rest of the day was very time consuming with trying to get taxis, riding in taxis and a LOT of walking!!! People pretty much just stand in the streets trying to get a taxi. You also have to be very assertive to grab one otherwise there is someone right behind you who wants it more than you do.
We had a chance to go to the Hometown Hospitality which is for family and friends of Olympic athletes. Everything was FREE FREE FREE! Good food, free computers and internet, and free MASSAGES! Yes that's right... I got a much needed back massage today!
The place is beautiful. Here are some of my favorite touches...
I found this wall that I love love loved and made them take a family shot before we headed off to see Shani.
I know everyone has had a chance to see the outside of the "Birds Nest" which is that amazing stadium where the opening ceremonies took place... BUT I am positive that no one has seen the stairs you must climb in order to get to your seats. That's right folks... no escalators. So to say the least.. I burned mucho calories today :)
This is my favorite image of the day. The Chinese people are so loud and so proud of every single athlete that partakes in the Olympics.
As we made it back from our long day, I received an email that Shani was the top story in our paper back home. The image filled my eyes with tears as I could see the hurt, frustration, and disappointment in her eyes. Pictures do tell a thousand words, but only she knows the extent of them all. No matter what the paper says, the news stations, the coaches, other athletes, or even she says, she is still the most motivated and inspiring person I know. God has a plan for each and every one of us... and he has given her a gift that has changed her life forever. In the process of making this Olympic dream come true, she has brought me along for the ride. I am so proud of you, Shani. I love you.
I found this wall that I love love loved and made them take a family shot before we headed off to see Shani.
I know everyone has had a chance to see the outside of the "Birds Nest" which is that amazing stadium where the opening ceremonies took place... BUT I am positive that no one has seen the stairs you must climb in order to get to your seats. That's right folks... no escalators. So to say the least.. I burned mucho calories today :)
This is my favorite image of the day. The Chinese people are so loud and so proud of every single athlete that partakes in the Olympics.
As we made it back from our long day, I received an email that Shani was the top story in our paper back home. The image filled my eyes with tears as I could see the hurt, frustration, and disappointment in her eyes. Pictures do tell a thousand words, but only she knows the extent of them all. No matter what the paper says, the news stations, the coaches, other athletes, or even she says, she is still the most motivated and inspiring person I know. God has a plan for each and every one of us... and he has given her a gift that has changed her life forever. In the process of making this Olympic dream come true, she has brought me along for the ride. I am so proud of you, Shani. I love you.
Check out her story on the startribune.
1 comment:
Nice pics slugger!! Even though shani didnt do as well as she wanted she's still a rockstar!!! Hope youre having fun and i cant wait until u get back!
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