I sat watching Gabby Douglas go after GOLD with tears streaming down my cheeks.

This beautiful, vivacious young woman.

This talented, passionate young woman.

This happy, blissful young woman.

She literally shines and I absolutely love watching her perform… it’s like watching magic happen. She owns the beam. She owns the bars. She owns the vault. She owns the floor. All eyes are on Gabby, and it’s incredible to see this young woman perform and light up every single time.

If I feel this way… imagine her mother, Natalie Hawkins.

This is a mother who exemplifies what it is to sacrifice for your child. I give the Douglas family more props than anything. Gabby’s mom let her go and be good at what she knew her daughter was meant to do… her mother dreamt the bigger dream for Gabby, and it’s absolutely incredible.

I loved watching this video of Gabby’s mother after her GOLD in the Individual All-Around!

And the seeing this photo of them celebrating at the P&G London Home after Gabby’s win!

Gabby Douglas made Olympic Games history as the first Olympian to ever win a gold medal in both the all-around and team gymnastics event at a single Olympic Games. Additionally, she became the first African-American to win a gold medal in gymnastics for the USA.

GO GABBY!!

And Natalie Hawkins… you are an inspiration.