Change of Pace!

So as many of you know, I have spent the past two years with my nose stuck in textbooks...(some could probably speak of better places I've had my nose, but whatever!) Anyway, this semester I have decided to change things up and take one whole class. While this makes me very nervous, I think I will find the change of pace a good decision. Life has gotten away from Me lately as it too often does, and I have decided it is time to catch up on the things I have let slip away.

The past two years I have also been involved in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. The experience was absolutely amazing and would recommend it to anyone wanting to make a difference. However, this year I want to challenge myself further (imagine that), so two of my very good friends have me running. While this is an exercise I have shyed away from for the past 25 years, I admit I love the feeling I get when I finish a new goal. So, I hope to be able to run many races in my near future. I guess my next goal would be a half marathon...we will talk about that later on...lol. In my spare time this semester I am studying for my Series 7 Exam, running between the 2 houses, looking for a job, trying to keep everyone happy...(which is the hardest job of all), and now, blogging the wild, but exciting life of a one-arm girl!!!

Throughout my life people have told me I should write a book or speak about growing up one one arm. While I have never really seen myself as being "different", most people do, with good reason. More often than not, it is due to lack of education on the circumstance, but many times it's pure curiosity. Growing up it bothered me to be stared at everywhere. I. go!! Now, when I see someone who looks like Me, I find myself -staring- as if they have two heads...which would be perfectly normal, right? So, I get it. You can't imagine us being able to do anything, I mean why even try when you have one arm, leg, or neither? Take it from Me, and anyone who has come in contact with Me in the past 25 years, WE TRY HARDER!! I cannot remember the last time I asked for help....even if I need it. I'm not one to give up. I was the first to tie shoes in Kindergarten, fastest typist in Jr. High, and runner up in my Senior Prom. No, I do not like to be singled out, nor do I like the attention...but I know being challenged as a child has made me the independent (too independent at times) person I am today.

Today, I ran across a blog of a Mother who has a 1-year old daughter who also has a limb deficiency due to ABS. It inspired me to start sharing my experiences, hardships, and so many accomplishments. I hope this is the start of a happy, new year of whatever the good Lord has in store!

Love to All,

Brianna