I know there are many pressing issues in the world today that are very deserving of my concern and attention, but right now at this moment I can’t help but think about the big game tonight. Notre Dame, my beloved alma mater, is playing for the national championship.  Its more exciting and nerve-wracking than I could have imagined!

Ever since I was in 2nd grade, I have been in love with Notre Dame.  My dad earned his MBA there, and my grandfather was an undergraduate in the 1950s.  When I received my acceptance letter in December of 1997, I tearfully collapsed in relief.  My dream became reality.

Most people associate Notre Dame with a football team, but it is so much more to me.  Its where I met some of the best friends of my life:

Its where I met the love of my life:

Its where I gained an appreciation for the miracle of life:

This morning as I dressed Evie for school (in her Notre Dame cheerleading outfit, of course!), I reflected on how Notre Dame impacted my life. I have a profound appreciation for family and community thanks to the lessons I learned in my residence hall.  I have a deep respect for the importance of tradition. I know the value of hard work and its many rewards.  I have a sincere love for Our Lady.

Chris is in Miami for the game, and I’m home with the kids for five straight days; somehow I drew the short stick and he’s the lucky one.  But, I still feel pretty lucky.  I’ve got the luck and love of the Irish with me always.  No matter what happens tonight, I’ll always be a Notre Dame fan.