Briana Walker

The B.A.R.N. - Be Able and Ready Now!

2011-09-08T23:16:00.000-07:00

The B.A.R.N.

Be Able and Ready Now

Come get "Back to the Basics" and learn the skills needed to help your family become more self-reliant during these difficult economic times.

THURSDAY, September 29, 2011

7:00 PM @ the Vail Ranch History Center (The Red Barn)

32075 Redhawk Parkway, Temecula, CA 92592

(off intersection Temecula Pkwy/Hwy 79 So. and Redhawk/Margarita Rd.)

Participate in FREE courses and counseling on the following topics:

Cooking with Grains
Food Storage
Gardening tips
Basic First Aid
72 hour kits
The Basics of Budgeting
Document Preparation
Bread Making
Sewing
Emergency Communication
and so much more!

The B.A.R.N. will be hosting an introductory class on Thursday, September 29th that will allow leaders and members of the community to learn and participate in the B.A.R.N.’s mission of helping the community Be Able and Ready Now for any emergency that could come their way.

R.S.V.P. on our website www.theBARNonline.org to reserve a spot.
You're welcome to sign up for a newsletter that includes helpful tips and information about upcoming monthly classes.

Tropicana Havana Nights Gala and Fundraiser

2011-09-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

I am the Vice President for the Ralph's Riders Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enabling people living with spinal cord injury and paralysis to achieve their highest level of independence, health and personal fulfillment by providing peer guidance, resource information and a supporting network within the community.

We are having this exciting gala to raise money in order to provide grants to those in the disabled community needing financial assistance in certain areas of their life. Even if you are unable to attend, but would still like to donate toward our cause and mission please click on the link below and make a donation. We appreciate the support and we hope to see you at the gala. Thanks!

Saturday, October 29, 2011

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Tropicana Dancers, Blackjack/Roulette, Silent Auction, Boutique, and No-host bar

8:00 pm – Midnight

Dinner, Awards Presentation, 50/50 Raffle, Live Music and Dancing

Sony Pictures Plaza

10000 West Washington Boulevard

Culver City, CA 90232

$150 Per Person

(ticket and dinner included, cash bar)

To purchase tickets, go to
www.RalphsRiders.org/Donate

If you are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities for the Gala, e-mail us at gala@ralphsriders.org!

Gorgeous Temple Art

2010-12-11T21:59:00.000-08:00

http://ldstempleart.bigcartel.com/

A good friend of mine, Kris Sundberg, is an amazing photographer, and he has gorgeous photos of some of the Latter-Day Saint Temples that are breathtaking. They make great Christmas gifts that will for sure be passed down in the family for generations to come. Click on the link above and check out his work and perhaps place an order.

Eat your heart out Annie Oakley!

2010-08-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

In keeping up with my 2010 theme of "Things I Would Never Do...or so I thought!" I couldn't pass up the opportunity to cross another thing off my list. I went trap shooting. This shot gun was so heavy and powerful that when I first pulled the trigger my chair started to tip over backwards. Thank goodness for quick reflexes that I threw my body forward and came back down on all four wheels. Needless to say, I didn't come close to the clay disk. However, after a few shots and getting my grip just right I was able to hit four disks. Two in a row was a great accomplishment for me. I was pretty impressed with myself considering it was my first time.

P.S. I am wearing 4 inch high heels and shooting a shotgun. I am just following my gender rule of "I can act like a man but I better look good while I am doing it."

Drawing 101

2010-05-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

As part of my General Education classes at school I had to take an art class. The class is called "Basic Drawing" so in all honesty I thought "How hard could it really be?" I thought drawing would be a fun skill to learn and quite frankly I thought it would be an easy A. I have no drawing experience but I have some, and by some I mean very little, art experience. For example, I took a ceramics class in high school and oil painting classes from my next door neighbor when I was very young.

The first day of my basic drawing class my teacher told the class straight up "If you try really hard and your work is good you will most likely get a B." Just a B!!! This is basic drawing!!! I have had a 4.0 up until now and I was nervous that this art class, of all the classes I will take, was going to threaten that. Our first day of drawing didn't do much to change that feeling of mine. I had no idea what I was doing and I felt so phony having all these professional drawing tools that I got at the fancy art store. I thought that if I at least looked the part I would magically create a masterpiece. I am not going to sugar coat it but I was horrible. These art tools did nothing but clean out my wallet. I would see these amazing drawings by my classmates and I was embarrassed by the way my drawing compared to theirs. I was determined to get an A in this class. I began sitting next to those in class that knew what they were doing. I observed their technique, asked questions, took the constructive criticism and most importantly practiced, practiced, practiced. I can't get carried away and say that my practice made perfect because after all this was only basic drawing. However, I can say that I got an A in the class. As my teacher would say, let the art speak for itself. Below is my semester of basic drawing. As you will see, the first half of the semester was pretty rough. After taking these photos I see that I need to take a photography class too.

WEEK 1

WEEK 2

We had to draw the profile of the person sitting to our right and I felt so bad showing him my drawing of him. Thank goodness he ran out of time before he could begin on my facial features. I thought after he saw my drawing of him he was going to butcher mine.

WEEK 3

WEEK 6

WEEK 7

WEEK 8

The first half of the semester is over and I am sweating it reaching for that A. We then learned how to shade and things started to turn around for me.

WEEK 9

WEEK 10

WEEK 11

WEEK 12

WEEK 13

WEEK 14

This drawing was selected to be featured in the school art show. I felt so honored to be amongst so many incredibly talented artists that attend my school. I knew I was small potatoes being in the show with them but it was still an honor.

WEEK 15

We had to bring a photo from home to draw. My niece, Kira, told me to draw the unicorn picture my mom had hanging in her bathroom. She loves horses so I wanted to draw something she would be proud to hang up in her room. This is my favorite piece of all that I have done so far. I had it professionally matted and framed and she hung it up herself above her bed.

WEEK 16 & FINAL PROJECT

We had to draw 3 objects that represented us in a symbolic way. I was done with drawing random objects together so I went with 3 wooden angels that I have received as a gifts over the years. The angel on the left represents family, the middle angel represents faith and spirituality and the angel on the right represents courage. My teacher thought those three angels summed me up quite nicely.

Utah Valley!!! We are!!! We are!!!

2010-05-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Utah Valley University Ballroom Dance Company has waltzed its way into the hearts of thousands over the years, and now it has the opportunity to claim millions of followers.

My good friend Alayne Wadsworth www.alaynewadsworth.com is on the team and invited me to be in attendance to watch her and the team perform live on Dancing with the Stars last night. She has long blond hair and gorgeous, long legs. She begins in the back right and then moves up to front and center where she belongs. Her husband Enoch and I sat in the third row on the floor and were among the many, if not all, in the audience cheering them on. As you can tell the cheering never let up. That's the kind of school spirit I like to see and be a part of.

Thank you to all those that voted for Utah Valley University last night. If the viewers voted them back they will perform again next Tuesday on the finale. This team deserves it for all the hard work they put into their training just about every day of the week.

Congratulations UVU!!! You should consider rephrasing your cheer to "Utah Valley! You know! You know!" because after last night's performance, trust me, everyone knows.

P.S. It's Friday, May 21st and I just got word from Alayne that they're going to the finals!!! Tune in to ABC next Tuesday, May 25th to see them take the National spotlight. Check your local listing for the time. DON'T FORGET TO VOTE FOR UVU!!! GOOOOOO WOLVERINES!!!

Things I Would Never Do...Or so I thought!

2010-05-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

Since being in school for the last year and a half my life has been very routine and in all honesty not very exciting. I dread being asked the question "What's new with you?". Nothing, absolutely nothing. Every minute of every day is accounted for. Studying for school is like a full time job when you carry a full load of classes. I started to think back to what my life was like before I went back to school and I missed the exciting life I used to live. This brings me to my life now, well, my life for the past 5 months since this year began. I have officially declared 2010 to be the year of "Things I Would Never Do...Or so I thought!" A friend of mine told me that since 2010 is the Year of the Tiger it makes perfect sense that I would get out side of the boring box I have been living in and attack some new experiences. The moment the words "Oh, I would never do that" escape my mouth I am pretty much locked in to doing it. Naturally I wouldn't do something that goes against my standards so there is a limit to what I experience this year.

Here are a few of the things that I have done that I never thought I would do.

1. I dropped in on a skateboard ramp using my wheelchair not to mention a lot of body pads. Life Rolls On had an event called "They Will Skate Again" in Venice Beach. In my head I recalled my friend Aaron Fotheringham taking many falls doing this activity so I wasn't thrilled about giving it a try. I have had many shoulder and neck problems in the past few years and it reminds me that I am not invincible as I once was. I hugged the side of the ramp and let others go ahead of me. Finally, it was now of never. I dropped in and came out of it unscathed. I had done it. So why not do it again? And I did. At the end of the day received the "going balls out" award. With some encouragement from Aaron I did my best version of a back hand plant with some assistance of course. I mean, C'mon! Let's not get carried away.

2. I starred in and sang a solo in my Stake's musical "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers". When an announcement was made in my ward that the Stake was putting on a musical my mom jokingly said with a laugh in her voice "Briana, you should go audition!" I started to respond with "Oh, I would nev..." and then as you know I was locked in. What the heck! I'll do it! I can carry a tune. Let's be honest, I'm not cutting any records and no one is offering me a record deal so trust me, I know my place. Singing is not something I am known for. My sister Kristen was given that talent in the family and she carries that torch high. I am more of a back up singer. Well, I auditioned and the director thought I had a strong voice and a charming personality. Some may say that she was at least half right. She offered me a starring role as the narrator for the musical that is on stage the entire time reading from a journal. After I accepted the part she then proceeded to say "Oh, by the way, you will be singing a solo." My jaw dropped. That wasn't part of the original deal. But once again it's 2010; how could I say no? The event was great and it turned out to be a lot of fun. I think I would consider doing it again one day.

3. I was called to teach Sunday School in my family ward. When I first moved back into the family ward that I grew up in the executive secretary asked me what type of calling I would like or not like. He mentioned that he had an "in" with the Bishopric and could put a good word in for me. I laughed and said "Yeah right! I am not telling you anything. From my lips to God's ears." He laughed and said "O.K. then, what type of calling would you be uncomfortable with having?" I still wouldn't give it up. I may not have told him but the calling "Sunday School Teacher" flashed over and over in my mind like a Las Vegas billboard. Wouldn't you know a few weeks later I was called into the Bishop's office and was offered a calling to teach Gospel Essentials a Sunday School class for investigators, new converts and missionaries. A word to the wise, if you don't want something don't even think it. I do have to say, I love my calling and every week (yes, I teach every week) it is as if the teacher becomes the student. I have learned so much more about the Gospel Principles and I feel so blessed to have this calling.

4. I asked a guy out on a date. I am an old fashion kind of girl. I feel it is the man's job to court a girl and request her company to escort him somewhere. Well, I am not getting any younger and I can see the crows feet getting deeper everyday. I knew it was time to take matters into my own hands if I ever want to call myself a "Mrs." one day. I met a guy while shopping in a store I had never been in before. He approached me, flirted with me, spent a good amount of time talking to me and seemed generally interested. He gave me his card and asked me to contact him. A couple days later I did just that. I invited him to come with me and some friends to dinner and watch the Newport Beach boat parade. To my surprise, his response was pretty much thanks but no thanks. I guess I have short circuit somewhere because I must have received his signals all wrong. Have I just been out of the game too long?

5. I submitted my drawing into my school's art show and it was chosen to be featured in the show. This semester I enrolled in a Basic Drawing class. I really have no artistic talent. The first day of class my teacher said "If you try really hard chances are you will get a B." I immediately got nervous. This is supposed to be Basic Drawing. I don't know what I am doing and for years I was told "an A for Effort." Clearly it was going to take a lot more than effort to impress this teacher. The drawings started off weak but gradually improved. When I learned to draw and shade with charcoal I found my niche. I did a drawing of "Nefertiti". I had no intention of entering it in the art show but when the teacher said she will give extra credit to each student that does I submitted it regardless if it was chosen to be in the show or not. There were over 500 entries and only about 100 were chosen. I was floored when I saw my name on the list of those selected for the show. I soon found out that I was the only one in my class that made it. I knew I couldn't celebrate in their presence but I couldn't help but smile a lot during class. My drawing didn't win any awards but I was very proud to be amongst some amazing artists.

6. I ate a cricket, held a tarantula and let a hissing beetle crawl on my body. One of my classes this semester is Biology of Insects and Spiders. I have been afraid of spiders my entire life thus far. I decided that I didn't want to be fearful of anything especially something as small as a spider. I figured I would take this class to hopefully turn my fear into a fascination. My hat is off to my professor because he did just that. I have become so intrigued by spiders. They truly are amazing creatures and serve so much purpose on this earth. In class we would get extra credit for every mature adult we collected and brought into class still alive. After about 5 weeks of classes and seeing so many spiders brought in by my classmates I thought I better get over this fear and get myself some extra credit. I recruited some help. I told my nieces and nephews that I would pay them a dollar for every spider they found. They found this job very exciting and it kept them occupied for a couple hours every time I would visit. They didn't break the bank with their findings but we sure did have a lot of fun. In class one day someone brought in crickets as a snack for us the students. My professor focused right on me and said "Briana, why don't you start the class off." After getting in the habit of doing things I normally wouldn't do I said "Sure!" With a surprised look on his face I grabbed one and popped it in my mouth and chewed it up. Today I went to the insect fair at the Natural History Museum in LA. After taking a deep breath and with my heart racing I did the following...

This tarantula is an Arizona Blond. We blonds need to stick together.

The flash must have startled the beetle because right after this photo was taken the beetle sprinted up my arm and into my hair. I screamed, panicked and then broke out into a sweat. I realized then that I still have some work to do in overcoming this fear of mine. I screamed with the beetle but had it been the tarantula running up my arm and into my hair you would have had to grab the smelling salt and picked me up off the floor.

Stay tuned for more posts of "Things I Would Never Do...Or so I thought!" Take a lesson from me...never say never!

Break-A-Leg!

2010-03-07T13:20:00.000-08:00

Oh wait....maybe I shouldn't say that since if I did break a leg I wouldn't know about it for awhile. Being paralyzed is a blessing and a curse at times.

This year I have made the goal of doing things that I normally wouldn't do. Being in a musical is one of them. I may be a dance performer but acting and singing is not my forte. So staying true to my goal I am so excited to tell you that for the past 5 weeks I have been rehearsing for the Anaheim Stake's production of "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers".

I am playing the part of "Briana", the narrator, who is the grand-daughter of Milly, the leading lady. I will be on stage through out the performance reading from Milly's "journal" to her other very young grandchildren. These little kids playing the other grandchildren are so adorable. This little boy Alexander has the most adorable voice. Every time he says a line I almost break character because he just makes me smile.

Believe it or not I actually have a singing solo as well. Something I was not aware of until after I was given this part. That alone is worth the price of admission. Some of you may be aware that I am not one that sings in public especially by myself. You can't even pay me to do Karaoke. However, since this is a year of doing things outside my personal realm perhaps you will find me at a Karaoke Bar not too long from now singing Def Leppard songs (one of my guilty pleasures in the car) at the top of my lungs.

We are getting close to performance time and I wanted to personally invite you to come to the show. The show will be for two nights only.

