The Blonde Side is proud to announce we recently snagged a by-line over at Wanderlust talking about the most common questions runners have (like myself) when it comes to yoga.
As runners we often approach our grueling sport with a one-track mind. Most runners have been told that incorporating yoga into their running regime can yield extreme benefits. Muscles that profit from a yoga practice include hamstrings, hip flexors, quads, abdominals, IT band, glutes, lower back, and even your feet. You could say the benefits are innumerable. But how to bring yoga into your running routine if you’re new to the practice? Here are some common questions runners have when it comes to incorporating yoga into their weekly sweat sessions.
Why should runners practice yoga?
Not only does yoga elongate your muscles, but it also aids in muscle recovery and helps prevent injuries (and helps tremendously with stiffness)—all crucial for runners. If you’re seriously into running, why not do all you can to reduce your risk of injury? It’s no secret runners are prone to injury.
Can you practice yoga and run in the same day? Is one better to do before the other?
Short answer: It depends. “This is dependent based on what type of yoga you are practicing,” Cari says. “A good rule of thumb is to do active yoga postures to engage core and warm up large muscles groups prior to running. For example, if your routine prior to running includes active postures like crescent lunge, warrior II, chair, squats, or lunges, after you run you want to incorporate more passive stretching—think half splits, runners lunge, supine figure four, forward folds.”
Other than stretching, how can yoga improve my runs?
April Jackson, co-founder of the fitness and lifestyle consultancy Sweat Everyday, gets this question a lot. “Yoga can benefit a runner’s gait through the balance and stability they work through in the yoga practice. Balance and stability improves the runner’s posture, allowing for a smoother stride and improved gait,” she says. “Yoga also helps runners improve their breathing by using diaphragmatic breathing, which helps runners improve aerobic endurance, allowing them to runner farther.”
Cara Gilman, a Massachusetts-based running coach and yoga teacher, agrees. “Yoga brings balance to your overworked muscles and provides the strength you need to support your running so you can do it more efficiently. Yoga is also strategic in helping you learn to meditate and focus yourself in the mental game of running, allowing you to challenge and push yourself,” she says.
Click here to see the full post on the Wanderlust website (and check out all their other amazing articles related to fitness and wellness!).
As NFL travel gets bigger and bigger, fans are finding themselves strategically picking an away game to add to their calendars as a way to see their team in a new environment…and calling it a vacation. It’s a win-win (assuming your team wins the game…).
Throughout my NFL travels, I’ve been to a number of stadiums and sports towns, and I have to say that Jacksonville is near the top of my list for many reasons.
For starters, what about their newly added scoreboards (largest in the league) broadcast in a resolution no one in the world has (sorry Jerry Jones), free and workingWi-Fi throughout the stadium, and the fact that liquor is available throughout the entire stadium. Off to a good start, right?
Probably the most unique part of the stadium has to be the Clevelander Deck, an addition brought on for the 2014 season. The Clevelander Deck features two heated spa pools overlooking the field from the north end zone, as well as the Clevelander’s Famous Frozen all-natural drinks featuring the Mickey’s Rum Runner, the Cleve Colada and blend of them both in the Miami Vice, and of course everything else offered at the bar. The deck also features live entertainment including the Clevelander Dance team, DJs and live music, as well as 20 full-service cabanas and a postgame party on the Clevelander Deck, which remains open (and serving) two hours after the end of every home game.
A few other notables in favor of attending a game at EverBank Field – the Jaguars are the only team in the NFL to rank in the top three across every category of fan experience as voted on in the Voice of the Fan survey, which was recently released by the NFL. An outdoor stadium in Florida can get brutally hot, so they created a fantasy lounge (State Farm Neighborhood Fan Cave), which is free and open to the public and features air-conditioning, 34 power leather recliners, 21 TV’s broadcasting all of the other games, three Xbox stations and 12 surface tablets. The Jaguars are also the first NFL team to offer Oculus Rift virtual reality experience, which lets you view replays and live action in a 3D format, free.
The team also has a college football style-walk in called The Prowl where the team takes the field for player intros as they walk through the fans. Anyone can go down and be part of it and it gives a truly unique game day experience. Due to the salacious heat, the stadium also has three cool zones feature 120ft worth of cooling benches that are basically bleachers you sit on that blast cold air-conditioning.
Even though Jacksonville is the smallest TV market to have an NFL team, it’s no doubt a football town having hosted Super Bowl XXXIX in 2005 when the Patriots beat the Eagles.
Also, leaving the game at EverBank Field is one of the easiest I’ve experienced, with 12 gates and 65-90 lanes of exit. One thing they do at the stadium, unique to anything I’ve seen at any others, are exit signs that label what parking lots are right outside. (Example: Exit here for parking lots A-E.) It saves a lot of time leaving the stadium, especially if you’ve had the joyous pleasure of partaking in any adult beverages.
Of course, there are quite a few reasons outside of EverBank Field to add Jacksonville to your football agenda (sorry Jaguar fans, but your record isn’t one of them).
Way against popular belief, Jacksonville is not a large retirement home by the sea. In fact, it has the youngest population in all of Florida (yes, even Miami). It’s also a city you don’t have to choose the beach or the city – you get both for the price of one (well, you’ll probably need a rental car to accomplish said task, but you catch my drift).
Prefer to drink in the local scene? Then you’ll love the brand new Jax Ale Trail Passport, which is a self-guided tour connecting all seven of the local craft breweries in Jacksonville (Bold City, Intuition Ale Works, Aardwolf, Green Room, Engine 15, Pinglehead, and Veterans United Brewery). Intuition Ale Works (my favorite) has plans for late 2015 to move its brewery to Downtown, next to EverBank Field, complete with a rooftop beer garden overlooking the St. Johns River. There is an actual passport (and prizes) guests can pick up and get stamped as they attempt to visit all seven breweries as you Drink Your Trail Off!
You’ve also got bars like Dos Gatos, The Volstead, The Flying Iguana, Bar X, and The Grape and Grain Exchange to choose from that combine exciting flavors that promote a farm to bar flavor in their adult concoctions. There is also a secret speakeasy, literally located behind the bookshelf at The Grape and Grain called the Parlour. Another great combo of food and drinks is pizza at V Pizza followed by drinks at Sidecar (you guessed it, directly next door).
