Pop Culture Monday (As written by Kathleen Givens, on 8/13/08)
Another stunning victory for the US Men’s Swim team! Michael Phelps, who has now won more gold medals than enyone in Olympic history, is the one getting all the press, but his three teammates, Ricky Berens, Peter Vanderkaay, and Ryan Lochte, were essential for the win. Another world record shattered and another heartpounding finish.
It was different in the gymnastics competition, but our girls looked great – and old enough to compete. Bravo, gymnasts. And bravo to our beach volleyball players, who are so astonishing to watch. My only complaint? The 4×200 relay came on after 11:30 here on the West Coast. Brutal for those of us who have to get up in the morning. So, are you still watching, or am I cheering all by myself?
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Sherri adds:
Winter Olympics, also fun. Perhaps airing in a better time zone for our West Coasters? I know I’ve been up late watching Olympics coverage almost every night.
I’m loving figure skating, speed skating (short track, Apolo!), ski events, snowboarding, luge, bobsled, and yes, even curling. But after watching curling for days, my Mr. Right finally declared he had probably seen enough curling to last a lifetime.
My favorite moment of the games so far? Evan Lysacek winning the gold. He was so genuinely surprised and pleased, deserving and gracious (take notes, Plushenko). I also loved the whales in the Opening Ceremonies. Great effect! So not everything went off as planned. Big deal. It was a lovely ceremony (except Bob Costas and Matt Lauer needed to know when to shut up and just let it unfold).
Have you been watching? Staying up late? Losing track of everything else on TV in favor of Olympics coverage? Or maybe you’ve had enough and just can’t wait for it to end? What’s your favorite moment of the Olympics so far? Do you prefer the winter or the summer games?
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{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
I was never an Olympics fan until I worked during the 1996 Summer Games here in Atlanta. I’ve been hooked ever since. My husband is a junkie and watches all he can. We’ve really enjoyed skiing, skateboarding and I love speed skating. My favorite recaps are the ones done every day on http://www.ew.com (Entertainment Weekly). They have their “Olympic Stud of the Day”
my stud so far? Aksel Lund Svindal
Oh yes! I saw your boyfriend on your FB page.
Love love love the winter Olympics. We even watched in our hotel rooms on the tour. Since I’ve been home have been staying up late although it starts to repeat at about two. Fav moment–either Evan L or Sean White. Probably the latter. Although I can think of a dozen other cheering moments. Both Lindsey’s included. Not big on the summer games. Just not my cuppa. Although I always watch.
Love both the summer and winter games. What on earth are we going to watch when they’re over???
Haven’t been watching nearly enough, but enjoying what we do. Actually watched hockey last night (and cheered). I’ll pause while those that know me and my generally apathy toward watching team sports pick yourselves up off the floor. … okay, back now. We’re actually thinking a fun family outing might be going and watching the Austin Ice Bats!
Austin Ice Bats, LOL! I think it probably would be fun. Lots of fun.
Husband went to an Ice Bats game once – was surprised at how cold the arena was. Don’t know why but that always makes me laugh.
Was just reading about Canadian figure skater Joannie Rochette. Her mother died of a heart attack just as she arrived in Vancouver to watch Joannie compete. So sad! Joannie plans to skate, as her mother would want. Prayers and best wishes to Joannie and the Rochette family.
Oh, that’s so terribly sad!
Incredibly sad. Will be cheering that brave young woman on.
They announced it last night — she’d been rooming with the Canadian Ice Dancer. So terribly sad. Her dad is staying with her now. Can’t imagine how tough it’ll be to compete.
I don’t know how in heaven she will be able to do it. But I am sending her all my cyber mojo.