Everyone who wants, I assume, has had the opportunity to view the magnanimous artistic endeavor that was the opening ceremonies on Friday night. As a child, I thought that an archer lighting the cauldron in Barcelona was the creative standard, but a former gymnast running a circle at the top of the "bird's nest" was certainly a sight.

While controversy may try and mar the image of these games, I want to highlight the many accomplishments and surprises that over 11,000 athletes spend their lives working towards. Those minutes of glory and disaster are the culmination of hard work, family support, and financial hardship for many.

United States athletes started off with a bang today. With former president George H.W. Bush in the stands, Beaverton native Mariel Zagunis pulled off a gold medal win to match her Athens performance in the women's sabre fencing event, alongside teammates Sada Jacobson and Rebecca Ward who brought home the silver and bronze medals.

Yesterday, Michael Phelps began his quest to win 8 gold medals in a single game with his 400 IM swimming event and the women's gymnastics team begins their quest in a qualification round live tonight. Beach volleyball, soccer, equestrian and many other sports started today -- or is that yesterday? As Sunday morning events commence in Bejing, I'll be back with what enthusiasm and insight I can offer.