Opening Day at the Astros

As if this year hasn't been spectacular enough, the STS-130 crew was invited to throw out the first pitch on opening day for the Houston Astros. WOW!! The kids and I tagged along and sat in the front row, in George and Barbara Bush's seats, while the crew took the field to a standing ovation. In the midst of my cheering, I told them to turn around and look at the 43,000 people cheering for their dad and his crew. America really does love the space program!!!

Crew Movie Presentation

We spent an evening at Space Center Houston and it was another incredible and momentous event for the crew. First, we were able to see the awards presentation for all the tremendous employees who put forth huge efforts to ensure the success of our mission. I have to brag on our friend Philip who received an award for his hard work on ascent and entry...he always does a stellar job but we were especially touched that his award has the STS-130 insignia on it. Then Terry and I were totally surprised to find out that Zambo had flown an official astronaut pin on Endeavour which he proceeded to pin on Terry at the ceremony. He is no longer a rookie and I can't think of a better commander to make it official. Thanks Zambo!!! Finally we were treated to the STS-130 movie which was spectacular, awesome, funny and totally moving. I relived all of the last 2 weeks and loved celebrating with a packed stadium and overflow room. Perhaps my favorite comment at the question-and-answer session was when Steve Robinson commented on how fun it was to fly with Terry, the rookie. He said it was like "flying with your 12 year old brother because everything was new and exciting to him. We all loved seeing his response to all the firsts in space."