In a moment yesterday with my daughter, I had the opportunity to tell her about some of the fun things I have gotten to do in the past (Admittedly, I have had many jobs). I told her I got to go to NYC for the world premiere of Hercules, the Disney animated film. She didn't believe me. She thought I was joking.
So I started thinking about what I have been able to do in the past and what that makes me today. I'm not certain if I should let my past shape my future or just let it be what it was. Indeed, I have done some really cool things - I have had some heartaches, and I have had a lot of laughter! I guess in some ways, I want both. I want to be shaped by my past but I don't want to be imprisoned by it.
It has given me pause to think about the person who checks me out at the local grocery store. What is her story? Did she used to do something great? Life is like a wave - sometimes we get to see it from the top of the wave (I'm not a surfer but, I'd love to add that to my life list) and sometimes we are at the bottom. But either way, there will be another and another. Life has a way of moving on.
Is there something in your life that was like it was at the top of a wave? Are you at the bottom right now trying to figure out how to get back on that surfboard?
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I made it!
YAY! I did make it. I have been placed on the list of the top 20 try outs in Las Vegas. Round One - ding! ding!
I was a bit obsessive - checking and re-checking the website to see if I had made it or no. I was checking for several times (the rules indicated that the voting would begin on Feb 18 at 6:00 a.m. PT (7 a.m. MT). I was so excited the night before that I didn't get a wink of sleep. And then when it wasn't up all day the 18th I just about freaked out!
But then as I was driving Peyton to school on Tuesday, Feb 19 - I received an email that tipped me off that it was online! I'm so excited.
I am now in an all out social media campaign. The votes were posted for New York. Brizzy V won in New York with just over 5600 votes (the next second one was 2400). I believe that I may have less competition in Las Vegas - but I have pulled out all my resources. I added it to my blog, I have added to facebook, I have been tweeting about it and then I have asked several of the bloggers to vote as well. I know that my mom has sent out emails and I know that others have said they have done the same.
The suspense will kill me! I wish I could see how the voting was going. I wish I had some idea if I am even close. I thought it was one week of voting - but rather, it is for two weeks. Through March 2. I do hope that they post the winners right away on that Monday!
Xing my fingers. Hopeful!
I was a bit obsessive - checking and re-checking the website to see if I had made it or no. I was checking for several times (the rules indicated that the voting would begin on Feb 18 at 6:00 a.m. PT (7 a.m. MT). I was so excited the night before that I didn't get a wink of sleep. And then when it wasn't up all day the 18th I just about freaked out!
But then as I was driving Peyton to school on Tuesday, Feb 19 - I received an email that tipped me off that it was online! I'm so excited.
I am now in an all out social media campaign. The votes were posted for New York. Brizzy V won in New York with just over 5600 votes (the next second one was 2400). I believe that I may have less competition in Las Vegas - but I have pulled out all my resources. I added it to my blog, I have added to facebook, I have been tweeting about it and then I have asked several of the bloggers to vote as well. I know that my mom has sent out emails and I know that others have said they have done the same.
The suspense will kill me! I wish I could see how the voting was going. I wish I had some idea if I am even close. I thought it was one week of voting - but rather, it is for two weeks. Through March 2. I do hope that they post the winners right away on that Monday!
Xing my fingers. Hopeful!
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Maybe I don't understand supporting a friend
I know that we are all at a point in our lives where we are able to make our own opinions. We all come from different backgrounds (and for the most part that is pretty exciting for me). But I have a giant question - and I'm not sure what to think.
I recently traveled to Las Vegas for an audition to become a voice-over talent. Mind you, I studied Communication at CU with the express thought of wanting to go into radio. I worked as an on-air talent at KQXI radio in Denver for two years (on weekends), I worked at KOSI 101.1 FM (a mainstream AC station in town) and then at Radio Disney. I have been in communication with a friend who was at a sister station of KOSI that we are looking into doing our own podcast (more on that when we get it up and running). Additionally, I have taken lessons (much like a singer might meet with a coach) with a company in Denver that specializes in voice work. I have recorded commercials and been on MOPS radio. I have volunteered at Radio for the Blind (reading newspapers). I have been told by several people (not just my friends/family) that I'd be good at audio books. This is really what I want to do.
I have even heard it said that you should look back to see what you did as a child - and that might be a good career choice. I can recall being 12/13 years old and making radio shows on our cassette tapes with my friend - and I would create all of these different commercials.