March 19th and 20th
7:00 PM
Anaheim Stake Center
440 N. Loara Street
Anaheim, CA

No admittance fee will be charged. However, we are asking for a donation of canned goods to go to the Halcyon House food drive. So bring the whole family out for a night of laughs, foot tappin' music, and a good cause!

I really hope to see you there!

Team Shaka featuring...ME!!!

2009-12-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

I was invited to take part in Chapman University's Disability Alliance Day last Thursday. To kick off the festivities Team Shaka, Chapman's hip hop dance team, was invited to perform at the opening ceremony. Team Shaka wanted to incorporate a new perspective to their performance so they invited me to dance with them in honor of Disability Day. I was so excited. Recently I stepped down as a dancer from the wheelchair dance team I have been with the last few years so I could concentrate more on my school studies. Dancing with Team Shaka made me realize how much I miss dancing. It was great to get out there and dance again.

SIDE NOTE: one of my favorite T.V. shows is "So You Think You Can Dance" and this season I have had many favorite contestants. One of them being Nathan. So you can imagine my excitement to find out that the dance I was doing with Team Shaka was choreographed by Nathan himself. He is a former member of Team Shaka. It was a little sad for all of us the day of the performance because the night before the event he was voted off the show. I hope we made him proud. Below is video footage of the performance.

Each semester Team Shaka puts on a big dance show and since we had so much fun collaborating on this performance they invited me to dance with them in their dance show this spring. I will keep you posted when to expect show time.

Below is a photo of me with the Chapman Disability Alliance team. It was a great honor to be a part of this event.

Taylor Swift hosts SNL...HILARIOUS!!!

2009-11-08T22:55:00.000-08:00

I am still a die hard fan of Taylor Swift. It shouldn't come as a shock that I rushed home from a party to catch her hosting Saturday Night Live last night. Totally worth it. She was the host and the musical guest. Double threat. She was HILARIOUS!!! I was very impressed by her comedic timing and talent. She's a natural. I am not surprised one bit...she's amazing! Below is her opening monologue.

The Courage of Integrity

2009-10-28T01:17:00.000-07:00

My new favorite quote...

"The highest courage is to dare to be yourself in the face of adversity. Choosing right over wrong, ethics over convenience, and truth over popularity...these are the choices that measure your life. Travel the path of integrity without looking back, for there is never a wrong time to do the right thing." - Successories

BYE BYE MT. KILIMANJARO...for now at least.

2009-10-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for those that supported me to help cover my cost for the Mt. Kilimanjaro project that I have been preparing for this year. Your kindness and generosity is very much appreciated. I have the best supporters that a person could ask for. I do wish the project was everything that I was initially lead to believe it was. However, recently it has come to my attention that there was some wrong doing going on behind the scenes where the money is concerned. I do not trust this organizer because of the sneaky deception and hidden motives. I feel they were using me to further their ends and leaving me to take a public relations beating. With that said, I cannot in good faith be a part of this project. My reputation and good name is more important to me than having this experience. I want to do right by myself and especially to those that have supported me.

When I let the organizer know that I was no longer going to be a part of this project because of X, Y and Z I requested that all those that donated money on my behalf to cover my cost of the trip be refunded. The organizer is willing to do that. Therefore, if you donated on my behalf your full donation will be refunded.

I really wanted to do this climb to represent the wheelchair community in a positive way and raise money for the Challenged Athletes Foundation. I wish their motives were the same that mine have been from the beginning. I feel very embarrassed, deceived and used by this whole situation. Perhaps one day I will have the opportunity to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason. As stressful as this situation has been the last few days I have to do what is right regardless of the consequences. I do sincerely apologize for getting some of you involved in this situation. Please find it in your heart to forgive me. I know that the climb organizer will be contacting those that donated through PayPal. Those that donated by a check I will make sure that a check will be issued back to you. Thank you for your understanding, support and again I am so sorry.
--
Briana Walker

TEAM WALKER - ALS Walk 2009

2009-10-17T22:57:00.001-07:00

Today we honored my mother and many others by walking to defeat ALS. A few months ago my mother was diagnosed with ALS aka Lou Gehrig's Disease. There is no cure at this time and it is fatal. Hearing this news definitely shook all of us up. Our family seems to have a lot of challenges come our way but we pull together, get through it and in the end come out a lot stronger.

The walk was 3 miles and most of the time up hill. With the hot weather we were all breaking a sweat. It was a great way to spend the morning with my family walking side by side to support my mom.

TEAM WALKER
Richard and Mako

Robert and Katie

Me, my Mom and Mako

Mom and Kira

Mom and Kira stretching

AND WE'RE OFF...

THE FINISH LINE

Check out the view...

2009-10-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

My Chinese Birthday

2009-10-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday kicked off my birthday week. Sunday is the day I celebrate my birthday with my family. My mom asked me what I wanted for dinner on my birthday this year. I thought I would get creative and do something different other than my usual favorite meal. I said Chinese food and not just any Chinese food; homemade Chinese food. My mom was a little hesitant but I loved her willingness to research some recipes and come up with some great menu ideas to feed 15 people.

Our homemade Chinese food menu consisted of:

Orange Chicken - My favorite part of the meal and it better be because it was the most involved preparation. It took so long to clean the stove after we were finished.

Broccoli Beef - My sister Kristen's recipe and definitely a keeper.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs - With all the other dishes to prepare we thought it more convenient to just make the sauce and throw it into a crock pot along with some meatballs.

Chow Mein - We doubled the recipe so we had a HUGE bowl of it. There was so many noodles that we threw some away because there just wasn't enough room to cook it.

Fried Rice - A-mazing!!! Thanks Doug for taking the reins on this one.

Egg Rolls - When my mom and I went shopping for the ingredients for the other dishes I saw the ingredients to make homemade egg rolls. I looked over at her and without missing a beat she said "Don't even ask!" I just laughed. We compromised and got the store bought kind.

After it took a great deal of effort by everyone to make all of this food we definitely have a new found respect for the Chinese. It was in fact the best Chinese food I have ever had.

I decorated the dinner table in a Chinese theme that included fortune cookies and chop sticks. I was really impressed by my nieces and nephews using the chop sticks. Josh (a 1 year old) loved playing air drums with them and poking his mom in the arm. Reading the fortunes was a crack up. My sister Kristen had a fortune that said something about enhanced intelligence and the grammer and spelling was incorrect on her fortune. Who is writing these fortunes? What made the Chinese theme come more to life was everyone taking home leftovers. If only we had those little Chinese cardboard boxes.

I am not a fan of cake so my birthday dessert is different every year. In previous years we have had jello and ice cream, "dirt", cookies, etc. This year my brother-in-law Scott made a very yummy apple crisp. There is a tradition that has developed over the years when it comes to how many candles I blow out. I was injured when I was 23 and got out of the hospital right before my 24th birthday. I told my mom how my 23rd year really didn't turn out how I wanted it to. She wanting to make me happy decided to have my birthday cake say "Happy 23 Again" and yes there were only 23 candles on my cake. Every year since there has only been 23 candles to blow out. This year we added a "?" because I feel I have reached the age where we need to keep my age in question.

Britney Spears - "I'm not that innocent!"...

2009-09-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

...uh...that's an understatement. On Wednesday I got a call from some friends Jen and Nate that are currently on tour with Britney Spears. They had a few free VIP tickets for that night's show and invited me to come along and bring some guests. I have never been to a Britney concert so I thought it might be fun dancing and singing along with her teeny bopper songs. I must have been living under a rock for the last few years because Ms. Spears is "not a girl and [definitely] not yet a woman". For a 27 year old, mother of two, that is considered a role model for young girls all I can say is lock up your daughters.

The tour is called "The Circus Starring Britney Spears". Oh what a circus it truly was. The circus-themed extravaganza, played out across a three-ring set stage, opened with an extended introduction featuring clowns, acrobats and jugglers, for some I am sure making it way too long before Britney finally hit the stage. But since my friends were part of this performance I didn't mind.

My friends Jen and Nate (www.jenandnatesite.com) are acrobats and they were part of the opening number before Britney finally hits the stage. See video below. Jen borrowed one of my blingy wheelchairs for her performance which made me very excited. Watching them and the other performers open up the show was awesome. I thought to myself what a great theme for a concert not to mention a great way to feature incredible talent.

The first song Britney performed was "Circus". I say "performed" instead of "sang" because it's no secret that Ms. Spears lip-syncs. This performance was a great way to start off the show and get the crowd excited. Then it turned into Cirque du Skanky. Britney's outfits went from revealing to VERY revealing. I am not a prude but there were times I stopped watching because I was so disgusted by the display on stage. I even covered my eyes or looked away many times. At one point 10 of her male back up dancers pulled down their pants to their ankles and humped her. My horrified scream was lost in the audiences screams of excitement. This was the tip of the ice berg. During one of her wardrobe changes a video played of Britney "singing" Marilyn Manson's version of "Sweet Dreams" while she participated in a display of S&M activity with other dancers all barely dressed, kissing, whipping, spanking and humping each other. Once again, I was horrified and the crowd loved it. Most, if not all, of the concert was centered around a provacative and sexual tone. There were so many young girls there with their parents watching this display of well, to be quite honest, soft porn. I hope that was enough for them to monitor more of what their children are listening to and the type of person their children are looking up to. Bottom line is...this concert is not suitable for young viewers. There should have been a disclaimer when purchasing the tickets. But then again I am sure some parents would have taken their children anyway.

After I left the concert I said to myself "I can't wait to read the review on this concert." To my surprise within the next couple days every review I read applauded Britney for a great come back and successful tour. The only criticism was in regards to Britney lip-syncing through her 90 minute concert. I was floored. What about the dirty and extremely naughty spectacle she made on stage? Where are the standards? Are there any female pop singers that don't go over to the dark side?

Most of the songs performed were from her "Blackout" and "Circus" albums. I knew a song here and there but the performances were too shocking to even get hyped up to sing along or dance to.

Here is her set list:
1. Circus
2. Piece of Me
3. Radar
4. Ooh Ooh Baby/Hot as Ice
5. Boys
6. If U Seek Amy
7. Me Against the Music
8. Freakshow
9. Get Naked
10. Breathe on Me/Touch of My Hand
11. Do Something
12. Slave
13. Toxic
14. Baby One More Time

ENCORE
15. Womanizer

Back to School...Again!

2009-08-22T22:08:00.000-07:00

"Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty." ~ Henry Ford

This last spring I went back to school full time so I can finally cross off "earn my bachelor's degree" on my goals list. I have worked very hard for years to allow me the flexibility and luxury of going to school full time during the day. In the beginning I was nervous about how I would do in school since I haven't taken classes in many many years. Those nerves were quickly put at ease after my first semester. I love school! (THUNK! I think I just heard my mom faint to the floor from shock) I never thought I would ever say those words. I think part of why I like it so much is because I am studying topics I am passionate about and going back as a (shhh!) "seasoned" or "mature" student if you will I am getting so much more out of it. Mainly because I am putting so much more into it this time around. I enjoy what I am learning about.

My major is criminal justice. Most that know me know that since I was a child I have always wanted to get into law enforcement. Sadly, becoming a paraplegic seemed to put a damper on my plans. When I decided a year ago to go back to school I did some research and spoke to some professionals in law enforcement that lead me in the right direction. I want to get into detective work and I have been properly counseled on what I need to do in order to get into that line of work with a city agency. This fall semester I have 17 units. In the spring I will be carrying just as many and plan to continue that pace so that I can transfer to Cal State Fullerton and graduate in 2013. That year seems so far away. Well at least I thought it was so far away but yet I have nearly finished a whole year of school, that's right I went in the summer too (no summer vacation for me), and 2013 will be here before I know it.

Being back in school I feel young again and not to mention I look younger too. I am in jeans, t-shirt and flip flops almost daily. Classmates and teachers are floored when they find out that I graduated high school in (shhh!) 1996. When I took my placement test to find out what level math and english I would be in I felt like a dummy because I couldn't remember how to do algebra for the life of me. I asked myself, I said "self, when was the last time you did algebra?" response "the last time you did algebra you were a sophomore in high school. That was only (finger counting) 1, 2, 3....16 years ago. 16 YEARS AGO???? HOLY SMOKES!!!! That was nearly half my life ago." After that realization I had to breath into the paper bag to prevent me from hyperventilating. Where has the time gone? Thank goodness for second chances. However, it is never too late to get an education.

I see that it has been a long time since my last blog post and to be honest with my school work load it just may be another couple months before I post something again. So in the mean time I will leave you with these words of wisdom...

"Be smart. You are all in school. Do not waste your time. This is a time of great opportunity that you will never have again as long as you live. Make the most of it right now. It is wonderfully challenging. It is hard, it is tough, isn’t it? But what a wonderful thing to go and learn of all the accumulated knowledge of all the centuries of time. Go on to college or whatever school, vocational school, whatever your choice is, but take advantage of every opportunity that you have because the Lord has laid upon you a mandate through revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith concerning not only spiritual learning but secular learning. Yours is the responsibility, and you can’t afford to waste your time. There is so much to learn. Be smart. Give it the very best that you have." - Gordon B. Hinckley, Prophet and 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Ain't No Mountain High Enough...

2009-06-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

Some photos of my mountain hike last weekend. This mountain definitely wasn't high enough. It was a lot easier than I was expecting. I could have pushed a lot longer and harder.

Attaching my off-road wheels...

Choosing a hike route...

All packed up and ready to go...

Let's do this...

"Hey guys, wait up!"

It's getting steeper...

"I think I can, I think I can..."

I knew I could do it...

Heading down the mountain...

Wacky Wednesday

2009-04-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of weird things happen to me in my life but never have I had one day where these weird things were consecutive.

#1 - It was the Wednesday before Easter and I wanted to put together an Easter basket for a friend of mine. So I went to the 99 cent store to get some goodies. Right when I roll through the door I notice a man standing in line. He stared at me as I rolled past him which is something I am used to being in a wheelchair. What was different about this situation was that I started back at him too. I noticed as I rolled past him that he did not look like most men. In fact he was trying not to look like a man. He had on high heels, silky black fitted cargo capris, a fitted black women's sweater, acrylic nails, held a purse, wore make up and to be honest I had no idea what look he was going for with his hair. I didn't want to be rude and keep staring as I looked away, grabbed my basket and began rolling down the Easter aisle. When I found something that caught my interest I turned to get a better look. As I turned I noticed someone standing beside me so I looked in that direction. To my surprise it was the cross dresser standing about 10 feet away from me. I remembered that he was in line to check out when I arrived so I just figured he forgot something. I moved on down the aisle. I stopped looked over my shoulder and there he was again a little closer staring at me. I moved on around the corner to the next aisle. He followed getting closer and staring at me more intensely. This started to feel very Silence of the Lambs to me so I put my basket down on the ground and casually rolled out of the store. I got in my car, locked the door and as I drove away I saw him standing in the doorway of the store staring at me. Very creepy!!!

#2 - Later that same day I had a dance performance at CSULB. After the performance a gentleman in a wheelchair came up to me and began telling me what a fan he was of mine and how he has always wanted to meet me. I was thanking him graciously when he said the words "I actually have you tattooed on my back". I laughed thinking this was a joke. He assured me that it wasn't and was willing to pull his shirt up to show me. Still thinking it was a joke I encouraged him to do so. He couldn't do it by himself so his brother lifted the shirt up to the top of his back. Oh this was no joke at all. He copied my picture from the Colours Wheelchairs catalog. This photo... The only difference on the tattoo was that I was topless. My jaw dropped. He said that I should feel flattered. I told him that I was definitely feeling something. My dance partner said I should take a photo of it. I whispered to her "does this seem like a moment I want to remember?" She laughed. I pulled his shirt down and laughed as I explained to him that when he ages so will this tattoo and those perky boobs won't be so perky anymore. This was definitely a first for me and I hope the very last.

