Women's Wheeling Day 2018

A Journey of Empowerment and Community

"At the end of the day it's not about what you have or even what you've accomplished. It's about who you've lifted up, who you've made better. It's about what you've given back" ~Denzel Washington 

Rausch Creek Sign Selfie

My first off-road adventure was a transformative experience that ignited a lifelong passion. As I stepped into the world of off-roading, I was immediately embraced by a welcoming community that offered unwavering support and encouragement. This positive environment, surrounded by fellow women enthusiasts, laid the foundation for a love that continues to thrive today.

Trail Videos

👉 Green Trail B

👉 Green Trail S

👉 Jeep Girl's First Time Off-Road

My group 

The Women's Wheeling Day Event

The annual Women's Wheeling Day event at Rausch Creek Off Road Park has become a cornerstone of the women's off-roading community. What started as a small gathering of eight women in 2013 has blossomed into the largest all-women's off-road wheeling event in the United States, attracting hundreds of participants.

My Journey from Novice to Guide

First-Time Jitters

In 2014, I joined the event as a first-time wheeler, filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. The supportive atmosphere quickly put me at ease, allowing me to fully embrace the experience.

Giving Back to the Community

As my skills and confidence grew, I found myself transitioning from participant to volunteer. For three consecutive years, I served as a tail gunner, working alongside trail guides to ensure the safety of fellow off-roaders.

Line of Jeeps on trail

Empowering New Off-Roaders

This year, I had the privilege of guiding Group 13, a collection of Jeepers new to off-roading. With only one exception, these women were taking their first steps into the world of off-road adventures.

As we navigated the green trails of Rausch Creek, I witnessed the transformation of nervous beginners into confident off-roaders. Each successfully traversed obstacle brought smiles and cheers, reinforcing their growing skills and passion for the sport.

Trail break

The Joy of Mentorship

Guiding these first-timers and helping them build confidence has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The gratitude expressed by these women has, in turn, bolstered my own confidence in my ability to lead and inspire others on the trails.

As I reflect on my journey from novice to mentor, I'm filled with excitement for what lies ahead. The prospect of becoming a trail guide fills me with anticipation, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue giving back to the community that has given me so much.

The Women's Wheeling Day event at Rausch Creek Off Road Park stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of creating inclusive spaces in traditionally male-dominated sports. It's an experience that fosters a love for off-roading and builds lasting friendships and empowers women to push their boundaries in a supportive environment.

Rausch Creek Pole Line

Bucket List: Bartending School

When my first son was born I left my television news career to stay at home to raise him (and my youngest son). A decision I will never regret.

However, after many years my boys began to need me less and less which lead me to start looking towards my second career.  I knew getting back in the news field wasn't an option as that flame to my old love diminished. So I was on to other possibilities, but not quite sure what I wanted my second career to be. 

Trying to Figure Out a Second Career 

Getting back into the work force after being a stay at home mom for over 16 years has been extremely difficult. My resume has a big hole, but I filled it with my many, many volunteer jobs. That didn't seem to work as I have only received one interview in over 25 applications.

I have been thinking about my long term plans and what I am passionate about. Contemplating my second career has weighed heavy on my mind as I need to plan for my future as well as have a back up plan. Life is moving way too fast to sit around waiting so I took action.  

Bartending School Trick. 

Bartending School

I took night classes for two weeks. It was an exhausting two weeks working my full time job and taking classes. However, I enjoyed myself and had a blast. 

Bar at school

Taking a Leap 

At first I was very nervous about attending the class for several reasons. Trying anything new and different is always hard. I knew I would be the oldest in the class and was worried about taking tests again. The last test I took was 33 years ago. 

Bar stools

Bad Vibes from Neighborhood Moms

I was very hesitant to even go. I received some not so positive reactions from some neighborhood mom's. A few of my close friends knew it would be perfect for me and offered the encouragement I needed. So I persevered and went to class.

Drinks I made at school

Amazing Experience

I enjoyed myself immensely. I looked forward to pouring and mixing of the drinks each night even though we were using colored water. I went in early everyday to practice using both hands to pour and get quicker. I ended up getting 100% on all my tests and poured 28 random drinks in 10 minutes. 

drinks I made at school

The weekend after I received my certificate I invited my friends over for some taste testing. I needed to test them out myself too since we were only pouring colored water. I will have to say I did a pretty good job. I made some tasty Chocolate Martinis, French Martinis & Cosmopolitans.

I think I will have to give this bartender gig a try especially since I love chatting it up with strangers. I'm also a pretty curious, social person. Who knows this may be my new passion.

Check out my blog post on How to Find Your Passion if you are struggling with what's next in your life.