Nicole Roundy

The new utah museum of natural history.

2011-12-09T15:48:00.001-07:00

Awesome. Just awesome.

Campfire.

2011-10-17T23:56:00.005-06:00

Are those what I think they are?

Can you spy the Cheetoe? Dudley did. He's waiting for permission.

Three sticks, losts of sniffing and a few cheetos later = Very tired Puggle.

Dudley Turns 1.

2011-10-17T23:47:00.003-06:00

Rumor is Dudley's birthday is on September 30. The poor thing spent most of the day locked up in the house since we were too busy to do anything else. In fact, I almost forgot.

So a scoop of ice cream and a tea light were all we had in the house.

Dudley, Sit. Wait. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU . . . . . .

Good boy! OK!

What a dog will do. . . .

2011-08-02T06:01:00.004-06:00

This is dudley. Dudley is obsessed with me. He's like a stalker that won't go away. . . . only I don't want him too cause I've been stalking him lately too.

It appears that Dudley is laying on the back of the couch. But that would be decieving not to tell the truth!

Now it would only be normal to wonder why a puppy would do such a thing. . . . well, because there wasn't any more room on the couch. . . .

LA Adventures.

2011-08-02T05:34:00.004-06:00

I has an exciting opportunity to venture to Los Angeles for a grand total of 26 hours last week. After being strip searched in the airport, due to the simple fact that my existence is a threat to national security, I arrived in style to discover my snowboard was peeping out of my boardbag. . . . time for a new one.

Downtown LA From my window. . . . Not too shabby.

I'm not gonna give you the details of the trip just yet but I couldn't help but share a snapshot or two of . . . . . Asia town. Who knew it was so close?!

Couldn't read a word.

But the toilet was real neat!

It even came complete with a heated seat and personal settings. Oh boy do they know how to make a girl happy!

Local continues her snowboarding dream

2011-07-21T22:13:00.000-06:00

Local continues her snowboarding dream: "BOUNTIFUL — Nine months ago Bountiful native Nicole Roundy was struggling to find money in order to compete in adaptive snowboarding. Now, she can dream of continuing to snowboard with her teamma..."

Season Wrap Up.

2011-04-13T02:24:00.000-06:00

I firmly believe that success belongs just as much to those individuals who influence it, as it does to those who pursue it.

I'd like to take a moment and thank all of those who have continued to support my pursuits and those of other adaptive snowboarders around the world.

We had a great turnout at both the French World Cup and the Canadian Would Cup and hope to see you all again soon. Our largest event boasted 39 talented riders from 9 different countries. Here are the Results from the Cups:

February 3rd: Orcieres, France World Cup:

GOLD: Evan Strong USA

SILVER: Tyler Mosher CAN

BRONZE: Keith Grable USA

GOLD: Amy Purdy USA

SILVER: Nicole Roundy USA

BRONZE: Fabienn Sava Pelosse FRN

February 4th: Orcieres, France World Cup:

GOLD: Evan Strong USA

SILVER: Tyler Mosher CAN

BRONZE: Keith Grable USA

GOLD: Amy Purdy USA

SILVER: Nicole Roundy USA

BRONZE: Fabienn Sava Pelosse FRN

April 8th: Lake Louise, Canada World Cup:

GOLD: Evan Strong USA

SILVER: Keith Grable USA

BRONZE: Mike Shea USA

GOLD: Bibian Mentel NET

SILVER: Nicole Roundy USA

BRONZE: Amy Purdy USA

April 9th: Lake Louise, Canada World Cup:

GOLD: Evan Strong USA

SILVER: Carl Murphy NZL

BRONZE: Mike Shea USA

GOLD: Bibian Mentel NED

SILVER: Nicole Roundy USA

BRONZE: Amy Purdy USA

I'd like to extend a specials thanks to the Challenged Athletes Foundation and the Level Field Fund for making the season possible.

Props go to Stuart Rea, Andy and Jacob Levine of Team Utah for coaching us though the season.

Thanks to Travis Thiele we had a great athlete turn out in Utah. There were a total of 7 Competitive athletes on the slopes at Park City Mountain Resort and The Utah Olympic Park.

A special thanks to the National Ability Center for helping us get out on the slopes! I lost count of the number of introductory lessons you did ;)

Stay tuned for updates, news and other tidbits at www.adaptivesnow.org

Spring Rush

2011-03-15T19:16:00.000-06:00

I know its been ages since I posted updates.

But in a nut shell. . . . the seasons not what it used to be.

I trained a bit in January and hit the French World cup in February. The event had an amazing turnout and went quite well. www.adaptivesnow.org was launched at that time to bring some unity to the sport we love.

Congrats to those who podium-ed and those who worked hard to pull it off.

Mens: 1st: Evan Strong, 2nd: Tyler Mosher 3td: Keith Gabel
Womens: 1st: Amy Purdy, 2nd: Nicole Roundy 3rd: Fabienne Savva-Pelosse

I actually started my senior year of college in January. Its a lot of work and I'm hoping, keep your fingers crossed, to do an internship this summer. Possibly Internal Auditing for Intermountain Healthcare. There's also an amazing organization called Ascend Alliance that I could be working with. In the mean time, I'll be joining the Program Committee at the National Ability Center.

My BBA should be completed by January 2012!

Juggling two jobs keeps me busy for now. I'm really curious to see how everything plays out. Who knows where I'll end up. Its a day to day effort.

For now, Snowboarding has been strapped into the backseat.

686 Outerwear for sale via Google

2010-12-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I've got some 686 Outerwear for sale via Google shopping. Just hit up the blog: http://nicoleroundy.blogspot.com if your needing some new pants or a jacket. Men's Large and Womens Medium.

We are hoping to sell some of it to support the team. Check out the cause here: http://adaptivesnowboardfund.chipin.com/competition-costs-for-disabled-snowboarders

Thanks much and Happy Holidays!!!

Park City Week 2 Video SNowboard Video. TransWorld SNOWboarding

2010-12-13T03:37:00.000-07:00

Park City is officially in session. I finally made it up there too. I'm certainly not throwing back-to-back like these guys but it still feels good to be back.

So far I'm just doing technical drills and all that fun stuff to get my groooove back! Going through a dry spell. Bring the Pow!

Park City Week 2 Video SNowboard Video. TransWorld SNOWboarding

Money may thwart Paralympic dreams of local snowboarder

2010-11-02T21:43:00.001-06:00

byJenniffer Wardell

Oct 18, 2010 | 883 views | 0 | | 6 | |

NICOLE ROUNDY said her group may have trouble getting to compete in the paralympics for financial reasons. The group is based in Park City but has members from Davis County.

BOUNTIFUL — Sometimes, personal skill isn’t enough to get you to the top of that mountain.

For Bountiful native Nicole Roundy, a childhood cancer survivor, above-the-knee amputee, and medal-winning snowboarder, it’s money that may end up keeping her and her fellow athletes away from the slopes. Though she dreams of getting adaptive snowboarding into the 2014 Paralympics, the loss of their sponsor has left Roundy and her teammates focusing now on how they’re going to get to their next event.

“Money is so tight, and on the disabled side of things it’s even tighter,” said Roundy, who also works as a sleep technician to help pay for her snowboarding. “As for adaptive athletes, we’ve never had a budget. Everything we’ve done up to this point has been on our own pretty pennies.”

Roundy’s “we” includes herself and the three other athletes she travels and trains with. The group includes Dan Monzo, a New Jersey native and a below-knee amputee rider; Jodie Thring, an Australian standing tetraplegic snowboarder ranked No. 3 in the world at Nationals; and Joe Douglas, a wheelchair snowboarder who is highly ranked in both slalom and GS (a snowboarding event).

