From Sparkly Outfits to Maple Leaf Mittens

My Lifelong Love Affair with the Olympics

I’ve got to admit something right up front: 

I’m that person who gets genuinely thrilled when the Winter Olympics roll around. You’ve probably figured that out already if you’ve listened to me on the news—I know I talk about the Games a lot when they’re on… I just can’t help it. I’m so excited, and I want to share that with you! But my love for the Games didn’t start with medals or opening ceremonies—it started with sparkly skating outfits. Yup, I’ll own it. Figure skating was my gateway sport.

The first time I remember feeling something bigger than just “ooh, pretty costumes” was back in grade six during the Nagano Olympics. That year was special—not only did snowboarding, curling, and women’s ice hockey make their Olympic debuts, but I was completely obsessed with figure skating. I followed every jump, spin, and program from my favourites: Elvis Stojko, Shae-Lynn Bourne and Victor Kraatz, and the incredible Michelle Kwan and Tara Lipinski. My teacher had us learning about Japan, and we followed the Games as part of the class. That’s when I first understood what Canadian pride really felt like—cheering for our athletes, feeling that pulse of excitement every time someone from Canada hit the podium. It was more than a sport; it was a shared moment that made me feel connected to something bigger.

Over the years, I’ve been hooked. I enjoy the Summer Games, of course, but there’s just something about the Winter Olympics that grabs me every time—it gives me a chance to relive that thrill, but the 2010 Vancouver Games really took it to a whole new level. Canada hosting the Olympics—that was intense. It was only the third time our country had hosted: Montreal 1976, Calgary 1988, and then Vancouver 2010. I wasn’t around for the first, too young to fully grasp the second, so 2010 became my Olympics.

And oh, the mittens. The famous maple leaf mittens that seemed to be everywhere—even on Oprah! Wearing a pair, you didn’t just feel warm—you felt like you were part of this huge, joyful, cheering community. I still have my original pair, plus a couple newer editions: Rio 2016, and PyeongChang 2018.

My Olympic collection doesn’t stop at mittens. I’ve got my favourite red backpack from the 2018 Games—the same one the athletes used to travel with! A few years ago, my sister and I even took a trip to Atlanta, and of course, I insisted we get a picture in front of the Olympic rings.  Every piece, every memory, every photo is a little reminder of the thrill, the pride, and the connection I feel to Canada and the Olympic spirit.

So yes, the Winter Olympics get me every time—but for me, it’s not just about the competitions. It’s about the memories, the traditions, the pride, and yes, even the mittens that make it feel personal. And while I’ll be cheering loudly and soaking in every moment, I’ll also be saying a quiet prayer—sometimes just silently in my head—for the safety of the athletes and the strength it takes to stand on a world stage. Because for me, the Olympics have always been about more than sport. They’re about people—and moments that remind us we’re part of something bigger.