This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Summer Olympics in Paris, an experience that allowed me to see the city in a whole new light. As an attorney, my days are often filled with the standard contract reviewing, drafting, and negotiating, along with client calls most of the day, but this adventure was a refreshing departure from my usual routine.
One of the most striking aspects of the Olympics was how seamlessly the events were integrated into the historic fabric of Paris. Many of the venues were set against the backdrop of iconic landmarks, offering a unique blend of sport and history. Getting to share this once in a lifetime opportunity of seeing the Olympics in Paris with my husband and two children (16 and 14) was an experience that will live with me forever.
My 16-year old daughter (a competitive volleyball player) had seen mockups over 2 years ago of what the beach volleyball venue would look like sitting just beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower, which was the impetus for us planning this trip. Needless to say, being there in the stands when the day finally arrived was such a surreal experience. As night fell, the tower lit up, creating a magical atmosphere that was both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.
The spirit of camaraderie among the fans was another highlight. It was heartwarming to see people from all over the world come together, united by their love for sports. The friendly interactions and good sportsmanship displayed by fans from different countries were a testament to the unifying power of the Olympics. Even waiting in the occasional long lines to get into the venues was enjoyable because everyone was so friendly, asking one another where they were from, what event they were most excited about, etc. I even had one gentleman from Germany asked me to take a selfie with him and hold the American flag we brought so he could retell the story about our conversation, which I thought was so cool.
The Parisians were all extremely friendly during our entire experience of the Olympics – even overlooking our casual attire at a restaurant as nice as Le Rooftop Molitor knowing so many of us were heading across the street to Parc des Princes stadium where the football (soccer) matches were taking place. Getting to experience an amazing meal in such an iconic setting as Le Rooftop Molitor is one of my family’s best memories, and we got to do it just moments before watching Team USA play.
One of my favorite moments at the Olympics was watching Team USA women’s soccer play against Japan at the Parc des Princes stadium, home to Paris Saint-Germain football club. But it’s not because we got to see Team USA bring home a win with Trinity Rodman’s amazing goal against the unstoppable goalkeeper from Japan. Instead, what I’ll remember most is watching that same Japanese goalkeeper (on the very next play after she was just scored on) go over to Team USA’s striker—who was laying on the ground in pain with a charlie horse—help US player stretch her calf until she could get the attention of the referee. Seeing the ultimate example of good sportsmanship and experiencing the true spirit of the Olympics in that moment brought tears to my eyes.
Another memorable part of my trip was venturing out to Lille, a city near the Belgian border, to watch basketball. This excursion allowed me to experience a different side of France, one that is heavily influenced by Belgian culture. We even had a chance to sit in the middle of the town center and enjoy a Belgian beer at an outdoor café while we waited for our return train back to Paris. The architecture, cuisine, and overall vibe of Lille were a delightful contrast to the hustle and bustle of Paris.
Attending the Olympics in Paris was more than just a series of sporting events; it was a journey through history, culture, and human connection. It reminded me of the importance of stepping outside our daily routines to embrace new experiences and perspectives. As I return to my legal practice, I carry with me the vibrant memories of this summer, a testament to the enriching power of exploring life “outside the law.”
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Heather Clauson Haughian is co-founder and co-managing partner at CM Law (formerly Culhane Meadows), which was established in 2013 and is the largest women-owned and women-managed law firm in the country. She’s a technology and privacy & data security attorney, as well as a mother, Air Force spouse, spinning instructor, former college athlete and environmental/chemical engineer.
As well as being a member of CWBA, Heather belongs to the National Association of Women and Minority-Owned Law Firms and Women Owned Law, as well as the ABA, International Association of Privacy Professionals and the International Technology Law Association.
As a military spouse, she has practiced around the US and in the UK before happily settling in Colorado Springs.
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