The group, which is based out of Park city, has set up a website in order to help raise funds for training and competition. Any help is welcome at http://adaptivesnowboardfund.chipin.com/competition-costs-for-disabled-snowboarders.

“We were hoping that we’d have enough funding to pay for the coaching and opportunities needed to get to the major events this year,” said Roundy, citing a list of competitions that includes the USASA Snowboard Nationals and the X Games in Colorado, international WSF events in Canada and Italy, and the Burton US Open in Vermont.

After a previous season budget she described as “non-existent,” however, and this year’s total absence of a sponsor, getting on the slopes at all will be a challenge.

“When we found out there was going to be even less funding than last year, it kind of put a damper on things,” she said. “Even if we could just come up with the funds for training, or one of the events, it would make such a difference.”

Roundy points to her teammate Thring as an example of just how much of a difference it makes.

“She didn’t have a lot of support in Australia. Before coming here she’d never had a chance to train steady with a coach, which meant that she didn’t have the physical strength to do an event,” she said. “But after getting the chance to train, she ended up third at Nationals. She’s never ranked that high before.”

Roundy’s own leg needs training in order to be prepared for competition, and all of the athletes need resources like transportation and equipment to get them to the competition in the first place.

If the group wants to make their Paralympic dreams come true, they’ll need the chance to take a few of those earlier steps first.

“If you’ve never had the opportunity to compete, how well do you think you’re going to perform without knowing what you’re getting yourself into?” she said. “You need a base if you’re going to perform at this level.”

jwardell@davisclipper.com

Life as I know it.

2010-11-02T00:57:00.000-06:00

I wish I had something motivational to say. Something to make everything in life seem ok.

This is not one of those posts.

I'm lucky to have a job at all. This I know, but its instability has taken its toll. Don't get me wrong, I love my new job in Park City, I just wish I could work consistently enough to have an income that can support my endeavors, continued education, and living expenses.

Harsh reality keeps telling me thats too much to ask. I sincerely appreciate everyone that was willing to donate even $1 to myself and the other athletes hoping to train in Park City this season. Out of 800 people I raised a mere $165. I have $3000 dollars worth of very nice outerwear gathering dust.

Thanks to the extremely late notice from our sponsor, there just wasn't enough time to do anything more drastic. I hope disabled snowboarding will be more impressive one day, but I've running out of time and resources.

Dreams aren't supposed to be easy. If you follow yours I can guarantee you will get tired of hearing the word "NO." I can also guarantee you will feel guilty for wanting something. You will get discouraged, you will wonder why you even bothered, and you will attempt to give up.

Some days you will be grateful, and on others you will wish you had never been introduced to the sport. Somedays you will wish you didn't have a permanent medical condition. Other days, you'll know that medicaid is better than your insurance.

One day you'll get great news, and the next you'll realize it was a joke.

On most days you will wish you lived in Canada with a system that supported you.

FUNDRAISER

2010-09-30T23:15:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

Its been a crazy fall but I'm really stepping up efforts to help find funding for the season. Not long ago I was informed that one of our main supports is no longer on board this season. There are four full time athletes scheduled to train in Park City this season. Their needs are substantial. Show them you support their efforts and achievements by pitchin in!

NOTE: the donation address on Paypal is travistey@hotmail.com. This is Travis Theile's email account. Travis is a Disabled ski and Snowboard Coach, he has dedicated his life to these athletes and plays a major part in their lives. Thanks Travis for Everything!!!

Cause Link: http://media.causes.com/898849

Thank you!

Sun Valley with the Winders

2010-07-17T10:37:00.000-06:00

Toms family allowed me to join them for a trip to Sun Valley this week.

Sun Valley is like almost any other ski resort during the summer. Swimming, rock skipping, paddle boats, window snooping, candy, Mad Gab, food and more food. You get the idea. Its a beautiful place to be.

First thing we did was rent Paddle Boats. . . I have all the evidence! Followed by Ice Skating!

We rented bikes the next day (probably about 20 of us total) and ventured up to the Ernest Hemingway memorial. Its built in a slightly wooded area next to a steam. Its a georgeous little spot and so peaceful. Thanks for a great trip!!!

Alex, Faith and Lynn Lee

Brent and Monica

Keegan and Amber

Quincey

Emily

ICE SKATING:

Bear Lake for the 4th!!

2010-07-17T10:17:00.000-06:00

Mr. Clayton and Mis Kristina, invited us ("US" being Tom and myself) to Bear Lake for the 4th of July weekend.

Aside from being allergic to the cottonwood trees and the not so ideal nightly temperatures, it was a great trip!

Tom taught me how to fish . . . although I haven't caught anything yet. :) Happy Campin!

Roundy at US Open

2010-03-25T14:06:00.000-06:00

Travis Thiele hit up his home mountain this season and got me and Dan Monzo in to for-run the events in hopes of bringing attention to Adaptive Snowboarding and our attempts for its recognition as a Paralympic Sport.

The US Open is the place to be in snowboarding and has been for over 20 years. It takes place at Stratton Mountain in southern Vermont and features both Mens and Womens slopestyle and halfpipe.

This year it was sunny and warm; perfect halfpipe weather, at least in my opinion. We are excited with the people we could connect with there. Kodak too a few moments to interview us and find out what we were doing at the open:

A Thousand Words -Kodak Blog

Thanks to Alex Houston here are a few pictures from the event.

Surveying the halfpipe.

Interview with Fuel TV

National Ability Ski Challenge

2010-03-25T13:39:00.000-06:00

Every year the NAC in Park City hosts a Ski Challenge Fundraiser.

Teams of four along with a Pro Skier and a Host for the NAC compete in Parallel Slalom gates. I was excited to be invited in on the action this year along with Jodie Thring from Australia.

Jodie is an Incomplete Quadreplegic snowboarder and has been training in Park City this year. I'm really proud of how far she has come!!! Here's a few pictures from the day.

ksl.com - Athletes fight to include snowboarding in Paralympics

2010-03-05T18:34:00.000-07:00

ksl.com - Athletes fight to include snowboarding in Paralympics

Butters at PCMR

2010-03-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

My brother shot me jibbing/buttering around at PCMR last month. As a snowboarder you should be able to do this BEFORE you start riding park/freestyle.

X Games

2010-02-22T02:13:00.000-07:00

I ventured off to Colorado to for-run the Halfpipe. I wish I was posting the video from it right here, right now. I'm not, because I don't have it. If I ever do, I'll be sure and send it your way.

AAS (code for Adaptive Action Sports) an non-profit out of California goes to the Games every year and have been a major influence on Action Sports as a whole. . . . at least for one leggers like me anyways.

Their mission is to create opportunities like this one for individuals with physical disabilities. Thanks to Daniel Gale, the executive director, Mono-cross and Adaptive Snowmobile Cross are now both official events in ESPN's XGames.
For more information on AAS check out their new website: adacs.org

View from bottom of Halfpipe - Its A LOT bigger than it looks. Beautiful

Night at the Grand Prix

2010-01-26T02:52:00.000-07:00

Tom and I decided to venture up to the watch the Grand Prix Final in Park City. I was there for the shredding and to hear the Olympic Halfpipe team be announced. Tom was all about the FREE 30 Seconds to Mars concert. I would argue that about 50% of the people there were just for the band!

It started to snow halfway up Parley's Canyon so we had some fun in the Sundance traffic but the outdoor concert scene made it worth it.

So. . . . maybe it did take a half hour to get out of the parking lot, and another hour and a half to put chains on and venture back to the summit. And it might have taken another hour to drive home and get the chains back off. . . . but it was still worth it. . . . right?!

