2014 Sochi Olympic Journal #7: What an Accomplishment - Sochi 2014

Sure not everything is complete, sure not every "t" is crossed or "i" dotted, but for sure tonight was an amazing accomplishment - for the first time in olympic history against a backdrop of security threats in an unknown region of the world, a ceremony par excellence was held.

Security was tight and 5 major venues within walking distance were built and fully operational along with hotels, buses, streets, water, stores, supplies, electricity, gasoline, propane, natural gas, coal, sanitation and everything else required to move heaven and earth for an event like this.

Was it perfectly orchestrated like the opening ceremonies like Beijing? No, but for myself I found a new-found sense of humility and humor in the occasional faux pas of the ceremony, and an incredible sense of accomplishment for what they have created - out of nothing - in one of the world's most remote but interesting areas. 

As for my hotel - the Azimut Hotel and spa on the Black Sea, it is fantastic. Perfect? No, but the setting is gorgeous and the facilities include features like an "ice-fall" as well as herb infused steam rooms, sauna, massage, and a huge pool. All in all, the fact that my door doesn't quite close without an extra shove, and the phone in my room doesn't seem to reach anyone is a minor nuisance compared to the safe and comfortable environment they have created.

Can't wait for what tomorrow brings.