Ok, I admit, I am one of those Americans who cringe a little at obnoxious displays of American Patriotism. Not that there is anything wrong with it! It just has never been my style.
Going to London for the 2012 Games, I had actually not gotten any “America Gear”. I simply brought my “NYC” tshirt and figure I would wear that to the events that I was attending. Fast forward to my first event day, and I have never wanted to be more obnoxiously American in my life!! Seeing other people draped in their country flags, or wearing shirts with their country names, just got me in the spirit — how can it not?? I turned to my friend and said, oh my god, I want to be so obnoxiously American, it is out of control! I want to wear an American flag a a cape! I want to be an American Super Hero like the Spainards that we saw in Camden Market (greatest people in the WHOLE WORLD!!). TEAM USA ALL THE WAY!!
THIS IS SPAIN!!
So, we figured that going into our first event, there would be vendors selling different country swag. We were wrong. But on the way out, we pass some Americans decked out in swag, so we ask then were they got it. They tell us at America House. America House?? It turns out that all the different country have secret houses all over London!! We find ours and go to it that very night! It was mecca when we got there! We walk in and Gabby-Freaking-Douglas is RIGHT THERE giving an interview!! Can it get any better than that?? Oh, you also have to be American just to get inside the place. We check out the store. They were selling the Ralph Lauren blazers and barets that the Olympians were wearing during the opening ceremonies. I had to stop myself from buying one at $600. I tell you, I caught the fever! No blazer has ever fit so well in my life! If you put that amazingly wonderful piece of clothing on, I think you would understand. I came to my senses, with the help of Staci, and did not buy the blazer. (still really want it!!)
But I did leave with some great tote bags and a couple “Team USA” shirts. It’s no amazing super hero blazer, but it will have to do (for now).
We go from this…
TO THIS!!
The Colorful Geek