But, life has gotten away from me. I was never in a position to move from Denver. I couldn't chase down the dream of being a voice talent as I had to pay the bills and support my family.
But then I saw this opportunity to try out to win a giant contract. (I have to be honest to say that I have a penchant for trying out for somethings...I recently tried out for Amazing Race - not so much because I want to be on reality TV but I really want to travel to all those great places!) I booked a trip to Vegas immediately. I arranged hotel. I got a flight. I told my friends/family what I was doing. (I did turn it into a business trip with meetings at a couple different hotels to make it a bit more financially feasible as I am on a VERY tight budget).
But here is what I don't understand... I have this "friend" who says she supports me - but instead of like the people on American Idol who wait outside the room to hug their friend when they try out...she made it very clear to me that it was her intention to try out. Not support - but rather, compete (since there really is only 1 spot). I let her know from the beginning (she first found out about it when I mentioned it while we were in line to compete for a spot in Amazing Race - (which would be as a TEAM not competing AGAINST each other) that I was not overly comfortable with her coming to Vegas as I was doing this and was going to turn it into a biz trip.
She persisted. She followed up just a couple weeks later asking me for more information about the try out. I once again informed her that this was not a good time to come play with me in Vegas we can choose another time. Days later she texted me - "what are you wearing to the try out?" I'm thinking, "what does it matter - its VOICE not how cute we are." I asked her her plans again. She said she was coming out and trying out. I let her know I didn't feel like she was being supportive but rather competitive.
I was in contact with one of the studio representative to ensure that I didn't need to prepare anything and that I didn't need to make an appointment. I was super happy when the rep offered me a front of the line pass. I sooo was not expecting that! I was so happy I mentioned it. MY BAD. Because then my friend had the gall to ask me to email the studio back and ask for another one! I don't know this studio rep and I don't want to put my own audition at risk for my friend. Um...NO I told her.
She responded we could support each other....that perhaps God is using me? God is using me? For what? For her to find auditions? Because as far as I see it, she didn't know about Amazing Race audition until I told her or this audition until I told her...and the very morning of these voice over auditions she was begging me (via text) to tell her where this audition was held. She apparently found it because she sauntered in just as I was about to go in for my studio time.
I just don't understand how competing against one another is supportive. I see these as opposite sides of a spectrum.
I recently traveled to Las Vegas for an audition to become a voice-over talent. Mind you, I studied Communication at CU with the express thought of wanting to go into radio. I worked as an on-air talent at KQXI radio in Denver for two years (on weekends), I worked at KOSI 101.1 FM (a mainstream AC station in town) and then at Radio Disney. I have been in communication with a friend who was at a sister station of KOSI that we are looking into doing our own podcast (more on that when we get it up and running). Additionally, I have taken lessons (much like a singer might meet with a coach) with a company in Denver that specializes in voice work. I have recorded commercials and been on MOPS radio. I have volunteered at Radio for the Blind (reading newspapers). I have been told by several people (not just my friends/family) that I'd be good at audio books. This is really what I want to do.
I have even heard it said that you should look back to see what you did as a child - and that might be a good career choice. I can recall being 12/13 years old and making radio shows on our cassette tapes with my friend - and I would create all of these different commercials.
But, life has gotten away from me. I was never in a position to move from Denver. I couldn't chase down the dream of being a voice talent as I had to pay the bills and support my family.
But then I saw this opportunity to try out to win a giant contract. (I have to be honest to say that I have a penchant for trying out for somethings...I recently tried out for Amazing Race - not so much because I want to be on reality TV but I really want to travel to all those great places!) I booked a trip to Vegas immediately. I arranged hotel. I got a flight. I told my friends/family what I was doing. (I did turn it into a business trip with meetings at a couple different hotels to make it a bit more financially feasible as I am on a VERY tight budget).
But here is what I don't understand... I have this "friend" who says she supports me - but instead of like the people on American Idol who wait outside the room to hug their friend when they try out...she made it very clear to me that it was her intention to try out. Not support - but rather, compete (since there really is only 1 spot). I let her know from the beginning (she first found out about it when I mentioned it while we were in line to compete for a spot in Amazing Race - (which would be as a TEAM not competing AGAINST each other) that I was not overly comfortable with her coming to Vegas as I was doing this and was going to turn it into a biz trip.
