Editor's note: Purdue forward Laura Meadows, a 6-foot-3 fifth-year senior who transferred from Kentucky in 2000, will share a diary with ESPN.com throughout the season.

Feb. 12, 2002

Rarely does a day pass without one of my teammates reminding me of my age. My name is often replaced with "Grandma," and occasionally, Lindsey is kind enough to inquire about my upcoming 30th birthday. Though I am only 22, I seem a bit elderly in comparison to my 18- and 19-year-old teammates. This thought was reinforced on Sunday during Senior Night.

	Meadows

I am really not sure where the last five years went. All I know is that I looked around on Sunday and found my wonderful family around me, and my name being called to walk onto the court for our Senior Night ceremonies. Kelly, Brea, Crystal, and I were met by our coaches and teammates at halfcourt, and were hugged until we had no choice but to tear up a little.

Though I cried, it had nothing to do with sadness. Instead, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity Purdue has given me. The past two years have been a blessing. There is simply no way for me to thank my coaches and teammates enough for allowing me to be a part of this team.

However, the season rolls onward. We were back in practice today getting ready for the Gophers of Minnesota. If the post players play with a bit more toughness and determination on Thursday, you can look to tiny Pam Stackhouse for the improvement. During our drills today, she decided to use her little mitts to smack our innocent arms as we were shooting. I suppose the welts will be worthwhile eventually. (Just kidding, Stack!)

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Beth Jones wanted me to remind y'all to check out ESPN The Magazine this week, because our favorite athlete graces its cover. Yes, Nascar season is almost upon us, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. is ready to ascend to the top. (Sorry, Jeff Gordon.)

Have a great week. Bye.

For more on Laura Meadows and the Boilermakers, visit Purdue's official athletic site.