If you’re active and you know it, raise your hand. No seriously, this is a city you’ll have to prove it. With average temperatures year-round of 72 degrees, you’ll always see people outside running anywhere on the 22 miles of sandy beaches, where the sand is perfectly packed for runners. You’ll also see surfing, paddleboarding, biking, skateboarding, and yoga and cross-fit studios on practically every corner. There are also 72 public and private golf courses to choose from, if that’s your thing. Many of the area courses were designed by legends like Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. Jacksonville is also home to the World Golf Hall of Fame, PGA Tour Headquarters and TheChampionship.
Completely opposite of fit and active, Jacksonville is home to two of the best burgers I’ve everhad. First is Black Sheep, which is walking distance to a number of other fun bars and restaurants complete with a terrific happy hour and a great place to meet locals. They serve a number of handcrafted cocktails and be sure to check out the rooftop bar. The second spot is M Shack, which features all natural and hormone-free burgers that are incredibly juicy. I’m a chick and I say they are both well worth the calories, so consider that the only endorsement you need.
For other food options, Jacksonville has quite the diverse menu with casual elegance (think good food in beach attire) and classic southern food, just like your mama used to make. It’s also a hotspot for nightlife, unique bars, pubs and music venues like Underbelly in downtown and Jack Rabbits in San Marco.
If football’s your main reason to visit Jacksonville, that’s a terrific start (especially considering the Jags track history), but there are plenty of off-field activities to keep you busy during the day and night leading up to the game.
Go enjoy the city and may the best team win!
This article originally ran in the sports section of CBS Man Cave Daily – click here to see the original post.
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Amira is why we all wish we were California girls (photo via: Warriors)
“I Wish They All Could Be California Girls.” You heard it first from Brian, Davis, Mike, Bruce and Al who sang that same phrase over radio waves for decades. The Beach Boys sang it back in the ’60s (long before Amira was born), but one can’t help wonder if a beautiful brunette just like her was inspiration for such a catchy and flattering song. Because once you meet Amira and get a feel for her positive attitude and good vibes, we’re all going to wish we were California girls!
She’s beautiful, she’s grounded, she’s enthusiastic and she likes to pretend she’s a drummer while stuck in traffic in her beautiful city.
Amira has been a member of the Warriors Dance Team for four seasons and the 2014-2015 season marked her first as the captain. Those are big dancing shoes to fill, but she does it perfectly. Just ask any Golden State fan or her teammates.
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Amira Danville, California
MCD: Occupation or School? Give me details about your day-to-day life:
A: Being a marketing professional, Warriors Dance Team member and outdoor lover means my day-to-day life varies constantly!
I am the Northern California Field Marketing Manager for ZICO Coconut Water. My average day consists of conference calls, meetings (which is usually working out with our gym partners/studios) and managing a team of eight part-time ZICO staff. We support various events throughout the Bay Area so I spend a large amount of time in the car traveling around the Bay in my ZICO truck!
I studied Nutrition and Healthy Living in school so making sure I eat well and exercise during the day is an essential part of my daily routine. I love to walk or hike with my dog Shya and explore new places.
MCD: Years on team?
A: This is my fourth season with the Warriors Dance Team, my first as team captain. Previously, I danced for the Phoenix Suns for one year during the 2010-11 season.
MCD: Tell me about your dance background?
A: I have been dancing since I was three years old. I started out as a studio dancer, taking multiple dance classes during the week and also competing. I was also part of my high school dance program and Pom Squad. Afterwards, I attended Arizona State and danced on their Spirit Squad.
MCD: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
A: Time management is critical to be a successful NBA dancer. There is a lot more work that goes into being an NBA dancer than just showing up and dancing. We practice three times a week, have multiple games depending on the week, and also participate in community events and promotional appearances throughout the month that keep us busy. On top of that, many of us either work or go to school full time. Then to have a social life or spend time with loved ones, your days run away from you very quickly if you don’t stay on top of your schedule.
MCD: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
A: No! Thank goodness. There are definitely times when you run out and you have a constant conversation in your head about what’s going on, and sometimes it’s not perfect but your body knows what it is doing and you just have to trust that all your hard work and practice has paid off.
MCD: Favorite NBA player?
A: We have such an amazing roster this season that it’s hard to pick one Warriors player. Our team plays as a unit and it shows on the court so I would have to say the entire Warriors basketball team.
MCD: Best part about basketball?
A: Our game is played at a fast pace — I tend to move quickly and get distracted/bored easily, but NBA basketball moves so quickly, you are constantly engaged in the game. Especially watching this Warriors, if you look away for a second you’re going to miss an amazing three-point shot!
MCD: What’s the coolest part of Oracle Arena?
A: Also known as Roaracle–can get pretty crazy, and that’s during the regular season. Playoff games at our arena take the atmosphere and intensity to a whole other level. What I love about Warriors fans is that they are loyal and have supported our team through the tough times and now the really amazing times. I think we have the best fans in the NBA because no other arena has as much energy every night as ours.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
All smiles for Amira (Photo via Warriors)
A: I’m not really the Housewife type.
MCD: I think every man everywhere just fell a little more in love with you for that answer. Ok, next question — Miley or Taylor?
A: Taylor Swift all the way. I love country music!
MCD: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
A: That we don’t do anything but dance. It is very much our love and passion to dance, but all of us keep ourselves busy with work or school, and are very involved with team activities off the court.
MCD: Favorite music to dance to?
A: I can dance to just about anything with a good beat!
MCD: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
A: “Ants Marching” by Dave Matthews Band — I like to pretend I am an amazing drummer in the car!
MCD: Dream vacation?
A: Any beach I’ve never been to before, I love traveling and seeing new places and exploring. I don’t get to travel often, but when I do I love it!
MCD: Most embarrassing thing we’d find in your Google history?
A: My computer actually just broke so I am using only my work computer, so you’ll only find links to ZICO Coconut Water and all the fun events in the Bay Area!
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
A: There is A LOT in there! I would say my emergency kit — it has everything you could ever need in one safe place (lip gloss, makeup wipes, protein powder and finger nail clippers).