X-Games

2010-01-26T02:51:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!!

2010-01-14T23:15:00.000-07:00

My wait for the season finally ended.

After a work trip to Colorado between the holidays, I finally got a few days on the board. The next week I ripped it up with The National Ability Centers Disable Ski Team.

The Huntsman Cup was moved back to February so. . . . I thought id be the perfect time to Demo the event. Its an official USSA race that has never been run by an Adaptive snowboarder. Keep your fingers crossed!

I was also invited to For-run at the X-Games. I'll give you more as the details unfold.

Get out on the snow. While it lasts anyways.

New Zealand Nationals Footy

2009-12-20T18:45:00.000-07:00

I'll get these hooked up on the website asap. Until then, enjoy.

Still Kickin.

2009-12-13T01:38:00.000-07:00

Long time. . . . yada yada yada. The Blog's been neglected this fall.

I took the RPSGT Boards yesterday. Which is, for those who saw the letters and got lost,

Registered Polysomnographic Technologist.
A fully-trained sleep technologist who has met the rigorous requirements to become credentialed by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists. This credential represents the highest standard in the field of sleep technology.

I have NO IDEA if I passed or not. . . . I'll let you know in approximately 20 days. In my opinion, that is a VERY long time to wait.

Asside from craming for and combating the roller coaster of emotions associated with education, I've spent most of the fall picking up shifts at work and dating Tom.

Tom is extremely good to me.

I was asked to give a Speech on friday night at Otto Bock's (prosthetic production) company party and I dragged him along. He admitted to ALMOST crying.

Its snowing right now, been dumping alot actually but I haven't made it to the slopes yet. Haven't actually gotten my pass yet either. I'm quite the slacker. First day on snow for season will be the 17th. I'm not training this year. . . . at least not with a coach, as far as I know, so If ya wanna play in the snow, holler! I don't know alot of other shredders.

Night Out Against DUI

2009-11-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

Tom (my man for those who missed that one) rocked out on Friday night and showed up on the News.

His band is called AMOR and they opened for Hour13. You were awesome mister Tom.

Pictures from New Zealand

2009-10-13T23:27:00.001-06:00

Jacob Levine just sent me a few snaps from New Zealand. As much as I would have loved to have enough riding footage to make a video . . . . . its just didn't happen. I'm one of those people that, no matter how much time I spend on the snow, I don't want to stop and pull out the camera. I'm also one of those people that doesn't have an undisclosed about of versatile tricks.

It is my goal to one day be disciplined enough to make a video happen. Until then, Peace!

Can SURVIVE Fundrasier for UCREW

2009-10-08T17:42:00.000-06:00

Back in April, my sister, who is a Thyroid Cancer survivor, discovered that UCREW was putting together photos of survivors for a fundraiser.

On September 25, 2009 it finally came together as a incredibly inspirational night. For further info and future galley showings go to http://www.cansurviveutah.org/

Chad Hurst, an award winning photographer, worked hard to put this gallery together and I admire every inch of talent he put into it. Thanks Chad! To see other work by chad go to http://www.chadhurst.com

Heres a few of me.

All users of this website are reminded that any redistribution or copying of copyrighted material requires the permission of the copyright owner. COPYRIGHTED - CHAD HURST.

Roundys World.

2009-09-28T04:09:00.001-06:00

Fall is creeping around the corner, and while I'm excited for snow to fall, its also that stressful time of year when I'm waiting for things to come together. . . and not really knowing how and if I'll get to train this season.

I haven't been too great and blogging this month but heres a snappy update:

1. Work is slow so I've got lots of down time!
2. School is for cooler people than me. I was taking a Chemistry class but decided to flop back to Marketing. It was too late to switch classes and given that I don't actually have the funds, I'm out for the semester.

3. I have a man.
4 .He met my mother.

5. PCSBT has a new director so I don't have the footy from New Zealand yet.

6. I need a racing snowboard. . . as boring as that sounds, its gotta be done.
7. I'm considering plasma donation.

8. In case you didn't notice, this list is in no particular order.
9. I'm going camping this weekend.

10. This is TOM. He took me to the State Fair

Make A Wish Video

2009-09-28T02:52:00.000-06:00

This went down back in July but I just got around to looking it up. Its kind of long, but I come in at about 3 minutes. (ps: the footy, which I had never seen, is from my first season so be nice!)

My Take on NEW ZEALAND!!!

2009-08-29T16:23:00.000-06:00

wANAKA, NZ.

New Zealand is simply breathtaking and its list of assets isn't exactly short. Lots of chocolate, four sheep per person, round-a-bouts and coffee shops galor. The views and cool air that greeted me off the plane was all the convincing I really needed though.

My first week was spent with some Local Kiwi's and some Aussies at Oakridge Resort. This was my excuse for escaping to New Zealand in the first place: World Adaptive Snowboard Championships. This BoarderCross competition was held in conjunction with Snowsports National Championships which consisted of Slalom and Giant Slalom races. Adaptive competitions, although far inbetween and under budgeted, are about meeting up with old friend and challenging myself.

We had a decent turn out with five countries including Canada, The Netherlands, AUstralia, NZ, and the USA. Bibian Mental, my major competitor, turned up with a snowboard specifically designed for her and the way she races. We're talking 161 alpine/all mountain versus my 149 Freestyle. HA. Smooth move Babs, smooth move! I swapped the Silver and Jodie Thring from Austalia took the Bronze. The guys ran a mighty tight competition and chased each other down by tenths of a second.

After the Group split, I crashed at a house in Wanaka, shredded with new friends and then hitch hiked to Queenstown. I'd have to say the first two weeks in New Zealand were the best weeks of 2009. Thanks to those who shared it with me!

The Park City Snowboard Team flew in on August 5th. All I knew was that they were coming, not a single other detail. The crew consisted of me, six teenage boys, Jacob, Bret, and some guy named Bruce, who claimed he was related to one of the kids. True or not, Bruce kept us laughing for most of the trip and aquired the nickname "captain lightweight." I probably shouldn't have told you that.

The ski resorts in New Zealand are. . . tiny compared to Utah's many acres and bowls. The Remarkables, Cardrona,and Treble Cone all have three lifts while Snow Park has just One high speed Quad. I didn't hit any of the other "resorts" but the list goes on and on. It would take a decent season to truely enjoy all the jackpots on SOuth Island.

A little advice:

1. If your planning on hitting Snow Park, go when you've got plenty energy! There's not much of a lift line and laps are fast so its the ultimate park day workout.

2. I missed the good shred day at Treble Cone but I've heard its awesome when theirs freshies.

3. Cardrona is also known as "CROWDrona!" I was lucky and got to enjoy it minus the crowd but it was plastered for the rest of August. Which I think had something to do with the line up of competitions and three sizes of halfpipes!!! No lie, they had a mini, mod, and super pipe. Nice one Cardies!!!

4. The Remarkables is just like its name, remarkable!!! The view itself is worth the drive, top that off with three parks and a couple of powder bowls and theres always something to rock. This little paradise is about a 35 min off-road drive from Queenstown, (about an hour and a half from Wanaka) and is home to the TNT freestyle groupies. I hadn't planned on spending alot of time at the Remarkables, but it's now on my list of favorite shred spots. Its also the place I spent the only Powder day I had while in the Southern Hemisphere.

Our schedule wasn't something to complain about, eat, drive, shred, eat, shred, drive, eat, sleep. Get up the next day and do it all over again. I'm not exactly as good as the kids on the team so Its kind of rediculous trying to keep up with them, but they sure are fun to watch. Thanks guys for putting up with an older chic!

