Sunday, February 28, 2010

Thoughts on the Vancouver Winter Olympics

The Winter Olympics are now in their closing ceremonies and the world says goodbye to lovely Vancouver, British Columbia.  My wife and I have been there three times, once to attend Stogie Jr.'s wedding to his Vancouver bride, once to attend a California CPA convention, and once just for fun.  We were blown away by the beauty of Vancouver and of Canada.  British Columbia is one of the most beautiful spots on earth.  Think whales and totem poles, spectacular forests and a beautiful, blue coastline.  Think flower gardens, friendly people and a world-class city, clean and almost devoid of litter or graffiti.

At the CPA convention back in the 1980's, we were actually bused to Whistler, where the 2010 Winter Olympics were just held.  It was June when we visited, however, and there was no snow, but lots of greenery.

It was a little disappointing for the USA hockey team to lose the gold medal to Canada, but let's face it, it was more important for Canada to win it.  Losing the gold on their home ice would have been a real downer, one that would have tarnished the Olympics for them.  For that reason, I do not begrudge them the win.

Congratulations, Canada.  I am off to bed.