MCD: Fan of selfies?
A: I am not a fan of selfies at all. It’s actually funny when I try to take group selfies with my teammates, even though I’m tall (5’8) and have long arms, no one wants me taking the selfie — we all get cut off!
MCD: Favorite thing about your city?
A: San Francisco is just beautiful; you get to enjoy the beach as well as the unique streets of the city. Doesn’t get much better than that! Then you can drive 45 minutes to an hour and you’re in the suburbs or at a hiking trail or in the beautiful Napa Valley.
MCD: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
A: WARRIORS.
MCD: What app do you use most often on your phone?
MCD: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
A:The Tone it Up Girls — I love everything they do and how inspirational they are to live a healthy lifestyle.
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
A: Homebody — after running around all day, every day, I love coming home to relax, read blogs and hang out with my dog Shya.
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
A: I cook 90% of my meals every week. Knowing what goes into my food is so important to me, so I’d rather take the time to cook everything rather than eating at a restaurant.
To see the original article plus a few extra smashing photos of Amira, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this fun NBA Dance Series. Ideal Protein can help you with many aspects of weight loss and management, but my favorite is their weekly weight and body measurements analysis that they offer clients.
Bucks Dancer Lauren (photo via John Grant Photography)
Bucks Dancer Lauren is the girl next door – especially if your door is in Milwaukee.
I actually tried to find one flaw in sweet Lauren of the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers and it’s just not possible. It’s not that I didn’t want to like her, she just seemed too good to be true. She’s humble. She’s a better dancer than 99% of the people you’ve ever met in real life. She’s pretty funny. She loves basketball, but almost as important, she loves the fans and the city that supports the basketball that she loves. She’s a self-proclaimed “scaredy-cat” and as much as she loves a tropical beach vacation (especially in the heart of the brutal Wisconsin cold winters), she’s content being at home with nothing more than laugher and her friends and family.
We had the pleasure of getting to learn a little more about Lauren during our exclusive Q&A, so check out some of her answers. We’re pretty sure no matter which NBA team you root for, you’ll quickly become a fan of hers…
Jayme Lamm: Where are you from?
Lauren: I was born in Lansing, MI and moved around a couple times as a kid, but I’ve considered Milwaukee, Wisconsin home for the past 18 years!
JL: Occupation or School?
L: I am an administrative assistant for a company called Rexnord, which is manufacturing company based out of Milwaukee, WI. I am also the administrator of the Rexnord Foundation, so I have the wonderful privilege of being very involved in working with several non-profit organizations in the Milwaukee community.
JL: Years on team (did you try out multiple times before making it)?
L: I, fortunately, made the team the first time that I tried out, and this is my second season as a Milwaukee Bucks Dancer.
JL: Tell me about your dance background? You ladies have moves I wish I had; I know you didn’t just learn them…
L: Well, I have been dancing since I was four years old. My mom always tells me she knew I’d have a career in dance because of how comfortable I was on stage. I was such a shy, quiet little girl, but when I was on stage, I was a completely different person! So I danced my whole life, in all different genres, and I competed nationally with my studio in middle and high school. I was also on my high school poms team, and danced for my university in college.
JL: Hardest part about being an NBA dancer?
L: The hardest part about being an NBA dancer is probably the time commitment. It is one of the longest sport seasons and 41 home games that we have to be at. Don’t get me wrong- I love dancing in the NBA and having all those extra opportunities to dance because of the longer season – but you definitely have to have your mind set before the season starts that you are going to be dedicated and busy for the next few months.
JL: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
L: I have never gone on court and forgotten a routine, but during my very first ever preseason game, I started facing the wrong way for our routine. I realized it within the first eight-count and quickly turned myself around and covered it up. But, I was mortified! It took me a few days to laugh that one off.
JL: Favorite NBA player and why?
L: This may be cliché, but I think my favorite player would have to be Michael Jordan. I grew up with two brothers who were his biggest fans, so I of course joined the bandwagon and rooted for him as well. It was a way to connect with my sporty brothers, so they wouldn’t just look at me as the “dancing queen.”
JL: What’s the best part about basketball?
L: I think the best part about basketball is the pace. It is one of the quickest-moving sports, and the
Bucks Dancer Lauren (photo via John Grant Photography)
game can change in a matter of seconds! It keeps everyone on their toes, and keeps the fans engaged throughout the whole four quarters. In my opinion, there is never a dull moment!
JL: What’s the coolest part of your arena?
L: Our arena is called the BMO Harris Bradley Center. I think the coolest part of the arena is our fans! Milwaukee has some of the greatest fans in the NBA because they are fans through thick and thin. They are always supportive and friendly, and they make our job as dancers more fun because they engage with us and have a good time.
JL: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
L: I love The Real Housewives — it’s my guilty pleasure. My friends and I often joke with each other about what our tag lines would be if we were Real Housewives. I think mine would be something like “Happy girls are the prettiest.”
JL: Miley or Taylor?
L: T-Swift all the way! My new favorite of hers is “Shake It Off.” I mean that is just such a good mindset to live with in general!
JL: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
L: I think one of the biggest misconceptions about being an NBA dancer is that we don’t do anything else. In reality, every single one of us on the team either has a full-time job or is a full-time student. We all have busy schedules, but we fit in the second job as an NBA dancer because dancing is our passion and what makes us truly happy!
JL: Favorite music to dance to?
L: I honestly don’t have a favorite type to dance to. I like to mix it up a lot. That’s one thing I love so much about dancing; you can do it to all different types of music!
JL: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
L: These days, I am immediately in a better mood when the song “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran comes on the radio. I turn up the volume and sign as loud as I can. Funny thing – the louder you turn up the volume, the better your own voice sounds.
JL: Dream vacation?
L: As the long Wisconsin winter finally comes to an end, my dream vacation would be a week in the Bahamas or Jamaica. Nothing sounds better than the hot sun and a cool ocean right now! I think either spot would be perfect to travel with a big group of friends and stay at an all-inclusive resort.
