Across the Pond

Last week I shared with you all my philosophy on dating and my most current phases, guyaitus and guyiet. Thank you for your responses, suggestions and additions to my list o' guidelines. They were quite helpful.

This week I thought we would talk about friendship. As a single women in my twenties, quite important. I am not married or in a serious relationship, so my support base comes from my (family and) friends. You know the drill...you go to college, make some great friends, and then you all choose a path. Some like me, continue on the single journey. Others get married and go down that path. Although you still are friends, it is natural to gravitate towards people who are in the same stage of life with the similar situations.
When I moved to Austin post-law school, I was blessed with a group of friends (fellow law clerks)who like me had just graduated from law school. It was like an instant support system. At then end of our year at The Court, most left Austin, but four of us, J (Jennie), Casey, Paul, and I stayed. The four of us started law firms together and shared the ups and downs, highs and lows of which there were plenty, together.

One time at dinner nearly two years ago, we made predictions about who would be where first, ie. married, move out of Austin, etc.

I can't remember who was right, but I am reporting with bitter sweetness that Paul is moving across the pond. Paul is moving to his firm's London office to work on hedge funds. It is a great opportunity for him and I am truly excited. But I must admit that I will miss him. Paul and I became good friends from day one. I told him that he looked like the guy (not Balki) from Perfect Strangers. Paul had no idea who I was talking about. Like a good attorney, Paul began researching this Perfect Strangers character...Larry. Within in 24hours, I got an email from Paul with a slew of Perfect Strangers links. I admit I was scared...who was this guy? But that was the beginning of a close friendship. Paul and I have given each other the hard truth when needed, laughed together, shared loss and pain together. And now he is leaving.

I had dinner at Maudie's last night with Paul...his last Tex Mex meal. How someone could leave queso and avocados behind? I have no idea. I will miss my buddy Paul...he's a nice guy. But I know that we will remain friends. And more importantly I know that people coming and going is a major part of this stage of life I am in.

Cheerio Paul! (I think they say Cheerio in London.)

-RXW

What Rox: The Texas Embassy Cantina is one of the few places where you can get Tex Mex in London. The restaurant is located at the site of the original Texas Embassy (Texas was its' own country from 1836 to 1845.). If you live in or around Texas, the food leaves a lot to be desired. But if like Paul, you move to London indefinitely or you just get tired of British food during your vacation, definitely head to The Texas Embassy.

Woman of the Year: Go Charmaine!

During my trip to Nashville, Rochelle and I met up with Charmaine, my Apprentice cast mate.
As we were catching up, Charmaine shared with me that she has been nominated for Woman of the Year for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This motivated me to find out more about what Charmaine is doing for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and about the society's mission.
If you are in Nashville, look out for Charmaine's upcoming events supporting the society.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education, and patient services. The Society's mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.


As a Women of the Year nominee, Charmaine has developed an campaign to raise money for LLS. Here is how you can help:
Charmaine has been nominated as a candidate for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's "Woman of the Year". Find out more about these and other blood related cancers at www.lls.org

Help Charmaine with her fundraising campaign! Click HERE to submit a tax-deductible donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Already donated and still want to contribute? Help Charmaine with her major fundraising event scheduled for this spring. You can help by offering your goods or services for the event. (Silent Auction Items, Food & Catering, Printing, Entertainment, Venues, and Ad Sponsorship (placement at Golf Tournament and/or Gala).

Check out the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society near you a LLS. Good luck Charmaine!


What Rox: If you are in or near the Nashville area, you can also support Charmaine by purchasing a discount card for the hottest restaurants in Nashville including Cabana, for a minimum donation. The cards give you awesome discounts and through your support you are helping out the Leukemia & Lymphoma society. How great is that ? Look out for these cards around the city.

Book Tour: Costa Mesa & Nashville

After my extended stop in Phoenix, I headed to Costa Mesa, California (yes some call it the OC) for less than 24-hours to appear on JCTV's "Top 3" program. JCTV is a ministry of TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network--the world's largest faith based television network). JCTV is geared towards the 13-25 age group. "Top 3" is a talk show with a "View"-like feel with four hosts 2 female and 2 male.

Prior to the show I was able to talk to the hosts, Larissa and Reba and learn a little bit more about what they do and how they got there. Since television hosting is a passion of mine, that time was invaluable.

During the show we talked about Footprints and my experience on The Apprentice as well as reality shows in general. The show will air in April...more info to follow.


I headed back home to Austin for a short stint and then flew to Nashville to appear on CTN's Bridges with Monica Schmelter with Footprints In The Boardroom.
Monica was a great host and asked some pertinent questions about the message of the book and faith and business. The show will air on April 9 in Tennessee.

Rochelle, my little sister goes to Meharry Medical College in the heart of Nashville and I stayed with her during my short trip. I haven't seen Rochie since we came back from our Turkish Egyptian Holiday. Rochie and I drove around looking for houses (she is moving out of her apartment soon), did a little shopping, and met up with Charmaine, my cast mate from The Apprentice.


Charmaine looked fabulous as usual. It's funny—the first time I met Charmaine, like everyone else I was stunned by her accent. But when you are with Charmaine in Nashville, her accent blends in perfectly.

Next week I am back to Austin for the Baylor Women's Council Luncheon...

