Let The Games Begin: Sochi Olympics Part One

The Olympics are HERE!!!! As we eagerly await the Opening Ceremonies tonight, having gotten a teaser last night of the excitement to come (even though I feel like those events weren't real because the opening ceremonies haven't happened yet??... sorry team figure skating) I have SO many things I want to share with you all. SO many things to talk about and stories to tell.  Coming from the girl who as a 5th grader painted a full-size portrait of myself with an Olympic gold medal on, lets just say, I love the Olympics. Still a little bitter that my parents didn't have me training on the giant slalom, or on the beach volleyball court as a young child (I don't discriminate, any sport would do), I am perpetually infatuated with the passion, pride, patriotism and the sheer athletic talent on display at the Olympic games. AH! Ok so before the games officially kick off, here are a few thoughts on my pre-Olympics prep / Opening ceremonies celebration.
Get your head in the game. Gear up for the Games by watching some of my favorite Olympics inspired flicks:
#1. Cool Runnings.  It doesn't get much better than this true story of the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team. (Spoiler Alert) The sight of these guys carrying the sled over the finish line never ceases to give me goosebumps... (and maybe a few tears). Be reminded of the true spirit of the Olympics watching this story of an eclectic group of Jamaican mis-fits take their Olympic hopes from a pipe dream into a reality. With a lot of laughs along the way. On a side note... for the first time since 2002, there is in fact a Jamaican bobsled team in Sochi. And with a story line that would fit in the movie script, the teams equipment didn't actually arrive in Sochi for two full days after the team did after getting put on a later flight!  Feel the Rhythm, Feel the Rhyme, Get On Up, It's Bobsled Time. Cool Runnings!!!!!!!!!!

#2. Miracle. Re-creating arguably the greatest sports moment of our time was no easy feat. However, Miracle succeeds, taking us back to 1980 and the US Hockey win over the Soviet Union, an Olympic memory etched in the minds of anyone lucky enough to witness this momentous event. The story is fit for a movie, except it actually happened in real life as the MAJOR underdog US team defeated the power house Russians at a moment in time when tensions between our two countries had never been higher. After watching this classic, you will no doubt be singing the national anthem a little louder and a little prouder this Olympic season. USA USA USA

Now for the party.  To appropriately ring in the 2014 Games, you need a festive celebration:
#1. Costumes. Red, white and blue everything. American flag shirts, shorts, jackets or vests would be ideal. Sweat bands are also great for an added effect. If you're really feeling festive, throw on some ski goggles to complete your look. Everyone loves a good prop for a theme party.
#2. Decor / Party Accessories. My two favorites. A full-size ice luge is SURE to be a major hit, and perfectly fitting for the theme. Hula hoop "Olympic rings" are also a fun way to give your party scene a great Olympic vibe... and makes for a fun activity/game as the night goes on. When's the last time you were in a hula hoop competition?? 
#3. DRINKS.  -Mix up some White Russians in honor of this years hosts. (Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, 3/4 oz Kahlua coffee liqueur, 3/4 oz cream)  -The All-American, Budweiser.  -It is a celebration after all... Pop the bubbly! You can't go wrong with a good bottle of champagne as you celebrate the amazing 2 weeks to come! 

Throughout the games, check back for more of our Olympics series highlighting your favorite athletes, their favorite workouts and some great Olympic inspired fitness tips. 
Let the games begin!