Pennsylvania

The week has gone by fast. I have [obviously] forgotten to blog but I'm sure it wasn't missed that much. I shot a ho-hum 72-73 to make the cut then didn't putt well the last day en route to a 77. I had a fantastic host family this past week, filled with bonding, great dinners, and unexpected gifts [shamwow] but that's the usual out here. So many great people to meet and parts of the country to get to know. I took a trip to Gettysburg which was AWESOME.

I was pretty happy that I could work that into my week. I just wouldn't feel right if I didn't, being so close and all. I could have spent a week there but settled for about an hour and a half.

The course was good, kinda hilly on the side of a "mountain" which was cool. We played lift, clean and place because the fairways were pretty patchy.

This next week will be my last out here, I will miss the Albany tournament in three weeks. I am looking forward to a good, solid push before my break. What a grind.

Happy Father's Day!

Here is my Father's Day shout-out on the Duramed website found here.

[Dad and me at Fox Hill after I won the 5A State Championship]

Dad, sorry I can't be with you on Father's Day. It's kind of your fault though. I am addicted to this game because of you. It very well could be the best gift of all because of all the lessons golf has taught me. I have learned: to be patient; the importance of a cool head; how to be a fiery competitor; and how to always stay positive despite how adverse the conditions may be. You taught me how to be tough no matter what, and your faith in me has propelled me to heights I couldn't dream of. I would not be here had you not lured me to the back nine with Snickers bars, and I'm sure you owe me thousands of dollars for all those times we had putting contests for $1,000 a hole! Thanks, Dad, for your unconditional support and love.

Rocky Mountain High

[Sunset a block from my house]

Things at home have been good! I got back to Colorado after a long 9 hours back from Kansas City. Since then, I have been enjoying the benefits of home: own bed, home cooked meals, my favorite people, etc.! I have been practicing a ton. Yesterday I played 27 holes. I have been giving some lessons, which is so much fun. I love it.

On Sunday, I leave for Colorado Springs for the US Open Sectional at the Broadmoor East Course - Site of the 2011 US Women's Open. I have a practice round on Sunday then the tournament starts Monday. I'm really excited for this because it is a marathon 36-hole qualifier. Only the tough survive! I tee off at 7:10a and 1:10p. If you are in the area feel free to come out and watch!!

After that, I will be heading back home that night and resting up for the HealthONE Colorado Women's Open which starts on Wednesday, June 2. I am teeing off at 8:40a on Wednesday and 1:40p on Thursday. Come out and support!! It's one of two tournaments I will be in Colorado for so it's always nice to have local support!

My Mom in the News!

Look at my mom making it big!! The tour did a really cool thing for Mother's Day since not many of us will actually see our mother's on their big day. Here is the link to the website. It is a fabulous idea!
Don't worry dad, Father's Day is right around the corner!!

"Mom, here's to you! For driving me home through the night from golf tournaments. For learning the ins and outs of my passion. For yelling on the 18th hole at Loveland Golf Course, "Nice eagle!" even though it was a birdie. For being my biggest cheerleader and greatest motivator. For keeping me centered and balanced. For consoling me through tough rounds and sharing the joy and excitement through my greatest triumphs. Mom, it's you who has helped me get here more than anyone. You are the reason I succeed. You are a big reason why I will continue to succeed. You are priceless in every way to me and there is no one who could possibly fill your shoes. Thank you for everything. I love you so much!"

Art

My older brother Aaron is an esteemed artist (among other impressive talents) and a doctoral student at Princeton University. Here is his guinea pig cartoon of me playing golf. I love it.
[drawing by Aaron Hostetter as seen on his blog]
He drew it 2 years ago, but I just found it and figured I'd share. Enjoy!

Week of Giving Thanks

I love Thanksgiving because it always leaves me to think about the things I am very thankful for. I do this way more than just during the holidays but in November it seems more special.

I have been blessed with an athletic talent that has earned me a free education, led me to travel all around the country and even to Canada and Mexico, has taught me more about life than life will ever be able to, and has connected me with some of the most beautiful people in the world.

I have a family that makes this all happen with their utmost support and I am so thankful that I have a family that believes in my dream as much as I do. Without that, it would be a hard swim upstream.

I have a roof over my head and clothes on my back and arms and legs to run and jump and skip! I could go into very small detail but you get the idea.

Down at Q-School, I couldn't help but just feel this overwhelming feeling of thankfulness. Thankfulness, not only that I have the ability to compete, but that I was even there! So that leads me to be thankful to the members of the Longmont community who say good job, or good luck, or play well, or give your money, or an ear to listen to. None of your actions go unnoticed. I am so blessed with the support!! Thank you!

This is definitely what I will be thinking about this week. :)

Happy Thanksgiving!