JL: Most embarrassing thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
L: It was recently pointed out to me by a teammate that I play with my hair a lot, which is an embarrassment in itself. It’s a bad habit that I’ve developed. So, I have embarrassingly searched, “Why do people play with their hair?” I found several theories, but the one that I am going to stick with is that it is because I’m a perfectionist; whether or not that’s the case – I’m not sure. But it sounds like the best (least crazy) explanation, so I’m sticking with it.
JL: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
L: I guess the most random item in my purse right now is my unopened eyeliner pencil. I actually ran out of eyeliner during last night’s Bucks game, so I picked some up on my way into work this morning (as I knew it was the only time I’d have to stop and pick some up before the next game, where I would need it again).
JL: Fan of selfies? Do you have any secrets to the perfect selfie?
L: I’m not a huge fan of selfies, unless I’m taking them with other people. It makes me feel a little less silly, I guess, if there are other people joining me in the selfie craze!
JL: Favorite thing about your city?
L: My favorite part of Milwaukee is the lakefront. It is so beautiful, especially in the spring and summer. I love sitting out on the beach when the weather is nice, or going for runs along the shoreline.
JL: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
L: Two words come to my mind — am I allowed to have two first words? The words “win” and “Wisconsin” come to mind. My teammates and I like to throw up the “W” for pictures whenever The Bucks win! And, being from Wisconsin, it is very common to make a “W” with your fingers to represent Wisconsin or the University of Wisconsin. We like to rep our state!
L: I think I use Instagram the most. I am a shameless poster of pictures with friends, family, the boyfriend, and of course, my lovely teammates! I also have the role of being the social media lead on my team, so I post pictures on the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers Instagram to keep our fans updated on what we are up to during games and in the community.
JL: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
L: I think it would be Jennifer Aniston. She has always been one of my favorite actresses, and she seems like such a sweet, kind person. I would love to sit down and get to know her as Jennifer Aniston, and not one of her several characters that I have grown to love. I imagine that we’d be really good friends if we ever met. Or maybe I just like to fantasize that we would be BFF’s…
JL: Homebody or an adventurer?
L: As much as I’d like to say I’m an adventurer, I’m probably more realistically, a homebody. I am content in Milwaukee, surrounded by my family and friends. I like to travel and go on vacations, but I am always happy to come home after a week or two.
JL: So what’s most adventurous thing you’ve done?
L: It probably won’t come as a shock due to my previous answer, that I haven’t done anything too overly adventurous. I’m kind of a “scaredy-cat.” Off the top of my head, the most adventurous thing I can think of is hang gliding. I actually went with the rest of the Milwaukee Bucks Dancers. We did it as a team-building activity over the summer. I was a little nervous to jump off the ledge at first, but it was really fun once I did it!
JL: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
L: A lot of people who didn’t know me before I became a Milwaukee Bucks Dancer find it interesting to know that I have my teaching license. I actually got my degree in English Education, but wanted to pursue my dance career after college, so I put my teaching career on hold for the time being. However, I do have dreams to pursue my passion for teaching once my passion for dance is finally fulfilled (but who knows when that will be because I’ve already been dancing for 20 years of my life and still can’t seem to get enough!)
To see the original interview along with more smashing photos of Lauren, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to the Milwaukee Bucks for partaking in this awesome series showcasing some of the best NBA dancers and thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring it. Ideal Protein help with many aspects of weight loss and management, and offers something unique for each client.
The NBA Dance series of interviews continue and this time we took our talents to Toronto to chat with göt2b Raptors Dance Pak Captain, Nina.
You’d be hard-pressed to find another human that loves the Raptors more than Nina, but even beyond the team, she is head over heels in love with everythingthat is Toronto. If the Toronto Visitors Bureau is reading this, consider this our formal nomination for Nina to be your next billboard. In case we failed to mention it, she’s absolutely beautiful, a ball of joy to chat with plus a lover of cars.
Actually, Nina’s so cool maybe she should even be the Mayor? Ok, that’s probably taking it too far, but she’s an all-around cool chick that we’re happy to showcase in our exclusive interview so you can see for yourself…
Jayme Lamm: Where are you from?
Nina: I grew up on the beach in Sarnia, Ontario, small town!
JL: Occupation and/or school?
N: Right now I am finishing my Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Dance from York University. It has taken me five years to complete so I am beyond happy to finally be finishing school! I am also part other dance companies in Toronto. My life basically consists of Raptors, dance, school, and more dance. Couldn’t ask for anything better.
JL: Years on team?
N: This is my fourth season with the team and second year being Captain. I was lucky enough to make the team the first year I auditioned; it’s been a wild ride so far.
JL: Tell me about your dance background?
N: Dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started when I was four years old and have been addicted ever since! I have had awesome opportunities this far in my dance career and I’m so happy I can say I continued on with dance this far in my life.
JL: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
N: I would have to say the most challenging part about being an NBA Dancer is the time commitment. Besides the intense game schedule, we are always in rehearsal and participating in other göt2b Raptors Dance Pak-related appearances. There is much more to being an NBA Dancer than just dance! It definitely is a challenge but a challenge I love.
JL: Have you ever forgotten your routine?
N: Never! I always make sure I am focused and prepared before I step out on to the court. But the nerves never go away; every game feels like my first game!
JL: Favorite NBA player?
N: I’m going to stick within the Raptors family and say Amir Johnson. He has always been a great representation of the Raptors team and the city of Toronto. #WeTheNorth
JL: What’s the best part about basketball?
N: I love the constant entertainment basketball has to offer. There is always so much happening at a Raptors game that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. The Raptors fan base gets bigger and better every season. Feeling the energy from the fans makes my job that much more rewarding. We recently performed a Britney Spears tribute routine and I got to be Britney! Fun routines like that are really enjoyed by all the fans. Every game day is surreal!
JL: What’s the coolest part of your arena?
N: I call Air Canada Centre my second home! I have been going there almost every other day for four years now and it is such a comfortable environment. The fans fill the seats with excitement and support for the team. And obviously we have the most amazing mascot in the NBA, that Raptor means so much to me…and to the fans!
