Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Flyin' Solo


Throughout the past six years since my accident there has been many “firsts". I remember the first time I pushed my glasses up on my nose by myself…the first time I pushed my own chair…the first time I typed an email…went to work…and so much more. Today I added something else to that list; today, I drove to and from work by myself!

As many of you know, I purchased my pickup back in January and have been teaching myself how to drive ever since then. I know what you’re thinking…it’s been ten months and she’s just now soloing? To answer that question, I must ask - have you ever tried to operate your gas/brake with one hand and steer with the other, all while having little hand function? Let me tell you it’s a bit difficult!

Me checking things out the day I bought it 
However, after a few more modifications and plenty of cruising the back roads, I finally felt completely comfortable to venture out by myself...wait, I’ll take that back, my PARENTS finally felt completely comfortable! I, myself, was ready a while ago! =)

Anyways, here is to another first…may there be many more in my future!

Monday, November 12, 2012

Girls' Weekend


Want to know what I love more than a three-day weekend? A three-day weekend in which I get to spend a lot of quality time with my niece, Karlee! We had the past two afternoons to ourselves and boy, did we have a good time!

Yesterday, we spent the day watching Disney, coloring Hello Kitty pictures, listening to music, and playing with dolls. When she came over this afternoon, I suspected we’d do something similar, but she had one thing in mind…dress up!

I’m not too big on the actual dressing up portion of the process, but I told her that we could definitely do hair and makeup.  She made a beeline for my bathroom, came back with all I had, and climbed up on my lap. I think her plan was to keep my hair understated while having my makeup be the wow factor…and boy was it a wow factor!


Up next was Karlee’s makeup and I tried to keep it simple, yet classy – like every 4-year old girl should have. After just a little dose of color on her eyelids and she looked in the mirror – Karlee decided she needed some on cheeks and more to her eyes and she wanted to put it on herself.


After we had our hair and makeup done, we did what all girls would do…cranked up the stereo and sang a few songs. From yesterday’s jam session, I learned that Karlee knows every single word to “Pontoon” by Little Big Town, and so that was first on our playlist! 


I can't wait to see what the next girls' weekend will bring, but I'm ready no doubt!

Saturday, November 10, 2012

A New Lion in Town


Last week I had the opportunity to speak at my local Lions Club. This is not my first time to speak with the group, but let me tell you that this is one place where I always feel comfortable, I’m not nervous, and I have a good time no matter what.

After a fabulous lunch made by Mr. Hokanson and a quick meeting, I took center stage. Donned in my crown and sash, I spoke about the Ms. Wheelchair Kansas organization and the opportunities and engagements I have been allowed to partake in during my reign. I also spoke briefly on my platform, telling the members of my mission to empower youth to define themselves.


The Lions Club is an organization dedicated to community – our local chapter is extremely active in such events as the Veteran’s Day parade, food drives, collecting glasses to fight blindness, and so much more.

I have always looked up to their efforts and have been thankful for all they do and so when they asked if I would want to join, I was ecstatic. I am extremely excited to be a part of such a great organization and give back to the community that has supported me for my entire life!