#3 - After the dance performance I had to run an errand at the local K-Mart. I rushed in and got my items and as I was rolling out the door I saw what I assumed was a fairly large homeless woman pushing her shopping cart in front of me and then stopping in front of me blocking my path to get into the parking lot. I was about to squeeze around her when what happened next stopped me right in my tracks. This woman pulled down her pants all the way to her ankles and then peed right in front of me on the sidewalk, right in front of the entrance/exit of the K-Mart. People were walking through the entrance and didn't seem to notice the woman taking a leak or me looking panicked. I kept asking myself "Am I invisible?". She finished, pulled her pants up and went on her merry way. I was still in shock. I couldn't believe what I just witnessed. It brought new meaning to the phrase "when you gotta go, you gotta go". And she did.

I was so glad when the day was over. I couldn't help but laugh as I laid down to go to sleep. The Wackiest Wednesday I have ever had. Better yet the wackiest day I have ever had. Does stuff like this ever happen to you or am I the only one? Please tell me I am not the only one.

They Will Ski Again...and we did in Mammoth!!!

2009-03-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am an ambassador for Life Rolls On a non-profit that raises money for spinal cord injury research. A few years ago they developed a spin-off of the organization called "They Will Surf Again". This was an event that got those with a spinal cord injury back in the ocean to learn how to surf. We quickly saw what a success and rewarding experience it was for many participants and volunteers. This year Life Rolls On wanted to create another spin-off from that called "They Will Ski Again". This event was hosted by the Eastern Sierra Disabled Sports at Mammoth Mountain. Life Rolls On sponsored the event and put all the participants up in a very nice hotel, supplied us with ski equipment, lift tickets and instructors or escorts for our day of skiing.

I have skied since my injury and have found it to be a lot of fun but too high maintenance for me with driving to the snow, getting bundled up, pushing my wheelchair through the snow, getting in the ski, pushing to the lift and then topping it off with freezing any body parts I still have feeling of. Plus, to be honest, I am not that good at it. I would rather go wake boarding.
After our day of skiing Life Rolls On threw a party where I ended up winning a brand new Burton snowboarding outfit. Too bad the outfit is a mens large. I knew exactly who to give it to though. My older brother Robert was such a big help to me as I prepared for the trip. Getting my snow gear down from the rafters is not something I am physically capable of doing. Robert was gracious enough to help me in this area. Even when I had forgotten to pack something he was willing to climb back up and get the item or piece of equipment I needed. This happened at least four times. Because of being such a great big brother he was well deserving of this new snowboard outfit. He was so excited when I gave it to him that he ran upstairs and tried it on. The outfit is all white except for a few dark stripes so with Robert being tall and skinny the outfit made him look like a mal-nourished Abominable Snowman.

"You Complete Me"

2009-03-16T13:26:00.001-07:00

No longer just a line from the movie "Jerry Maguire". I experienced the real deal this last Friday when I volunteered with Ability Awareness in contributing my services to Habitat for Humanity. The build was for three houses on the same lot located in Lynwood just north of Long Beach. I was very excited to participate since I have not had the opportunity to work with Habitat for Humanity since becoming a paraplegic nearly seven years ago. I arrived with such eagerness having my protective goggles, hat and sunscreen in tow.

After orientation each volunteer was assigned to a crew leader. Bethy, a cute, tall, slender, blond girl that makes any tool belt look good became my crew leader. She then chose Mark Goffeney (www.bigtoerocks.com) as another crew member to join our team. I looked over at Mark and saw that he didn't have any arms. "Aren't we a pair" I thought to myself. Here we have a girl that can't use her legs and a man that has no arms. I knew right away that this was going to be quite the experience. Unbeknownest to me, at that same moment Mark was sizing me up as well noticing the fact that I am a female and in a wheelchair. Little did either of us know that our worlds colliding would produce an immense amount of work on the lot that day. Not to mention a different perspective.
I was put in charge of measuring and cutting the wood on the table saw and chop saw. Bethy gave me the measurements needed and I measured each piece of wood and began cutting the long 2x4's. Mark saw me struggle trying holding down the long 2x4's and he quickly jumped in to offer help. "I will just pick up the other end and level it for you." he said. I kept my eye on the wood as I fed it through the table saw I wondered how Mark picked up the slack behind me. After lining up the next long wood on the table I glanced behind me and saw Mark lifting the wood in the air with his foot. "Of course that is how he does it" I thought to myself. It was at that moment I knew we were going to make a good team. A team name then fell upon us. Team Mark, Bethy and Briana became "MB²" and we were in full effect.
Within that first hour Mark and I were in the zone and really had a good handle on our assigned tasks. Mark would pull out the tape measure on each 1x1 to the necessary length and mark as he had the tape measure in one foot and a pencil in the other. I would then cut the wood on the chop saw. We took great pride in our work and were so pleased when Bethy gave us the thumbs up for having the measurements spot on for a perfect fit. I turned to Mark with such seriousness and said "Mark, you complete me." We both burst out laughter but knowing how true my remark was. We were a force to be reckoned with. Neither of us questioned the others ability and we continued to encourage each other with every task.

After we finished cutting the 1x1's we moved on to drilling. Mark picked up the drill with one foot and the wood with the other. He lined it up and pulled the trigger with his big toe. He controlled that drill with such ease and precise measure. When he was finished he picked up the piece of wood with his foot and placed it on my lap. I then grabbed my drill and drilled the screws into the drilled holes Mark created. We worked diligently up until lunch. Mark and I rushed over to wash my hands and his feet preparatory for our sandwiches.
After lunch we quickly got back to work. We finished up our drilling and were then assigned to cutting dry wall. It took us awhile to get settled figuring out the best way for us to do this. Our work area was on a slight slope that had me rolling all over the place. This can be dangerous when you're holding an exacto knife and cutting dry wall. Understanding this we took more precaution and re-situated our work area. After I made few incisions deeper and deeper into the dry wall Mark would bring his foot up over the top of the dry wall and forcefully step on it with his barefoot causing it to break right on the cut I had created. We knew the end of our work day was soon upon us and Mark was determined to cut a measured piece of dry wall on his own. I watched him take an exacto knife between his toes and proceed to cut along the measured line. After a few strokes he once again used his barefoot to break the piece off. Being a former cheerleader I broke out into a cheer for Mark.

Mark and I spent the whole day together and we learned a lot about each other. One thing that was apparent from the beginning is that we shared a similar sense of humor. There was a lot of laughing on the job site that day. I knew what I was capable of coming into this situation. Mark knew what he was capable of as well. Our abilities combined not only gave us the means to complete our jobs we completed each other. Our weaknesses became each others strengths. That is what teamwork is all about.

Tour de Palm Springs

2009-02-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

There will not be much text in this blog entry because my arms are still recovering from this weekends bike race.

The Tour de Palm Springs is a 100 mile bike race that raises money for about 200 charities in the local community. About 8,000 cyclists participate. It was to be raining all weekend but we really lucked out with weather. It turned out to be a beautiful day perfect for riding.

Some of you may remember that I rode through the mid west last summer in the "Rise Above U.S. Bicycle Tour". This year the Rise Above Team decided to continue the tour by participating in bike races and doing a speaking tour. The Tour de Palm Springs was our first event for 2009. We had 3 hand cyclists, 1 on a trike, 1 on a recumbent and 3 mountain bikers. I went skiing in Mammoth the weekend before this race and my arms were still a little sore before the race began but I really over estimated my ability. I was in no shape to do this race without paying the price later.
The race started out rough for me because within the first few miles I got a flat tire. No surprise to my team since I am the "Queen of the Flats" as they say. They pedaled on and I pulled over to repair the flat. Not a task that I enjoy so thank goodness for the "Official Event Vehicle" pulling over to repair it for me. I was now 40 minutes behind my team. I didn't know if I would be able to catch up but I was certainly going to try. I put on my iPod to recharge myself. Some of you may listen to Rock 'n' Roll to charge yourself up but for me it is love songs that are upbeat. It keeps a smile on my face and it puts me in a state of mind where I am thinking of something or someone rather than concentrating on the race itself.
My friend Seth was riding along side me and I kept him entertained with my singing of love songs. With him joining me on a few songs made those hills not so grueling. My arms had become numb the last few miles and every time I would have to stop at a stop light I would begin to have muscle spasms and they would cramp and tighten up. The pain was very overwhelming at times put I knew I had to keep going. I understand that it is a race but I came to the conclusion that I didn't start this race to win, I started this race to finish. That is exactly what I did. Crossing the finish line was a tremendous victory for me. It's interesting that I was in so much pain the last half mile before the finish line but as I approached the finish line and heard the cheering of the crowd, the band playing and photographers taking my photo I suddenly perked up and got a burst of energy. That didn't last very long and then all I could think about was getting back in the motor home, eating, changing out of my sweaty clothes, sleeping and dreaming of a nice hot bubble bath at home.

Belated Birthday Photos

2008-12-31T14:50:00.000-08:00

In 2008 I celebrated my 30th birthday. I think that for a single gal turning 30 would be terrifying but the way it was celebrated I could do nothing but embrace it. To ring in my 30th year my friends threw me a "Dirty 30 Birthday Roast". For those of you who don't know what a roast is let me explain. Here is the definition of a Roast - an event in which an individual is subject to publicly bearing comedic insults, praise, outlandish true and untrue stories and heartwarming tributes. The implication being that the roastee is able to take the jokes in good faith and as not being serious criticism or insult, and therefore showing their good nature. It is seen as a great honor to be roasted, as the individual is surrounded by friends, fans, and well-wishers, who can receive some of the same treatment as well during the course of the evening.

I invested in thicker skin the day of the party to ensure that I would not be embarrassed. There were so many things that were said that I laughed and cried. Cried because I was touched not because I was mortified. I had roasters from all different parts of my life. For example, an old roommate, childhood friend, ex-boyfriend, coach, church leader and my dad. The roastmaster was my good friend Nikki who had some great material not just for me but as an introduction for each roaster.

If you were present for the party you had to opportunity to hear what was said. However, it is in my best interest to not put this stuff in writing for everyone to read. I am sure enquiring minds want to know.

My friend Diana West sang and played guitar throughout the party and it was the icing on the cake for me. I love her voice and her songs. She just captivates me when she performs.

After I was roasted I had the oppoturnity to get on the microphone and become the roaster rather than the roastee. I graciously bowed out of doing that. I am sure my friends know that I have lots of dirt on them but I am a true friend and it is more fun for me to share these stories behind their back. Yeah, it's called manners. Just kidding. I would never. That's probably why we have been great friends all these years. We have trust.

I had two photographers at the party. Unfortunately, one of the photographer's assistant accidentally deleted the photos. As sad as I was it really wasn't that big a deal. I am just glad that it happened to me and not to a paying client from a wedding. Now her assistant knows to double and triple check before deleting any photos. Thank goodness for Kris Sundberg who was able to capture some moments from the party. Thanks Kris! Love your work. See photos below.
Me the "Roastee"
Nikki Harris the "RoastMaster"

Heather Warren the "Old Roommate"

Zach Tapec the "Ex-Boyfriend"

Stacy Circuit the "Childhood Friend"

Curtis Parvin the "Coach"

Ed Walker my Dad

Welcome to the Class Miss Walker!

2008-11-30T18:50:00.000-08:00

My niece Kira is in 1st grade and her teacher tells me every time I pick her up from school how much Kira talks about all the things that I am doing in life. Kira's teacher felt inspired to ask me to come speak to her class one day. I was so excited to accept the invitation. It was going to be a few weeks before I could come in a speak to her class due to my schedule. But every day Kira would ask me how many more days until I came to her class.

The day finally arrived for me to come speak to Kira's class. Her teacher invited a 2nd grade class to come in to listen as well. Since Kira was so eager to have me come and speak I made here give an introduction about me. She did a great job. She is normally shy but she got up there and spoke with confidence. I was so proud of her. I brought a book called "Susan Laughs". A children's book that tells the story of a little girl that does all these amazing things and on the last page you find out that she is in a wheelchair. I read the book first and then asked the kids what their thoughts were on the book. Their comments were all so insightful and I couldn't believe how much thought they put into it. I then told them my story in terms that small children could understand. One thing I have learned from doing elementary school assemblies is that kids don't understand the hardships and they don't really care too much. They just want to know about all the cool stuff you do. Their eyes got so big when I would tell them about jumping out of airplanes, riding my bike across a couple states and that I could drive a car. They asked so many question and I was so relieved that they were truly interested in how I did everything to live a somewhat normal life. Kira's teacher did ask the only question that got me choked up. The kids were looking at me and wondering what just happened.

I ended my talk by showing the kids my dvd. There was a big "ewwwww!" sound when the photo of my incision with 56 staples came on the screen. After the dvd we took a few photos together. Every little girl wanted to stand right next to me. It made me feel so good. Kira's teacher asked me afterward to come back and speak at their chapel service one Sunday. It was such an honor to speak in Kira's class and share with her classmates my story. I hope their hearts were touched and they left that day inspired.

I'm "Fearless" yet still a Dork!

2008-11-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

Ok, so some of you may remember last year a blog post about my sister and I going to the Taylor Swift concert and afterwards we had the chance to meet Taylor. Then I had that feeling of an outer body experience when I became the crazed fan and couldn't stop talking to her about nonsense. She seemed a little freaked out but needless to say I still remain loyal to her as a fan. Therefore, I did what any fan would do and mark in my calendar the date that her new album "Fearless" was to be released. November 11th at midnight. I didn't go get in line at a Tower Records or anything but to be honest had that opportunity been available I would have taken it. No, I was a bigger dork and sat by my computer and waited for it on iTunes. This began at 8:00 pm. I don't know why I started waiting so early but I had this feeling that I was going to be the first one to get her new album. I just knew it. As you can see I had time to kill so I decided to go to a website where you can read the lyrics of songs. I didn't know if the song lyrics from this album would be available yet since the album had not yet been released but to my surprise and utter excitement they were. Since I had time to kill like I mentioned I sat there and memorized the lyrics for the new album. Then for some reason it dawned on me that iTunes would probably release the album at 9:00 pm since it would be midnight on the east coast. I quickly jumped back over to iTunes at 9:01 pm and screamed when I saw that I was in fact correct. It was there and without hesitation I clicked "Buy Album". For my birthday back in October my younger brother gave me an iTunes gift card and I have been holding on to it just for this occasion. So I guess I could say that my brother got me the new Taylor Swift album. Thanks Rich!!! Anyway, as each song was completely downloaded I began to listen to it and would sing the lyrics that I memorized. Then to my disgust I quickly found out that the lyrics I was singing were not the same lyrics that Taylor was singing. How could this be??? The horror. The lyrics on this web page were wrong. Now since I am a die hard fan I began to debate in my head whether or not to write to this so called "writer of lyrics" on this web page and give them a piece of my mind. How dare they do that to my Taylor!!! And to me nonetheless!!! I calmed down after a few moments and knew I would be okay if I listened to every song with such intensity to learn the correct lyrics. I did this for a few hours. I then began to make copies of the CD for my sister (the other die hard fan) and friends that just "like her songs". I know they will get bitten by the Taylor bug soon enough and we will be at the concerts together down in front with homemade Taylor Swift t-shirts on screaming when she points at us while singing her songs loud and proud. Of course in my car this is the only CD I listen to over and over again and yet I still find myself singing the wrong lyrics. Dang that web site!!!

