Time has flown by so quickly these last few days. I found myself realizing tonight I only have one short day left before I am heading back to a different time zone and a different culture. Today was the final day of competition and I think this afternoon you could hear a sigh of relief across the athlete village as the games came to an end. As I walked amongst people in the village I began to think about how many of my dreams have been realized during this past month.

I just returned from closing ceremonies and had to write about what an experience it was. There was so much joy from all the athletes there and for me personally it was a pretty powerful moment. As the Olympic flame was extinguished in some way a dream, a team and a way of life for the last month was put to rest. I was filled with a sense of fulfillment at the realization that I was one of the lucky few with a medal around my neck. At the same time a tear came to my eye and a touch of sadness hit my heart as I realized this journey I have been on has come to an end, at least for another four years.

I don't think I could ever really describe the feelings that rushed through me tonight and the sensation of being one of the people standing in the middle of the arena and not one in the stands. I still have a hard time believing that I am now one of the people that I used to watch on TV when I was a little girl so excited for the Olympics.

I want to thank all the Chinese people for being so generous and gracious to myself and the whole United States delegation. You all have been so helpful in ways you will never know. Your hospitality has been second to none and I will smile as I remember your smiling faces and warm hearts.