Beijing Olympics (video)

If you haven't seen the Opening and Closing Ceremonies from the Beijing Olympics, it is a must see.

Here are just two snapshots of the Olympics. Its hard to find any real footage of the whole ceremony online, but I think there is a DVD that you can buy.

Bejing on my mind

In 2007 I thought about going to the Beijing Olympics that took place the summer of 2008. I had this in my mind for several years actually, but didn't know how to make it happen. Just the fact of wanting to go to China and putting that out in the universe,though set in motion a conversation with the Director of Admissions who asked me to accompany one of her staff on a trip to China for work (read: paid for). Thrill thrill thrill thrill. It worked out well because it was in the fall, a much more pleasant time to be in Beijing. And of course, we had a constant translator, great meals, and I got to meet Chinese students and professors who took me in with great warmth.

When did I start the process

Sometime in March of 2009, I really really really decided to take the plunge. I researched the Olympic websites (more about that later), found ticketing information, signed up for some email updates, and dreamed ahead. At that time I thought I could stay at a friends house (more on THAT later) and that I'd be able to use my frequent flyer miles.
There was so much to think about. I started to go to Olympic websites and watch video of past years.
Then things went dormant for a few months, though I kept getting emails from the various Olympic committees.

In June I found out that there were some deadlines for buying tickets-then I found out exactly how much they cost. Yikes. Yes, the Olympics are expensive, so its a good thing that I had saved up enough to make it possible.