A few more things to know, water boilers are more common than microwaves, and uh the internet is SUPER slow. Really though, whats not to love? Best month of my life! Sure I had my good and bad days just like I always do, but over all, it was living a dream. . . . that's caught up to me on my credit card bill. Ouch.

Attitude TV

2009-08-24T18:00:00.000-06:00

Here is the Attitude TV Coverage from New Zealand. Now why can't the USA be this cool?!?! Blah. Enjoy.

World Champs are covered in this one:

Introducing the Crew

2009-08-20T17:21:00.000-06:00

Jacob Levine (Head Coach) and assistant videographer Jeremy Thornburg.

The Adult Supervision Crew. . . . keeping Jake safely grounded:

Mister Max Raymer himself.

Andrew Tassell (I somehow skipped a portrait picture of the kid, oops)

Ben, Jordan, and Chase are in the next blog. Keep scrolling.

Wanaka, New Zealand

2009-08-20T17:08:00.000-06:00

The rest of my trip in New Zealand was spent with the Park City Snowboard Team. We hit up Treble Cone, Snow Park, The Remarkables, and Cadrona. Heres a few pics I snapped on the 15th:

Bret

Ben

Jordan

Snow Park NZ

2009-08-10T02:24:00.000-06:00

Snow Park holds true to its name. Its all park, with one quad lift and minimum crowd it is the place to get your jib on. I on the other hand just spent BOTH days getting my ass kicked and trudging "home" feeling. . . bruised.

First day it was a zoo as they gave away free lift passes and my body got a beating from taking so many laps in one day.

Second day, today, August 10th, lets just say I haven't been riding my best. Couple of front board crashes, the wind knocked out of me both times and one nicely OVER SHOT jump later I was eager to ditch the park and lap the pipe. . . . which was fabulously freshly cut and decently icey.

Of days. . . . not so cool (did I mention I feel twice in the lift line the on saturday? Blah).

ParkLife Invitational Rail Jam: Queenstown, NZ

2009-08-07T22:14:00.000-06:00

Last night the rail jam went down in Queenstown.

The scene was jumpin with local beats, awesome shred, and plenty of stoked-ness.

Check out the snow-rev post

The TNT Crew provided some "mid-time" talent demo before the Parklife Final. I only had my point and shoot on me so this is all you get:

A Day with the TNT Freestyle Crew

2009-08-07T21:50:00.000-06:00

The Remarkables, as far as I’m concerned, holds true to their name. The view its self is worth a trip up the dirt road. Today turned out to be a “remarkable”NZ style powder day. I would compare the snow to Lake Tahoe; Get it while its fresh cause it gets heavier and wet.

Visibility wasn’t great and since I didn’t know the mountains terrain I found myself trailing behind and watching the board of the person in front of me. Lets just say I had a few surprises and got a great workout! In the afternoon we hit up the park and hiked a flat down rail and box.

TNT Freestyle NZ is a unique team based in Queenstown New Zealand. Dan Grenville, Mark Anderson, Henry Baldwin (ski coach) and the rest of ParkLife team head up the shred. For details on the team go to http://tntfreestyle.com or http://www.qast.org.nz

Heres evidence from the day:

ALTA Apartments

2009-08-07T21:35:00.000-06:00

I stayed in a wood stove and fireplace warmed house for a couple days with Candice, the Canadian Alpine coach. I’ve never actually fallen asleep watching the flames flicker so that was a highlight. (kind of a pain too; always re-lighting fires)

I headed back up to Cardrona with some new friends, Keelan and Andy. Andy has a. . . . . . van with character. You’ll find a lot of camper vans with been-lived in features like push lights and portable stoves. Andy drives one of them and likes to pick up lots of hitch hikers.

We chased powder in the morning then finally convinced Keelan to brave the park in the afternoon. A few snaps from the day:

Then I hitched a ride to Queenstown with a semi-large NZ homie. I think I waited maybe five minutes tops.

He dropped me off in downtown so I dragged by gear to The Bead Shop for some directions. It was supposed to be a 15 minute walk, but what they didn’t tell me was that it was mostly up hill and I’m not talking wimpy hills. The view was killer thought:

I think, with all my gear and fatigued limbs, It took a good 30 minutes to drag my gear to Alta Apartments.

I was mighty grateful to find running water and a toilet! On the way I passed a place called “The Last Resort.” Get it?! Classic.

Week Two

2009-08-07T21:29:00.000-06:00

With competition week behind me, I shifted by plans to accommodate the weather and new friends in Wanaka.

A nice storm came in, dumping snow on the pass to Queenstown. I hitched a ride with Michael Bell and we attempted to shred at The Remarkables. After a brief attempt to hitch hike (the un-official, most common method of transportation in kiwi land) to the base, we discovered the road was blocked.

To the coffee shop we went.

Then into town to find me some new gloves. I was hoping my gloves would survive the month but no go. $100 bucks and a day later, I’m still feeling guilty.

Meet my new gloves:

NZ World Champs: Press Release

2009-08-07T21:16:00.000-06:00

First Ever World Snowboard Federation Adaptive Snowboard World Championships

WANAKA -- July 30, 2009 -- Canada’s Tyler Mosher took gold today at the World’s first ever World Snowboard Federation (WSF) Adaptive Snowboard World Championships, held at Cardrona Alpine Resort.

Competitors from five different countries took part in the sling-shot Snowboardcross race, the premier event during the 2009 Adaptive Snow Sports Festival and National Championships.

Tyler Mosher. Credit Jane Sinclair

Mosher, who clocked a combined time of 75.99 travelled all the way from Canada for the event.

“It is anyone’s game, and was a tough competition. I’m so honored,” said Mosher. “I wasn’t snowboarding that well leading into the event, so I was happy to push that aside for the race.”

Mosher expressed thanks to the event volunteers and the event crew for putting all the time and effort into making the event a huge success.

Silver went to New Zealand’s Carl Murphy (New Plymouth) with a time of 78.25, while third place taken by New Zealand born Ian Lockey, representing Canada, who clocked 78.66 seconds only .41 seconds behind Murphy.

Men's World Championships Podium. Credit T.C.Smiley

“The course and set up was awesome. It’s really nice to be able to compete and get silver in the biggest event of the year at my back door.” said Murphy.

The first ever Women’s Adaptive Snowboard World Champion, posting a time of 77.88 was Bibian Mentel from The Netherlands.

“It’s fantastic to be here in New Zealand. The course was great - nice and fluent. I have a hectic schedule at home so am flying back on Sunday to be with my family again.”

Second place went to USA’s Nicole Roundy who finished in 89.34 seconds. Australian Jodie Thring placed third with 122.46.

Women's Podium. Photo credit T.C. Smiley

World Champions Mosher and Mentel were presented with a greenstone toki necklace symbolising leadership and power. This design was traditionally worn by Maori chiefs to symbolise status.

The New Zealand Snowboard Union is a member of Snow Sports New Zealand. Snow Sports New Zealand is the official governing body and National Sports Organisation representing all snow sports in New Zealand. www.snowsports.co.nz

WSF Adaptive Snowboard World Championships Reults.

ABOUT ADAPTIVE SKIING/BOARDING
Adaptive skiing or snowbaording refers to a modified version of the sport, which adapts in equipment, rules, and technical specifications that enable persons with physical disabilities to participate in both recreational and competitive activities. Athletes compete based on their functional ability, allowing athletes with different disabilities to compete against each other.