GUTEN TAG!

2008-10-19T21:59:00.000-07:00

I just returned from Germany. I went with Colours Wheelchairs to attend the largest trade show in all of Europe. There wasn't much time for sight seeing during the day and come night time everyone was hungry and tired. I ate some really good German food and some not so good German food. We are all still wondering what was in that white sausage. I have never known meat to be bright white. German food is very heavy. Meat and Potatoes are the main dishes. The hotel we stayed at had an amazing breakfast spread that I couldn't wait for each morning before we started the day. I love food and I love trying new foods. You don't have to like everything but you should at least try it I believe.

There was never a dull moment the entire trip. With the language barriers and the taxi drivers there was always something to laugh about. Just getting to hang out with the crew from Colours (Ernie, Aaron, Harry, Mario and John) was so much fun. By the end of the trip my face hurt from laughing so much.

The highlight of the trip was watching my good friend Aaron Fotheringham perform his skateboarding tricks along with a back flip from his wheelchair at the trade show. His style has come to be known as "Hard Core Sitting". Aaron is 16 years old from Las Vegas and has Spina Bifida. He is fearless and I get chills every time I watch him perform for a crowd. He was treated like such a rock star. Autographs, media, photos, hugs from cute girls, etc. He is so humble and modest and very shy with every compliment he receives. I am so proud of him. Below is a video of a story that ESPN did on him. Go to www.hardcoresitting.com to learn more about Aaron.

Alayne my little twinkle toes...

2008-08-30T00:05:00.000-07:00

My friends Alayne and Enoch came into town from Utah for Alayne's ballroom dance competition. She attends Utah Valley University and their summer team was competing at the International Sport Dance World Cup Embassy Ball. It was a very high class event. The best ballroom dancers from around the world. Forget Dancing with the Stars; this dance competition is the real deal. Since I get to sit anywhere I want Enoch and I got to sit right up against the dance floor to watch the entire competition. I was so close that I could see what the judges were writing down. Not to mention smell the spray on tan of the dancers. It was very exciting. Alayne's team received second place but they put on a great show regardless. She is an amazing performer. She also does partner work in the standard division which includes the waltz, foxtrot, quickstep, tango and viennese waltz. She is working on getting into the latin division that does the samba, cha cha, rumba, paso doble and jive.

After the competition Alayne asked me which division I liked better, the latin or standard? I said "Let's break it down shall we?". The standard division men are clean cut, wearing tuxedos and their partners are wearing long flowy gowns. Then we have the latin division guys wearing low cut blouses baring their chest along with sparkle pants while their partners are pretty much wearing nothing, both with spray on tans to nearly orange, teeth bleached to a color of white that glows in the dark and hair that has been cemented down with gel and hair spray and lest we forget the makeup. I loved the latin dancing at first but after awhile I was like all right...I get it...we all get it...you're sexy now put your shirt on. I could watch the women dance all night but the guys just got too cheesy for me. Therefore, hands down my favorite division is standard. The clean cut guys sold it for me. Keeps me focused on the dancing and not to mention there were so many couples dancing into each other. They handled it with grace and proceeded on with the steps. I am sure there were words exchanged backstage or at least I would like to think there was drama because they don't show that competitive personality on the dance floor. Why would they? They're being judged.

Here are a few video clips to show you what I mean.

LATIN DIVISION

LATIN DIVISION JIVE

STANDARD DIVISION TANGO

Here are few still photos from the latin and standard division competitions...(My camera takes horrible pictures when the lighting is low. I am in need of a camera that takes better quality shots. This is where I mention that my 30th birthday is coming up on October 8th. Wink! Wink! Was that hint subtle enough for you?)

Here are a few still photos of Alayne's team performance...

I hate Good-Byes...

2008-08-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

My little brother Richard is finally leaving the nest and spreading his wings. His wings are taking him all the way to Canada. A couple years ago he met a girl from Canada that was living in Orange County working as a nanny. About a year ago she moved back home to go back to school for nursing. She and my little brother were traveling back and forth making as many visits as there bank accounts could handle. Their bank accounts might be empty but their hearts are full as ever so they have decided to really make a go of their relationship. Richard is moving to Canada for love. I going to miss him terribly but growing up and moving away is a part of life. I love him dearly and want him to be happy.

SOME MEMORIES WITH MY LITTLE BROTHER RICHARD

- Surfing with him at the Life Rolls On: They Will Surf Again event. (You can read the story in the previous blog entry)

- Falling asleep on my bed after a long night of talking and waking up to find him cuddling my legs. We both flew out of bed as fast as we could. We never took Ambien together again.

- When he was so new at talking as a toddler he would always say "Ooooo Dark!" (pronounced like "dock") when we would turn the lights out.

- Listening to the Fleetwood Mac song "I Don't Want to Know" over and over again while on a road trip with my dad.

- Playing wheelchair table tennis together. He would jump in one of my old wheelchairs just to make it an even match.

- Watching scary movies late at night in the dark and both of us screaming like little girls. The Ring and The Grudge nearly had us in the fetal position on the floor covering our eyes.

- When he was about 4 years old I was babysitting him one day and I couldn't find him anywhere in the house. I would call for him and he wouldn't answer me. I started to ransack the house. I heard a noise coming from the toy box in his room. I flung it open and found him laying in there naked. I was so shocked to see him naked that I couldn't scold him so I had to ask him what he was doing. He then told me about a monster outside the window that told him to climb in the toy box. Naked? I asked. He said "No. I just thought I would get hot in the box."

- We went with my uncle and cousins to Magic Mountain when I was about 12 and Richard was probably 7. We had a big group so it was chaos keep track of everyone. Richard ended up following another family thinking it was his. We lost Richard! He was gone! I was sent by my uncle to go look for him. Next thing I knew, I was lost. I looked around for about an hour while on the verge of tears. I went to the information counter to have him paged and to give a description. Right when I walked through the door there he was sitting on a bench looking so scared. I gave him the biggest hug and told him that he was safe. I spoke too soon on that one because before the end of the day he wandered away again. Now I know why parents put their kids on leashes.

- While I was in the hospital from my car accident I had no appetite. At least not for the food the hospital was serving up. I wouldn't eat and lost so much weight. Richard called me from home and said whatever you want to eat I will bring to you. I thought about it for a second. I wanted a grilled cheese sandwich. He laughed thinking I was joking. He said that it would be cold by the time he got to the hospital. But he said he would make it work. Within the hour he came walking through my hospital room door with a camper stove, a propane tank, a lighter, a frying pan, a spatula, bread, cheese and butter. He said if you want a grilled cheese sandwich then you're going to have a grilled cheese sandwich. It was the best grilled cheese sandwich I have ever had. He could have blown up the hospital but that was a risk he was willing to take just to get me to eat something.

- Richard and I did a triathlon together as a relay team. I did the run portion in my wheelchair and he did the bike with a hand cycle and then ended it with the swim. Anyone of you that have read my book know the story. Richard is in great shape so he thought he could do this with flying colors. Well, riding a hand cycle for 9 miles (most of it being uphill) when you have never done it before to only follow it up with a mile swim is pretty tough. The challenged athletes get to ride their hand cycles straight to the pool so they can transfer from the bike to the ground and into the pool. People were cheering like crazy for him as he approached the water. He parked the bike, stood up and dove into the pool. All of a sudden the crowds cheers faded away. I looked around to see a shocked look on faces of the spectators. It was then I realized that they thought he was handicapped. I started laughing and then cheered for him even more. He crossed the finish line, got his medal and ran over to me. He scooped me up in his arms and gave me the biggest hug while twirling me around and around. He said that never had he felt more positive energy than he did today. Every person that competed along side him was encouraging him and empowering him as he struggled riding the hand cycle. Then he asked what happened when he jumped into the pool. He noticed that it went rather quiet. I told him that the crowd thought they just witnessed a miracle.

In honor of my brother I put together a slide show so you can all see how great and handsome my brother is.

They Will Surf Again...

2008-08-16T12:24:00.000-07:00

Today my younger brother Richard and my friend Brad Arave came with me to the Life Rolls On TWSA (They Will Surf Again) at Bolsa Chica beach. This event gets injured athletes from around the country to gather together for a day of surfing! Some have not surfed since their injury, some have never surfed, some surf all the time despite their varying mobility. TWSA connects dozens of volunteers, with a handful of injured surfers, together for a day of excitement, joy, and best of all, surf! There were over 100 volunteers at today’s event. Some provided a pancake breakfast before we got started, some provided lunch, some pushed the surfers to the water in the beach wheelchair, some helped the surfers change into their wetsuits and all others were in the water making sure of the safety for each surfer.

Richard, Brad and I were on the Blue Surf Team. The team leader was my good friend Dave King and his son Austin. I would be the surfer and Richard and Brad would be the volunteers out in the water. I was the last of 6 participants on the list for the Blue Team to surf. Richard and Brad were out in the water helping each surfer for the Blue Team. Richard took the reigns as the person to call out where to position the surfer and what wave to catch. Some of the time the surf board will pearl (nose dive into the water) so Richard would sometimes ride on the back of the board through the wave putting weight on the tail of the surfboard to guarantee that didn't happen. Each time Richard and Brad would come in after a surfers session was over to rehydrate they would be smiling from ear to ear. It would bring tears to my eyes as I would listen to them tell me how much fun they were having and how grateful they felt to be a part of this event. Richard and Brad are both surfers so I thought they would be itching to surf themselves that day. They both agreed that there is nothing else they would rather be doing than helping out at this event. They said it was so rewarding watching the faces of each surfer when they would catch a wave. Especially when it was this boy about 8 years old that was on the Blue Team. His face would light up and would be screaming with excitement will a grin that lit up the entire beach.

Finally it was my turn and I was so excited. I had been waiting all morning for this moment. I have surfed plenty of times before this day but today was very special to me because it was the first time I had my brother along.

Having Brad there for his first time too was a big bonus.

As I got down to the water the Blue Team cheered so we could all get pumped up before heading out into the water. I got on the board and we all started to paddle out.

With the sun beating down on us the water felt so refreshing. We battled the waves again and again as we continued to paddle out. When we got into position my brother called out which wave to go for. It was a good right so we quickly readjusted the board. I was pushed into the wave but not fast enough and I ended up pulling out of it. The swarm of volunteers got to me quickly to reposition me for the next wave. This time I got the wave and road all the way in with my brother on the back of my surfboard. I can't wait to see the picture of my brother and I surfing a wave together on the same board. I told him that if he wanted to go tandem that next time he should pick me up over his head and I will do a back bend like the real tandem surfers do. We paddled out again. Battling the waves breaking on us. Sometimes the waves would break right on top of us that it would knock me off the board slightly. Thank goodness for the volunteers to catch me just in time and put me back on the board again.

I caught about 6 or 7 waves and I pearled the board twice. That wipeout is never fun. I put my hands over my head to make sure the board doesn’t hit me. Before I even surface there is a volunteer scooping me up out of the water and putting me back on the board. I surfed for about 30 minutes and then it was time for lunch. Richard picked me up off the board after I road it all the way in with my last wave. Instead of putting me in the beach wheelchair Richard told the volunteers that he had this and he carried me all the way up the beach. People thought it was so cute so they took pictures. It was a sweet moment for Richard and I to have.

After lunch Brad and I decided to go body surfing. I haven't done that since I got hurt 6 years ago so I was anxious to do it. It was so fun and a little difficult at the same time. My wetsuit kept my legs so buoyant that I had a hard time swimming. Brad decided that I should lie on his back and he would do all the work. That worked for about 2 seconds. I felt like King Triton riding the dolphins. Well, for 2 seconds at least. I love the feeling of being weightless in the water. I have dead body weight pulling on me all the time so this was a nice break from all of that. When the big waves would come and we needed to go under them Brad would grab me from around the waist and we would dive under the wave. It was so much fun.

It was such a perfect day and one that I will cherish forever.

Photos from the Rise Above Tour

2008-08-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Our starting line out of Salt Lake City at Liberty Park...

Look!!! It's the "O" Girl...

We always get the best parking spots...

I owned this 6 mile up hill climb. I kept singing hymns to distract me from the strain. Even cows were looking at me as I slowly rode by singing my songs.

The best part about up hill climbs is that there is a very fun and fast down hill on the other side...

Pedaling through the mountains from Boulder, Utah to Torrey, Utah (50 miles in 5 hours)

Aaron and I made it up to 9600 feet...and we continued to pedal on up...

Riding in Zion's National Park...

My first crash and burn of the tour...

Roughing it can be cleansing...

When I am not riding my bike you will find me...

exercising...

doing media...

speaking to groups...

playing cards...(check out my bicep)

helping team mates stretch out...

looking at the views...

making dinner for the team...

meeting a fellow hand cyclist from Paris, France...

The Day of Murphy's Law

2008-07-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

Laquita tells it better than I do so in her words...

We’ve been out of communications again for the past 5 days. I now have the immense task of making sense of all the events that have occurred since we last were in contact with anyone. To quote myself “with every upside there is a downside”…..the last 3 days we have been solely uphill. To say we’ve been going through extreme’s in no way does it justice. The road and all its perils almost, I’ll reiterate - “almost” - did us in.

3 days ago, in sweltering heat of 115 degrees, calamity struck in gale force, literally. Our morning ride was abruptly interrupted by 2 flat tires on Briana’s bike. Everyone’s patience was a little thin but we completed the roadside repair and continued on. The bus had gone on ahead along with Jordan. Aaron, Briana and I were riding together. The rain clouds out here are in abundance - in every direction you can see a downpour happening. To our left I was watching a ominous looking cloud formation continuing to gain in size and darkening in color, with the occasional lightening bolt strike. We suddenly began to feel warm air turn to cool and back again - shifting all the while in every direction. Coming from the Midwest, I am familiar with thunderstorm patterns and tornados. Winds began to pick up to dangerous levels and we realized we needed to take cover - there was no way we could outrun the approaching storm on our bikes.

Cattle are free range out here so there are cattle guards every few miles on the highway. Fortunately, we came across one just in time to take refuge. The 3 of us tucked down in the bar ditch alongside the guard, tornado tails forming and dancing over our heads, realizing we could take a direct hit. The next 45 minutes were spent in calm, knowing there was nothing we could do besides profess our love and gratitude for each other. My son and I have had many soulful, penetrating eye to eye connections over the past 9 years and this one proved possibly the most profound. We simply held on to one another - until the storm passed, leaving us physically unscathed but emotionally a little shaken.

