So it's over. Several weeks of the most inspiring sporting and human endeavours we've been lucky to witness in a long time. However much or little of the staging of London's amazing Olympic events we have seen, I doubt that any of us have failed to be touched in some way by the personal stories of the torch bearers and athletes, the altruistic nature of the thousands of volunteers, the success of the forces in protecting the endless stream of visitors to what could have been a less than peaceful event without them .. and of course the unbelievable achievements of such a huge number of the British competitors. Naturally, we celebrate the success of every nation - each individual competitor is hugely successful to have qualified to take part and each winner, bronze, silver or gold, is a nation's pride - but it's something special when such a momumentous event is held in the capital of our own country and we are able to support, even in some small way, those who are taking part.
I was working locally the day the Olympic torch passed through our village and cycled like crazy to get to see it before it was too late! My husband and I walked across the river bridge close to home and watched Wiggins race to his victorious Gold medal. Sadly, we didn't get to visit any of the venues, but we watched a fair few sporting moments moments from the comfort of our own home .. and cheered just as loudly as if we were in the stadium!
A sporting fever took place in Britain. It's without doubt that millions of us have been hugely inspired by the weeks of incredible success enjoyed by our many athletes. And as I type, the Victory Parade of our new household names is weaving it's way through London's streets, from Mansion House to the Queen Victoria Memorial, to the deafening cheers of ten's of thousands of people. What a fitting finale to the most exciting summer!
Yes, staging the Olympics cost us a fortune, but it's impossible to put a price on inspiring a nation. This wasn't a short-term gain, it's a long-term one - not just for the winners in the pool, on the track or in other disciplines - it's the 'in your face' message to everyone of us, able-bodied, disabled, rich or poor:
This is an example of what you can achieve if you are passionate, focused, disclipined and you don't give up!
Here are some personal Olympic memories from my own summer ...
We held an Olympic party at home for our family and close family friends in August. Here was some of the home-made food we served up!
Here's my lovely dad, who turns 91 this November, playing racket ball with two of my nephews in the garden during their stay!
A visit to Hampton Court Flower Show back in July afforded a viewing of various local schools' Olympic themed works of art. It was hard to pick a favourite, so here are a few of the best:
And finally, here's an amazing aeriel view (taken at home from the TV!) of our incredible Olympic Stadium. We had the teletext writing on screen at the time and look at the perfect message I captured in the second photo below. Long may that continue!
To your health, success and happiness ..
For team building events and inspirational speakers, take a look at:
hhtp:/www.chatterboxevents.co.uk
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