-RXW




What Rox: Rumba! Rochelle spends most of her time studying. But with her big sis in town, she took advantage of seeing her beautiful city. We went to dinner at a restaurant Rochelle has been meaning to try, Rumba. Rumba is an Asian/Caribbean/Latin American fusion restaurant in Nashville's West End. The atmosphere is dark with bamboo and private booths. The food was quite good. I recommend the tempura rice and the tapas. Yummy! Try Rumba.

100 Calorie Snacks

My dad, sister, and I recently went to Turkey and Egypt for our fourth annual Christmas/New Year's vacation (In the past we went to London, Italy, and Greece.). If there is one thing I have learned over the years is to bring snacks! There is nothing better than touring around the city the whole day and pulling out a snack from your fanny pack (really it was a "Eurobag") and chowing down to tide you over until the next big meal.

Before we left, Rochie and I headed to Target to raid the snack aisle. Much to my pleasant surprise, we came along the 100 Calorie Snack Packs by Nabisco. 100 Cal Packs are designed to ensure that you get the taste of your favorite snacks without the added calories. Some selections include, 100 Cal Packs Doritos, Oreos, Ritz Snack Mix, and Cappuccino. Yes! I said Cappucino. Nabisco isn't the only company that has repackaged their product into a health conscious snack. Snackster's by Hershey's includes my most favorite Yum!
Look at it this way, a regular bag of Doritos is 140 calories for...11 chips. Doesn't everyone eat more than 11 chips? Which would you rather? Snack Packs are a great way to eat without the guilt...healthy and fun...yum yum. ;-)

So what are you waiting for?

-RXW

Meat and Potatoes

When I moved to Austin four years ago, I went church hopping. Church hopping is my least favorite part of moving. It's like after you have gone through all of the unpacking, sorting, and decorating to make your new house a home, you still have the quest to find your community. Part of community for me is found at a church. But let's face it, a church can be the best community when you are a part of it, but when you are on the outside looking in, it can be unfamiliar and uncomfortable.

When I go church hopping, I have flashbacks to younger days when my mom, sisters, and I would go to different churches in search of the one that fit. There is nothing more uneasy than being a young girl searching for acceptance walking into an unfamiliar Sunday school class full of children who already have friends. Oh I didn't like it. And during service, my mother made us stand up or raise our hands when the pastor asked if there were any visitors. Of course that meant that directly after the service, people would come greet you or they would farm you off to a visitor's center. Even as a young child I never felt comfortable with this configuration because it was intimidating and uncomfortable.

When I moved to Austin, not only was I fighting flashback of my childhood, but I was church hopping alone. The key to finding a church for me, a single female, is quite simple in theory. My college friend Hector put it best, "when you go to church you need your meat and potatoes." The meat is the sermon and the potatoes are the worship, music, etc. In practice finding the right combination is harder than you think.

Determined to find a church I could call home, I went to a different church each week. Some churches served tasty meat but didn't serve my style of potatoes. Others had the best potatoes but tough and dry meat. Sometimes I would go back to a church, but three months in, I was still church hopping. During month seven, I attended Riverbend church with my friend Chris' aunt. While I enjoyed the meat and potatoes, I still wanted to make sure there wasn't more out there. Attending other churches, my thoughts still went back to the Riverbend meat and potatoes. It didn't take me long to get another helping...once I did, I knew that I had found my community...my hearty meal.

Over the past few years, Riverbend has been a source of stability, comfort, and growth in my life. Through Riverbend, I have enjoyed singing in the choir, experienced forming a young professionals group, Untitled, and made life long friends--all of this in ways that glorify God.


Recently we started a new chapter at Riverbend under the guide of our pastor Dr. Dave Haney. In addition to our Heritage, which is traditional, and Celebrate, which is choir led, services, we added Resonate. Resonate is our third service--a band led worship service. The meat is the same in each service, but the potatoes are organic. Or as Riverbend would say it, "One Message. Three Expressions."


When Resonate started, I am not sure that anyone knew exactly what to think or how to feel about the new style of potatoes. But now two months in, Resonate just clicks...the potatoes are just right. I left service on Sunday and I felt like I just shared something special with each one of the people who attended. I felt a connection...a community. And it was awesome. Finding a community makes all the church hopping I have done in my life worthwhile.

- RXW

What Rox: I was honored to recently tape a radio commercial for Riverbend Church. Click here to listen. For more information about Riverbend, go to www.riverbend.com.

A Different Dating Language

So I am pretty transparent about my life in every aspect except one...my "personal life" aka my romantic (or lack their of) life. Since this is the first Friday of a new birthday year, I thought I would try something different and share a little about it. We will see how it goes...

I will be the first to admit that dating has never been my forte. I feel like I have some type of grasp (sometimes a strong grasp sometimes not so strong) on every other part of my life but the part called "relationships of the romantic sort." Why is that? I think we all have to have a weak spot and mine just happens to be dating.

Don't get me wrong, I have dated before...even seriously, but if you are the type that defines success in the dating world as "marriage," then I can't claim dating success. And frankly, right now I am not looking for that kind of "success." Maybe one day I will give you the complete history, but in the meantime here is what has brought me to this point.