ABOUT THE WORLD SNOWBOARD FEDERATION
The WSF is the only international organisation dedicated exclusively to the development and support of snowboard at all levels, including competitive as well as training levels, snowboarding for disabled, and initiatives for riders of any age. The WSF is a network of international snowboard associations which cooperate all over the world aiming at the development of this sport. Le nations members of the WSF find in it an inspiration source and a support to their activities. The WSF can create added value for all those who practise snowboarding at an international level and it offers ideas, manuals and initiatives. As a result, members are united in a widespread organization with the same objective, that is the progression of snowboard at all levels. www.worldsnowboardfederation.org

International

2009-07-24T01:07:00.001-06:00

The general public is quite an interesting brood. Standing in NZ Customs I found myself trying to guess each persons nationality based on their facial features and accents.

I've never really traveled over seas before and everyone just seems to blend together in America so it was nice to see the world on a boarder scale.

I also discovered that New Zealand sure does have alot of sheep, a history that dates back farther than the 1700 (Which I knew, but had never experienced if ya get my drift), and a sort of traditonal feel. Its also nice when the luggage trolleys are free!

Yeah so what if the backwards driving scares me to death, (yeah I know its really us that drive backwards), the cell phones are ridiculously expensive, the power outlets need an adaptor and the toilets are the same as the ones on airplanes. It took all of maybe 5 seconds to get my passport stamped and all my lugage was delivered peacefully. What more could I really ask for!

Another satisfied customer.

I would however like to send a special thanks to US TSA for not forgeting to search my board bag. I knew I could count on you!

STIFF

2009-07-24T01:05:00.000-06:00

I ditched the states yesterday. New Zealand just sounded so much cooler, sorry people. But its kind of ironic that I’m sitting inflight reading STIFF, by Mary Roach (which I picked up in April but never got around to finishing.) Its all about the lives of Human Cadavers and is (in the words of Irene Wanner) “Fascinating and oddly fun.”

I came to the chapter entitled: "Beyond the Black Box, when the bodies of the passengers must tell the story of a crash." The chapter serves to descibe the events that take place if an airplane were to go down over the ocean and what caused the plane to crash. Ok, so obviously not the best choice for inflight reading. I started thinking: "great, I'm flying over nothing but open ocean. Any minute now."

Of course from that point on every time the shaking got rough I started envisioning worse case scenarios and deciding what I would do “if” the unthinkable happened. I especially loved the quote (sighting a delta crash) "It should have been very survivable. There were very few traumatic injuries. But a lot of people were killed by the fire. They found them stacked up at the emergency exits. Couldn't get them open."

The book in general is very respectful really, but its also filled with everything you never wanted to know along, the stuff they don't tell you in anatomy and fascinating bits of humor. Who knew dead bodies could be so funny. I’m never had any ultimate desire to study cadavers after experiencing the scents in my anatomy lab, but Mary Roach puts a certain writing talent into her book that makes them very fascinating!

I highly recommend the book for curiosity delight. $13.95 at your local book store. . . . or free from the Library. www.maryroach.net

Vancouver 2010

2009-07-20T16:20:00.000-06:00

Its coming, in just 6 months the Olympics will kick off in Vancouver followed by the Paralympics. People have been asking me if I'm going.

So, here's your dealio (as far as I've been informed) on the USA and Paraolympic Snowboarding.

Olympic level USA athletes are Sponsored, supported, registered, and ensured by the United States Ski/Snowboard Association. As of today, there is yet to be an adaptive snowboarding division in the USSA so, although I am a registered member of USSA, I'm not really supported by the USSA which makes it very difficult to get through the political bull crap that surrounds multi country sporting events.

Canada is on board, NZ is on board, Italy is probably on board, I'm guessing France would swing in too along with Australia and The Neatherlands.

USA (the country with the greatest population of adaptive snowboarding) has yet to get there game together and support our efforts to train, compete and improve.

Until then, see ya on the slopes.

- Nicole

Thursday Twilight Music Series

2009-07-11T21:28:00.000-06:00

July 9th marked the first night of the Gallivan Center 2009 outdoor concert series. I got a text 30 minutes before and thought "sure, why not" dropped everything and ran out the door.

Bon Iver and Jenny Lewis (never heard of either before) were both fantastic. Its a free concert series and the place was packed! By packed I mean, find a spot and stay there or risk getting lost in the madness. Good times, good people, good music.

Camera phone snap. Stage is at the top of the frame.

Me, Looking lost :)

Join the madness on Thursdays at the Gallivan Center. Shows start at 7 pm.

Click here for concert line-up and info!

Shayboarder Interview

2009-07-09T18:34:00.000-06:00

Shay, Shannon, let me be apart of her summer Industry Profiles. It was fun!

Check the interview at www.shayboarder.com

Cell Phones

2009-07-07T04:23:00.000-06:00

For my New Zealand adventure, I've been trying to come up with an "affordable" cellular solution so that I don't completely fall off the map.

I've discovered that the US is on a 900 mhz GSM network, while most of the world flows though 850/1800/1900 GSM networks. I could explain all about that but lets just say, my cell phone is only compatable in the US and areas of Canada.

In order to stay "connected" I'm going to need an unlocked, SIM's compatable cell phone thats capable of connecting to all the different network mhz. For me, this means new phone and new sims card. I'm not too crazy about the idea of buying a seperate phone for international travel so I've decided to jump on board with the US, SIM's networks. So, who gets your vote for best service, quality, and price?

AT&T
or
T-Mobile

Goo Goo Dolls

2009-07-01T01:12:00.000-06:00

Ok, so the name might not be that great, but I simply love this band. People who know my music tastes know that I'm not big on following particular bands or genre but I'd go for Collective Soul, GGD, Everclear, or coldplay if I really had to choose a whole album.

The band got together in 1987 and my life has never been the same. So most of the lyrics are about love, like most rock bands, but the rhythms are infectious. Without fail theres at least one song that always makes me feel better, hopeful, and happy.

John Rzeznik (vocals, guitar), Robby Takac (vocals, bass guitar) and Michael Malinin(drums, percussion) Make up the trio.

The boys won an Music Excellence award last year and SO deserved it. Thanks for rockin on my ipod!

Food and Arts

2009-06-26T23:52:00.000-06:00

Buy Local, buy fresh and suppose Utah's economy at the SLC Farmers Market on Saturday mornings through October 17th!

The Utah Arts festival is this weekend too. Check the details here: www.uaf.org

Sleep: Myths and Facts

2009-06-23T23:31:00.000-06:00

As most of you know, I work as a sleep tech to pay the bills and its always interesting the things people don't know about sleep.

Heres a list of Myths and truths:

1. Sleep is Just Rest

Sleep is more than simply a period of rest; it is an essential time for your body to perform routine maintenance, creating long-term memories and repair damage from your day. Sleep brings many health benefits. Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night assures that your body and mind will function well the next day. Make sleep a priority for your health and energy.

2. Losing an Hour of Sleep is No Big Deal

If you get less sleep than you need, your ability to do certain cognitive and physical tasks is decreased. If that sleep loss builds over time, it can interfere with the hormones that monitor appetite, changing your mood and increasing your risk of some chronic illnesses. Get 7 to 9 hours every night for good health.

3. You Adjust to Sleep Changes Easily

Your body gets on schedule based on your activity and exposure to daylight. When you travel across many time zones or work night shifts, you confuse body's sense of time, making sleep difficult and inhibiting some necessary sleep functions. For every one- to two-hour time change, it takes your body 1 day to adjust. That means it could take your body 6 to 12 days to adjust to a trip from New York to China.

