The summer games always seem to sneak up on me. I know they are coming. Shoot, I was a super fan of the summer games trials in Indianapolis just a month ago, but somehow, the Paris Opening Ceremony hit, and I wasn’t ready. Don’t get me wrong, it was a welcomed distraction. I always love jumping on the summer games bandwagon and cheering on the latest viral athlete to strike gold and win the nation’s heart is so fun. However, what I didn’t expect was something dearer. The summer games brought my family together again.
Summer is absolutely chaotic. We have been nonstop for almost two months with little respite. Camps, weekend getaways, coordinating playdates, babysitters, work schedules, sports, and just maybe a summer vacation, while fun, can be taxing. So I think more than anything, there hasn’t been any time to stop, relax, and just take in the family. That is until the summer games started.
It began gradually with the summer games’ opening ceremony. We tuned in to it, but it carried minor fanfare in our house. Then, slowly, I could see my children start to turn. “I want to see Simone.” “The Men’s Soccer team plays today.” “Mom, surfing is on!” It really didn’t matter what it was, but each time, I found my family of four cuddled up on the couch to cheer on America’s athletes.
It might sound minor, and it was, but it was exactly what was needed after a crazy summer. Instead of stressing out over the latest work project, we were watching Stephen Nedoroscik remove his glasses and perform the pummel horse to perfection. Last night, we even left dirty dishes in the sink in favor of watching Simone and Team USA take gold during the gymnastics team competition.
So thank you, summer games. You’ve only just begun, but you are already making a huge impact in our household, and I am sure we’re not alone. And if you haven’t tuned in just yet, do yourself a favor, leave the laundry in the dryer, clean the mess up tomorrow, grab the kiddos, and head for the couch. Now, is anyone else ready to watch some more handball?