The last relationship I had ended horribly last summer. We will call him, "Atlanta boy." (You should know that I have this theory...I call males "boys" until they prove me wrong. hee hee hee.) Although Atlanta boy was supportive of my professional endeavours (which is a must ladies), we were incompatible in other ways...well one big way. Unfortunately I found out all of this the hard way and well, it hurt. And I decided I was tired of being hurt by boys. I mean logically if you only marry one person then it stands to reason that there are a lot of relationships gone wrong along the way, but man it doesn't make any of those breakups hurt any less.

Being the problem solver that I am, I decided to "swear off men (and boys)" or as I called it in my "Roxanne language" Guyiatus (a guy hiatus). I officially started my Guyiatus in July. I met many guys through the next coming months. I made it clear to all of them that I was on a Guyiatus. It perplexed some, others encouraged it in a ridiculous attempt at reverse psychology. Some were even persistent and insisted on giving or getting my number. I obliged but was clear that I would not call them or return their calls. Not because I was being a "rules girl," but because I was on a Guyiatus by golly!

During my Guyiatus I found I had all this time that I didn't have before. When you consciously take a break from guys, there is a whole world of drama, insecurity, and uncertainty that is removed from you life. I had time to reflect on who I was, what I wanted out of a relationship, and what I was and was not willing to compromise. My Guyiatus caught on, and several of my my friends decided to start their own Guyiatus.

In December aka month 5 of my Guyiatus I met a boy and there was instant mutual chemistry. I thought that maybe just maybe God was nudging me off of my Guyiatus. I met JamEnglish (I call him that because he is part Jamaican and part English) at an event. JamEnglish was only in town for the weekend. Again, there was instant chemistry. JamEnglish invited me to dinner, and I obliged. Now I am a lawyer by training and an inquisitive person by birth. Add to that my skepticism where guys are concerned and a five month Guyiatus, and you get a women unafraid of asking questions. I learned a lot about JamEnglish prior to agreeing to go to dinner. But as we sat down for dinner, I noticed for the first time a ring on JamEnglish's finger. It wasn't a band but rather a ring with a lion or something on it. So I asked, "what is that ring? Are you married?" Much to my shock, he said, "Yes."
Game over! Lordy! JamEnglish was not a reason to end my Guyiatus but rather a reminder just in case I lost focus during the holidays that a Guyiatus is where I need to be.

February. How cliche. February was the month that I officially decided to end my Guyiatus. It wasn't because I met a guy, but rather because my mindset naturally changed. During the last week in January, I realized that a Guyiatus didn't really suit me anymore and I wanted a new word to describe my current state. Guyiet (Guy Diet) was what I felt best described it. My friend/brother Daniel called me out on my new term, "Guyiet and Guyiatus don't mean the same thing. Guyiet means that you have limited contact with Guys...restricted." Ahhhh, Daniel was on to something. Something I couldn't ignore. So I took the weekend to decide if I wanted to continue with the Guyiatus or move to the next phase...the Guyiet.

I thought about what I learned (all the things I mentioned above and more). The most important thing that was reaffirmed was that if I never meet a man to walk through life with, that is okay. I would rather be alone than be in the wrong relationship, i.e with a guy who doesn't treat me right, who doesn't have the qualities I value, etc. So I decided it is okay to get my feet wet.

And so the Guyiet goes: (these points may seem obvious, but I am rusty...I have been on a Guyiatus remember?)

• I am open to meeting boys (they are still boys) and am even open to the fact that boys are capable of being men.

• I don't run to or after a boy...they run to or after me.

• I will not compromise my foundation, beliefs, etc. for the likes of a boy. A boy that expects, pressures, or pushes that is not worth my time...no matter how great he might have seemed initially.
  

• Most relationships don't work, so I need not fret a failed relationship.

• If I lose any balance/focus...if the scales tip, Guyiatus here I come!

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How is my Guyiet going? I am feeling pretty good about the Guyiet thus far. There are some boys that may turn out to be men, but I am not worried about it. Baby steps!

Have a great weekend!
-RXW

Make-A- Wish Destination Joy

My first Make-A-Wish experience came while I was on The Apprentice. My team, Synergy, had won a task and for our reward, we had the honor of granting a young girl, Daeshira's wish--to have a shopping spree at Toys-R-Us. As I wrote in Footprints In The Boardroom,

(Picture of us outside Toys-R-Us waiting for Daeshira to arrive)

We took Daeshira on a shopping spree with her parents and her sister. To see the looks on their faces and the happiness it brought them was priceless. And you think: Why am I here anyway? Why am I here competing for a job? Then you realize that God puts you here for a reason and it was good for us to put all the competition aside and focus - not on ourselves, because I think this whole process can be so selfish- but to focus on Daeshira. That was such an awesome experience: to grant Daeshira's wish. What is even more notable is that she wanted to buy things for her family and her friends - not just for herself. So we said: "No take one of everything in the store!" She was so precious, quite the young lady. I'm completely enamoured by her.

I realized that I don't have to get up every morning worrying about much. But Daeshira does. She has so much to worry about and yet something such as going shopping which some would see as minor, made her day; no, her life. Daeshira's parents and her sister were also wonderful. They were so grateful; her mom kept saying. "Thank you, thank you so much." One of the best things in life is giving to others and I'm glad that as cut throat as The Apprentice was, we were able to pause, take a moment and give back.

