The most significant change for me during these Olympics is that I can watch events live in a time zone 10 hours ahead of hours. I've logged hours watching events like skeleton, snowcross and women's bobsled, along with my favorite figure skating, ski jumping and giant slalom. Throw in hockey, both on TV and on my PC, and by now I am feeling a touch of Sochi OD.
For the most part, Bob and I enjoy the same events and cheer for the same competitors. The only hint of conflict comes when Canadian and US athletes are vying for the same medal. I've lived in the United States for over 30 years, but old loyalties remain and I just can't help supporting Canadian medal contenders.
On Thursday the Canadian hockey women defeated the US 3-2 in overtime. The US was ahead 2-0 until the last couple of minutes of the game, when Brianne Jenner's goal revitalized the Canadians. Marie-Philip Poulin, who scored the two goals in the Vancouver Olympics when Canada won gold, tied up the game with 56 seconds remaining and there was a little tension in the room as we waited for OT to begin. When Canada scored, I was jubilant. Bob, not so much. Marie-Philip Poulin scored the winning goal as well. A great victory for Canada.
On Friday, we spent several hours shoveling and blowing snow and were ready for the late morning start to the men's semi-final. Jamie Benn scored the only goal of the game, giving Canada a 1-0 win against Team USA. I felt a little sorry for the lack luster Americans, especially because two of our Minnesota Wild players, Zach Parise and Ryan Suter, looked so dejected after the game.
Today Bob and I were both cheering for the US against the Finns in the bronze medal game. The outcome was a sad shock. Anaheim right-winger Teemu Selanne, 43 years old in his sixth Olympics, led Finland to a 5-0 victory over Team USA and the Finns skated away with bronze medals.
Tomorrow Team Canada takes on Sweden. I may be alone cheering for Team Canada -- so many Minnesota Swedes!
