Dear Universe,

It’s a fun time to be in London.

So what if I can’t get any tickets to the Olympics?

So what if I can’t even get into the Olympic Park/Village just to walk around?  (I tried—check out my up close and awesome picture of the outside).

And so what if I have no idea how the American athletes are faring in all this?

Despite those minor details, I am really enjoying my time here.  In fact, I would say this is a perfect time to be in London.

For starters, London has prepared for all the visitors.  It seems everywhere I turn there’s an official—be it a police officer or a London 2012 liaison—just aching to help, answer a question or point someone in the right direction.

The subway seems to be running quicker and more efficiently than ever before—and I always thought it was a great system to begin with.  Extra signs have been put up for all the visitors and Olympic checkpoints are mapped out clearly.

People from all over the world are here for the Olympics.  How do I know this?  Well because they are dressed from head to toe in their countries colors, flags and jerseys.  They wear face paint, pride and smiles.  It’s nice to be surrounded by such spirit from all over.  I’ve seen Brazilians, Italians, Australians, Americans and of course Team GB fans galore.  And the players pop up now and then too when I least expect it—that’s always neat.

Plus, there is decor everywhere you look for the Olympics and that’s just fun—sort of a once in a lifetime thing.

Like this guy?  I see different versions of him everywhere.  I think he’s an odd looking mascot, but I’m not judging.  He/She/It is actually growing on me now.

And Regent Street hanging all the flags from all over the world?  Well done, London.  Well done.  Simply beautiful.

My favorite touch?  A group of trees that had pretend medals hanging from them.

Oh, and I happened to see a procession go by—and I was told it was the Princess!  Kate Middleton!  Now I didn’t see her, but that’s a cool story so I am sticking to it.  The crowd went wild.

It’s a fun time to be in London.  Thank you for letting me a part of it.

Much Appreciation,

A