I remember very well where I was when London was announced the host nation of the 2012 games. On the Aer Lingus website planning my escape back to Ireland. I had seven years – surely enough time to make the move? By Christmas 2011 – still here – I swapped flight plans for the Runner’s World Complete Guide to Women’s Running, figuring this was the only way to realistically get myself to work during the games. And now (running book barely opened, looks like I’ll be walking), after all my groaning and moaning and hugely to my surprise, I’m starting to feel excited about the Olympics.

I haven’t got tickets for any of the events – all those plans for moving house and jogging took up too much time – but I will be going to the West Norwood party to watch the opening ceremony on Friday night. I’m also planning a trip to Park Live, just outside the Olympic Village, where up to 10,000 people are expected to watch coverage live on giant screens over the river – get more info and buy tickets here.

I’m looking forward to the gymnastics and some of the fast running – the long races go on a bit – and despite all the horrible transport chaos predictions, over-crowding fears, and Boris Johnson’s gloomy voice on the bus home every night pondering on congestion, I love the excitement and buzz the event is generating. And while I might be wishing I’d read a bit more of the Complete Guide to Women’s Running on Monday when I’m trying desperately to get to work, I like the way the Olympics has reminded me of the all the great things I love about London. And I’m curious to see what everyday life is like in an Olympic city.

Get into the Olympic spirit with our fun ways to get involved with the Olympics