We got back on our bikes, caught up to the bus and rested our minds until we thought the storms were well on there way to other areas. I told Aaron and Jordan to go ahead, I would catch them. This is not what I customarily do, I usually stay right with them - but my instinct wanted to follow the bus for a minute this time. The bus went ahead of me just a little ways and stopped - a gale force had hit the side of the bus with such power it completely uplifted the awning out of the brackets. Arielle was on the side of the road holding onto the awning strap with all her might. I jumped off my bike, the winds battering us at I know 60 to 80 miles per hour. I quickly grabbed bungee cords and went to the top of the bus to attempt to anchor it down, in effort of saving it. All the while, my heart is in my throat with the thought of Aaron and Jordan being on the road with the newly formed storm coming out of nowhere. As well as I bungeed the awning, it was still no match for the wicked winds, set on wreaking havoc. I ditched the idea of trying to save the awning because saving the guys was obviously priority. We drove ahead maybe a few hundred yards when the 20 foot awning holder went over the top of the bus and was dragging on road - could have taken out an oncoming car. We could not go any further. Arielle and I went again on the top of the bus - looking at each other in desperation - not knowing how to handle this over our head situation - the winds continuing to pound - the 20 x 30 foot vinyl awning at this point flapping with abandon, the brackets bending and twisting, threatening to completely thrash the sides of the bus - suddenly adrenaline rushed through me and brought forth a guttural, primal, gorilla chest pounding, howl which placed Arielle into hysterical laughter. This shifted our seemingly inadequate mind frames into a “lets tear this @#$% apart and git-r-done”!! And we man-handled the situation. Right at that time a Native American Indian family drove up and the man yelled up if he could be of any help. I told him my son and a friend were up ahead and could he possibly go to them. Feeling a little less frantic, we successfully dismantled the entire awning frame, leaving it as carnage on the side of the road.

The Indian family returned to us assuring me of Aaron and Jordan’s safety. They were up ahead at a road side rest area, unharmed. When we reached them, we all simply stared at each other for awhile, words eluding us…..we have consistently ridden these summiting roads now for 7-8 hours a day, humbly, respectfully, but in no way afraid or backing down to their power. We are as the side of the bus states: The Rise Above Tour.

Lights! Broken Camera! Action!

2008-07-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

OK, so it has been awhile since my last blog. I have been on the road doing the Rise Above US Bicycle Tour. Today is the first day I have been able to blog with an internet connection. I began my portion of the tour in Salt Lake City. We have done a couple speaking engagements; one at the Tri-County Independent Living Center in Ogden and the other at the University Rehab Hospital in Salt Lake City. We have a great crew put together and it makes the message of promoting the power of possibility so much more powerful.

I apologize but I am unable to upload photos to my blog from this computer so as for now you will have to use your imagination. I will be sure to post some as soon as I am able.

We have done some media with FOX 13 news and with my luck in the middle of the news segment I roll over the camera cords with my hand cycle (under the direction of the camera guy) and my hand cycle caught the cords and I pulled the camera off the tripod and it went slamming to the concrete. As everyone was making comments an making fun of my mishap I began to cry. I felt horrible. Thank goodness the camera guy had spare equipment in the news van to finish our segment. After we completed the entire segment Big Buddah the news reporter came to me and said "You did us a favor. We have been trying to get a new camera and now we have an excuse." I asked him if he was just saying that to make me feel better. He said "Yes. Is it working?" I said "A little bit." Why is it that I am so coordinated to play sports and dance but I am clumsy in everything else? I am so accident prone. I have so many bruises on my legs right now you would think I got beat up. I advise you to keep your distance and keep all breakables out of my path. We have a film crew with us and they keep making spoofs on my camera incident and cover up their camera equipment when I am near them. If you would like to see my camera incident in action please view the video below. The video features some of the work we did in Salt Lake City and toward the end is my camera mishap. I was shocked that the person that put this video together and posted it on you tube featured this portion of our time in Salt Lake. Now fortunately for me I get to relive it over and over.

I was also interviewed by the Deseret News newspaper for the "Mormon Times" section. Click on the link below to read the article.

http://www.mormontimes.com/MITN_newsmakers.php?id=1544

The Park Record newspaper from Park City, Utah also did an article on myself and the Rise Above Tour. Click on the link below to read the story.

http://www.parkrecord.com/sports/ci_9925545

We had the take off starting line at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City on Thursday the 17th. We had a great turn out of spectators and participants. We did three laps around the park which equaled a 5k. The kids that were riding their hand cycles were working towards a Boy Scout Merit Badge and were eager to ride more laps. Thank you to everyone that came out and supported this event.

We are now on the road and have had our share of mishaps without my contribution. It's about time!!! We got a flat tire on the bus as we were enroute to Cedar City. The only exit available to us off the 15 was in Scipio. It was about 7:30 pm in the evening and the tire shop owner just happened to still be there. Unfortunately, he didn't have a tire that was the size we needed but he assured us that he could have one delivered by morning. That meant that we were sleeping on the bus in the middle of the Dairy Queen parking lot. The same place we had dinner and killed time by shopping in the mini mart attached to the Dairy Queen. The things that are sold in these small town mini marts blows my mind. I refrained myself from buying the T-shirt that had a picture of a deer head with the word "Utah" under it. It was tough but I went back and forth trying to decide if I should get this T-shirt but in the end I rolled away.

We road through Zion's park on Saturday which was where the scene of my bike accident ocurred. It was raining hard and the pavement was slippery. I was going so fast when all of a sudden I had to make a U-turn and get back on the road. I was turning so fast my bike couldn't get enough grip on the slick pavement and I started hydro planing sideways toward the embankment of the road. Right before I went off the road I screamed at the top of my lungs thinking I was going off of a cliff. Thank goodness there was some brush that stopped me before going over. I could hear the tap tap of cycling shoes running in my direction. I was found unscathed and still smiling. It felt like a Kodak moment so I smiled for the camera.

Sunday was an off day of riding for me being the Sabbath and all. On this day the team road through Aquarius Plateau a beautiful place right out of a photograph. Aaron, the founder of the Rise Above Tour, yelled for me from the front of the bus. He said he wanted me to ride with him today. I told him that as much fun and beautiful as it looks I am not able too. He then asked me to "Call on the Lord to get an excuse for this Sabbath Day." I laughed and then said "That's a good idea. I have the Lord on speed dial and I will make the call. I am sure the Lord will understand your need." Aaron, then said "could I write you a note?" I laughed again and said "Sure! and when you're done fold it into a paper airplane and fling it up to heaven." Staying true to my standards I didn't ride that day. I helped out the camera crew that is filming the documentary for the tour. I took still pictures of the team riding through Aquarius Plateau and Bryce Canyon.

Monday was finally my time to ride. We started the day in Boulder and drove out of the city to a part of the road we could ride on. Unfortunately, a storm came barreling through and crushed our chance of riding that day. We stayed on the bus and played Quiddler. A card game of putting words together. It was fun. I was pretty good at putting three letter words together out of ten cards. Boy do I need to go back to school.

Tuesday we woke up and I was eager to get on the road and ride. I have been couped up in the bus observing for too long. We got geared up and rode down the road about 6 miles. We then had to climb up a hill for 6 miles to an altitude of 9500 feet. It was absolutely gorgeous. The view, the weather and the smell of the fresh air was overwhelming at times. During moments that I was really stuggling pedaling my hand cycle I started singing Hymns to empower me. Believe it or not it really helped. The team would laugh at me when they would get near me. It would be so quiet and then all of a sudden they said they heard this small voice singing songs. It wasn't altitude sickness it was me singing me songs. As we were riding a thunderstorm came in and started pelting us with hard rain and hail. We were soaked and freezing by the time we got back to the bus. We dried off, changed our riding gear, ate lunch and got back on the road again when the storm had passed. The part two of our ride this day was amazing. Before I joined the tour they had only rode about 30 miles a day. I was so pumped to ride that I wanted to ride at least that. We rode through the mountains up and down in altitude for almost 5 hours. It was some very steep climbs and some very fast down hills. We got up to 50 mph going down the mountain for at least 5 miles and sometimes more. The road was wet and there was a small amount of car traffic so the road was ours. This was some of the best countryside I have ever seen. We met up with our bus at our next stop which was in Torrey Pines at around 8:30 pm. As much effort and strain it took to get to our destination the 5 hours seemed to go by rather quickly. When I returned to the bus I found out that the bus brakes caught fire while coming down the mountain. Thank goodness for the drivers fast thinking action and saved the bus. We haven't gone without problems but we are persevering and enduring to the end.

I put ICEE HOT all over my neck, shoulders, arms and back before going to sleep that night. I woke up charged and ready to get back on the road and ride again but it was decided that we should take a day off from riding and recover from the day before.

Stay tuned for my next blog. That will be the next time I have internet access and hopefully I will be able to post some pictures.

SYNC or SWIM...

2008-07-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I was swimming but then that turned into a drowning. I have never been one to want to keep up on modern technology. If it ain't broke don't fix it seems to be my motto. I bought the new T-Mobile Dash last Thursday because I need a phone that I can send and receive email for when I am out on the road for my bike tour and also for any other time I am traveling. It took almost two hours to transfer all of my contacts, 560 to be exact, from my very simple Motorola flip phone. I would even get teased that I didn't have a camera phone but if I wanted to take a picture I would pull my camera out of my purse. It takes better pictures anyway. After transferring all my contacts I then proceeded to add the email addresses, mailing addresses for work and home, birthdays, anniversaries, spouse name, children's names, website, and so on. This took hours broken up between Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

I am kind of a geek when it comes to getting a new electronic device so I read the manual. Doesn't everybody? I want to know everything that my new gadget can do so I am prepared to use it. When it came to syncing the email accounts I have for work and personal I thought I knew what I was doing. I was able to sync my personal accounts but for my Outlook account for work I was confused. I went into work on Monday and asked how to do it. I was told that the IT guy that comes to the office is really good at syncing the phones and would do it for me just like he did for everyone else in the office. I was thrilled. I leave on Friday for my bike tour and I really need to have this phone ready so I can answer important emails while I am out on the road for three weeks. The IT guy arrives at the office and told me that it was really easy to do and he proceeded to do it. Well, at least I thought he did. An error message kept popping up while it was trying to sync to my Outlook account. He didn't understand why that was happening because it never happens. I pulled out my manual from my purse and asked him if he wanted to read the directions on how to sync to Outlook. He said he knew what he was doing and the manual wasn't necessary. MEN!!! I slowly put the manual back in my purse but not until after I flagged the pages that explained how to sync. He tried again and again with no avail. He then said that he isn't on the clock anymore so he will come back again on Thursday and try it again. I was disappointed but I knew I could wait until then. I don't leave for my trip until Friday anyway.

After he left I needed to make a phone call so I clicked on my contacts where I had stored all 560 names and information. The screen said "EMPTY". How could this be? I tried it again, empty. EMPTY, EMPTY, EMPTY!!! All of a sudden my stomach felt queasy and I thought I was going to throw up. I wanted to get the IT guy on the phone but no one in the office had his cell number. I called his office and it was closed. I called T-Mobile to see if somehow the contacts were stored somewhere on my phone because how could they possibly just be gone. T-Mobile told me that there was nothing they could do because the contacts don't get saved anywhere else but in the contacts folder. I could feel the chunks churning in my stomach. I got off the phone and wallowed as I stared at the wall. I must have blacked out because before I knew it an hour had passed. I snapped out of that mode and decided to go home.

The entire way home I kept telling myself it is not the end of the world. Worse things could happen. I could still transfer over my contacts again from my Motorola phone. I would cringe at the thought of the amount of time it would take to enter all the other information such as email and mailing addresses. Then I decided that inputting mailing addresses would be on a case by case basis. Email addresses that are important to have during my trip I will input but wait until some down time on my road trip to input others.

After I returned home I needed to relax and concentrate on something else. I started reading the paper. On the front page were two stories. The main story was about the recovery of the little boy that was kidnapped by his father after the father shot the boys mother in the face. The boy was dropped off at an LDS church in Mexico by his father. The father is still at large but the little boy is safe. The second story was about a little boy that was hit by a car on Halloween and was given the lowest odds to survive. What a miracle that this little boy is alive, talking, walking and eager to get back out on his skateboard and ride along side his dad. I started to cry. I am always touched by people that have the will, determination and perseverance to overcome adversity. I felt ashamed that I wallowed for an hour about my stupid phone. Richard Carlson said it right when he wrote "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff...and it's All Small Stuff". I have learned another personal lesson on humility day and I am so grateful for the blessings that enrich my life. I didn't drown after all.

My very "EVENTFUL" radio interview...

2008-06-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was a guest on a radio talk show. The radio station is located in Monterey. The interview was to be about an hour. Since it was a morning interview and I was concerned I would oversleep I decided to use my house phone just to make sure there would be no problems with the reception.

The radio station called me at 10:30 am and the interview began. The host Barbara asked really great questions and I was calm and comfortable being myself when all of a sudden my phone started to beep that the battery was low. I still had a 40 minute interview to do and my phone is about to die. I started to panic and kept trying to sit up in my bed so I could transfer in to my chair and look for another phone to use. My legs started to spasm every time I tried to sit up and it kept throwing me back down. All at the same time that I am trying to answer a question. After about 5 attempts I finally sat up, transferred into my chair and the hunt was on for another phone.

I went into the office and I couldn't find a phone. I raced into the bedrooms of my brother and mom but both of their phones were in a part of the room I physically couldn't get to. I rushed back into the office knowing there was a phone in there and I had to find it. Mind you that I am pushing my wheelchair through the house with one hand and holding the phone in the other. I am banging into every wall, every door way and knocking stuff over. I am starting to sweat and most likely wasn't making any sense in my answers. I scanned the office very carefully once again and saw the phone behind some hanging file folders on the desk. I rushed over. I reach for the phone on the desk but it was too far for my reach. I reached again and then I heard the click. I lost the call!!! I screamed "NOOOOOOO!!!" In desperation I launched my entire body for the phone again and all in one motion I hit the phone with my fingers and then I fell to the floor.

Falling on the ground would have been a low point for me but when I heard the phone fall behind the desk I knew that the floor is exactly where I needed to be. The phone started ringing and now the race was on again to reach the phone in time before the answering machine picked up. It truly was a race against time. I am crawling under the desk at the same time my legs are tangled in my wheelchair which made it difficult to move. I could have had a broken leg for all I know but my adrenaline was pumping and I was determined to get that phone. I was able to grab it on the last ring. I answered with a shortness of breath. The radio producer asked if I was o.k. and all I could do was laugh. He then said they were putting me back on the air.

I now had to finish this interview while sitting on the hard tiled floor. Something that my butt didn't like. My legs started to spasm again and throwing me all over the place. I did my best to keep it under control and not make it obvious in the interview that I was having difficulty. I made it through the interview. To my own opinion, just barely!!!

Afterwards the host wanted to talk to me. I thought I was in for it. But she told me how much she enjoyed having me on the show and that she knows the listeners will as well. I apologized profusely for losing the call. She laughed and asked what happened. Boy did she pull at the wrong thread asking that question. I told her the eventful story and she was rolling with laughter. In the last week laughter at my expense seems to be the theme around here. I did learn that under pressure I just may be the person you want saving your life. Well, that might be pushing it just a little.

"MY SUPER FUN BIKE RIDE"

2008-06-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

My good friend, who we will call Mike (because that is his name) came over today so we could ride our hand cycles on the bike trail at the Santa Ana River by my house. He is also in a wheelchair and has a hand cycle. To be honest mine is much better looking than his. Now if only my hand cycle worked better than his today. We left my house around 6:00 pm. We thought we could go out and ride about 8 miles in about an hour. When we left my house I felt very weak because pumping seemed difficult for me. I should have stopped right there and assessed the situation. I didn't and kept going.

