I have to admit that up until the last couple of days I have not being following the 2010 Winter Olympics. It is not that I have any real issue with them, and to the contrary I used to love following the figure skating during the winter Olympics. Figure skating was one of the few winter sports that both my Mom, and I loved to watch, and of course discuss afterwards. She was looking forward to these games especially because they are being held in Vancouver, and my Mom was a very proud Canadian.

Over the past few months I have noticed I tend to be avoiding things that either my Mom loved or we both shared together. Her death is still somewhat fresh for me, and I cry often when I think of her. So in turn knowing she would have been following these Olympics closely, and cheering the athletes (she was herself a very good fencer) I have avoided them too......

....until I read about Canadian skater Joannie Rochette, and how she was going to compete even after her own Mother's sudden, and tragic death less than a week ago. Her courage, and spirit touched me, so of course I had all of my own fingers, and toes crossed for her, and today my heart is filled with pride for her for not only skating, but winning an Olympic medal!

She has been quoted by the CTV as saying:

"I'm sure my mom was there with me with every step, and I'm really glad I could do it, I still don't know how I could do this and not start crying before the music started."

I am certain that from somewhere her Mother is beaming a huge smile, and I am equally certain that wherever she is my own Mom is smiling too.

Congratulations Joannie! Good Job!

Photo Credit: CBC