Kaylee, Mommy and Daddy

After shooting Kaylee, a few days later we met up again for a family shoot at sunset back at the Veteran's War Memorial Park. Mandy wanted to get some shoots in with the sunset. We could not have planned a better night for it either. 

Little Miss Kaylee

I had actually met Kaylee and her mom in Kmart's parking lot. I saw her and she was too cute! I had so much fun shooting her and trying to keep up with her. I think shooting kids is my favorite, you never know what they are going to do and you have to stay on your toes. I choose to shoot at the Veteran's War Memorial Park in Pass Christian. Its a good spot to shoot with the park and the beach across the street.

Updates!!!!

Its been some time since I have been on here, I have been able to shoot and I have started up a facebook page :) Now its time to catch up on here.

Unemployment, Week 1

Well last week I got the awesome news that I was going to be laid off.... I was already having a crazy week. I really should say month. I was not needed anything else to add to my rising stress level.

I went to the Veterans Service Agency in Little Italy... when I first walked up the place looked a little sketchy, it was right next to the train tracks, the area smelled like urine, and the building was looking old and not kept up. Inside was a lot better. After getting certified copies of my DD-214, I made my way to a little restaurant and had my first cannoli, total cost $3.75. After watching Cake Boss on TLC I wanted to try one. I wish I remember the name of the restaurant. I will be back in Little Italy on Saturday, I will have to see. So for my first cannoli, I must say it was very good, rich, smooth and creamy. It will be a nice treat every once and a while. 

When I got home I started the task of starting my unemployment claim. 70 calls to the EDD to get a standard recording or one that gives you hope until the end where it says due to the high call volume please call again....

So first thing tomorrow morning will be a phone call to the EDD in hopes that I get through. 

Monday I went to the beach, it was kinda nice not having to answer phones, check my email, file papers, copy, fax, type and all the day to day activities of working in an office. 

Tuesday I did try for a short ride around Fiesta Island. I was not trying to push it or try to hard. My hip is still sore from dislocating it a couple weeks ago. 

With everything I am going to take it one day at a time, go with the flow, and really try to enjoy my time off

juky 2009

Well I had decided to stop writing my blog after the ride last year, but I am back... This year has flown by so fast! I have alot of time on my hands right now, so i might actually be able to get around to putting stuff up on here. So we will see how it goes.

i am not doing the QMDC this year. I was apart of the alumni program, but due to an injury I had to with draw. Who knew that you can dislocate a hip just by walking. So now I am taking it easy and getting stir crazy in the process. 

Long Time....

I know that it has been a long time since I have blogged...
I wanted to blogg while I was on my way down from San Francisco but by the time the evening was over I was so exhusted. I am now getting back to my daily life, before I started all this riding the bike. The big difference in my life pre riding to now, is the job change. I am working alot more now that I am out of the Navy, but I am loving my job. But my new job is alot less stressful. I love getting up in the morning and going into work. I have alot to tell and alot of pictures to share. I am going to do a day by day account, and write down everything I remember. It may be all over the place, but I will do my best for you all.

Drum Roll Please....

The winner was announced this morning... Mike Henderson. Mike truly deserves this title. What an amazing man he is. He had everything in him that the CAF stands for. The best person did win today. It was a nerve wrecking show, and I was able to keep my cool until the end. When Mike gave me $4,000 to join the riders in San Francisco this Friday. As soon as he said he was going to give me the funds, I lost it and the tears just started coming. I was speechless and had to give Mike a hug. Thank you to The Scott and BR Show for giving me this opportunity and for a $5,000 scholarship. And to Corky's Pest Control for a $1,000 donation.

Waiting ...

Tonight cannot seem to go by fast enough. Tomorrow morning, myself, Mike, Kristine, Jeffery, and Jim will be joining Scott and BR in there studio for the final cut. 20 weeks ago 30 of us started on a journey far bigger then we ever imagined. And tonight as I lay here, a million things are running through my head. From the beginning I would say that I was going to win, but for me I say that with all. In the truth of it, I never thought I would still be here. The judges seen something in me, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for giving he this opportunity. I thought it would be Mike and Brent. Brent was cut, but was able to fundraise his $10,000. Mike, through plenty of hard work has been able to raise $10,000 also. And after reading his blog, he stated that if he wins, he is going to use his $10,000 and give it to those who are still needing some money. Mike is so wonderful. I first met him in the La Mesa Trek Store where he would volunteer. 