Because of my experience with Daeshira, I am now serving as a spokesperson for Make-A-Wish's Destination Joy campaign presented by Lay's. Destination Joy, which officially kicks off in June, is the Foundation's first national campaign to inspire people to donate their time, talents, and resources to grant the wishes of courageous children. In the next four years, 100,000 children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with life-threatening medical conditions. But we all can do something to bring a little joy into the lives of these wonderful children.

And by the way, Daeshira is doing very well and still talks about her wish.

I will be blogging about Make-A-Wish and Destination Joy presented by Lay's more as the official campaign kicks off, but if you would like to find out how you can get involved visit www.wish.org.

- RXW

What Rox:

Book Tour: Valley of the Sun

My book tour took me to my hometown of Phoenix last week. My parents, sister Rhonda, nephew Willem, and extend family all live in AZ, so heading to AZ is still going home.

I began the trip with an appearance on Sonoran Living Live (ABC-15) which is a local Good Morning America type show. I fell in love with the set...absolutely gorgeous. The interview went well...but there was a moment that I admit I got a bit distracted by the smell of the eggplant Parmesan being prepared by a chef in the kitchen on set.


Next up, I did a book signing at Amazing Grace. The experience was kind of surreal because I bought my first bible at Amazing Grace (which I still have).

That night I met up with Jenn from the current season of The Apprentice for dinner. Jenn was great. I truly enjoyed meeting her.
Click here to read more about my visit with Jenn.

The next morning I went to a new bookstore, Berean Books. During my book signing, my sixth grade teacher, Mr. Robert Smith and his wife came by to get a book.


The book signing portion of my trip ended with a Sunday morning book signing at Pilgrim's Rest Church. Pilgrim's Rest has been so supportive of me and my journey, and I am truly thankful.

On Monday, I taped two episodes of Beauty For Ashes radio show with Carolyn Watson. Carolyn had read every inch of my book and had some excellent questions for me. I enjoyed our dialogue. (Audio will on my website by this weekend.)

And finally I appeared on the NBC morning show with Scott Light and Tram Mai. I grew up watching NBC. Although the anchors changed, it was still a treat to be in the NBC studio.I did not however like the concept of HD-TV. I promise you that when I played back the show at my dad's I saw a budding pimple or bump that I didn't even know was on it's way out. Granted my dad's screen is huge, but WOW!


In between the appearances I had the opportunity to spend time with my family.
Willem, my nephew started walking two weeks prior to my arrival. Can we say "fun stage?" I got Willem a cowboy hat and mask. He thought it was hilarious but didn't really want to keep it on his head for long. Too cute.

Next week I head to Costa Mesa, CA and Nashville, TN.

- RXW

March Madness

March Madness is quite a tradition. It is always a fun to watch the games and see who will be the Cinderella story. We wait for One Shining Moment to play at the end of the tournament, and grown men weep. Love it.

I have been filling out a bracket since my freshman year of college--I was in a pool with the rest of my fraternity, Chamber (at the time I was the only female). With Baylor absent from the tournament, I picked teams based on what city I would rather live in or visit. And as the story so often goes, I beat the guys who had been keeping up with the basketball all season.Whoo hoo!

This year, I thought I would do a little research and determine how many calories are being burned during a March Madness game. Check out this comparison:

Approximately 0.063 Calories per minute per pound of body weight.
A game has 20 minute halves.
I weigh *** lbs.
So if I played the entire game, I would burn 327.6 calories.

But let's face it, who plays basketball? Not me. The closest I have been to playing NCAA basketball was babysittingChanning Frye way back when...he didn't really need a babysitter, but his mom and my mom were friends and his mom wanted someone to watch Channing and his little brother (who actually needed the babysitter).

I do however watch the games. Watching a game for approximately 2 1/2 hours burns approximately 120 calories. Hmmm...

But who watches the game without eating?
Check out these average sports bar& grill calories:

Pint of lager
200
Pint of bitter
200
Low-alcohol lager
100
Pint of cider
250
Glass champagne
80
Packet roasted nuts
300
Packet salted nuts
250
Packet of crisps
130
Large pizza
400
Burger
400
Kebab
500
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It's not pretty is it...as you are enjoying the rest of March Madness, think about what you are putting in the mouth. Just because the players are working up a sweat and perhaps stressing you out, doesn't mean you are burning calories. Try eating half of your burger, chips,etc. Or perhaps alternate insert a glass of water every other drink. Hopefully when March ends, you've won your bracket, your team is victorious, and your pants still fit comfortably.
-RXW

Unconventional Prayer

In a world with so many distractions, where do you find time to commune with God, mediates, refocus, and/or center yourself? For me, the time and place has changed throughout the years. When I was little I used to pray when I woke up, ate, and went to bed. The prayer before bed was simple and I could say it in my sleep:

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take.

As I got older I would still say the same prayer but then add on my personal prayers. In Jr. high, I still prayed the same prayer, but I added 'journaling'. I journal my prayers, thoughts, hopes, fears, and dreams. Footprints in the Boardroom is based on my journal while on The Apprentice. I also have found value in praying in the shower, at my computer, and through music.

So this weekend as I drove to Houston for the Inspire The Desire semifinals, I refrained from picking up the phone, and instead listened to music, enjoyed the scenery, felt the rays of the sun, and took the opportunity to be closer with God. By the time I got to the Inspire The Desire semifinals, I truly felt rejuvenated. What I have learned is that there is no one way to pray, mediate, or talk with God. I have tried many different ways and they all have their value. I find comfort in the fact that I can worship anywhere and anyhow.

