BACK HOME

So I flew back to LA yesterday and all I seem to be able to do is sleep and wake and do one task and then go right back to sleep. Apparently, I'm exhausted! The last two weeks were tremendous in more ways than one. Some points were really high and then some were pretty low. I haven't yet had the time fully assess everything but I know that it is an experience I will never forget.

On the one hand, some friendships grew stronger, unbreakable it seems and then some things almost broke my spirit, my resolve, my belief in myself. But I am nothing if not a woman of strength and character and on that I can always rely. I know that bad things can and do happen to good people, both on and off the field, but I continue to wish nothing but good things for those around me.

I did my best to enjoy my last couple of days in Beijing. I made my last minute souvenir purchases for friends and family, I spent quality time with my teammates, and I watched the closing ceremonies. I say watched because I ended up watching it on TV with some of teammates in the village instead of attending. It was the first time I've ever done that and it's definitely a different and interesting perspective. When you're actually on the field you don't get to appreciate the full grandeur of the event. I haven't "watched" a closing ceremony since 1988 because I've been a participant ever since.

One realization I came away with is that my support and love for my friends is not contingent on my own success but purely on my wish for them to do well. It is unconditional and I will continue to be that person no matter what. Track and field has brought so much to my life. Things I couldn't have dreamed of for myself. The experiences, the travel, the triumphs, the challenges and it has been fantastic! I plan on competing next year so it is not the end of the road for me, but it is the end of my competitive season. I am now gonna just kick back and rest and relax and visit my family and watch and encourage my friends whose seasons continue on.

Here are a final few pics of me around the village and out and about. Enjoy....I know I did!!!!

On a camel at The Great Wall


At the flag area in the village

Me and fellow long jumper Grace Upshaw (USA)

The torch from my seat in the stadium as the Bahamas flag is being raised for a bronze medal in the men's Triple Jump by my boy Leevan Sands