I am filled with so much emotion. We have no idea of how tomorrow is going to play out. My heart is pounding 90 miles an hour right now in anticipation of it all. How will I ever sleep tonight. I have been trying to get my bike ready this evening and get some packing started. I need to save some of it for last minute. Tomorrow, is going to be busy regardless. 

Tuesday nights are one of my favorite nights during the week... I have been taking figure skating lessons on Tuesday nights since January 2008. It all started with a trip home for the holidays and my number one fan, she said how cool it would be if I could take lessons out in San Diego. Being that I love her so much, I thought why not. Patsy, she is quite the little girl. Well now she is a teenager and a freshman in high school. From the very start, she followed me around and was my side kick. Most kids would hate having their baby sister or brother want to be with them 24/7. But I have loved having her there. And I know the first chance she gets, she will be calling me to see how things went for me. I know that alot of people are wondering the same thing. After figure skating I have a little girl, who I have to pay a visit to. My little friend Samantha, is turning 2 tomorrow. I have the chance to take another private lesson with my coach Chea, but I don't know if I am going to yet. 

Am I ready to make this trip down the coast? Is my endometriosis and fibromyalgia going to allow my body to? Is my health strong enough for this? Are the fires going on going to effect us? What is the weather going to be like? Too hot, too cold? Am I going to forget something? One reveled on Sundays ride that underwear was forgotten by someone on last years ride. Did I do enough to show the judges and the CAF that I really want this? How was my attitude? Did I put forth enough effort? Am I going to regret not raising money for myself, or was it better to help out others first? From the beginning we have not known how the judges decided to cut people from the contest. Will all be known tomorrow or will their secrets be safe for another year? 

Well its rounding near 10pm. I am going to put on a movie in hopes that will help me to fall asleep. Good night all and I will blog the next chance I get.

Final Two

This morning Scott announced on air that tomorrow morning the final two radio contestants will be in studio for the final cut.
If you are up at 630 am tune into xx1090 and listen live...

Bitter-Sweet

Today marked our last training ride for the QMDC. What an amazing 20 weeks I have gone through. I have felt so many emotions , especially in these past couple of weeks.  I signed up on to win my spot on the QMDC, on a whim. From the start I had hoped (along with everyone else) I want to be the one they pick, I WANT TO WIN! To my surprise I have made it to the final two. Mike Henderson, a person who is so wonderful is also standing with me. Over the next few days the winner of the Scott and BR Show, winner will be announced. I may or may not go. I am prepared to go. Something I have learned in the Navy is better to be ready and not do something, then not be ready and have to do something. If I do not win, I will be okay, I will be disappointed but the judges are the one who picks the one who they feel deserves this the most. What a hard decision they have to make. I would hate to be in their shoes. I have the time off work and am willing to do support on the ride too. 

Taking part in the training could not have come at a better time in my life... I had been struggling for sometime prior to the start of that first training ride on June 8Th.  My health was not good. I was told I was no longer able to run, for I will further damage my back and hips. Running had been my therapy, I was just getting into doing local races, trying to participate in one a month. I was trying to get things in order to secure a job, for I was having to leave the military because of my health problems. The Navy had been all I had known for 8 years. How would I adjust. What would I do for work? I was so lost and stressed. 

Right from the start I was open with my group about my health issues, and everybody was still welcoming towards me. I have a hard time meeting new people let alone, letting them into my bubble. I have had too many times in the past where people say if you never need any help don't hesitate to call, and the times I call they are not there. Its frustrating and hard. Who wants to put up with someone who doesn't feel good every day. I get tired of hearing myself say that I don't feel good. Having to cancel plans last minute or go home early. Its hard. And the people I do have in my life that are there for me they are a blessing.  But Group 4 and mostly everyone else has been wonderful towards me. 