What are some ways you find to pray in your daily life?

-RXW

SXSW/ Heart of Texas Festival -- Going on Now!

The 20th annual South by Southwest (SXSW) has landed in Austin.


SXSW is a music, film, and interactive festival and conference held every Spring in Austin. SXSW is one of the biggest music festivals, with a thousand plus performers performing in the course of a week in every venue of downtown Austin. A venue will have bands performing back to back for ours...literally some performers don't go on until 2am.
The SXSW is considered an "industry" event because the concept is for up and coming artists to perform for everyone in the biz over the course of the event. But in the last few years, fans have infiltrated SXSW making it an event for all.
When I flew into Austin yesterday, the airport was packed. I actually had to wait twenty minutes for my luggage (that never happens in Austin). I have lived in Austin for four years now and never taken in SXSW...so last night I ventured out with a few of my friends to experience SXSW. SXSW requires badges (for industry people), wristbands (for people who want to hop from venue to venue--SOLD OUT), or tickets (sold IF there is room in a venue for a specific performance).

Or so I thought...I actually ended up at the
Eighth Annual Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass Music Festival. What? Apparently eight years ago a festival was started to highlight unsigned Austin artists. The event coincides with SXSW. The benefit to the Heart of Texas Festival is that it is completely free.

I went to see my new band, Alpha Rev. They played my song. I don't even know what the song is called, but it has a little funk and a little soul in it. In this song, the violinist, Brad (he plays as blue violin) plucks the violin like it is a guitar, Casey the lead singer starts, then the lone women/keyboardist in the group blows, wow she can sing! And then Brad, the blue violinist breaks in hitting money note after money note. Then the three break it down together--do doot do doot. You had to be there. The song isn't on either of their cds, but I am on a quest to get a recording of it.

So imagine if you will, walking down the infamous Sixth Street for example in Austin. Every single bar has a line going out into the middle of the street with people waiting to get into a venue. Some venues are strictly SXSW and some are strictly the Heart of Texas festival, and some are a mix.

If you are in Texas this weekend, I encourage you to get to Austin and enjoy the festivals. You won't be disappointed.

SXSW
Eighth Annual Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass Music Festival
Alpha Rev

Have a great weekend! I am headed to Houston this morning to host the live Semifinals of Inspire the Desire.
-RXW

Junior League--More Than Meets the Eye

A little over a year ago, I was looking for new opportunities to serve the community. Several of my friends at work (these are from the lawyer days), were members of the Junior League of Austin. Now I will admit, that initially I grimaced at the thought of the "Junior League." First of all, it sounded way too "sorority" like to me. Being a woman who was never in a sorority, I didn't want to start now. Secondly, as a minority, I had some preconceived notions of what type of woman was in the Junior League. And finally, I wasn't really sure what the Junior League did...I mean wasn't just a bunch of women who get together and sell cookbooks. I don't cook, why on earth would I want to do that? Isn't a group of high society women who made a high society organization for their socializing? Again,why would I want to be a part of that?

One year later, I am finishing up my provisional year of the Junior League of Austin. Why you ask? Because through a little bit of research, I was pleasantly surprised about what the Junior League accomplishes each year. The mission of the League is to Develop the potential of women, Improve the community, and Promote voluntarism. This is practically accomplished every day within the League. The League raises funds through "A Christmas Affair," and the Resale Shop to fund grants to non-profit agencies in the community to assist in their charitable cause. In addition to awarding monetary grants to the agencies, the League provides womanpower to the agencies in the form of "placements". Every member of the League is given a placement with one of the agencies in the community. Agencies supported by the Junior League of Austin last year include Mother's Milk Bank, the Presbyterian Children's Home, The Ronald McDonald House, and Austin Smile. This gives the members an opportunity to learn important leadership skills and make a direct impact on the community.

As a provisional, my placement was with the Resale Shop. I LOVE the Resale shop. This was my first soiree into retail, and on a personal level, I love the customer service aspect of it. And I enjoy running the cash register as well. :-) What I love most about the Resale shop is that fact that foster parents receive $20 credit each month per child to shop at the Resale shop. $20 goes a long way with children's clothes. Every third Thursday through Saturday (counted by the Saturday) we have a big sale. Clothes and shoes are usually 1/2 off during the sale. Quite a deal for our customers (especially since there are a lot of designer stuff in the shop.)

As my provisional year comes to a close, I am truly happy that I joined the League. The impact that the League makes each year on the community is substantial. I am proud to be a part of a group of women who believe in improving the community. Plus, I haven't had to cook once! Score.

For more information about the Junior League of Austin click here.
To find a Junior League in your community, click here.

- RXW
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Austinites--Upcoming Community Event:

March 15, 16, 23
WACOAL FIT FOR THE CURE -Get fitted for a Wacoal bra. For each fitting, the Austin Komen for the Cure Affiliate will receive $2 with a $1000 minimum. Click here for locations and details. For information about a Fit For the Cure event in your community go to the Wacoal Location Finder

If you have an upcoming community event (anywhere around the world!) that you would like me to highlight in my blog email me (use the mail link below) and I will put it on my blog.

