This drawing of mine represents the moment that I truly felt like i belonged and fit in at the University of Dayton. River Stewards has given me so many opertunities that I would had never had unless I was part of this group. I have come to love the city of Dayton more than I thought I would. I have seen several different angles of Dayton and the view I drew is by far my favorite. When I saw the city from the river it was a clam and beautiful. A side of Dayton I had never experienced before. Because of River Stewards I truly feel like I have found my place both at the University of Dayton and have been connected to the City itself. I love River Stewards bottom line! Its my family away from home!

Two Christmas Parties in One Day!

Christmas spirit is definitely in the air at the Fitz center! This past Friday I attended the Fitz Center Christmas Luncheon and then the River Stewards Christmas party. The Fitz Center Christmas luncheon transformed the KU W. Ballroom with poinsettias as center-pieces, Christmas cookies decorating the tables, and a pianist playing festive background music. After Mr. Ferguson welcomed everyone to the luncheon and Emily Kline led us in prayer, our lunch was served. The seating arrangements was a treat in itself because most of us sat with other divisions of the Fitz Center and it was a pleasure to meet more people and hear about what activities they do under the Fitz umbrella. Everyone that attended the luncheon walked away with a poinsettia and a snowman, or coffee mug. Also, I have to compliment the KU waiters for being so friendly and really making me feel welcome! It was a lovely lunch.

Christmas did not end there though; A couple of hours later the River Stewards had a Christmas party of our own! While munching on Christmas cookies, we each shared a reflection for the semester. Some people brought in pictures, shared stories, and even made collages (Ann). So many of the new stews shared fond memories and really seemed to be enjoying the River Stewards program. After the reflections we had our white elephant gift exchange! I was one of the higher numbers so I waited to see if I wanted to steal from anyone, and I did. I stole Golden Grahams from Ryan- thanks Ryan!

Overall, I had a wonderful, spirited day! Merry Christmas!