So, it's my first early morning, and it's not really that early compared to some of my friends' mornings here. I got into the office around 6:50 and no one is here, so I figured I would take time to blog it up.
Things are going great still. The biggest thing that's happened, as far as my experience here, since my last post is that I got to play in the fountains with some Chinese children. I'm aware that that may not seem to be a big deal compared to all that is going on around me. I mean, it's just the Olympics and all. But the other night, my crew was out and about on the Olympic green filming some crowds and whatnot, and the fountains outside the National Stadium came on. These are the kinds of fountains that come up from the sidewalk, and they are synchronized to music. Tons of kids started running and playing in them. We were done shooting for the most part, and Hank was just shooting some shots of the kids playing, so I decided to join in the fun. I got some pics and a few video clips of it all. It was just an amazing blessing to get to do that because I had been waiting for a chance to really connect with the people here in a real way, and it's hard when there is a language barrier and I'm busy working and all. Playing with the kids was a great way to break the barrier, and their laughter brought real joy to my night. I got to a race a girl through the fountains and back...3 times! And, of course, she beat me everytime. I also had a splash fight with this little boy that was hilarious. He wouldn't run through the fountains with me though. It was an amazing night to say the least.
Other than that, I saw USA beat Spain. We were shooting crowd shots (we're doing a lot of that right now). Nadal was sitting about 5 or 6 rows down from our ENG platform. Ada and I tried to take his picture, but he wouldn't turn around. A couple of my friends got to see Phelps win his 8th medal, which was sweet. I watched it on a big screen on the Olympic Green.
Some notable things in the past week have been seeing Nadal play, seeing the Williams sisters at a match I was covering, watching some awesome table tennis matches, and shooting in the Water Cube. Today, we're doing some sponsorship filming. I think we get to go to the Bird's Nest at some point. I'm excited about that.
Working here has been a great experience. Despite some of the 15-17 hour days I've pulled lately, and being really tired at times, I have loved every minute of being here. The people I work with are all wonderful. I hope I get to stay in touch with some of them, if not all.
Thank you all for your prayers and support. Both are much needed.
God Bless!
3 comments:
Hey, Willis, I'm Sara Helpap, Seth's sister. I'm so glad that you are enjoying your Olympic experiance. Salt Lake City was a dream come true for me, so I know all about early morning, long hours, and walking more then I ever have just to get to work-we had a 2 mile hike...in the snow...up hill(bothways-well one way atleast). I hope you all aren't that far. I know Seth and I have had many a lot night keeping up with things over there but it's nice to have a different perspective other than NBC:) Keep up the good work and kep writing!
I'm so glad you're being blessed! :)
Yes, I will have to agree with you, Andy.......playing with the kids is definitely an experience. When we were in Africa, just hanging out with the African teens was the most fun for me!! Getting to know their culture is the best!!
Post a Comment