Book Tour: DC & Maryland

Next stop on the Footprints Tour: Washington, DC/Maryland. This was a full-media trip, as in no book signings—one track focus. I appeared on the local ABC, NBC, and CBS stations in Baltimore. One little known fact, is that the Baltimore CBS affiliate is where Oprah Winfrey got her start. As I walked through the halls, there were pictures of Oprah with her afro of yesterday. Time flew each time, but I got the book’s message, “you can have your faith and still be successful,” out each time.

I also went to several radio stations including, the Urban League, Heaven 1580, and WPGC radio. One aspect that I like about radio interviews is that we have the opportunity to get a little deeper into the message of Footprints…less time constrains

Unfortunately, I could not convince ANYONE to Jazzercise with me. Next time…

What I loved about the entire trip was not only get the word out about Footprints, but that had the opportunity to observe the behind-the-scenes maneuvering of a media program. It is my desire to become more involved in radio and television. So as I am sure you figured, I was soaking the whole experience in like a sponge…learning as much as I could.

While I was in D.C., I also had the opportunity to see two of my dearest friends, Kim and Kristin. Kristin is my dearest friend from Michigan. Kristin and I were two of the few who chose to say in the on-campus living quarters, were clinic partners (domestic violence), and both worked the front desk/mail room. Kin is my dearest friend from Baylor. Kim and I met our freshman year and have been close ever since. I confess that Kim and I have been to two N*SYNC concerts together (one in Michigan and one in Phoenix). Need I say more? I hadn’t seen either for years. It was great to sit down with them face to face and catch up on the seasons of life.

And to add the cherry on my DC sundae, I had a one hour layover in Nashville and my little sister, Rochelle came to the airport to see me. Work, friends, and family all at once? Sweet. My D.C. trip was a rewarding one on so many levels. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to share Footprints and am flattered to have made a good impression. Next city? Think cactus, prickly pears...think Arizona…

- RXW

Workout Wherever

I have been on the road for a week straight and counting; and I have to tell you that I have only exercised once! Once. Mind you, I have eaten like I exercise daily if not more often. I made it to a Jazzercise class this Saturday in Tempe, Arizona taught by Jackie. Jazzercising felt great, but between book signings, and media interviews, and spending time with my family, most of whom live in Arizona, exercising has not been one of my top priorities. I know it sounds crazy but the time on either end of actually exercising can be the most discouraging
part.

Solution? I have found something that makes it easier for me to workout wherever.
It’s called Workout Wherever by Jazzercise. Workout Wherever is a free podcast that can be downloaded off of iTunes. Each installment has new exercises and strength training repetitions you can do in your hotel room. If you have a video iPod, you can watch Shanna Missett Nelson, teaching Workout Wherever with items that business travelers have at their disposal, like a laptop case. Ahh...you didn’t think you could use that as a weight did you?

I downloaded a slew of episodes and when I am on the go and don’t have time for a full on workout and the time it takes on each side of the workout, I can turn on my iPod and at least get in fifteen minutes of exercise.

Here is a sample of Workout Wherever exercises:
Workout 1:

* Tricep dip on chair
* Abdominal rotation with laptop case
* Seated bicep curl with tube

For more information on Workout Wherever, click here.

Here are my
Self Challenge Totals for two weeks (including my impressive one day of exercise last week.)

Workout Minutes: 0 0 3 2 1
Calories Burned: 0 1 9 1 9

-RXW

That Kind Of Legacy

Although I didn’t lay it out last Monday, in keeping with my new themed days, Monday will be the day I talk about spiritual things, events, thought, devotionals, experiences, you name it. (To recap: Tuesday-Physical, Wednesday-Professional (Book Tour), Thursday-Service, Friday-Social)

One of my favorite songs is Legacy by Nichole Nordeman. The lyrics of the chorus are:

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to you enough to make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

So the past few months, I have been seeing this legacy in action at some of the biggest named events: the Super Bowl, Grammys and Oscars.

When Tony Dungy, the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts won the Super Bowl this year, becoming the first African American coach to ever win a Super Bowl, he first pointed to Jesus Christ, giving him all the glory.

Mary J Blige, R&B/Hip-Hop artist, who has lived a hard life that included drug abuse and physical abuse, turned her life around. And on a night of great celebration and accomplishment, winning three Grammy awards, Mary J pointed towards God and Jesus, before her 53 other acknowledgements.

Jennifer Hudson, American Idol reject (I still remember being furious when she was voted off…she, Fantasia, and Latoya London were in the bottom three, and I knew it was going to be a lose-lose-lose situation.) and now Dreamgirls star won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress and said, “Look what God can do.”

Did I point to you enough to make a mark on things?

Each of these three people pointed to God enough to make a mark on things…I mean not only did millions hear it live, but it was in the press for weeks to come and can be googled readily even today.

Their actions, Nicole’ song are all reminders to me to thank God each day in the big and little events in my life. It doesn’t matter whether I am touching billions like Tony, Mary J, and Jennifer, all that matters is that I point to God and give him the thanks for everything. I want to leave that kind of legacy.

