Let the Games Begin!!!

Let the games begin. I am pretty excited to have the Summer Olympics to watch. I think that the summer games are my favorite. There are just so many sports that I enjoy playing as well as watching. I think the Olympic games are so inspirational. Where do you find so many athletes that have worked their whole lives, have sacrificed so many things to get to the point that they are able to go and compete for their country. This is just so exciting. We are headed up to Bear Lake with Robs family this weekend so we are taping the Opening Ceremony. So we'll have some fun to watch when we get home.

The Olympic 2008 Mascots have alot more symbolism than I had thought they would. So thought I would document them for future reference. Hope you find this just as interesting.

Like the Five Olympic Rings from which they draw their color and inspiration, Fuwa will serve as the Official Mascots of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, carrying a message of friendship and peace -- and good wishes from China -- to children all over the world. When you put their names together -- Bei Jing Huan Ying Ni -- they say "Welcome to Beijing," offering a warm invitation that reflects the mission of Fuwa as young ambassadors for the Olympic Games.

Beibei is the Fish - In China's traditional culture and art, the fish and water designs are symbols of prosperity and harvest. A fish is also a symbol of surplus in Chinese culture, another measure of a good year and a good life. Strong in water sports, she reflects the blue Olympic ring.

Jingjing is the Panda - Jingjing makes children smile -- and that's why he brings the blessing of happiness wherever he goes. The lotus designs in Jingjing's headdress symbolize the lush forest and the harmonious relationship between man and nature. Jingjing is charmingly naïve and optimistic. He is an athlete noted for strength who represents the black Olympic ring.

Huanhuan is the Olympic Flame - He is a child of fire, symbolizing the Olympic Flame and the passion of sport -- and passion is the blessing he bestows. And while he inspires all with the passion to run faster, jump higher and be stronger, he is also open and inviting. Huanhuan is outgoing and enthusiastic. He excels at all the ball games and represents the red Olympic ring.

Yingying is the Tibetan antelope - A symbol of the vastness of China's landscape, the antelope carries the blessing of health, the strength of body that comes from harmony with nature. The selection of the Tibetan Antelope reflects Beijing's commitment to a Green Olympics. Strong in track and field events, Yingying is a quick-witted and agile boy who represents the yellow Olympic ring.

Nini is the Swallow - Every spring and summer, the children of Beijing have flown beautiful kites on the currents of wind that blow through the capital. Her golden wings symbolize the infinite sky and spread good-luck as a blessing wherever she flies. Among Fuwa, Nini is as innocent and joyful as a swallow. She is strong in gymnastics and represents the green Olympic ring.