I rode with Group 4, for the training. With Hooter and Diane as my ride leaders. And I thank Hooter for his "Nina, we have to talk..." Group 4 showed me that it was okay to stop and not ride when I needed to. Just to rest and on the way back if I am feeling better, I can get back on the bike. One ride where I was in tears, from being in so much pain. And how everyone was concerned, day following text messages, phone calls, and emails, of my group making sure I am okay. Before, I would torture my body, I would not stop. I would push through the pain and end up unable to walk for a few days following. I felt that my body was failing me, and I was not going to let it. I whole hearted thank Group 4... Hooter, Diane, Julie, Dr. Bob, Julie S, Jack, Sandy, Francesca, Cindy, Terri, Tina(Sag-a-licious), Brent, Carma, and I know I am probably missing a couple of names. Thank you all. I could not have gone through this without you all. You all are amazing people and I have enjoyed every mile spent with you all. I hope that down the road, we all can get together and ride. 

Learning about the CAF, is one thing, but I was able to see what it can do for people. And I love talking about riding my bike and what I have been doing. Even though I did not raise $10,000 for myself to secure my spot, if I do not get the winning spot. Helping others raise their money, was what I thought was the best for me during this time period. I love helping anyway I can. Because every little bit helps.  Shortly after we started training, I got a message on myspace from a guy who lost both legs and his right arm in a car accident. He was looking to moving out here to San Diego, and he just asked me a simple question of "Do you know any amputee athletes?" Without hesitation I messaged him right back and told him what I was doing and that I will help out anyway possible.  The following Sunday, I was talking to Steve a radio contestant, and told him about the myspace message. He said you need to tell Jeffery. We went to Jeffery, Steve introduced me to him and I told Jeffery about the message. I was given contact info to pass on. As soon as I got home I messaged the guy and passed the info on. I have not heard from him for some time. I do message him to see how he is. He was having problems finding suitable housing for him to rent out here. I hope that everything works out so that he is able to move out here and do what he loves to do, play sports.  Spreading the word of the CAF, and showing someone where they can look to get the information is so rewarding. Just telling someone that there is an organization out there that is willing to help someone do what they love to do. What better thing to witness the glimmer of hope that shows in their eyes that they are going to have a second chance at doing what they love. 

I don't know how the next few days are going to play out for the final two radio contestants, but I will give you all an update when I hear something. Thank you all for your support throughout the whole experience, its something that will last with me for my lifetime.

A must read for any cyclist...

My roommate went out with friends and one of them is a writer and an avid cyclist. This is the story he did for the Reader. I was laughing the whole time.
http://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/2008/feb/06/cover/

Wednesday October 1

Wednesday was going to be cut day again. I have been trying to ride my bike to work once a week. I talked with my boss, so she knew my plans, just in case I had errands to go do. On Tuesday before figure skating, I went to Trek and bought some new arm warmers and the fancy legwarmers, some new lights for my bike and full fingered gloves. I made my way to figure skating and then had a private lesson. I get home get everything ready for my ride in. I found a new use for my gold Navy PT shirts... Wear them when its dark and I riding. Wednesday morning comes around and I leave at 5am, so I have enough time to get to work, get fresh, and listen to the radio contest cuts.

The ride is was going wonderful. Until I was on Cleveland Ave, by the base. I was in the left lane for I was needing to turn left, Some jerk came speeding past me and just barely hit me. And I swerved to avoid being a pancake, My tires got stuck in the train tracks, and I went down. Instant tears. This other truck pulls up and the lady is freaking out. She was wanting to call 911, if I needed anything. I told her I was fine, just needed to put my chain on and call someone to pick me up. She stayed so I could use her headlights to put my chain back on. I tried calling one of my friends, no answer. Well I could sit here and wait, start walking, or ride the mile more to work. So I cried to work. My left hip and wrist were killing me. I was hoping nothing is broken. I get to my office, I had 30 minutes before the QMDC segment on the radio. I go over to Wal-mart, to get an ice pack and ace bandage. I am still in my spandex. I was not giving a care. I hurry up. My mom is calling me, she is so nervous about talking on the radio. I told her its just like talking on the phone.

I get back to the office at 630.... just in time. I put the ice pack in the freezer to make it cold. I freshen up and wrap me wrist. I then look at my hip... its oh so pretty... See the picture above.

Finally the QMDC segment came on... Scott talked about how he got this idea to have someone speak on our behalf. I chose my mom, who knows me better then her. Scott said that this "Navy Guy" emailed him because during one show Scott talked about my decisions not to do the physical fundraising. And thsi guy emailed Scott tell him about what I had wrote in my blog about it and other things that he has noticed that I have been doing. My mind was all over the place. Who the heck is this guy. I never asked anyone to email or call the radio station on my behalf. My nerve level just went through the roof.

