Can you feel it? The madness in the air? It's March Madness, baby! The most exciting time of the college basketball season. And I'm loving it!

To kick of March, the very first day of the month, I participated in my annual tradition: going to a Kentucky basketball game with my dad. It was the final home game of the season, and it was tense at times. The Cats did pull off a win against Vandy. And Rupp Arena never fails to thrill with the intensity of thousands of fans! Here is the view from my parents' seats:

I LOVE going to games. And last year both Steve and I got to go with my mom and dad because the people beside them weren't using their tickets. This is a treat. I hardly ever go to games with my mom—I could probably count those times on one hand. That's because I always use my mom's ticket when I go! Thanks, Mom, for always sacrificing! :)

And going with my dad is always a blast. Some things are steadfast: the places we look to park, the friendliness my dad exhibits toward all the friends who sit around him, my dad's whistles and cheers as the opening lineup is announced. There are the chants and cheers, the yelling at the refs, and the jumping to our feet on a fast break.

I remember as a little kid, going to my grandparents house so they could babysit me while my parents went to a UK game. I wondered when I would get to go. "When you're old enough to pay attention to the game," my dad said. So that night I practiced. I sat in front of that TV through every play and every commercial break. I did not go to the bathroom, get a snack, or anything until halftime. And then I got back in time to sit through the second half. When my parents picked me up, I proudly told my dad, "I did it! I paid attention! I can go next time!"

Thanks, Dad, for taking this kid every year. From Walker to Chapman, Mashburn to Ford and Brassow, Mills to Prince—I've been there, loving it. Thanks for teaching me the game, teaching me to love it! Through all the excitement, my favorite part is spending time with YOU!

C-A-T-S . . .