New Car

Most of you already know that I got a new car when I came back to Waco at the end of July. It still feels wonderful to know that this is my car! I've already got my license plates for it, and they are Texas plates. I've even got a Texas driver's license. It's crazy! Anyways, I love this car!! Here are some pictures so you can see it for yourself...or you can come visit me in Texas and I'll give you a ride! :)

From this:

To this:

It's really what is inside that is so impressive. This is a 2005 Honda Accord, and the previous owner took remarkable care of this car. Not to mention it has leather seats, seat warmers, sunroof, dual air controls, XM radio, V6 engine, and so much more! The best thing about this car is how safe it feels to be on the road and not have to worry if I am going to break down, and to be able to drive anywhere I need to safely. God is so good and I am so blessed!

Mr. President

First of all, how sharp do these Ralph Lauren outfits look?!? Now, how incredibly cool is this!?!?!! Brandon was able to meet President Bush and Former President Bush at the Opening Ceremonies. You can see part of his face in the back row on the right...

At Opening Ceremonies, President Bush asked what time the team practiced the next day. Sure enough, he showed up at practice! His motorcade of at least 30 cars can rushing in at least 60 mph.

Laura Berg, the prankster of the USA softball team, lived up to her name, even with the Leader of the Free World. As he came in, she greeted him with a hug that left a lasting impression! Her left hand was dipped in chalk, that left a hand print on the back of the president.

Besides the jokes, President Bush was also able to greet and address the team, watch batting practice, and even take a few swings himself even wearing a USA batting helmet!

So far, Brandon is having a great time. He said the village is really nice, equipped with decent food. That is a big change from the last time he was able to visit China! He also mentioned that the team is able to use the weight facilities and batting cages at Beijing Normal University. He was also pleased to tell me of the 4 star restaurant that is at the University they are able to eat at, which gives them a change from the village.

I haven't heard from him again yet, and still no more pictures, but as soon as I hear anything I will post more. The team does have their first game on Tuesday vs. Venezuela. He said, "We are ready to go!!"

Go Team USA!!!

Olympic Experience

As most of you know, Brandon is currently in Beijing. I always get excited about watching the Olympics, but to know that he is over there, makes it all the more interesting. I hope you were all able to watch the Opening Ceremonies Friday night. What an amazing show!! Unforgettable. It was all culminated with a "Brandon spotting", as it has become known here in Waco. I spotted him in the parade of nations right behind Jennie Finch. He commented in an email he sent me as, "A great time" and "By far one of the best experiences of his life!" Here are some of the pictures that he has sent me. I will post more as he sends more...

View of the "Bird's Nest" and Opening Ceremonies from the infield as an American delegate.

The Stanford guys. John Rittman, Jessica Mendoza, Lauren Lappin, and Brandon.

Brandon also mentioned that the weather was so HOT that night, even as they stayed until 1:00 in the morning. The Ralph Lauren ensembles, while stylish, must have been very HOT! Before the walk into the stadium he was able to meet President Bush and former President Bush. I have a picture (that I found on nbcolympics.com under the Bush in Beijing photo collection) of the softball team(and Brandon) and President Bush, but I am unable to save it. You'll have to check it out for yourself. http://www.nbcolympics.com/photos/galleryid=186714.html

More news later...