JL: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
N: Being on the göt2b Raptors Dance Pak for four seasons now, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with the most amazing dancers. We all have such unique personalities and come from all different dance backgrounds. The göt2b Raptors Dance Pak is an amazing representation of Toronto because we all have our own diverse stories just like the community that makes up this amazing city. We are all normal people who get to live out the dream of dancing for an NBA basketball team! Being with each other every other day or even sometimes every day, we get to learn and grow with each other in life. There is more to just dance than being part of the göt2b Raptors Dance Pak and we all have our own spot on the team for a reason. As a team we represent the Raptors organization and share that love for the team in our own individual ways.
JL: Favorite music to dance to?
N: I think because I am a dancer I can dance to any type of music. When I hear a beat I just naturally start moving. It is in my blood!
JL: What song instantly puts you in a good mood?
N: Anything by Alanis Morissette. Too many childhood memories of singing along to her music with my sister and aunt.
JL: Dream vacation?
N: Going anywhere with my family or friends. I love to travel but never get that many opportunities to travel with the people closest to me! I know I am going to have fun wherever I go if it involves my family and friends, but it is an added bonus if the destination is an amazing location.
JL: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
N: The most random thing? I would have to say a comb. But being part of the got2b Raptors Dance Pak we do so many famous RDP “hair whips” my hair can get a little extra tangled.
JL: Fan of selfies? Do you have any secrets to the perfect selfie?
N: I’m not going to lie and say I have never taken a selfie. I do take selfies and I think my biggest secret about them is they are never planned or staged. I love candid selfies especially with my friends. The simpler the better, people!
JL: Favorite thing about your city?
N: I absolutely love the city of Toronto. Every day I walk out my door there is always something different to experience. Nothing beats the fast-paced energy of Toronto that you feel when you are walking down the streets. It is full of culture! I have grown up and learned so much from living in this city that I am proud to call it home.
JL: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
N: Win! It is what we look forward to the most during every game. Raptors for the “W”!
JL: What app do you use most?
N: My weather app! The weather in Toronto is always changing and right now I have my eye on anything that is above zero degrees. I am sick of the cold!
JL: If you could go to dinner with any celebrity/athlete in the world, who would it be?
N: I would have to say my lifetime crush…Johnny Depp. He will always be my number one and it will never change. 21 Jump Street to Pirates of the Caribbean — I have been a fan of him my entire life!
JL: Homebody or adventurer?
N: I am definitely an adventurer. Life is so short you have to make the best of it! I think I have a “fear of missing out” about things so I always make sure I am taking on an adventure. Why not right?
JL: Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
N: There are a couple of things that people would find interesting about me. I have always had a passion for drawing and painting. My sister was a huge fan of art so growing up I definitely gained my artistic style from her. And I am also a huge fan of cars. I have my mother to thank for that…old cars or new cars I love them all.
A huge thanks to Nina for giving us an exclusive interview and a big thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring this series. Ideal Protein is a medically developed protocol, which is only available from qualified professionals. Ideal Protein provides one-on-one weight loss coaching for educational support along with motivation and weekly weight and body measurements analysis. Go visit Ideal Protein’s website to learn more about their health and management offerings for weight loss.
Click here to see the original article of Nina on CBS Man Cave Daily.
NFL Vet Lawrence Taylor (LT) won the 1st Annual NFL Bermuda Golf Classic (photo: D’Lamina Photography)
Anytime you get 27 professional athletes together – whether current or retired – there are a few things you can expect. I had the chance to hang with some of the coolest guys ever to embrace “the shield” at the first annual NFL Bermuda Golf Classic last week.
For example – when there is no real pressure on the field, complete and utter nonsense and goofiness ensues – just laughing and smiling the entire time beyond grateful for the experience to be on such a beautiful course and hang with such legends. Those honors definitely go to free agent Ryan Lindley and St. Louis Rams Special Teams Devon Wylie.
Then you’ve got guys who are just loving life and spending time with their families on the beautiful island of Bermuda – like Adrian Murrell and Victor Green who split their time between hitting the links with former teammates and hitting the beach with their families. And of course we can’t forget the incredible wardrobe of Marcus Stroud and his wife strategically worn throughout the weekend’s festivities, which should have won an award all its own (this will be a thing next year, mark my words).
For others, and a pretty recurrent theme throughout the week, you might see extreme smack-talking that ranges anywhere from the number of Super Bowl rings one has to bragging rights for the bogey you shot on the last hole, or the time you turned left and avoided that hard-hitting tackle (Lawrence Taylor and Billy Joe Tolliver win the smack talk category hands down). Let me be the first to say – how these two retired NFL players don’t have their own reality show is beyond me. Someone needs to get on this. It is pure gold.
The Bermuda Golf Classic took place at the famed Port Royal Golf Club, former home to the PGA Grand Slam of Golf. While there were no green jackets handed out to the winner, there was a stunning trophy as well as a custom-made Rockwell watch which went to retired linebacker Lawrence Taylor (L.T.) who beat out Billy Joe Tolliver in a sudden-death playoff round on signature hole 16 overlooking the gorgeous Bermuda waters. With about 200 sets of eyes (media, other players and locals), the two shot beautiful drive after drive, hitting the green like clockwork, but it was L.T.’s putting skills that won him the title.
Prior to the playoff round, L.T. was certain Billy Joe would have out-putted him. “The greens out here don’t give you the opportunity to make a lot of putts. It’s never the greens fault; it was the alcohol’s fault,” he says jokingly with a rocks glass in hand. “Of course we talk a lot of smack, but at the end of the day you still gotta perform. You always watch what you say because you don’t want to eat your words – it’ll come back to bite you like a big dog,” L.T. says.
After a bit of such talk, Billy Joe comes back with, “He’s been hit in the head too many times, you can’t blame him.”
It was no surprise L.T. and Billy Joe made it to the finals (golf has sort of become their thing post-NFL), but a big surprise did come when Jaxson de Ville, the Jaguars mascot, shot an impressive 78 (7 over par) in his entire costume, size 24 shoes and all – only the second time playing a full 18
The Blonde Side goofing around with NFL Players Ryan Lindley and Devon Wiley
holes in costume. Golfing since age 5, Jaxson says signature hole 16 was his favorite, one of the most beautiful holes he’s played.
