Have you been watching the Olympics from Rio? Although the games have been plagued by problems, including the Zika-carrying mosquito, reports of unsanitary water in the ocean and lagoons and now in the diving pool, and all those empty seats, the games have been just as exciting and competitive as ever.

Americans are doing well this year, so far bringing home medals in diving, fencing, archery, and gymnastics. But the swimmers took center stage this week. Katie Ledecky is a veritable machine, breaking her own world record and bringing home gold after gold. And Michael Phelps schooled long-time rival Chad le Clos, showing him that winning at trash talking doesn't earn you a medal. In fact, Phelps took home the gold in the 200m butterfly while the South African swimmer didn't even merit a spot on the podium.

Even through the controversies, which included dozens of athletes being banned for doping, the Olympic Games are still the best international competition in the world — no matter where they're held and no matter who wins. Though I must admit, as an American who can barely stay afloat on a pool noodle, it's fun to watch our swimmers pick up so much metal.

Your "Go For The Gold" Gift Guru,
Linda