Molodets Aliya!!!

On behalf of myself and every fan who reads this blog I would like to extend the warmest happiest most joyous blessings to Aliya Mustafina, who is due to give birth to her first child in July. This is such a bittersweet moment for me as I watch one of my idols graciously transcend to the next stage of her life. The mama of the team is about to really become a mom! 

I remember a particular interview where the befuddled journalist asked her what else she could hope to accomplish in her life after becoming an Olympic and World Champion by 20. Her smile was polite as she remarked that she would like to be a mother one day. In western society (represented by prevailing reactions last year/this year), the idea that women choose to place motherhood on an equal or higher pedestal than their career is met with mockery, sometimes even hatred. For me, it comes down to personhood and choice, and Aliya has always been frank about wanting to engage with the nurturing side of her character. Furthermore, neither she or her family worship sports so I expect this child will rightfully take priority over whatever choices she makes regarding gym (and that is fine with me). Ultimately, everything I ever wanted for her has come true: she is healthy. She is happy. She is satisfied with how her career went. She is universally recognized for her meritable contributions to Russian gymnastics and sport. From my perspective, a baby is just another blessing to call her own. So with that in mind I hope for a healthy term and safe arrival of the child. I think Alexei should be home by summer to welcome the birth of his first child too 

One last thing.

They don't know the sex of the child yet but if it's a girl, Aliya honey, you just messed up . You want your child to be a rhythmic gymnast yet you disadvantaged her thus? Do you have any idea how haaaaaard it is for a new senior to break through in a post-Olympic year...in RG? Well, there's Kudry. And if anyone can do it again it would be your child. Girl or boy, that's some amazing talent genes being passed down. Molodets to the happy couple.