“We’re having a blast out here,” Hans Olsen, former tackle for BYU and the Colts says. “I gotta be honest – there’s been some pretty ugly smack talk – I’m not going to mention any names,” he says of a breakfast table encounter that went down the morning after the tournament. “Apparently there was some money, some words exchanged and things got really ugly, and I got up and left the table,” he says. Olsen also took a moment to casually mention that he was drafted in the Top 5 of the Pro-Am, because the competition between these guys never really went away.
“Smack talk has been more collegiate-based from my experience,” former Steeler Max Starks explains. “There’s a lot of Hurricanes, Seminoles and Gators out here – there’s a lot of heckling on the holes, but that’s ok because it’s not often you get to play a PGA-rated course,” the former Florida Gator says.
“It’s a fantastic course – you can find yourself in trouble in the bunkers, but it’s a lot of fun,” free agent Ryan Lindley says. The week also included a Pro-Am tournament where locals could draft-style bid on players. Lindley took it upon himself to grab the microphone and give all the compelling reasons he should be drafted for the Pro-Am. His team said he “lived up to the hype and more.”
While the tournament was certainly fun for all who played, it was more than bragging rights and custom watches up for stake. “We feel very fortunate to play on a course like Port Royal. It’s always good seeing the guys – we have a great reunion and the camaraderie we’ve built over the years is fun,” says former Jets safety Victor Green who puts on his own golf tournament in New York in September.
Former NFL Player Max Starks hits hole 16 at Port Royal Golf Course (photo: D’Lamina Photograph)
The weeklong event involved a lot more than just golf. Intangibles like bonding time, family style meals (and adult beverages for most), scooter tours throughout the two-lane island (if you passed your scooter test), swimming with and kissing dolphins, scuba diving and snorkeling, mini-golf and more. It was an all around great reunion for players and their families and a lot of love was shown from the Bermudians. Players and their families were put up at the Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa (which was a presenting sponsor) where they undoubtedly rolled out the red carpet. There wasn’t a single attendee who isn’t anxiously waiting and hoping for an invite for next year.
While the event was a ton of fun, I will say thank goodness none of these guys had backup plans to play professional golf.
This article originally ran in the sports section of CBS’s Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original article online.
It’s no secret golf can be a frustrating sport, and that’s just for a normal person. Try being nearly 7ft tall, 403lbs and wearing a size 24 shoe and hitting the links. (To put it in perspective, Shaquille O’Neil only wears a size 22 shoe.)
Twenty seasons in the NFL as the self-proclaimed best mascot in sports, Jaxson de Ville (Curtis Dvorak) recently played just his second full round of golf (18 holes) and first tournament – and he came in 3rd. Flying all the way to Bermuda at Port Royal Golf Course to play in the 1st Annual NFL Bermuda Golf Classic with his Nike Woods driver TaylorMade irons and putters, Jaxson shot a 78 (+7) coming in behind Lawrence Taylor (LT) and Billy Joe Tolliver.
The retired Taylor and Tolliver battled it out in a sudden death round on signature hole 16 (Jaxson’s favorite hole), with LT snagging first place after out-putting Tolliver. Jaxson snagged MVP honors, which is no surprise to Jaguar fans, but his exceptional golf game may be a surprise to some.
Jaxson has been playing golf since he was five and appearances at golf tournaments over the last 20 seasons have been a regular part of his job – that’s a lot of practice for the cat.
Jaxson attributes his third place standing at the Bermuda Golf Classic to having to arbitrarily guess
Jaxson playing caddy for Lawrence Taylor, who won the Bermuda Golf Classic (photo: D’Lamina Photography)
his handicap. “I just started hitting balls and always speculated what I thought I could shoot in costume,” Jaxson says. “I didn’t know what my handicap was because I hadn’t played a round in costume so we said lets go with 8 because that seems like a fair handicap.”
His handicap wasn’t the only thing unexpected about his first tournament in costume. “We didn’t know if I’d need to take a break or how much water I’d need,” he says noting he took a small break and probably (like most) didn’t get enough water. “I definitely didn’t get enough Gatorade because I faded the last 5 holes – I ended up bogeying my last 4 out of 5,” he admits.
MVP honors weren’t enough for Jaxson (unlike his recent 1st place winnings) – next year he’s coming back for the real deal. But maybe with different shoes.
“I wore the mascot feet instead of golf shoes because I thought it would make for better pictures, but it’s a lot more difficult,” Jaxson laughs. “It really only hurt in the bunkers – my feet would slide – it was like standing on two soft platters. It hurt my game on a couple shots,” he says.
“I wish I would have been in LT and Billy’s group – with five holes to play I was 3 over at the time and they shot 4 over to tie, so I would have been right there within a stroke of them,” he recalls. “I figured Billy Joe and LT were shooting 70 or 60,” which likely would have put him out of the running he says. Knowing he was so close to winning the first-ever Bermuda Golf Classic, Jaxson is already practicing for next year.
Since LT came out the winner, Jaxson undoubtedly wants a chance to face off against him at the next tournament. As for players he hopes to see in Bermuda next year, he’s personally inviting two Jags players. “I definitely want Blake Bortles here because he wanted to come this year but his schedule conflicted, and of course Scobee because any chance I get to play Scobee in the same tournament is good. He got me in the last tournament we were in together,” Jaxson says looking for payback.
“ I definitely will be working on it leading up to it (next year’s tournament). That’s why I wanted to win the first one because I knew there were only a handful of guys with the handicap as far as the gross. The net balances everything out, but I wanted to win the gross because next year there’s going to be a lot of good golfers out here because guys are going to hear about it,” he says.
Another obvious disadvantage to playing in costume is not being able to see your ball after you drive, which luckily didn’t affect Jaxson’s game too much thanks to an extra set of local eyes. “They gave me a guy named Chris from the club (‘Big Chris’) to ride around with – he was definitely the MVP. He was my eyes and had knowledge reading the greens, so he definitely helped me,” Jaxson says.
Just like a mascot to grab EVERYONE’S attention (photo: D’Lamina Photography)
As for the week in Bermuda, Jaxson says, “It was fun to see a lot of guys you haven’t seen in awhile” – like Fred Taylor, Marcus Stroud, Doug Jones and a bunch of the other guys he spent time with.
