I Hate Long Good-Byes!

Actually, I'm writing this on Sunday morning, but scheduling it to be posted early on Monday morning. I'm probably not going to bring my laptop back in to the IBC when I come in to watch the closing ceremonies tonight, so I may not get a chance to post again before I head home.

If that turns out to be true, I need to wrap things up now. Like every Olympics I have been to, this has been an amazing experience, even working the night shift. I have learned so much, and seen and experienced things I never would have imagined that I would have a chance to see and do.

I am always asked what has been my favourite Olympics, but it is impossible to choose. Each experience has been so unique that they can't be compared. I will say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the Beijing experience, and have only scratched the surface of what there is available to do and learn from (but it's probably a good thing that I'm leaving, as I am turning into a shopaholic).

The COMMs team and the people in the IBC have also been great. As most of the people here are free-lancers, many don't see each other other than at the Olympics. It is like a fraternity that only gets together every couple of years.

I have to thank NBC for continuing to invite me to the games, and Telex Communications (my client) and Kerr Vayne Systems (my employer) for continuing to allow me to come. I am so lucky - as they say in the industry "It's a good gig".

Mostly, I want to thank you all for reading and for keeping me company on my journey, especially Susan, Connor, and Caitie, who never get to come and experience this with me, and who I've hardly had a chance to talk to for three weeks because of the time change. Strange to be conversing via email with Susan, MSN with Caitie, and Facebook with Connor - we take this kind of connectivity for granted.

I love you all, and can't wait to get home to see you!