4. Older People Need Less Sleep

Older people need the same amount of sleep as everyone else, 7 to 9 hours per night. There is a cultural belief that as you age, you need less sleep. Unfortunately, because of this myth, many older people do not seek help for their sleep problems. Often, older people sleep less than they need to because of illness. Many of the medications older people may be using interfere with sleep. Talk to your doctor to find out more.

5. Extra Sleep Helps Fatigue

Some people assume that if they feel tired during the day, then they should sleep longer at night. This is not necessarily true. If a person is getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, then he or she should seek another source for their fatigue. Some sleep disorders decrease sleep quality, even though the person is getting enough sleep. Many medical conditions can cause fatigue. If you are sleeping long enough but are still tired, try some exercise and daylight exposure during the day. If that doesn't help, see your doctor.

6. You Can 'Catch Up' During the Weekend

Many people sleep late on Saturday, hoping to compensate for sleep lost during the week. While sleeping late helps catch up on your sleep debt, it alters your sleep schedule. You sleep late one or two days and then wake up early again on Monday. Your body must adjust to these changes. During this adjustment, your quality of sleep is poor. It is much better to have a consistent daily sleep schedule that gives you 7 to 9 hours each night.

7. Naps are Wasteful

Naps can be a great way to catch up on lost sleep. After taking naps, people function better and do certain cognitive tasks quicker. Napping can also help you train yourself to fall asleep quicker. However, napping longer than an hour or after 3 p.m. may make it more difficult for you to fall asleep at night.

8. Snoring is Normal

While snoring is common during sleep, frequent snoring can indicate serious sleep disorders like sleep apnea. If you are a frequent, loud snorer, see your doctor about being assessed for sleep apnea. Treatments are available and you (and your partner) will have more energy during the day.

9. Children With a Sleep Deficit Will be Tired

Children are different from adults. When children are overtired, their adrenaline kicks in and they seem energetic, even hyper. Children with sleep deficits may have behavior and attention problems. So don't use daytime energy levels to assess your child's sleep; use the clock. Children need an incredible amount of sleep. Find out how much sleep your child needs and troubleshoot your family's schedule to make sure this happens.

10. Insomnia is Caused by Worry

While worry and stress can interfere temporarily with sleep, insomnia is often caused by other factors. Medications and medical conditions can keep a person from falling asleep. These conditions include depression, anxiety, asthma, arthritis and other conditions which worsen at night.

_Source:

_{National Institutes of Health; National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Your Guide to Healthy Sleep. NIH Publication No. 06-5271.}

Sunshine

2009-06-23T00:59:00.000-06:00

We're getting a break from the rain!!!

Kayaking, Hiking, swimming, basically everything outdoors took a break this month as we've been getting daily doses of showers and lighting. Mother nature finally decided to cooperate for a few days and on Thursday I'll hit up the Salt lake Bees game with friends for some sunshiny fun.

Go Bees!

One month to go before I pack off to shred in the Southern Hemisphere!

Rapid Progression Kayak

2009-06-07T18:04:00.001-06:00

This: Mark, Pitt, and Ben of Rapid Progression taught me how to roll a kayak. Sign up and have some fun too!

Next beginner course is Mondays July 6th - August 3rd and cost $125 bucks. Not too Shabby!

Stop and Smell the roses.

2009-06-03T04:53:00.000-06:00

When I moved into my (rental) house in November the yard was an eye sore, so I never really noticed the assortment of rose bushes surrounding the house. Minus a few flaws, someone planned the rose bush planting to the likes of Victoria Gardens . . . . They are gorgeous.

After the rain this morning I pulled my camera out and "stopped to smell the roses." Beautiful!

Emigration Canyon Hike

2009-05-30T14:53:00.000-06:00

My roommate bought a book titled 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Salt Lake City. I've decided its a summer must have.

In my constant quest to finding alternative recreational/fitness opportunities, I'm hoping to do at least one or two hikes a week. I think its time I started enjoying the mountains I have the priviledge of living by, year round.

So to start my pursuit I hit up "Emigration Ridgeline Trail" with my roommate Melody. (technically my second hike of the season, Moabs Fisher Towers being the first.) I wasn't particularly a fan of the first part of the hike which leads you past petroleum fuel lines and up a steep rocky accent. After that the trail slowing becomes overgrown with shrubs, small trees and wildflowers. I would characterize the hike as rolling. Up, then down, then up, then down. I personally prefer more consistent hikes with mellow accents but thats just me and my prosthetic mechanics.

It really was a beautiful hike. The seclusion, views, and wildflowers made it worth it. Here we are on the hike:

The last half of the hike was easier going and just the kind of thing that makes you appreciate being alive.

I'm very aware of how lucky I am. I'm not only breathing but I'm living. I have a good and flexible job with a promising future. My family and friends always have my back and my roommates are simply awesome. I can walk (currently) and have the opportunity to participate in so many activities. I keep following my dreams and I'll be I'll be booking my flight for New Zealand next week. Hey guys, thanks for being apart of my life and making it amazing!

Meet Mouse.

2009-05-30T14:44:00.000-06:00

We caught the mousy in our house. Have a look:

This is what my roommate, Melody has to say about mice: (pictures speak louder than words!)

C to C

2009-05-27T20:40:00.000-06:00

So, this is not me, but I just thought you should all know that I can totally do this!

Yay! I'm quite proud of the accomplishment. Not as easy as they make it look. Not at all. Now its your turn! Do it!

Moab-ing

2009-05-26T01:01:00.000-06:00

Moab,

Some friends and I, some being about 20 people crashed moab this weekend. . . . along with everyone else in Utah and southern Colorado. The weather wasn't exactly co-operative and they ( I left early for work) were eventually driven out with broken tents and soggy sleeping bags.

Oh the memories.

Heres some evidence or our excursion:

Fisher Towers hike.

Nick fixing problems from the rain. . . red-neck style.

Kayaking and Knees.

2009-05-16T16:34:00.000-06:00

I have evidence that Kayaking is not all fun and games. Even though I would have you believe that! Wednesday I was working on rolling. You need to be able to flip yourself back over if you end up upside down. Every time you can't roll back over, you've got to get out of the boat before you drowned. Being the newbie that I am, I haven't quite mastered the art. Every time I have to abandoned ship I ended up twisting me knee funky and bumping it on the edge of the kayak.

So When I got home, my knee looked like this. The poor thing takes a beating in everything I do! (I've got some major arthritis too look forward to. Yipee!)

Taste the Rainbow

2009-05-10T22:42:00.000-06:00

I have traded in my cinnamon bears for a semi-temporary fancy for skittles. They are just the funnest little buggers. I confess that my first encounter with skittles(this year) was at work when I spied them on. . . a desk. I took one, then two and maybe just a smidgen more. It was at this point when I realized how AMAZING they are. Fruity and tiny and sweet and wonderful. I personally will only accept the highest quality of original flavored ones.

So this leads me to my point. Where did skittles come from and the who is the genius behind them?

Skittles are produced and marketed by Mars, Incorporated. Which is owned entirely by the Mars family. I couldn't find the exact inventor as I bet it was a colaborative effort but credit goes to Forrest Edward Mars, Sr. (who invented M&M's) for the credit of getting them to the US market.

They were "invented" in 1973 but didn't make it to the US til 1982. Today they are also made in the Czech Republic and Victoria, Australia. If you visit their website, skittles.com, they have made the move to social media i.e. Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter.

For those of you who care to know (and or didn't already figure it out), the inside is mainly sugar and hydrogenated vegetable oil along with fruit juice, citric acid, and natural flavors. Taste the Rainbow!!!