She persisted. She followed up just a couple weeks later asking me for more information about the try out. I once again informed her that this was not a good time to come play with me in Vegas we can choose another time. Days later she texted me - "what are you wearing to the try out?" I'm thinking, "what does it matter - its VOICE not how cute we are." I asked her her plans again. She said she was coming out and trying out. I let her know I didn't feel like she was being supportive but rather competitive.
I was in contact with one of the studio representative to ensure that I didn't need to prepare anything and that I didn't need to make an appointment. I was super happy when the rep offered me a front of the line pass. I sooo was not expecting that! I was so happy I mentioned it. MY BAD. Because then my friend had the gall to ask me to email the studio back and ask for another one! I don't know this studio rep and I don't want to put my own audition at risk for my friend. Um...NO I told her.
She responded we could support each other....that perhaps God is using me? God is using me? For what? For her to find auditions? Because as far as I see it, she didn't know about Amazing Race audition until I told her or this audition until I told her...and the very morning of these voice over auditions she was begging me (via text) to tell her where this audition was held. She apparently found it because she sauntered in just as I was about to go in for my studio time.
I just don't understand how competing against one another is supportive. I see these as opposite sides of a spectrum.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Going the right way?
The refrain from the song, "are you gonna go my way" reverberates in my head like something I can't seem to shake.
This last week I had a huge decision to make - do I take a full time position at a company that I really admire? They actually offered me the job. The money was a bit less than I am used to making and the job would require me to actually be in an office during regular office hours (something I have not done for YEARS). But, I would give me a regular paycheck and again, it is at a company that I really admire.
OR do I continue to grow my business in a sales position in a company that I LOVE (and the perks are pretty great too) - where I am not assured of anything - but rather, the potential. I have been growing the business. I have asked several other mentors in the business how long it took them to really get their feet on the ground - and I am right in the same timeline that many of them said their business finally took off.
I prayed. I thought. I consulted. I struggled. I dreamed. I wrestled with myself. And I keep thinking about some of the things that my friends said to me - or things that were presented to me in the time that I was trying to make my decision. I am not certain they will help anyone else, but they sure helped me.
- When I asked God to show me a big sign, I had a client who had warned me just the week prior that they may not be able to use my services again this year call me and say they CAN and they are going to the city that would allow them to use me again!
- I got a call from one of my favorite clients that she has another event for me (from start to finish it would take less than a week to close the business - which also included a bonus that will allow me to take my kids to NYC this summer, which was another wish/dream).
- I saw a show from Joel Osteen who said "God will open the flood gates."
- I read an article in Inc. Magazine about another entrepreneur about how he turned down a 3 year $3 million contract to return to working and his company is now featured in Inc. and Forbes!
- I recall a talk that Olympian Summer Sanders spoke about when she was trying out for the Olympics the first time, she "let up" and didn't end up qualifying, despite the fact that she was in the lead (but didn't know it) at the time she let up.
- My friend reminded me that I have tried much harder to make marketing work - and since I have been doing sales it seems to be working "easier" for me. (I'm not banging my head against the wall that much).
- My daughter was sick one day and had to stay home from school (if I had taken the full time job in the office, I would not easily be able to stay home and take care of her).
- And then, I just keep singing "are you gonna go my way."
I am scared out of my head. This is very new for me. I have only myself to lean on. I will need to work hard. I will do it. I will be a success and yes, I can hear Jesus beaconing me..."Are you gonna go my way?" Why yes, I think I will!
This last week I had a huge decision to make - do I take a full time position at a company that I really admire? They actually offered me the job. The money was a bit less than I am used to making and the job would require me to actually be in an office during regular office hours (something I have not done for YEARS). But, I would give me a regular paycheck and again, it is at a company that I really admire.
OR do I continue to grow my business in a sales position in a company that I LOVE (and the perks are pretty great too) - where I am not assured of anything - but rather, the potential. I have been growing the business. I have asked several other mentors in the business how long it took them to really get their feet on the ground - and I am right in the same timeline that many of them said their business finally took off.
I prayed. I thought. I consulted. I struggled. I dreamed. I wrestled with myself. And I keep thinking about some of the things that my friends said to me - or things that were presented to me in the time that I was trying to make my decision. I am not certain they will help anyone else, but they sure helped me.
