Take Pride

My weekend was absolutely fantastic. It was our first time back in Chicago in over 2 months and we walked into an extremely hot house smelling of mustiness. After many hours it cooled off and we were able to clean it up, unpack and organize some things. It was so nice to be back in our house with all of our stuff and be together for a weekend. I have to admit that it is hard to come back to the OTC and my dorm room after being back there. It makes me realize how much I have to come back to after Beijing. First and foremost, Dick, but just the comforts of home and getting back into work and being able to hang out with our Chicago friends...it is something I am looking forward to.

Opening ceremonies are a month from the day after tomorrow. I think it set in a little bit how close it was when I was saying goodbye to people and they were wishing me luck since I won't see them again till after the games. It is sooooo close I can't believe it. I am going to be ready. With a good taper I feel I could be ready now. I am just so excited and honored to be there in the first place I can't wait to see what will come of it all. It's bound to be something good.

You should all go to the website www.takepride.com and check out the t-shirt labeled 'Stronger' Take Pride is an organization that makes shirts based on stories of soldier's coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan. They have many shirts that tell some awesome stories through the artwork on the shirts. This last shirt is my own, based on my story and has been in the works for a few weeks. I love the outcome and I, of course, think you should all buy one...:) 20% of the proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project which is an organization I am a big part of. I serve on the board if directors and they have helped me significantly in pursuit of my swimming goals. Check it out and let me know what you think, hopefully you like the t-shirt as much as I do.

A funny story from today. I was at the post office, wearing shorts and this older lady came up to me started rubbing my back and asked me how someone as young as me had lost their leg. I was in a bit of a hurry so I used the quick version story...' In Army, In Iraq, roadside bomb, lost leg' She was obviously a bit surprised and moved in for a hug and then kissed my neck. I have to say that the situation was quite awkward and lesson learned: don't go around kissing strangers necks...

I am l0oking forward to the week and hoping it will be a good one. Hope you all have a good one too.