Japanese Game Shows

2009-05-09T11:20:00.000-06:00

I was couch potato(ing) with my roommates a few months and we started raiding YouTube for a laugh or two. We ran into this video back then and I just ran into it again. If you haven't seen it, enjoy. If you have, well. . . . enjoy again.

Learning the art of River Rats. . . .

2009-05-09T10:54:00.000-06:00

SO, I Think I mentioned Kayaking.

Well. . . . . so far I've only hit the pool and haven't figured out how the roll back over just yet. It will be a year (or two) before I'm a proficient enough kayaker to take on the Grand Canyon but here's a preview of what I have in mind. Fun.

Dating's a Drag.

2009-05-07T22:05:00.000-06:00

I'm one of those girls that doesn't really get around to dating during the season. Inevitably, when the weather starts warming up the guys start lining up. That being said, Sex and the City states my philosophy on dating better than I ever could:

“When you're young, your whole life is about the pursuit of fun. Then, you grow up and learn to be cautious. You could break a bone or a heart. You look before you leap and sometimes you don't leap at all because there's not always someone there to catch you. And in life, there's no safety net. When did it stop being fun and start being scary?”

“Maybe some women aren't meant to be tamed. Maybe they just need to run free til they find someone just as wild to run with them.”

LIST OF THINGS "CANDIDATES" SHOULD BE AWARE OF:

1. I admire family guys, I really do, but I am independent from mine and I expect a guy to be able to stand on his own two feet.
2. Smoking is gross
3. Drugs are illegal and will ruin life as you know it. Enough said.
4. Education is just as important as street smarts. Your gonna need both baby.
5. Experience. I'm not talking about relationship experience. I'm talking about life. A guy that's got a story, been there and done something to make a difference is the guy that's gonna keep me interested.
6. Got issues? Get over them, don't take them out on me.
7. Make up your freakin mind and stick with it. don't send me a text 30 minutes later and say your sorry but you really didn't mean it.
8. Yes, I love being outdoors, camping, hiking, boarding; but I have do have limits.
9. Don't call me "cutie" "beautiful" "gorgeous" "hottie" "baby" or any other pet name you can think of.
10. First dates should run along the lines of mcdonalds, ice cream, the park, coffee shops, or lunch cafe. Not three course meals and a movie.

Kayakin

2009-04-29T04:56:00.000-06:00

So I don't know about you, but I'm ready for water time.. . . . with a small a dilemma. The lakes are still frozen and my ankles not ready to rock. Solution?!

Got it! Fairmont Aquatic center (which I haven't been to yet) is in Sugarhouse and they're doing kayaking lessons! Sweeet. Should be loaded of fun with some real river time too. Come join! $125 for 5 weeks starting May 6th.

Wristy Buisness

2009-04-28T04:16:00.000-06:00

I told my mom I would get my wrist checked out so I finally did. . . .

This is what a normal wrist looks like:

Now take that and imagin the Radius and Ulna bones (big bones on the bottom) 10 degrees to the right. Thats what my wrist looks like. So the verdict? My anatomy is a lil off. . . which explains the slightly less range of motion and occasional pain. Bright side? Its healed and strong enough for wake season.

I'm thinking its just a matter of time til I shatter the thing so I'm forfeiting surgery and dealing with it!

Mesquite.

2009-04-28T03:53:00.000-06:00

Last week I got talked into going to Mesquite, NV and Vegas this last weekend. Mesquite, not so exciting. . . . usually. Turned out to be a PARTAY! I can't really complain about the lounging in the sun part either!

Apparently its a trip that goes down every year. My friend Rachel and her ex-mother in-law (or something like that) know a group of 30 or 40 ladies that venture down there to relax and chill with the Golfer champs. Were talking somewhere around 60 people to their own pool and building at the OASIS resort. Not too shabby!

Rachel, her cousin and I, ventured down to Vegas for a night at club RAIN with VIP passed to DJ AM. Definitely good times.

The "social" scene

2009-04-21T23:47:00.000-06:00

I've started my Spring routine of trying to get back to my "social" life. . . . I feel like I kind of put alot on hold in December and slowly come back to it in the spring. So if your in Salt Lake City give me a shout, if your not; give me a call and we'll catch up.

Some of the girls decided to meet up and rock out at Kristaufs. Heres the evidence.

Work

2009-04-21T23:22:00.000-06:00

I know the seasons over when I end up spending more time indoors at work than outside.

I started the AASM A-step program this week and am learning alot about SLEEP. A-step is a prep course for Sleep Technicians to sit for the RPSGT board exam; which I plan on taking in June.

Heres a couple of intersting facts:

1. The first 8 RPSGT's became certified in 1979 (just 30 years ago!)

2. The first Electroencephalogram (yeah I can't really say it either so we just call is EEG) was first recorded in Humans in 1929

3. We spend 20-25% of the night in REM (rapid Eye Movement) sleep, also known as dreaming sleep and restorative sleep. This also means that we dream every night, but usually don't remember our dreams.

Interesting? Ok maybe not, but it is to me!

This is Whitney and I at work last week. Fun.

Breaking News!

2009-04-14T22:34:00.000-06:00

Over the last two seasons my "list" of places to snowboard has exploaded. I just received my 2009 Challenged Athletes grant that will get me to the New Zealand Nationals World Cup this summer. I've been dreaming of New Zealand and traveling abroad since I started snowboarding. With my budget tighter than Victoria Beckhams jeans, this is it, this happens now!

That being said, Heres MY LIST (in no particular order):

Baniff, Alberta
Mammoth Mountain, Cali
Sugarloaf, Maine
Snowbird Backcountry, OOOtah
Whistler/Backcomb, BC Canada
Stevens Pass, Washington
Mt. Baker, Washington
Tignes, France
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Tremblant, Quebec
French Alps including Val Thorens
Salzburg/Tirol, Austria
Heli in Alaska
Tasiilaq, Greenland
Hokkaido, Japan

Dreamin BIG:
US Open: Stratton Mountain, VT
X Games Halfpipe: Aspen, CO
European Open: Laax, Switzerland

For reference, mostly just for me, these are the places I've already shredded:

Big Sky, Montana
Targhee, ID
Jackson Hole, WY
Crestted Butte, CO
Aspen, CO
Copper Mountain, CO
Northstar, CA
Most of Utah's resorts; no backcountry
Grouse Mountain, BC Canada

Podium Snap

2009-04-14T22:29:00.000-06:00

So I have a confession to make. I'm really bad at taking pictures on the slopes. If I do remember my camera, I just never take it out. I've also discovered that its really hard to take pictures of yourself ;)

Anyways, I borrowed this snap from Rob temporarily til I get another one.

The Final Draft

2009-04-12T17:11:00.000-06:00

USASA is all wrapped up and I was so excited to sleep on a mattress again. Car seats and floors are only good for so long. . .

I had a fusterating week, but an exciting one at that. My ankle gave out after the Boardercross inspection run so I had to pull out of the race if I planned on walking home.

The gap between my major competitor, Bibian Mentel, and I has become little more than a sliver.

Halfpipe: Silver
Slopestyle: Silver
Slalom: Silver
Giant Slalom: Bronze

Heres a snap of me and Dan Monzo with his Halfpipe Bronze. Thanks everyone for a killer season!

XOXO - Nicole

USASA Nationals

2009-04-08T11:56:00.000-06:00

I'm in Colorado! USASA Nationals is rockin.

My ankle held up for Halfpipe and Slopestyle and I ran home with Silver in both (by a very small margain.) Tuesday was the boarder cross day. Heres a shot from the top of the course. (thanks Carl Murphy!)

The coures was not for the faint of heart! My ankle took an inspection run and said NO. It was a major bummer but I thought I'd save myself for the Slalom and Giant Slalom instead of breaking myself all together.