“I’m learning things for next time like packing the cart with bananas, Gatorade, and power bars,” he says. And it’s undecided what kind of shoes he’ll wear. Next year’s tournament is slated for April 13 – 17th.
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Houston Texans Cheerleaders – a few blondies (photo via Houston Texans)
Houston Texans cheerleaders battle to make the team: A behind the scenes look at the beautiful drama
Massive sighs of relief could be heard from 35 of the hardest working, hair-flipping and hip thrusting gals in Houston when the new Texans cheerleaders were revealed inside the Methodist Training Center practice bubble this week. For the first time in Texans cheerleader history, all the returning vets made the 50-women finals, which included a week of practices, swimsuit rounds, interviews by the coach and other Texans staff and online daily voting by crazed fans.
Everything fell into place Tuesday night when Texans cheerleader coach Alto Gary announced the 35 girls who will beautifully make up the new team, which include 12 rookies anxious to rock those coveted red boots.
“You worked so hard and I’m so thankful for your hard work. I wish I had 50 spots, but I don’t have the budget for it. If your name isn’t called, we can be friends and I hope to see you next year,” the coach started before calling the first name. As each name was called, the women walked the red carpet to hug Gary, letting out a huge sigh of relief.
“We have a lot of Sarah’s . . . Sarah M” coach called out saying “she’s come a long, long way and I’m so proud of her.” Gary noted that Sarah M. was part of the training group last season and expressed her sincere appreciation for all her hard work over the course of the year.
(Note, the team also has Sarah C. and Sarah F. The Texans do not release cheerleaders’ last names.)
One of the most excited red carpet walks has to go to returning vet Allison who literally sprinted to hug her coach, which was impressive in those knee-high red boots with a heel.
My personal highlight of the night was when Gary called for Jessica. Not a soul moved. Everyone looked at the beautiful blonde who was standing towards the left of the semicircle, but she had no idea it was her. “Yes, YOU,” Gary said before Jessica finally made her way onto the carpet. (Thank goodness we avoided that awkward Bachelor moment when the wrong girl steps up for the rose.)
Krystal literally jumped all the way down the red carpet after hearing her name.
After all 35 names were called, Gary thanked everyone yet again for their dedication and hard work. “You never know what can happen. Ladies, I will see you next year, stay in shape, and keep dancing!” the coach said. “Seriously, you never know what could happen — you could get a call in December. Thank you and I’ll see you next year.”
It’s no secret the 50 finalists put in a lot of hard work, but Gary and her staff definitely logged some
HTC Madison and Lesha are back for another season (Photo via Houston Texans)
long nights too.
Cheerleader Heartbreak
Sadly a few Texans cheerleader vets did not make the team this year and the heartache was clear on everyone’s faces, including Gary’s.
Cheerleader vet Rachel said that on a scale of 1 to 10 in nervousness she was an 11.5 heading into the evening.
Cheerleader vet Rachel said that on a scale of 1 to 10 in nervousness she was an 11.5.
“I just really want my spot back. Last season I came in here and just had a blast because I had nothing to lose because I wasn’t on the team and coming in here this year I had everything to lose. This is everything to me,” she said.
As for the rookie she’s most excited about, Rachel said that goes to Kelly. “She was an Ice Angel — that’s what I was before this and that’s how I met her, so when she came down she asked if she could live with me, so we live together — I’m so excited she made it!”
There’s a new set of twins on the sidelines — Jordan and Randi who are identical twins from Crockett with the thickest and sweetest southern accents you’ll ever hear. This was the duo’s first time trying out.
“We were overwhelmed — can’t believe it,” the twins said in unison. As for what they’re most looking forward to, Jordan summed it up quite nicely.
“The experience and making friendships and dancing on the field in front of thousands of people,” she said.
Although the sisters have never done anything quite like this, they’ve danced for 13 years and even taught dance for five years. The pair plans to commute in for every game and practice in their shared Jeep Patriot — all the way from Huntsville.
That’s cheerleader dedication.
Click here to see the original article that ran on Houston’s Culture Map.
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Wizard Girl Kelly (photo courtesy of the Washington Wizards)
Washington D.C. has long been packed with some big names and some powerful influences. Politics aside, the Wizard Girls are at the top of that list (at least my list) and so is my new blonde pal Kelly who is in her rookie year with the east coast dance team.
She’s energetic, has the kind of hair Pantene commercials are made of, and of course…she’s got the dance moves we all wish we had. But hair and slick moves aside, Kelly is the total package with the desire to always give back to her community, loves the intensity of the sport she dances for and isn’t afraid to photo bomb anyone and everyone possible. And she’s humble…unless you talk about her college dance team of course…
I also feel like I should warn New Yorkers, because Kelly says D.C. trumps New York. Fighting words?
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Kelly: Warrenton, VA–a small town most people just call Northern Virginia.
MCD: Occupation or School?
K: I graduated from Hofstra University, in Long Island, NY. I majored in journalism and was on the dance team. We just so happen to be back-to-back Division One Hip-hop National Champions, but I don’t like to brag.
MCD: Years on team, did you make it your first try?
K: I am a rookie! I was lucky enough to make it on my first try.
MCD: Tell me about your dance background? You have moves I wish I had; I know you didn’t just learn them…
K: I have been a dancer for a long time; I actually grew up studying ballet, but I got pretty serious about it in college while on the dance team. Not only did we dance at sporting events, we competed in Collegiate Nationals. I love a team environment; I was never the one who hated group projects in school. So after graduating I needed a new team.
I made the New York Jets Flight Crew, and I had a great season cheering for the NFL. I moved back to the D.C. area this summer and was lucky enough to become a Wizard Girl!
MCD: Hardest part about being an NBA Dancer?
K: Well there is a lot of hard work that goes into being a NBA dancer, but the payoff is so fun that the work is worth it! We are constantly learning new material, and getting ready for upcoming games. With 40-plus games and multiple performances in a game, we have a lot of choreography to get to Wizard Girl standards!
MCD: Have you ever gone onto the court and forgotten your routine?