- RXW

Listen to Legacy

Legacy
By Nichole Nordeman

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all the who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such 'n such...it wouldn't matter much

I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an "Atta boy" or "Atta girl"
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
the temporary trappings of this world

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to you enough to make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well done" good and faithful one

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me

Alpha Rev

Part of my journey for a balanced life includes my social life-family, friends, and maybe even dating (remind me to tell you about that sometime.) So in celebration of the end of another week, each Friday I will be writing about something the social aspect of my life. I will tell you about my experiences, give you a heads up on special upcoming social events, and comment on all things social.

I began March with an appearance on The Almost Late Show with Bobby Bones on ME-TV. ME-TV is a new music television station out of Austin that is making serious waves. The Almost Late Show is a thirty minute weekly David Letterman.
Daniel (who is my brother except we have different parents) and Deanna came to cheer me on in the ‘live studio audience’ (I love that phrase).
I have known the host Bobby, for a little while, so it made the appearance that much more fun.

The musical guest was, "Alpha Rev." And although I was not familiar with them prior to the show, I am a serious fan. The best way I can describe their music is an energized Coldplay. After chatting with "Alpha Rev" in the green room, "Alpha Rev" invited me to their CD release party at Antone's the following night. I must admit that I have never been to a CD release party so I didn't know what to expect. As we were leaving the green room after the show, I spotted Daniel and Deanna. Daniel looked at me and said, “Roxanne, you didn’t tell me that Alpha Rev was the musical guest.” Huh? I was like, I didn’t know, but before I could say that, Casey, the lead singer of Alpha Rev said, “hi Daniel.” And Daniel said, “Hi Casey.” “Wait,” I said “You know each other?” Not only did Daniel and Casey know each other, but they have known each other for over a year. As Daniel explained the connection, I began to remember him mentioning Casey, and Casey’s band—Small World. It turns out Daniel was already planning on attending the CD release party. Excellent!

I already had plans that night, so I got to the release party right when Alpha Rev had hit the stage. Daniel, Dave (our young professional’s pastor) and Nate (the guitarist for Resonate Band—the band for our new worship service) were all there standing center. I was even more impressed with Alpha Rev after hearing them in full force.
As you can imagine Alpha Rev sang every song from their CD. Each song they sang became my new favorite. Check out Alpha Rev on MySpace. And now I have a new band…

Living In Austin?
The Domain's Grand Opening Celebration

"Join Simon Mall on March 9-11 for the Grand Opening of Austin's most fashionable address. Visit the Grand Opening Pavilion presented by Cadillac all weekend long for fabulous fashion events, prize giveaways, celebrity appearances and lifestyle and cooking demonstrations." Stores include Neiman Marcus, Barney’s New York CO-OP, BCBG Max Azria, Tiffany & Co, and many many more! For more information go to The Domain.

In the Greater Phoenix Area?
19th Annual Ostrich Festival
Head down to Chandler’s (my hometown) 19th Annual Ostrich Festival. Yes I said the Ostrich festival.
The Ostrich festival includes a parade, Fun Run, rides, performance by American Idol’s Josh Gracin, and actual Ostrich Races! Say hi to my nephew who will be out there experiencing his first Ostrich experience, (he is 13 months) For more info go to Ostrich Festival.

-RXW

Komen For The Cure

Community involvement has always been important to me. Whether it was serving in high school through the Mayor’s Youth Committee, or painting house for underprivileged at Baylor’s Steppin’ Out, giving back is what fulfills me most. Albert Schweitzer said, “I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” In that vein each Thursday I will highlight service. I will let you know what I am up to or ways that you can give back to your community.

I traveled to Dallas, home of South Fork and the Cowboys for the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Affiliate Conference.
As a board member of the Austin Affiliate, I attended the annual conference to learn about the forecast for Komen in the new year. With the new name: "Komen for the Cure" instead of "Komen Foundation" and the 25th anniversary year, you can imagine the Komen is geared to make even greater strides in the fight to eliminate breast cancer.
In addition learning about our new programs, the progress that has been made by scientists, and the dedication our sponsors have committed to for the upcoming year, I had the opportunity to meet the members of other affiliates and share ideas.
The cheer all weekend, all year, and until breast cancer is a disease of the past was, "I Am The Cure." There is so much that each one of us can do to prevent breast cancer from taking lives: early detection, education, donating your time, talents, and treasures, just to name a few.

Three highlights for me were meeting Rene Syler, former co-host of CBS' Early Show. Renee recently underwent a double Mastectomy as a preventative measure--both of her parents have breast cancer. Rene was dynamic and empowering and I am excited to see what great things she will do in the future.
In fine Dallas (notice I didn't say Texas because that would include Austin ;-P) fashion, we has a Texas hoedown at Eddie Deans. Although I was a bit skeptical, I had an absolute ball. We dined on bbq, danced to a country band, watched armadillo races, took pictures, and I got a picture with a longhorn, on a longhorn!! As I was on top of the longhorn, I yelled Sic 'em Bears!"
On the last night after awards were given to the top affiliate and Nancy Brinker gave her final empowering words, we danced the night away to Starship, as in Jefferson Starship (or is it Airplane), as in We Built This City, Sara, Set the Night to Music, and Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now. Need I say any more?

I was blown away by Nancy Brinker, the founder of Komen who made a promise to her sister who died from breast cancer, that she would not stop fighting until there was a cure for this disease. The power and the emotion with which Nancy Brinker speaks about and acts to eliminate breast cancer would make one think the promise she made to her sister Susan G. Komen, was made yesterday, not 25 years ago. I commend Nancy for her strength and determination.
I encourage you all to get involved with the fight and will be sharing ways throughout the year. You can find out more about Komen at www.komen.org


- RXW

The Book Tour Begins...

