Be yourself; everyone else is already taken

Rowing is one of the oldest and most demanding sports in the world. It is also my favorite sport. My decision to join a crew team three years ago has changed my life and taught me more about myself than anything else. There is something so special and raw about being in a boat with 4 or 7 other people that are perfectly in sync, connecting like a string being pulled through the boat. We move as one to pull further and further away from the competition. With that strong sense of connection you pull harder, without waiver, because you cannot let down the teammates in front of you and behind you or upset the delicate balance of the boat.  it does not matter if your hands hurt or your legs are cramping up you never ever give up,you just can't. And that is why rowing is my favorite sport.

My favorite food is anything that my grandma makes. Her classic meal consists of twice baked potatoes, green bean casserole,ham, and salad. Whenever this food is around I know that great memories will be created and my loved ones are around me.She has an incredible talent of bringing people together through her food. For example, today she brought 2 couples from Russia,a woman from Hong Kong, a woman from Nepal,a family from Japan and our own crazy family together to enjoy a classic Labor Day cookout. And teach us all a little about cooking!

My favorite experience was going to Cheley Colorado Camps throughout my childhood. It has been my home away from home. A place where I have climbed mountains of my own making and those that exist in the real world. It is a safe haven from the harsh stresses of the real world. Cheley sisters come from all around the world and  surround me with love and push me to be a better person. Without this experience I would not be the person I am today. And moving forward with my life I know that the values that this special place has instilled within me will bring me through and that a sister is never far away.

Oh the places you will go...