We get on the bike trail and we didn't even make it a quarter of a mile when I had to stop and rest. Mike kept saying "C,mon!". His way of "encouraging" me he said. We go a little further and I have to stop again to rest. I am looking like a real wimp at this point so I asked Mike to stay right next to me, talk to me and that would take my mind off of how much my arms hurt. He did and we made it a couple miles while we told each other stories. Any time we would come to a street that we had to go under I would have to take a break and build up the energy to ride down with speed and ride back up without difficulty. The first couple hills I was able to do it. The next few and the remainder of the hills back to my house I needed help from Mike and a good Samaritan passing by.

We made it 4 miles from my house and then we decided to turn around. We looked at the clock and it took us an hour and a half just to go that far. The sun was starting to set and Mike got nervous that we could be out on the bike trail in the pitch black dark. Since I was having problems with my bike, and it was so obvious at this point, Mike told me to call my mom and pick us up. I told him that I am not a quitter and that I would make it back to my house no matter what time it was. We continued on. Mike got a better look at my bike while he was riding behind me and noticed that my wheels that should be cambered in were cambered out. The complete opposite position they should be in. Making my ride as if I was dragging my body and the bike the entire time. I let out a sigh of relief that it wasn't me it was the bike. Lance Armstrong would not be happy to find that it was "all about the bike". His book is great though.

Neither one of us had an allen wrench to fix the problem so we had to continue on our journey. I stopped about every three minutes to rest while Mike continued on in front of me. Saying that he needed to get his heart pumping to make sure this time was a good work out for him. During moments like this where I know there is nothing I can do to fix the situation I have to use the power of distraction by concentrating on other things rather than the problem at hand in order to get me through it. Mike was not picking up on the fact that I kept changing the subject every time he would bring up my broken bike and what needed to get done when we got back to my house. "Thanks for stating the obvious Mike but it isn't helping" I kept saying to myself. I was on the verge of tears, my knee is bleeding from rubbing up against the bike chain, I am sweating, my arms feel like they're going to fall off my body and I have Mike continually telling me what needed to be done when we get back to the house. I snapped. I turned a very unattractive color and yelled "Mike! If you don't shut up I am going to strangle you and push you into the river." I was so shocked that I said that. I don't talk to people like that. This didn't faze Mike at all knowing his personality. Without missing a beat he chimed in with "Yeah, if you could only catch up to me." His sense of humor was just what I needed at that point and I laughed. It calmed me down and I was able to refocus. I would love to say that he stopped telling me what needed to be done when we got back to the house but he didn't. But I changed my attitude and just continually agreed with him rather than getting irritated. My bike got increasingly worse and even in the lightest gear it was very difficult to pump.

Mike was eager to help me out. He kept looking for ways that he could drag me from behind his bike. We even considered using my bra strap as a way to tie our bikes together. Thank goodness for my bra Mike found a long stick. He held one end and I the other. We built up our speed to 4.4 mph all while Mike was pulling me and pumping with one arm. A huge difference from my 1.5 - 2 mph with two arms. Mike wanted to get his heart pumping and get a work out from this ride and that is exactly what he got. You have to be careful what you wish for sometimes. It was very dark and the nats were flying into our eyes and our mouth. We pushed on. Well, Mike pushed on. He is such a stud!

To make a long story even longer we made it back to my house. What should have taken us no longer than an hour and a half turned out to be three and a half hours. I had survived what is now being called "MY SUPER FUN BIKE RIDE" but more importantly...so did Mike. My sweet older brother Robert got right to work on my bike to fix what was wrong. My mother rewarded us with hamburgers and hot dogs. I made it home. Of course with a little help from my friend; but I made it home. This was a true test of enduring to the end. After this experience Mike and I had together I don't think we will be signing up for the "Amazing Race" any time soon.

On a good day this is what Mike and I look like...

and on a day like this...

Introducting Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Wells

2008-06-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends of 12 years Vanessa Wilker got married on Saturday. I felt so honored that she wanted me as one of her bridesmaids. If she could only foresee what was going to happen having me as a bridesmaid. We (bride and bridal party) arrive at the Chart House in Dana Point for the wedding ceremony very late. I was rushing to get out of my car and wouldn't you know, my wheelchair catches on my dress and snags it and eventually tears it about 5 inches. I couldn't believe it! Thank goodness that when I got out of my car and transferred into my wheelchair and adjusted the dress properly the tear was on the side and kind of hidden. Phew! I started off the ceremony as the first bridesmaid down the aisle. The grass was so thick and difficult to maneuver on that I had to do a wheelie to make it to the alter. When I got to the alter I dropped the wheelie and turned left to get into formation. Well little did I know that my front caster got caught in the microphone cord and I pulled the microphone straight to the ground and it made a loud bang. Talk about making an entrance. It doesn't end there either when it comes to me and making a mess of things. The tables that the wedding party was supposed to sit at was up a step and I couldn't get close enough to use the table to put my plate on it to eat from. So I had to hold the plate in my hand and hope that I didn't spill anything on my dress. Wishful thinking!!!! Even though I covered my lap with two napkins I still managed to find a way to find a part of my dress that wasn't covered and get goobers on it. Can someone please just throw me a bone at this point??? Good grief!!! I had to carry my clutch purse on my lap the remainder of the reception so no one would see the food stains.
All in all the wedding was wonderful and Vanessa looked absolutely beautiful. It was special for me to see her take this next step in life. We have seen each other through many experiences over all these years of being friends. Speaking of friends, it was so fun having all of our girlfriends together again. It seems that it takes a special occasion to get all of us together.

Our audition for "America's Best Dance Crew" airs this Saturday

2008-06-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

Some of you may remember a previous blog post that I shared a little over a month ago regarding my dance crew auditioning for America's Best Dance Crew. Well this Saturday, June 7th "Colours 'N' Motion" (my dance crew) will be featured on the show at 11:00 am only on MTV. Watch for us at the Los Angeles audition during the show.

You can also get a sneak peak of our interview at Teen Faze by going to the following link: http://www.teenfaze.com/spotlight/ (then click on "America's Best Dance Crew 2: Los Angeles Auditions" next to Randy Jackson's photo) we will be in the video around the 3:33 time line. Click on video to see a scroll bar in order to fast forward.

Could I look more out of my element in the video?

Rise Above Tour

2008-06-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine, Aaron Baker, who is a walking quadriplegic through dedicated rehabilitation, is riding his bike from San Francisco to Washington D.C. starting on June 10th. The focus or the tour is to raise funds for spinal cord research and to educate people on the importance of rehabilitation and perseverance after a lift altering injury such as a spinal cord injury. Aaron is on a mission to open up a series of rehabilitation centers that change the perception of ongoing treatment and management of catastrophic injuries. The bike tour is a total of 3900 miles estimated to take 3 months. For a spinal cord injury it will feel like it is around the world instead of cross country. On July 14th I will be joining him in Utah and riding with him through the mid west and so on or at least until I am dead. At that point I will tell Aaron to drop me off at the nearest airport so I won't be dead weight on the fancy tour bus. I have been training but definitely not as much as I should for an adventure as treacherous as this one. I have an awesome hand cycle that was donated to me by Team PossAbilities, a non-profit through Loma Linda University Hospital. Overstock.com is one of my sponsors and has provided me with all white cycling gear. All white will come in handy while I ride through some very hot areas. I may not be the fastest on the tour but I just might be the best dressed. The tour is called the "Rise Above Tour" (www.riseabovetour.com) and not only will we be cycling but we will also be speaking to groups in numerous states about rehabilitation and attitude and how that plays a key role in the healing and recovery process after a spinal cord injury.

On June 5th there is going to be a kick off party to celebrate the start of the tour. All are invited to attend. See invitation below. If you're not able to attend but want to support the tour please visit the tour website at www.riseabovetour.com and make a contribution.

My trip to Utah...

2008-05-25T23:07:00.000-07:00

1. Rental car drama at the airport. Is it asking too much to remember to install my hand controls???

2. T.V. interview with channel 4 news. Thanks Breaking News for bumping my segment!!!

3. Spoke at Neighborhood House in Salt Lake City.

4. Spoke at the Center for Change in Orem. This facility is for females with an eating disorder. One of the most emotional experiences of my life.

5. Vegetarian dinner at my Aunt Helen's. Tofu Hot Dogs anyone???

6. 4-wheeling with Brandon. I love that I can get rough and tough even while I am wearing 4 inch heels.

7. Getting to the airport long before my flight takes off and I still miss the flight because apparently I talk too much and lose track of time. No more flights for the rest of the night. At least my luggage made the flight back to California.

8. Thank goodness for the Sulser family for rescuing me. I knew I kept a toothbrush in my purse for a reason.

9. Sunday morning I was back at the airport and it became a reunion. I bumped into a few friends of mine. Former LA Laker Mark Madsen and my friend Brad from my church in Huntington Beach. I made sure all conversations took place right in front of the gate this time in order to make sure I didn't get left behind.

Could she be any cuter???

2008-05-15T23:46:00.000-07:00

My 3 year old niece reciting the 5th Article of Faith. She learned it just by listening to her older brothers practice it. She knows it so well that she corrects them when they mess up while reciting it themselves.

Mother's are fine. Especially mine!

2008-05-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!!! The day started off with me gracing my mom with a beautiful Hawaiian lei. Let's be honest, corsages are so last season. In the afternoon the family got together for dinner at my sister Kristen's in Temecula. As soon as we arrived at her house the gift exchange for all the mother's began. My mom has MMA, a hand muscle disorder, so peeling potatoes have literally become a pain for her. I thought those days for her should be put behind her so I put a lot of thought into her Mother's Day gift and got her the "Rotato Express". She laughed and was very appreciative of the gift. It really is the gift that keeps on giving. Now we can have more mashed potatoes at dinner. Yummy! I gave both of my sisters, who are great motherly examples to me, a framed picture of the three of us. It is so strange to me that all three of us really look nothing alike. Maybe you could look at the picture and decide for yourself.
Four generations of women and still going strong!
Happy Mother's Day Mom!!! We love you!!!

She's up in lights...

2008-05-08T22:03:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago Overstock.com put up an ad at Times Square in New York. A friend of mine was kind enough to go there and take a picture of it for me. Wish I could be there to see if for myself.

Calling "Crew" #3035! You're ON!

2008-04-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

My dance partner wanted to audition for "America's Best Dance Crew" a reality show dance contest that is featured on MTV. One of the shows producers found our dance group profile on MySpace and invited us to come and audition. The only problem was that we didn't have a "crew" because it has always been just the two of us. She found three guys that dance hip hop, break dance, poppin and krumpin. Almost all of those dance styles I am unfamiliar with. The rehearsals for us as a "Crew" started just three weeks ago. This included very long days of dancing and driving to and from Burbank. I am hearing Ka-Ching! Ka-Ching! in my head right now from all the gas that sucked that up. Anyway, this last Friday one of our members had to back out to take care of some personal business. This set back put us in a position to have to redo the routine with only one day to rehearse. My dance partner called the show to let them know we only had 4 members instead of the required 5 or more. They still wanted us to come and participate in the audition.

The first audition was on Tuesday the 29th. There were so many "crews" from all over Southern California. Every direction you looked there were people dancing. There were film crews from television networks capturing everything. We had to go through so many interviews. My dance partner did most of the talking. I was so tired that I couldn't keep up with all of the "Swag" talking going on. Let's just say that I was out of my element. This picture below is an action shot the producers wanted of the dancers running down the sidewalk. My dance partner and I were not allowed to do it because they were concerned that we would get trampled.
We were the first "crew" to audition and we could have used more practice time. The judges comments toward me was that I need to have more confidence in my dance moves. I totally agreed with them. Like I said, this form of dancing was all new to me. To try and give you a visual of what I look like when I am krumping all you need to do is picture me being attacked by bees. I took their comments as constructive criticism and was eager to practice more. The judges still invited us to come back for the main audition the next day and perform in front of the actual cameras. We jumped at the chance and were very grateful for the opportunity to give it another shot.
Wednesday's performance for the whole "crew" went so much better. Probably because we went over and over the routine before going in to impress the judges. The judges told my dance partner that she has so much confidence when she is dancing and it is seen through her facial expressions and attitude. Then we cut to Briana. I didn't get complimented on my confidence in fact it wasn't even mentioned. They said that I had this big beautiful smile throughout the routine and that I just sparkled. That could be taken as them softening their blow implying I didn't dance with confidence but I didn't take it that way at all. My "crew" kept trying to get me to give a serious/angry face while dancing. That I needed to pull anger from within me. Well I don't have any anger. No problems and no drama in my life. Therefore, all I can do is smile and hope that the judges smile back. And they did!
We didn't make it to the show due to the fact that the rules state that there needs to be at least 5 members on a "crew". I was honored that they still let us have our moment. Hopefully when the show airs its second season you will get to see us in action. I will keep you posted on when it's coming up.

I did get the chance to get some love from Randy Jackson though. I was to shy to ask for a picture with him. All in all it was fun and I am glad I had this experience.

Here is a picture of my dance partner and I with "JabbaWockeez" the winners from last season. They were absolutely amazing. One of the members I actually know. My dance partner and I danced with him at the Vibe Music Awards back in 2003 along side Ludacris. These are the twins that danced with us. They are currently recording a rap album. They call themselves "Hot as That Thang!"

Don't Forget Mom!

2008-04-25T00:03:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest Overstock.com commercial that just started airing on April 21st. It is a Mother's Day commercial so it will be running until May 11th. So buy something for your Mom this Mother's Day at Overstock.com and give me a little job security. Remember that shipping is only $2.95 no matter how much you buy. C'mon! It's your Mom! That's my plug and I am sticking to it. By the way, not the best freeze frame picture of me below but if you click play it gets better.

AXIS Dance Company Performance

2008-04-18T23:25:00.000-07:00

My dance partner and I were invited by the director of the AXIS Dance Company to come to there performance at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center. It was an amazing show! My dance partner and I were taking notes on some dance moves that they would do. Some of the moves that the wheelchair dancers would do I may have to work up the courage to try myself. After the show we got to visit with some of the dancers. It is always nice and encouraging to visit with other wheelchair dancers that share the same passion and love for dancing.
One of the dancers didn't have hands or legs below the knee and when she came on stage dancing along the floor and manuevering her body with such grace I couldn't help but tear up. Here is a small clip of her dancing.

AXIS Dance Company's mission is to create and perform high quality contemporary dance that is developed through the collaboration of dancers with and without disabilities. AXIS teaches dance and educates about collaboration and disability through community outreach and education programs. AXIS is committed to promoting and supporting physically integrated dance, locally, nationally and internationally. (www.axisdance.org)

Dancing with the Stars!!!

2008-04-08T00:23:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Julianne & Adam!

I got tickets to see "Dancing with the Stars" and I took my sister Kristen and my two friends Julie and Amber. We are all huge fans of the show. Most of the audience was seated up in the balcony no matter what time they got in line that day. Since I am unable to go up the stairs to get to the balcony I thought it possible for me to sit down on the floor near all the celebrity guests and family members of the "Stars". As we were waiting in line to go in I told the girls that if I was asked to sit in the V.I.P. floor section that I would ditch them in a heart beat and not feel guilty about it one bit. I know, I am shameless! Turns out they chose all of us to sit on the floor in the V.I.P. area. However, I got to sit with Kristi Yamaguchi's family at their table. I clearly looked liked the family member that didn't belong for obvious reasons. They couldn't have been kinder though. I am now officially part of "Team Yamaguchi".

