Joplin

It is Sunday evening and now that we have returned from Joplin I wanted to share a little bit about our time there with you.

Larry and I were so thankful to be able to attend these tournament days and witness Caleb's last basketball games and Amanda's final cheer leading season. Anna's work schedule conflicted with this trip and so we are especially thankful to Jeanette for offering her a fun place to stay and some special days here in Columbia while we traveled. (We are also so thankful for the wonderful surprise that Anna, Jeanette and some "elves" had for us when we returned home. It meant so much to me.)

The activity and action of these Joplin days were very wearing for Amanda but she was so thankful to be there. Special thanks goes to Mary Louise (her cheer coach) and all the girls of her squad who were so very patient and considerate of Amanda and any needs that she had. They helped make these days so special for her.

Along with the time spent with her squad and cheering, there were some other very special moments. Matt and Haley were able to drive up and spend time with us each day. Amanda always loves any opportunity that she has to spend time with her brothers and sisters.

Amanda was very touched by a kind tribute that the organizers of this Joplin tournament planned for her. At the opening of the final awards ceremony, time was taken to recognize Amanda and the years that she has spent as an athlete at the Joplin tournament. They reviewed all the sports and cheer competitions that she has participated in and they recognized the courageous way that she has battled her cancer diagnosis. Following their kind words, Miss Allen (our athletic director) led her out onto the gym floor where she received a lengthy standing ovation. It meant so much to Amanda and to our family as well.

Those attending the games in Joplin are aware that a t.v. camera followed Amanda as she cheered for a game. A reporter from KOMU radio station is doing a feature on Amanda that will eventually appear as part of YOUTUBE.com video tribute. I do not have all the details of it yet, but we will certainly share those with you as we know more.

We are so thankful that Amanda was able to attend these special days and share them with her squad and peers. Congratulations to all our athletes for the great way that they played and for the honors they received. We are proud of you all.

And especially to each of the CFS students for whom these were their final senior games. It has been lots of fun and a privilege to follow you through the years. God's blessings on your futures.

YEAH CFS!