The first person to talk was my mom. She did so awesome. You could not tell that she was nervous at all. Mike had Todd, a former radio contestant speak for him. Carl had Brent aka Cowboy, talk for him. And Scott had his wife. Everyone did such an amazing job speaking for their person. Everyone drove a hard bargin. I was starting to think that I was gone. Scott said that the judges were standing by listening, and would be sending the email with the two who get cut. A few minutes later, which seemed like hours, the "You've got mail" came over the air waves. I was getting nervous, thinking this is it, I am gone. Scott said the two people who are moving on, are Mike and Nina. I was so shocked I almost choked on my Lucky Charms. OMG I am still in. I was like did I hear him right... A few minutes later i got an email from Diane, one of my ride leaders say congrats, so I knew that what I heard was true.

So now I am part of the final two. I was just breathe Nina. Also the final two were being invited to go ride the San Diego part of the Tour De Califorina. A fully supported ride from Qualcomm's Jeff Jacobs and USA Cycling Team.

Back to San Diego

Here is me sitting in Newark Airport waiting to catch my plane back to San Diego

Wednesday...

This past Wednesday was a cut day for The Scott and BR Cycling Team. My plane landed in Buffalo about 845am. My Mommie was there waiting for me to come through the gate as she always does. We rush to get my suitcase and I am trying to fumble with my laptop to listen to the radio show. To my luck, I have a MACbook and I was going to have to download something. So my mom and I rush to my Step Dad's shop. We call him along the way to listen on the computer. We get there about 930am. I was hoping we didn't miss it. So there is my mom, my step dad, and I all standing around his computer waiting. Finally Scott starts talking about the QMDC and the cut. Well Scott said that they were going to call the person. And when he said that my step dad's office phone started to ring. We started laughing. I checked my cell phone, to make sure they weren't trying to call me. The phone was out of service or the number changed. Scott talked about how I decided not to talk my $5,000 scholarship. My thinking behind it is its totally optional. I would rather help those who are already raising the money, with doing what I can to help them. Whether it be putting fliers on cars and handing them out. Going to their dinners, taking part in a singles auction. I would rather see that money go to those who have been working so hard for many months. To be honest, I am positive that I would not have been able to raise the additional $5,000 that I would have needed to secure my place in the QMDC. That is allot of money to get in not allot of time. My goal is to raise the full $10,000 to secure my spot on the QMDC for 2009.  So Scott and BR tried a few more times in getting in contact with the person that was cut. Scott said that it was a guy who was to be cut, so I was safe this week. Now for the twist... since the person in question to be cut was not spoken to, there was no cut made... Does this mean that two cuts will take place again next week or was this a staged plan to build the suspense? I wonder...

Waiting on Wednesday...

Monday night Kristine E. called to say there was no cuts on Tuesday, it was going to be Wednesday. Wait Wednesday... I am suppose to be on the red eye Tuesday to New York. What the heck am I going to do...

My plane lands at 815am cuts are announced around 640am... Nina, hello time difference. New York is 3 hours ahead of San Diego. So I have come up with a plan in hopes to hear who we have to say by too. And that it will be announced around the usual 640am time. My plane lands in Buffalo at 815 am. As soon as I get off the plane I am going to get my laptop out and go to www.thescottandbrshow.com and listen live. Which will make it only make in the 5 o'clock hour. Then collect all the junk I have taken on the plane with me, and meet my stepdad down in the baggage claim. Trying not to drop my laptop and juggle everything on the way. I would be in tears if I drop my laptop. 

Right now as I blog, I am sitting in the San Diego airport at gate 35.  See the above picture. Like the tan lines from the back to back century I completed. I still have 45 minutes before I board the plane.

Well I am having to pack up to board the plane... I will write more soon

Pictures From My First Back to Back Centuries (and first ever century)

Here are nost of the pictures I have from our long training of back to back centuries. Most of G4 this was a first for us, and a first for just doing a century. What a feat that was. The weather was awesome, there jwas good company and as always wonderful SAG.

This is what riding 100 miles like