It's a small world, after all.

Every two years my world gets thrown upside down. Suddenly my entire schedule is completely blown. For 16 days I am glued to the television, foregoing important everyday activities like laundry, reading and, occasionally, even bathing. What could possibly possess me so? Well, it's this little thing we like the call the Olympics.

I am an Olympic fanatic. My heart races every time I hear the Olympic theme song. I obsess over medal counts. I cry my heart out over moving back stories, amazing triumphs, and crushing defeats. I find myself watching everything from gymnastics to curling (it involves ice, a broom, and Canadians). I have even managed to develop a little crush on NBC Olympic expert Bob Costas.

What is it that makes the Olympics so alluring? Is it the sense of competition? National pride? Michael Phelps's abs? While all these things do play their roll, I think for me the real draw is being involved in something so universal. I love knowing that there is some kid in a far away country that is watching the same race as I am. I love that the whole world knows and understands the Olympic experience. I love that for 16 days our big, huge world feels small and homey.

I got the same feeling a couple of weeks ago when Breaking Dawn was released. How cool was it to know that people all over the world were excited about the same book? It was all everyone was talking about, no matter where you went. Or, at least, no matter where I went. That might, however, have had something to do with me being a YA librarian and all. (Btw, if you want to read my thoughts on Breaking Dawn, I've posted my review here.)

I love feeling connected. So, to the Olympic planning committee, all the athletes, and Stephenie Meyer (and Jo, who came before her), I say thank you. Now, I've wasted entirely too much time blogging. I'm certain that I've missed ping-pong or some other great Olympic moment!