Torch fever

Unlike so many others I have spoken to, I don't begrudge helping to pay for the Olympics and I surely am enjoying them, as much as I possibly can. I'm loving the friendly atmosphere in town amongst visitors and 'the locals' and that the underground and roads seem quieter than ever. And I'm loving the cultural programme. Metamorphosis: Titian 2012 by the Royal Ballet at Covent Garden a couple of weeks back was so brilliant, I nearly cried. The fusion of contemporary and classical ballet and the wonderfully mobile sets and scenery were stunning. I haven't seen the accompanying National Gallery exhibition yet but I surely will make it before it closes end September. And with colleagues, I escaped from my desk to not only see the Olympic Torch being carried over Chelsea Bridge by Tom Aitken, cheered on by his white uniformed kitchen staff, but also the torch on board the Gloriana as it passed by Battersea and Chelsea Embankment. And finally, on Friday, I went to the Opening Ceremony at the Olympic Stadium and loved absolutely every minute of it. Since then, I've been a newspaper and TV spectator, usually late at night like this evening. So I'm skipping off now to watch some more highlights while I'm still awake enough. And this is just the beginning of week one. Pray for continued stamina to see me through - it's all too good to miss.