The Olympics

We are getting so excited...only two days left! Our love for the Olympics was really magnified in 2002 when the Olympics were here in SLC in our very own backyard. We went to the opening ceremonies in Rice Eccles stadium (just a few blocks away) and were able to attend many events around and outside the city. It was an amazing, electrifying and absolutely memorable experience.

To help celebrate the upcoming summer Olympics in Beijing, here are a few fun ideas.

1. Check out library books on the Olympics. I've found some great picture books for the kids including one called "The Summer Olympics Encyclopedia for Children." It explains the history of many of the events.

2. Use this opportunity to learn a little more about Chinese culture. Use the internet, library books, newspaper articles, whatever is available to beef up on your world knowledge. I thought a trip down to our China Town market might be in order. Don't you think a few paper lanterns hung around the house might help set the stage?

3. Use this website to help track and find your favorite events...or find a new one you've never even heard of!

4. Take the night off from the kitchen and order Chinese take out!

5. Find a great red, white, and blue craft to make with the kids here. (I'm thinking about making up a U.S.A. pendant for each of the kids to wave during the final events we watch...still looking for a pattern...)

6. If you're feisty like (Kalli J) stage a protest. She's planning on making some signs and "protesting" in our family room during opening ceremonies about China's violations against human rights.

7. For the little ones, take some time to talk about good sportsmanship.

8. Host your own back yard olympics as the perfect finale. Come up with a few events, find some medals (I just got some at Dollar Tree), and get moving!

Now go on, and go for the gold!

-amr