Now that Footprints in the Boardroom is released, I am embarking on all things “book tour.” I want you all to come along with me on the tour through The X-Factor. Each Wednesday, I will update you on the Adventures of Book Touring.

My first book signing was in Tomball, TX at Heaven's Way book store. The book signing was with Linda Davis who wrote the recently released Flying Free. I have heard that the best thing about book signings is meeting people, and can see that is true. Linda and her husband were treat. They are both ordained ministers and are involved in many ministry activities.

The book signing included music from two Inspire the Desire finalists. Brandy Bell and Patrick Pechacek, who sang their hearts out. The most interesting story attached to the book I signed was for Sherron Watkins, the Enron whistleblower. Sherron’s mother lives in Tomball and wanted to give her a copy of Footprints In The Boardroom. Exciting.

The next day I headed to Austin to do a book signing at my Jazzercise location. I have been on the road so much in the last month that I haven't had the opportunity to see all of my customers. Well Saturday morning is a perfect time to see most Jazzercisers all in one place. It also happened to be our annual Sweatheart day at Jazzercise: Students brought their sweethearts, or exercise buddies to class. That is hands down the day every year where we have more men attending. I signed books between classes and got up on stage with the Jazzercise instructors and did a few routines.

Next stop on the book tour? Washington DC and Maryland...

Self Challenge 2007

I love traveling, but I have found that it breeds bad health habits. For example, I like to buy Reese’s Pieces or Gummy Life Savers for my flight; I drink ginger ale on the plane, and often get fast food in the airport. Add to that the food I eat at restaurants that are anything but healthy. I also neglect exercising! So I made a commitment this month to me and I want to share it with you. I am committed to eating well travel or no travel and exercise regularly even when I am not in my Jazzercise class. Whether you travel, sit at a desk all day, or run after little ones, you can relate to the difficulty of keeping your exercise and your diet (by diet I mean eating, not dieting) in check. Each Tuesday I will share tips I have found on the journey to a healthy lifestyle. Living “healthy” is a journey with highs and lows, so let’s take them together.
Here goes...

I am a Self magazine subscriber and this month I have decided to sign up for the 2007 Self Challenge. For the next three months, Self is giving fresh cardio workouts, strength training routines (on-line videos with demonstrations included), and eat-right ideas. According to Self if you follow the plan you will lose up to 8lbs in a month.

But that isn’t why I signed up. The beauty of the Challenge is that you can do as much or as little as you like. I signed up because I can track my workouts (as mild or intense as they may be) and eating habits online. Jazzercisers, there is even a choice for logging Jazzercise classes! And when I put in I workout, it tracks how many calories I burn. Love it! You can even print out your log and receive Challenge tips on your cell phone every week. The recipes on line are so easy that even I (the one who doesn’t cook) can follow along when I am at home.

The Challenge also has a buddy feature that allows you to email and motivate your buddies through the Challenge. Very cool!

I almost forgot, the Self Challenge is free! And there are prizes and giveaways including MP3 players, and everyone gets a week’s membership to Gold’s Gym.
Bottom line is joining the challenge makes you more aware of how you are eating and exercising. Sign up and join me in the Self Challenge. And when you do, link up to me so we can be accountability buddies.

By the way, my totals last week were:

Workout Minutes:

0

0

2

0

1

Calories Burned:

0

1

1

5

9

You can check out the Self Challenge at Self.com


-RXW

Inside Out 2007

I recently participated for a second year in Riverbend Church's "Inside Out." "Inside Out" is a weekend excursion for high school and middle school students. It's an opportunity for all involved to reconnect with God in the new year.

This year's theme was "Closer than you think" as in, God is closer than you think. My friend Jackie and I co-led a group a seven eighth grade ladies.

Over the course of the weekend we discussed the theme in small groups, met at the church for praise and worship, stayed up late talking, laughing, and eating junk food (admittedly these ladies wore me out. I was in bed much earlier than they were). One of the changes we had this year was in our service project. For the last several years Inside Out served a local ranch for troubled individuals. Our tasks ranged from outdoor maintenance to working in the greenhouse. This year, we teamed up with Mt. Zion church and served East Austin by hosting a community block party

This gave the group a chance to commune with each other, their counterparts and Mt. Zion, and the community.

The entire experience was an opportunity for me to get back to the basics. It is so funny, because I volunteer for Inside Out to be a mentor and serve young ladies. But after spending five minutes with them, I realized there is so much that I can learn from them. Their perspective on faith is so much clearer at times...its like they lack some of the interference that builds up in your life after 27 years. I am also reminded that the problems facing an eighth grader young lady are not that much different than the problems that Jackie and I face in our late twenties—career/school, men/boys, societal pressure/peer pressure, body image issues, abuse of all kinds. All of these issues are issues that we all deal with. Inside Out was a chance for us to remember that God is closer than we think...he is next to us, carrying us, through the good and the bad and no matter what, he is always there.

When the weekend ended we all felt closer to God and closer to each other.
I am thankful that they...my eight graders have each other to lean on as they go through their day to day issues, and I hope they will remember that (Jackie and ) I are there for them as well.

- RXW