- When I asked God to show me a big sign, I had a client who had warned me just the week prior that they may not be able to use my services again this year call me and say they CAN and they are going to the city that would allow them to use me again!
- I got a call from one of my favorite clients that she has another event for me (from start to finish it would take less than a week to close the business - which also included a bonus that will allow me to take my kids to NYC this summer, which was another wish/dream).
- I saw a show from Joel Osteen who said "God will open the flood gates."
- I read an article in Inc. Magazine about another entrepreneur about how he turned down a 3 year $3 million contract to return to working and his company is now featured in Inc. and Forbes!
- I recall a talk that Olympian Summer Sanders spoke about when she was trying out for the Olympics the first time, she "let up" and didn't end up qualifying, despite the fact that she was in the lead (but didn't know it) at the time she let up.
- My friend reminded me that I have tried much harder to make marketing work - and since I have been doing sales it seems to be working "easier" for me. (I'm not banging my head against the wall that much).
- My daughter was sick one day and had to stay home from school (if I had taken the full time job in the office, I would not easily be able to stay home and take care of her).
- And then, I just keep singing "are you gonna go my way."
I am scared out of my head. This is very new for me. I have only myself to lean on. I will need to work hard. I will do it. I will be a success and yes, I can hear Jesus beaconing me..."Are you gonna go my way?" Why yes, I think I will!
Friday, February 1, 2013
What am I missing?
Typical to my style, I usually just dive in. Especially when I'm interested in something. I just get out there and try it. I am an adventurer like they say most men are at putting something together - I don't look at directions or doing things in any kind of traditional way.
I have written before about how I taught myself how to snowboard using YouTube videos and then succuming to letting my friend (who also happens to be a snowboard instructor) show me what to do - how to board. I loved it so much that I have become a bit obessed with it. I worked as a social media coordinator for Echo Mountain Ski Area to get a free pass and then moved on to Vail Resorts. I was given a board by a friend. I knew nothing more than it was "pretty" and the boots fit me. I dressed in some warm clothes (pants, jacket, and neck thingy).
I have increased my skills. I would say that I am definitely an intermediate boarder. I can go down the black runs and have a great time. I'm not really interested in learning how to play in the terrain park. I just like to get down the hill.
I also write a blog for the Denver Post's MileHighMamas.com. I am the deals editor there. I talked my way into the SIA Snow Show (SnowSports Industries Association). The SnowShow is for all the manufacturers (equipment, apparel and more) and media. I love getting to take a peek at the things that will hit stores in the fall of 2013. I love finding all the great new technologies and perks.
I have to be honest. I am only a 3rd year rider. I write about recreation, snowboarding and deals. I understand the depth of the experience these people have with the industry and I am awed and amazed that something that started out as a hobby can be so much more. There is an entire industry there! While I don't really know the huge difference between rocker and camber. I don't know what makes my board that much better (or worse) than someone else's. I just like to ride. I will learn more. I will one day know really what they are talking about.
I have written before about how I taught myself how to snowboard using YouTube videos and then succuming to letting my friend (who also happens to be a snowboard instructor) show me what to do - how to board. I loved it so much that I have become a bit obessed with it. I worked as a social media coordinator for Echo Mountain Ski Area to get a free pass and then moved on to Vail Resorts. I was given a board by a friend. I knew nothing more than it was "pretty" and the boots fit me. I dressed in some warm clothes (pants, jacket, and neck thingy).
I have increased my skills. I would say that I am definitely an intermediate boarder. I can go down the black runs and have a great time. I'm not really interested in learning how to play in the terrain park. I just like to get down the hill.
I also write a blog for the Denver Post's MileHighMamas.com. I am the deals editor there. I talked my way into the SIA Snow Show (SnowSports Industries Association). The SnowShow is for all the manufacturers (equipment, apparel and more) and media. I love getting to take a peek at the things that will hit stores in the fall of 2013. I love finding all the great new technologies and perks.
I have to be honest. I am only a 3rd year rider. I write about recreation, snowboarding and deals. I understand the depth of the experience these people have with the industry and I am awed and amazed that something that started out as a hobby can be so much more. There is an entire industry there! While I don't really know the huge difference between rocker and camber. I don't know what makes my board that much better (or worse) than someone else's. I just like to ride. I will learn more. I will one day know really what they are talking about.
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