One of the highlights of the night was when there was a dance contest during one of the commercial breaks. Of course I couldn't resist being a part of it. I did some wheelchair tricks and some dance moves to the song "Baby Got Back". The winner was chosen by audience applause. Well.....I WON!!! I was so excited. Team Yamaguchi was in full effect now. I won a t-shirt that is HUGE but I wore it to bed that night with great pride.

The best part of the night though was spending time with my sister and two good friends. Thanks for coming with me girls and I am so glad that you had fun.

Blog slacker with a good excuse

2008-03-01T22:08:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything in awhile. Some of you have inquired where I have been and what I have been doing since my last post. You can consider me a slacker but I feel I have a good excuse. I had major reconstructive surgery of my urological area on February 13th that kept me in the hospital until the 22nd. I am home and slowly recuperating. I am pretty much on bed rest and getting to know a lot of the lame shows on t.v.. They're pretty much like passing a car wreck where you just have to take a look for yourself. My poor brain is now full of useless knowledge. My mom laughs when I tell her about the movies on the Lifetime Movie Network channel. It really is pathetic! I am convinced that Lifetime is a "man hater" network. Every movie is about a woman scorned by a man some how, some way.

I go back to my surgeon on March 5th to see how I am healing. Fingers crossed all looks well and I will be able to get the three tubes sticking out of my stomach removed. I think I will progress in a more rapid fashion when that time comes. There were some complications after the surgery and it took many hours to stabilize me. I was having seizures and bladder spasms when I came out of anesthesia. I can't tell you how painful bladder spasms are. Let's just say it was some of the worst pain I have ever felt. The surgery was supposed to be 4 hours and ended up being 5 1/2. I went in for surgery at 7:30 am and didn't get stabilized until 7:00 pm that night. My heart goes out to my mom for the long hours she waited in the waiting room. I can't imagine what it must have been like for her anticipating each update from the doctors and nurses. Love you Mom!

This was a very predominant surgery that my surgeon has said will improve my quality of life and prolong my life health wise. He knew my kidneys were in bad shape before surgery but he didn't realize how poor of shape my kidneys were really in until after cutting me open and taking a closer look. He told my mother that had I not had this surgery I would have been dead of kidney failure by the time I was 35. Thank goodness for modern medicine. I was at USC University Hospital which is a teaching hospital for medical students. If you ever need any procedure done I know first hand that a learning hospital is the only way to go since they are up on the latest and greatest.

Thank you to all those that came and visited me and those that sent along flowers and cards. The support is very much appreciated and it kept me in good spirits considering the circumstances. I will keep you updated on my progress.

"Edge with Jake" T.V. Show

2008-02-02T01:42:00.000-08:00

Overstock.com is a big sponsor for a new late night talk show that is on the t.v. circuit and has been picked up in 33 states thus far. It will start airing February 14th. They are filming segments all around the U.S. and when they stopped in L.A. they wanted to do a segment with me since I am the spokesperson for Overstock. Jake (the host) wanted me to teach him how to dance in a wheelchair. Well I couldn't have him dance in any old wheelchair so I brought him the blingiest wheelchair available. Colours Wheelchairs (one of my sponsors) has a wheelchair similar to mine with the 24kt. gold and leopard print fabric except for this chair has full suspension along with dollar and cent sign spinners on the billet wheels. It looks hot! By the end of the segment Jake was pulling off wheelies. I was so proud. I did have to put a gymnastic mat behind him after he took a few diggers. He realized that it isn't as easy at it seems. He was a good sport and we had a lot of fun. I thought I was going to pee my pants at times during filming he was making me laugh so hard. That would have made for good t.v. However, at the very end of filming Jake and I were practicing wheelies when my microphone cord got caught on my tire valve cracking it and causing an instant flat tire and nearly launching me out of my wheelchair. Once again, it could make for good t.v. When I get a copy of the segment we did I will be sure to post it for those of you that are the early to bed, early to rise kind.

If you would like to read more about the upcoming t.v. show visit www.edgewithjake.com.

Happy Birthday Curren!!!

2008-01-30T02:12:00.000-08:00

The gift that keeps on giving and then makes you want to rip your hair out! I will say that Curren loved the drums I gave him and they kept him busy for a couple hours. It brings me great joy when little kids love the gifts I give them. I taught Curren how to count on the sticks and then throw them down like a rock star. That is pretty much how far my knowledge goes when it comes to the drums. Good thing he comes from a long line of incredibly talented musicians that can take him to the next level.

Bon Voyage Golden!!!

2008-01-22T20:39:00.000-08:00

My cousin Golden and I

My aunt Jan, my Grandmother and I

I went to Arizona this last weekend to pick up my grandmother and bring her back to California for a visit with my family. While I was in Arizona I went to my cousin Golden's going away party. He is moving from Arizona to San Jose for a new job. He just got married a few months ago so this will be a new adventure for the new couple. It was priceless to spend one on one time with my grandmother during the 5 hour drive back to California. I love hearing the stories from her childhood. I can't wait to tell my own children these stories one day. It was great to visit with family in Arizona and it was a very eventful weekend.

Little did I know that her time in California would be just as eventful. Earlier today she fainted outside our house and slammed her head on the cement. My mom couldn't revive her so she called 911. An ambulance took her to the hospital where she was admitted. They have run many tests but she has to stay overnight for observation. Considering that my mom is her daughter-in-law she could give authorization for them to do anything. My dad and aunt had to give authorization over the phone since they are both out of state. At first they thought she had a mini stroke but now they think it is an infection. She gave us a good scare. She still isn't in the clear yet but we are praying for her. If you will, please keep her in your prayers as well.

My aunt Jan with her two sons Jeremiah and Zach and my Grandmother

My aunt Jan and I

Chad Reed takes 1st in Anaheim!!!

2008-01-05T21:53:00.000-08:00

I was given 5 VIP passes to the Anaheim Supercross from Team PossAbilities who is one of my sponsors for racing. I took my two brothers, their girlfriends and my niece Kira. We were able to go in a Ford F150 limo truck. Talk about the VIP treatment. It was funny to see my wheelchair in the truck bed of the limo as we drove to the stadium. Our seats were so close to the dirt that it felt like we were in on the action. My older brother Robert made Chad Reed's pipe for his bike so we are all big Chad Reed fans. You can imagine how excited we were to see him win the main event.

My brother Robert with his daughter Kira and his girlfriend Katie.

My brother Richard's girlfriend Stacy and me.

My brother Richard and me.

My brother Richard's girlfriend Stacy and my niece Kira.

Kings vs. Avalanche

2007-12-17T23:38:00.000-08:00

Tonight my younger brother Richard got 4 tickets to the Kings game and invited myself, his friend Sean and my 5 year old niece Kira. This was going to be Kira's first professional hockey game and she was so excited to go. She was given the option of staying home to do her homework or go to Staples Center for the big game. To no surprise she chose the game so I promised her dad that I would help her do her homework in the car on the way up to LA.
Our seats were right behind the goal in the 11th row. Richard's friend Sean was kind enough to carry me down all the stairs to our seats. There was no way I was going to miss sitting in these great seats and get stuck in the handicapped section. One of the highlights of the night was Kira's reaction while walking into the arena. She was so wide eyed and she just looked around and around. She sat on my lap the entire game and we danced and cheered. At one point during her dance craze I was taking a drink and she bumped the cup so hard that the straw cut open the inside of my upper lip. She never broke stride and kept on dancing. I had to taste blood the remainder of the night but I didn't mind so much as I watched how much fun she was having.
Unfortunately, the Kings lost 2-4. They scored two goals at the first of the third period and we were all ecstatic. The crowd went nuts. We really thought we had a chance to make a comeback and take the game. The game was still a lot of fun and I felt so lucky to be there while Kira experienced this first time moment in her life.

Even though she was exhausted on the way home she still kept on cheering. Go Kings!!! We are actually Duck fans but what are you gonna do? The tickets were free!

Hot Tamales vs. The Slammerz

2007-12-08T21:04:00.000-08:00

The San Clemente "Slammerz" challenged us, the Pierside "Hot Tamales", to a powder puff match expecting to dominate the field. Well, little did they know that it wasn't our first time to the BBQ and boy did they get served. We are undefeated and planned on staying that way. Today was no different. We won the game 27 to 6. It was almost a complete shutout but in the last couple minutes the Slammerz finally scored a touchdown but failed to get the extra point. Our girls played an awesome game and never broke stride. With the DJ pumping tunes through out the game the girls danced their way to the end zone. The spectators even got in on the dancing action. At times a little too much taking it past the sidelines onto the field.

Winners and still Champions....PIERSIDE HOT TAMALES!!!

Katie McKlesky, our quarterback, threw an amazing game that lead to our victory.

The biggest highlight of half time was our cheerleaders performing their rendition of Justin Timberlake's "Sexy Back".

If you would like to see some play by play pictures from the game please go to the link below. Brother Terry Cirac did an amazing job capturing the plays and the emotion on and off the field.

http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?Uc=37sn10v.an7jjmp3&Uy=-o331ly&
Upost_signin=Slideshow.jsp%3Fmode%3Dfromshare&Ux=0&mode=fromshare&conn_speed=1

One Lucid Experience!!!

2007-12-07T23:29:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went to a movie premier that my good friend Jeremy McGhee starred in. The movie is called "One Lucid Experience". Jeremy is a professional wheelchair skier and has also competed in the winter Olympics. He is the founder of a non-profit organization called "Fight 2 Walk" (www.fight2walk.org). The foundation provides mentoring those with new spinal cord injuries and encouraging them to get back out there and make the most of their life. He opens their minds to a world of opportunity.

Jeremy, along with some other pro skiers and snowboarders, had a movie developed featuring their wicked talents on the mountain. The premier was in San Diego so I decided to go down and spend the day with friends before the big event. I brought my good friend Megan to the premier with me. We had a lot of fun. It was such a cold night that I was eager to get home and climb into my warm bed. I could hear my bed calling my name all the way from San Diego so I had to make the drive home. There is nothing like sleeping in your own bed.

2007-12-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I went down to San Diego to spend some time with my friend Stacy. We have been long time friends since the age of 6. We met while playing soccer on the same team "The Goal Busters" and the rest is history. She was a much better player than myself so she got to play a lot more than I did. To no surprise of course because she is a woman of many talents and such an amazing example to me in so many areas of life. Especially as a mother. She and her husband Chris have a little boy Jack that is two. I haven't seen him in months and he has grown so much. Kids seem to do that when you're not looking. However, he is just as cute as I remember if not cuter. He is so bright that he blew me away with some of the things he did while I was there. Here is an example of one. He loves playing the drums. He sets up his drum set in front of the t.v. and watches a scene from the movie "Drumline" and plays the drums along with the movie. When they count out on the sticks, so does he. When they throw their sticks on the ground, so does he. He was so in to it that I was mesmerized just watching him. He loves the drums so much that each of his Grandparents have a drum set at their house so he can practice when he visits. We have a rock star coming of age.

I love spending time with Stacy and playing catch up. Every time I see her it does feel as though we pick up right where we left off. We both have very eventful lives so it is fun to share our most recent experiences and even more fun to reminisce about our past memories together. Pulling the "What were we thinking?" moments from the archives always makes for a good laugh.

Thank you Stacy for always being there for me and I am so glad that we met that day on the soccer field. Who knew that more than 20 years later we would still be close friends. I love you!

Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Kris Sundberg

2007-12-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

Today my good friends Kris (with a "K") and Cathy (with a "C") got sealed in the San Diego temple. Kris is or was my home teacher, who I just loved having, and Cathy has been a friend since her first day at my ward. She looked absolutely beautiful and the reception was decorated with blown up pictures of them. It was a nice touch that added to the warm feeling of the night. The reception was at Sherman Gardens in Corona Del Mar. I am going to miss seeing these two at church but I made them promise not to turn into that couple that only gets together with other couples. I have no problem being the third wheel. I can hold my own.

"You Can..."

2007-12-01T22:11:00.000-08:00

I was asked to be the keynote speaker for the annual conference for the Girl Scouts of Utah. Spending time with the girls brought back memories of when I was in girl scouts. I never made it past Brownies but I have great memories of the Olympics, cookie sales, fundraisers, field trips, etc. The theme for this years conference was "You Can..." encouraging the girls to make a difference in the community. The leaders bought 200 of my books to distribute to all the girls. After I was done speaking they all lined up to have me sign their book. It was a special moment hearing their thoughts on the message I shared with them. It makes it all worth it to hear that my example has inspired them to be better people.

After signing all the books I had to get to the airport to catch a flight. I was really pushing time. My flight departed at 3:00 pm and I didn't get on the road till 2:00 pm. I was sweating it that I wasn't going to catch my flight. Since I had a rental car I had to stop and fill it up before returning it at the airport. I return the car, check in and I was just about to go through the security check point when I realized I left my laptop in the rental car. I rushed back over to the rental car office got my laptop, rushed back to the security check point and to my surprise I see my very good friend Dave Gardner. We had hoped to hang out while I was in town but with our schedules it didn't work out. Better late than never. He knew I was in a hurry so he was so kind to carry all my bags to the gate. With a few minutes to spare I barely made it onto the flight. The trip was a quick one but filled with adventure. Not long after I arrived in Utah it started to snow, and snow hard it did all night. I woke up to 8 inches of snow. I couldn't even get to my car because there was too much snow to try and push through. I have never driven in the snow so I was very nervous and cautious. I thought I would be okay after I cleaned off all the windows and mirrors. Well, as I was driving to the conference I had to stop at a stop light. All the snow on roof slipped down over the windshield. The snow was so heavy and I thought I was about to break the windshield wipers. Luckily I was able to see a little bit out of the driver side of the windshield. I proceeded on. I don't think I am cut out for the snow. I like to look at it and play in it but living in it doesn't look like a lasting relationship to me.

The "PossAbilities" Are Endless...

2007-11-29T23:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight I attended the 2007 PossAbilities Scholarship Award Dinner in Redlands. Last year I was the recipient of a brand new racing wheelchair and this year I was the recipient of a brand new hand-cycle. Both of which will come in handy when I compete in triathlons. PossAbilities has a triathlon every April that I have been able to do a few times. My brother Richard and I did it together as a relay one year. We both had such a great experience. If anyone is interested in doing the triathlon this coming April let me know. Tonight I also was asked to be a speaker at the dinner. I decided to tell the story of when Richard and I did the triathlon together. It's a great story if you're ever interested in hearing it. For those of that are not familiar with PossAbilities it is an outreach program that offers disabled individuals who were born with or have suffered a permanent physical injury a sense of community and provide activities and practical help to integrate them back into life-once again becoming valuable members of our communities. Visit their website at www.teampossabilities.com.

I try to give back to the PossAbilities program is by visiting recently injured patients at the Loma Linda University Medical Center to provide comfort to them and their families. One patient I had the opportunity to meet is Anthony. His situation made such an impact on my heart. Last year Anthony and a friend were walking into his house when a teenager about their age, opened fire on the friend with a shotgun. This teenager was trying to get into a gang and was told as part of his initiation to join the gang was to kill someone and they provided him with the shotgun. Without hesitation Anthony jumped on top of his friend to protect him from getting shot. Once Anthony was shot his friend ran into the house to get away. The gang member proceeded to shoot Anthony 8 more times. Both of his legs were blown off at the middle of his thighs and a hole was put into his stomach. Amazingly, he survived. He was in a quarantined hospital room for 7 months. During that time I had the chance to meet him and visit with him. It took everything in my power not to cry while he told me his story. I had to cover up from head to toe along with wearing a mask during our visit because he had so many open wounds there was a risk that he could catch an infection from visitors. He had two tubes in his stomach. One gave his stomach liquefied food and the other removed all the icky stuff. He wasn't allowed to eat food for 6 months. Not even have a drink of water. I asked him what was going to be the first thing he eats when he is allowed. "In-N-Out" he said with a smile. He had lost so much weight during his stay in the hospital that when I saw him tonight I didn't recognize him. I asked him if In-N-Out was his first meal. "Of course, and then some" he said. He is a senior in high school and he is eager to get some prosthetic legs so he can start to play sports. He is a hero to his friend for saving his life and a hero to all those that he will inspire with his story. I know that my life is considered "challenging" but after meeting Anthony I realized that even in my situation I take things for granted everyday. We can all learn something from Anthony.