K: Thank goodness I have never forgotten a routine on the court! I don’t think my coach would be too happy about that. Derric, our coach works extremely hard to give us new, entertaining, and innovative routines. And we work hard to get them right for game day. But my teammates would tell you I may have a moment or two right before we perform that I think I have forgotten everything. But I have learned that I don’t, and they have learned to ignore me.
MCD: Favorite NBA player?
K: What I think makes the Wizards so fun to watch is how they work together. It’s hard to pick a favorite!
MCD: Best part about basketball?
K: How everything is close-up and more intimate than other sports. It just adds to the excitement and intensity. I love being able to see the faces of the team I am cheering on, as well as those cheering with us in the stands. It may sound weird, but I love the personality that basketball has. Seeing a player give everything they have on the court in those final seconds, pull off some creative and athletic moves to win the game, and then see the fans right there with them.
MCD: Coolest thing about your arena?
K: The Verizon Center is electric; D.C. packs the place out to see the Wizards continue in their great season. I love that from the highest rows to courtside, fans are cheering the entire game.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro…
K: Ughhh, I am feeling a lot of pressure on this one! My teammates and I joke about if we had a
Wizard Girl Kelly has all the right moves and words to live by (photo courtesy Washington Wizards)
Wizard Girl TV show; I’m telling you these girls are hilarious. So I don’t want to disappoint.
MCD: Miley or Taylor?
K: Both! Is that cheating?
MCD: Biggest misconception about NBA dancers?
K: Well I can think of a handful off the top of my head; most involving a lack of brains, or humility. But we don’t dance for other people’s opinion; that is the biggest misconception. Any girl dancing for a professional team has worked extremely hard for that position, and knows how much goes into it. You will be hard-pressed to find a place with more driven, kind, hilarious, and intelligent women than the sidelines of an NBA court, and they happen to be pretty great dancers too.
MCD: Dream vacation?
K: I am constantly talking about traveling, to my family and my friends. We have so many dream trips planned in our heads it’s hard to pick just one. I would really love to go to Greece, but I would honestly go most anywhere in the world right now! I mean, if I didn’t have practice…
MCD: Most embarrassing thing in your recent Google history?
K: It’s funny you should ask that. Last night in the locker room we were doing a pretty serious Google investigation into Sally Hansen, to see what she looked like. It turns out, she’s not even real! If you have no idea what I’m talking about it is completely understandable.
MCD: Most random thing in your purse?
K: I was really hoping for something interesting–I have nail polish… not cool at all.
MCD: Fan of selfies?
K: I don’t take a lot of selfies. I never get the angle right or something. Buuut I do photobomb a lot of selfies, and well, any other picture. It is definitely something the Wizard Girls have rubbed off on me. We all do it; no one and no picture is safe.
MCD: Favorite thing about DC?
K: Coming from New York I wasn’t sure how D.C. was going to stack up. And I hate to break it to all my New Yorkers but it’s better–a lot better. I love that although it is a huge city it can still feel small. I love how beautiful it is; my drive to the Verizon Center is marked with the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House–I could go on and on.
MCD: When I say the letter “W” what’s the first word that comes to mind?
K: Well I instantly think of WIN! It may be because I am still thinking about the Wizards’ win last night.
MCD: App you use most?
K: Probably the map–directions are not my strength.
MCD: Homebody or adventurer?
K: Definitely an adventurer. I am up for anything, and love being spontaneous! My teammate and I made a 2015 bucket list; they aren’t huge trips or anything. Just small ideas that keep us trying new things! I’m really looking forward to trying to trapeze, and a color run.
MCD: Most adventurous thing you’ve done?
K: Moving back to D.C. this summer was such an adventure! I never thought I would be here and dancing for the Wizards. And now that I am, I don’t know how I lived without it. This city and my teammates bring an adventure everyday!
MCD: Tell me something people would find completely out of character?
K: I used to be a competitive figure skater and I am obsessed with board games! I also have recently started volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association. It is a cause very close to my heart, and the Association does such great work to help those with the disease and their families, and help fund research to find a cure!
To end on a somewhat motivational note because I know Kelly will approve, I will leave you with one of Kelly’s favorite quotes, which is also now one of my favorites: “All you touch and all you see, is all your life will ever be.”
To see the original interview along with more smashing photos of Kelly, click here to see it on CBS Man Cave Daily. Thanks to the Wizard Girls for partaking in this series and thanks to Ideal Protein Houston for sponsoring the series. Ideal Protein can help you with many aspects of weight loss and management, but my favorite is their weekly weight and body measurements analysis that they offer clients.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/washington-wizard-girl-kelly1.jpg921642Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-04-02 10:27:432015-04-05 10:32:45Wizard Girl Kelly
In case you’re wondering why on earth I’m cheesin’ so big in this photo, let me tell you.
The Blonde Side has LOTS of reasons to smile today.
For starters, Coors Light is now the official beer of The Blonde Side for 2015! Having a beer sponsor a sports column is a must, and thanks to Coors Light doing big things here in Houston, it was a perfect fit!
On top of that, you are looking at the newest contributor to Gametime w/ Matt Perrault Sat/Sun 2-6EST on Yahoo! Sports Radio and for the FOURTH year in a row I have been selected as a Women’s Health Action Hero, which is a huge honor. Not only do we get to be the first to try some of the newest fitness gadgets and beauty trends, but we get to help plan 10k races that raise money for those who go hungry right here in our own neighborhoods.
Semi-lastly, I have to go pack my bikinis for Bermuda next week to cover the NFL Bermuda Golf Classic. How many bikinis is too many bikinis for a four-day trip?
On a serious note, I don’t think people get how often they help me grow my business as a female in the sports world. My job is fun, no doubt, but it sure isn’t easy.
Simple things like commenting on posts (whether blogs or social media), sharing social media posts (the ones that interest you of course), talking with friends and business owners about my column, using my koozie and snapping pictures at stadiums or on beaches putting it to good use (ice cold beer!), following my social media accounts and interacting with me – those are all super simple ways that many of you have helped me along the way.
Aside from that, you’ve encouraged me and stuck with me, even during some boring times (like the 2-14 Houston Texans season). You’ve given me feedback (good and bad) about where I’m taking my brand – constructive criticism is always something I will gladly accept.
Thanks for ALL your support and well wishes – best friends & fans EVER.
