A Fond Farewell

How do you sum up 20 of the most memorable days of one's life! I have never been so proud to be a Canadian as I have since the 9th of February. Not only did our athletes perform so admirably in so many ways, but our volunteers did a marvelous job and our citizens behaved themselves in oh such a Canadian way. Where else in the world would thousands of people line up for hours for a chance to touch the olympic medals and not only not complain but make the best of it by having a good time in the line! Yes, there were a few glitches, including an unfortunate, serious accident, but for the most part I think we did a wonderful job showing ourselves to the world. One incredible side effect of this is the fact that these olympics have brought us together as a country and hopefully some of that will continue to make us feel good for a long time to come.
The only thing that could have topped this is the incredible weekend we had in terms of accomplishments. It was so nice to see Charles Hamelin achieve the success he so deeply wanted and to see Kevin Martin feel fulfilled after his disappointment 8 years ago. And then the finale!!!
Could it not have been more appropriate than to have Sidney Crosby score the winning goal in overtime? His disappointment 4 years ago at not being chosen was also rewarded.
The closing ceremonies were so appropriate--as NBC said--very folksy, very Canadian! Our flag bearer was a perfect choice. I didn't know if Joannie would do it, thinking she might want to get home, but I am so glad she did. The other athletes were also glad she did and that is a testament to how they felt about her accomplishments. Being the humble person that she is, she said she didn't think she should carry the flag because she had not won a gold medal.
The moment that flame went out, a little flame went out in me as well. It is hard to believe it is over. In one way the time went by so quickly, but in another way it seems like months ago that Alex Bilodeau won our first gold medal ever at home!
We will all suffer from withdrawal now for the next little while, but it was a wonderful time that will never be repeated in my lifetime.