Who's That Girl?

2007-11-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

For those of you that didn't get a chance to pick up last weeks issue of OK! Magazine to see the Overstock.com AD that I was featured in I thought I would post it so you could take a look. Also, please take advantage of the extra savings offer with the promotional code in the AD. The entire website already offers amazing savings but every little bit helps. Plus, if you shop there that may give me job security as their spokesperson. :)

CADA Conference at Disneyland

2007-11-19T23:00:00.000-08:00

Today I had the opportunity to speak at the CADA (California Association of Directors of Activities www.cada1.org). They're a 50 year old organization of more than 2500 ASB students representing more than 830 junior and high schools. Their mission is to promote and support leadership development and student activities. This was my 3rd year speaking and every year it gets bigger and better. The theme this year was "Put Me In Coach, I'm Ready to Lead."

Speaking to 2500 students broken down into 3 sessions was exciting but by the end I was exhausted. Bringing your A-game with enthusiasm and just as much emotion as the last session takes its toll on your brain. Trying to remember everything I prepared got confusing by the third session because I know that I have told this story but I couldn't remember if I told it during this session. That is the price I pay for not using notes when I speak. The payoff is always speaking with the students afterwards and getting their take on what they got out of what I shared with them. It never fails that it brings tears to my eyes as they are sharing their thoughts with me. We never know how people are affected when you're real with them. Every life has a story, every story has a lesson and every lesson has the power to change the world. This organization is doing just that. These students are amazing and are so eager to make a difference in this world starting with making a difference within themselves.

This is a picture of me with Jill, another speaker, and Patricia who was the coordinator for the conference. Two incredible ladies that I love love love.

Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Steve Hendren

2007-11-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

I went to the wedding of one of my best friend's, Traci, this weekend. The wedding was at St. John's Lutheran Church in Orange and the reception was at the Balboa Pavilion. The entire event was so well put together, not to mention beautiful, and all that attended had a great time. Especially on the dance floor. Holla! Traci always looks gorgeous but watching her come down the aisle the tears welled up in my eyes. There was a glow about her that I have never seen before. She was just as emotional as I was as she was escorted by her dad. She has married one of the most amazing men I have ever met. I have even told him on many occasions that I hope the guy I marry grows up to be just like him. Congratulations to the incredibly happy couple and know that you will be missed while you're living in Hawaii. I'm so jealous! But, you can count on visits from me that's for sure.

The happy couple at their private "Tahiti" table. Which is where they are going on their honeymoon.

This is Lindsey and I outside the church after the wedding.

This is Jesse Billauer, Lindsey and me at the reception. We had a fun table that was labeled "Long Beach" with a brief story of how the bride and groom met. I feel so blessed to have been there the night they met and witness the beginning of their union together.

Lindsey and me at the reception. We were so happy to be right next to the food. I was starving.

Of course every "Kodak Moment" I had with Traci is on Lindsey's camera or taken by the wedding photographer. I need to get one of those keychain digital cameras so I can always capture special moments like that.

OK! Magazine Overstock.com Ad

2007-11-16T01:26:00.000-08:00

Be sure to pick up this week's issue of OK! Magazine. Overstock.com took out a full page AD that features me including a great discount offer. I got to wear thousands and thousands of dollars worth of diamond rings. Absolutely gorgeous jewelry that they naturally kept an eye on the entire time during the photo shoot. There was no need to worry really. My hand started to get sore from holding up all those carats that I was happy to hand them over.

Aren't you Bree Walker?

2007-11-14T22:10:00.000-08:00

Today I had the opportunity to speak at the Wilshire Rotary Club to all of their members. It was a great event. I was a little concerned at first seeing that most members were males. But then I realized I've never had a problem talking to guys before so why should today be any different. I felt much better and comfortable getting up and sharing my story. Not long after I arrived a woman (one of the only ones there) approached me with such excitement. This is how our conversation went...

WOMAN: Hi! You're Briana Walker the speaker today right?

ME: Yes! Yes, I am!

WOMAN: You may not remember me but we have met before while I was living down in San Diego. You interviewed me when I started my business.

ME: Interviewed you? Forgive me but I don't remember this.

WOMAN: Yes, you interviewed me for a news story. It was like 20 years ago so I understand if you don't remember me.

ME: (GULP!) (LAUGH!) 20 years ago I was 9 years old. I wasn't even old enough to babysit let alone conduct news interviews.

WOMAN: (CONFUSED) Aren't you Briana Walker the news anchor?

ME: No, I am sorry I am not. I think you're thinking of "Bree Walker" and I am not her.

We had a good laugh about the situation. I think she was laughing to hide her embarrassment and I laughed to prevent me from strangling her for thinking I was much older than I am. I don't know what happened but since I turned 29 in October I must look a lot older than I used to. When I went out the other night I didn't even get carded and that has never happened to me. Oh! Fountain of Youth, where are you?

What's a Big Hair Fashion Show?

2007-11-13T22:00:00.000-08:00

I went to the Big Hair Ball Fashion Show the other night. I really had no idea what type of show I was in for. I had never heard of such a thing but when my friend called and invited me I had to check this out. It was a lot of fun watching the girls model funky hairdo's up and down the catwalk. The designer for the show saw that I would have trouble being able to see the show since I sit low so he let my friends and I watch it from backstage.

After the show it turned into a dance party and we tore it up on the dance floor. One of my friend's is a hairstylist and wanted to get pictures of some of the models. They would pull me into the photo and I nearly got my eye poked out a few times by a piece of their hair. It was so fun! Thanks Steve for inviting me along.

"Almost Amy" at Sugar in Hollywood

2007-11-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went to see the band "Almost Amy" at Sugar in Hollywood. The two main members of this band are also two of the professional dancers on "Dancing With The Stars". Nearly all of the cast of the show for this season were present and being around them in their own element was entertaining and I have to say was an eye opening experience.

No matter what level of celebrity some may be, I was reminded once again that they're just like the rest of us. With a few minor differences of course. I have always thought of Mark Ballas Jr. and Derek Hough as great dancers on the show but now I can think of them as great musicians as well. Their tunes are catchy and upbeat. You can listen to their songs at www.almostamy.com.

I was lucky enough to be front and center for the entire show with my friends Sarah and Brandon. Derek and Julianne Hough's parents were standing right behind us and since they are LDS Sarah was talking to their mom about visiting teaching. I love that even in a night club Sarah still finds the way to testify of the power of visiting teaching.

An Arabian Halloween

2007-10-31T00:41:00.000-07:00

Since I was sick this Halloween and forced to stay home and rest I was able to be a part of primping my 5 year old niece Kira for her costume. This year she was Jasmine from the Disney movie "Aladdin". She was so excited to have her hair and makeup done. She loves the look of "cat eyes" for eyeliner so she was adamant that I do her eyes just like that. When I was finished doing her makeup I began working on her hair. This became a difficult task because she kept turning her head to look at herself in the mirror. She would stare at herself and say "I am so beautiful! Look at me, I am so beautiful!" I would then say "And you're so humble too." She would then say "I know." I just laughed.

Her father, my brother, Robert, always coordinates his costume to whatever she is dressing up as. Last year when she was the Pink Power Ranger he went as one of the enemy monsters. The year before that she went as Spider-Man and he went as the Green Goblin. So it was fitting that this year he went as Aladdin. He made his costume from scratch and I have to say that I was very impressed. I had to add the purple scarf to finish off the look.

"Power In You" Tour 2007

2007-10-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

My dance partner, Auti Angel and I just finished a tour with the "Power In You" organization in Utah. We had the opportunity to perform for thousands of high school and junior high school students. The organization was developed by Mary Kaye Huntsman, the First Lady of Utah, in honor of her daughter that has juvenile diabetes. This was our second year being a part of the tour. I am an ambassador for the organization and this was my first year speaking on the tour as well as dancing. Let me tell you, there is nothing like having an arena filled with people cheering and applauding for you. You can't help but have your heart strings pulled at.I got to introduce a few speakers this year too. Thurl Bailey who used to play for the Utah Jazz and Dan Clark a very well known motivational speaker. Jericho Road performed as they have each year since this tour was established in 2005. They are a great group of guys that I have developed a great friendship with. Check them out at www.jerichoroadmusic.comMy favorite part of the tour is getting to speak with the students afterwards. I love to hear their personal stories and how this tour has changed them some how and some way for the better. That is the pay off for all the hard work and effort that went into putting an event like this together. I am flattered that they ask for my autograph and a photograph with them. I feel so blessed to part of this organization that shares an amazing message to so many.

Gooooooo Tarrish!!!!

2007-10-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

During my trip in Utah my good friend Tarrish was going to have an audition to become one of the new MC's for the Utah Jazz. Her audition was going to be during a game so of course I did whatever it took to get tickets so I could be there to cheer her on. Tarrish was so kind to get me two tickets for some great seats from the radio station she works at. My friend Jeff flew up to Utah from Orange County to drive home with me so I thought what better way to thank him for his kindness than by taking him to the game with me.

Tarrish did such a great job and the crowd loved her. Even all the season ticket holders sitting around us kept saying how natural she is with the crowd and what a looker she is. They all hope that she gets the job as well because they would love to have more interaction with her. I bet they would! I can't blame them though for feeling that way. Good luck Tarrish!

Happy Birthday Again to Me!

2007-10-08T04:40:00.000-07:00

Turning another year older this year was the first time that I sort of panicked. Don't get me wrong. I love my life! I am very happy and proud of what I have done with all the 29 years I have been given. However, this is the last year in my twenties and I still want more.
I was in Utah during my birthday so I didn't know if I was going to have a celebration or not. This was one way I could be in denial I suppose. If I don't celebrate the birthday then it is like it doesn't count. Well, since I have a lot of friends in Utah they encouraged me to go out, have fun and bring in another year with grace. A large group of us got together at a swanky sushi bar in downtown Salt Lake City. I was a little concerned how the dynamic of the group would go because I didn't think that these people knew each other. Well apparently Utah is a small world and almost everyone in the group knew someone else and it turned out to be a great night with great conversation. After sushi we went to a friend's house for the after party. My friend Liz had this idea to have everyone write down something special about me. Then they would mix all the comments up in a hat and have each person read the comment they pulled out. At first I was hesitant about it but then again we all want to hear nice things said about us so I let it continue. It was interesting listening to things said that I never thought anyone noticed about me before. Liz, this was a great idea to do for someone on their birthday and I hope you keep the tradition alive. I keep all the comments in my wallet and pull them out whenever I need a little pick me up. Thank you so much for all those that came and reminded me that we all can own our age if we live our life to the fullest with everyday that we get on this earth.

General Conference Fall 2007

2007-10-06T02:05:00.000-07:00

This past General Conference was my first time ever attending a live session. I received 2 tickets from my institute teacher during class one night for my participation in class. I was so excited! I made plans to go with my good friend Dave that lives in Utah. He too had never been to a live session. He said that people in Utah have a hard time getting tickets. Well lucky for him I had tickets. Since we were going to the Sunday afternoon session he knew we would be hungry before and perhaps afterwards so he prepared this whole picnic for us to enjoy. He told me he would bring some snacks for us but I was surprised how much effort and thought he put into it. He went so far as to cut the crusts off the sandwiches, making dips and spreads, cutting the fruit and veggies. It was the works. We went into conference with full bellies. There was such an amazing spirit as we entered the conference center. My eyes filled with tears as the President Hinckley came into sight and all rose to sing "We Thank Thee O God For A Prophet". This was a historical conference since we had a new member of the Presidency called. I have always been a fan of Henry B. Eyring's books and the way he counsels through his talks. Every talk given in the afternoon session was uplifting and I can't wait for the Ensign to come out so I can go through the talks again.

Utah or Bust!

2007-10-05T05:25:00.000-07:00

My friend Liz and I drove up to Utah together for General Conference. It was a fun road trip that consisted of lots of random stories, singing songs like they're going out of style, calling people and giving them a play by play of our adventure together, games, etc. etc. Isn't it interesting that when you're on a road trip with someone that no conversation seems to be off limits? You always seem to learn so much more about the person you're with. I did learn a new game from Liz though. Well, to me it was a new game. Since this road trip I have asked people if they have ever played and apparently everyone knows this game and I never got the memo. The game is called "Who Would You Rather...?" I really had to think of my answers. There is no wrong answer and there is no winner to the game but I was serious about my answers and had a reason for each one. My favorite game moment was when we called one of Liz's guy friends and had him play a round. The question was, "Who would you rather kiss? Jessica Alba or Kate Hudson?" His answer: "Jessica Alba all the way because I don't like blondes." I have never met this guy so I said "what a shame because people tell me all the time that I look like Kate Hudson." He laughed and said "you asked who would I kiss not who I would want to be sealed for time and all eternity in the temple." I reassured him that his response was a good recovery and he is forgiven.

One exciting yet scary moment during our road trip was when we had to drive through a snow storm that included hail and rain. It honestly came out of nowhere. Liz was a trooper driving through it in my car. We decided to put on Christmas music to feel festive and it seemed fitting for the situation. It worked like a charm!

S.P.L.O.R.E. Benefit Dinner

2007-09-30T02:29:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I attended a benefit dinner for an outdoor adventure program for the disabled called S.P.L.O.R.E. (www.splore.org) Last year I was the keynote speaker for the dinner and a celebrity table host. This year I was able to enjoy the dinner just as a celebrity table host. The CEO and VP of Marketing for Overstock.com also attended the dinner as celebrity hosts. They felt I needed to have a date so they set me up with their I.T. guy at the office. I am not one for blind dates but I thought it was just one night so it couldn't hurt....too bad. My date, Jason, was 6.4 so I got a kink in my neck from looking up at him all night. He was such a gentleman, handsome and looked great in a suit. I couldn't have asked for a better date. Even when Patrick Byrne, the CEO, had me thrown in "jail" to only have me bailed out by someone making a donation in the same amount that was donated to throw me in "jail". Jason came running over right away and bailed me out. My table wanted to get Patrick back so each person donated $5 with a total of $50 to throw him in "jail". As Stormy, the VP, was gathering $50 to bail him out I took him a bread roll with a butter knife in it and told him he could saw his way out to freedom. He got a kick out of that.

SPLORE's fundraising goal for the night was $60,000. They had a silent and live auction and some other activities to raise funds. Patrick decided that whatever they had raised by the end of the night that he would personally double that amount. In total they were able to raise $130,000 with Patrick's very generous donation. Knowing what a difference this was going to make in the lives of those that it will benefit I just cried and gave Patrick the biggest hug. This is a great organization that blesses the lives of so many that never thought they would ever be able to do adventures like those that are offered. I am going to do the dog sledding adventure this coming February. I can't wait!