Turns out Bibian Mental, my competitor who took Gold in Slope and Halfpipe, DQ in the time trials. Just wasn't our day I suppose. Next year!

Quote of the day.

2009-03-31T00:49:00.000-06:00

I couldn't pick just one :) You choose!

"Experience is what you get whenever you don't get what you want."

"If you can't be a good example, then you'll just have to be a horrible warning."

"If today is the first day of the rest of your life, then what the hell was yesterday?"

"You are only young once. . . . but you can stay immature indefinitely."

"Have you ever noticed that the people who tell you to calm down are the ones that got you mad in the first place?"

"When you go into court, your in the hands of twelve people that weren't smart enough to get out of jury duty."

Then. . . . and Now.

2009-03-31T00:13:00.000-06:00

So this is what it looked like 8 hrs after I ran into the CAT track. . . . I got a little happy with the Arnica jell, ice, and advil so the bruise has faded and my range of motion is less painful. I'm not walking with a limp anymore either :)

Two days to go . . . .

Twisted

2009-03-28T20:40:00.000-06:00

I tweaked my ankle today on the side of a CAT track. It should be fine by Nationals but it got me thinking. . . . again. Five things:

1. Dreams, why do dreams have to be so hard to follow and even harder to make them come true.

2. Usually I'm an upbeat person and ready to charge and conquer, both on a snowboard and in life. . . . but this season has definitely had more off days.

3. Why do people tell you your an inspiration but would never dream of being your friend?

4. I want to get the record straight. I'm not shy, I just can't hear you. Look me in the face when your talking to me. It'll make both our lives ALOT easier.

5. I have great days and I have really, really bad days. Then I have days that are both. Today was one of those days.

Brian Regan

2009-03-23T04:13:00.000-06:00

I don't know how many of you are familiar with Brian Regan, but I was introduced to the guy a few weeks ago and I'm lovin it!

Enjoy!

More Colter Wade

2009-03-13T17:38:00.000-06:00

Colter Wade caught a picture of me boosting it. This made my day! Thanks Colter!

Back 3

2009-03-09T15:53:00.000-06:00

"whats the easiest trick in snowboarding? Back 3, ever watched the womens slopestyle?" -Reid.

HAHA, Reid is my coach, rude, but funny and . . . . probably true!

Meantime I'm still tweaking front and back one. (I've attempted a few 3's but generally I'm not jumping high enough to finish them) Sticks in the air are the new thing.

I've discovered that both I, and another Amputee do the same thing when spinning. Because we only have one knee that bends, we do this weird back seat leaning thing. . . . which of course throws off the whole trick.

I also discovered that if I don't complete a back one and land 160 my prosthetic spring absorbs the energy and then slingshots me across the snow. . . . craziness. (its comical to watch, I'll have to get a blooper reel!)

Colters Photos.

2009-03-09T15:34:00.000-06:00

Colter Wade, an awesome photographer in Park City spent a few minutes on the slopes while I was tweaking boardslides.

Shredder Blues.

2009-03-04T00:58:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to avoid this post, but truth be told. . .

I keep getting really frustrated with my riding. UGH. I'm simply posting my reality.

I've been riding with a coach three days a week all season. If I'm riding with someone that good, I feel like I should be shredding a whole hell of a lot better than I am. In my brain I know what I have to do, but I just can't to get my body(and bio-mechanics) to act it out. I'm not gonna lie, it sucks when 9 year old shredders are landmines better than you!

Its strange how you can do a trick one day and not the next. I've had a few amazing days in the halfpipe but I can only ride it when its soft and slushy. When the ice hits, I'm doomed. The other day I hit a jump, came down and caught my front edge. . . hard. (as evidenced by the massive bruises on my elbows.) STUPID! I try to say that I'm being hard on myself, but no way, I should be able to do this.

So that being said, doubts start creeping into my mind. . . . followed by an emotional breakdown of sorts. Sucky.

Night Out.

2009-02-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes ya gotta take a breather and get out with friends. Madi Gras night.

The Documentary. . . .

2009-02-04T02:13:00.000-07:00

OOPS. My Bad. I forgot to update everyone on the Real Ideas Project! Heres the documentary. Enjoy!

Canadia

2009-02-04T01:58:00.000-07:00

Canada. Yep. Love it.

I spent the last week in Vancouver on Grouse Mountain with Emily Cavalline and the whole rest of the Canadia "groupies." Guys! It was fun.

Why: Adaptive Snowboard Nationals BoarderX "Championship."
Who: Canada, America, Scottland, France, and New Zealand Adaptive shredders.

What: I took Silver (again) by .46 of a second. Carl Murphy snapped a shot from the top of the course:

Check the article here: http://www.csf.ca/en/about/news/?id=459

Real Ideas Studio Screening

2009-01-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

Real Ideas Studio presents: a Global Mentored Collaboative for Emerging Filmmakers.
8 Teams compete to make the winning documentary.

Attend the Free Screening to see Nicole's story on the big screen and check out the teaser.

Friday, January 23rd, 12 Noon
Slamdance: Gallery Screening Room
Treasure Mountain Inn, 255 Main Street
Park City, UT

USASA BoarderX

2009-01-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

The Intermountain USASA BoarderCross event went down today. Wolf Mountain in Eden, UT was groomed and ready to ride. The course itself was a bit on the bumpy side, but I could definitly tell how much my riding has improved since last years competitions.

With two adaptive riders (Dan Munzo a BK and I) we ran in our own division. I was more comfortable on the first run and Dan made up for it on the second. Most importantly, we both got home in one piece!

Website

2009-01-10T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. . .. sorry if you've been checking the website. We've had some . . . . technical problems . . . but it should be updated soon.

Backwards

2008-12-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

My first goal for this season was to master riding switch. I can't say I've quite mastered it but I'm getting closer. This weekend we decided that the modifications I made to my prosthetic are positive for riding regular, but has a negative impact when I switch to goofy. In my mind, that explains why it was so difficult to learn.

(the modification I'm talking about locks the knee into a 30 degree bent position. It can bend on impact but does not straighten past 30 degrees. For goofy this is a bit too bent.)

For all you non snowboarders out there. . . . boarders alternated between toes and heal to turn a snowboard. When I ride with my prosthetic in front (goofy), I no longer have an ankle. This makes it difficult to distinguish whither my weight is on the toe or heel of the aritificial foot. In order to ignitiate the turns I end up being VERY back seat. On the bright side, I can see it being handy in the pow pow!!!

So the good news is, I'm that much closer to having more jib versitility. Bad news is, my prosthetic is far from perfect.

xoxo

Battle Wounds

2008-12-02T01:48:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I decided Thursday would be the perfect day to cruise around Brighton, crowd free. I have to admit, first lap was a little weird . .. . even though it was my second day of the season. Normally you'd take that as a clue and be mighty careful, nope nope, not me, not that day.

Instead I cruised right into the park, hit a box and landed on solid ice. Park edges and ice. . . well they don't really go together. Story short, I dragged myself home with a sprained right wrist.

I'll be wearing this sexy baby for the most of the season:

Thankful

2008-11-19T22:26:00.000-07:00

So, my friend Ashley's been posting all this stuff that shes Thankful for this month and I thought I should jump on board.

Top 5 in no particular order. . . . I could do so many more though :)

My car: This is the largest purchase I've ever made in my life, but its quite vital to my existence. No car, no school, no work.

Prosthetic: This goes along with the above, no prosthetic, no snowboard, no walk, no car, no school, no work.

Cool Roomies: Their could be so much drama, but where too chill for that. As varied a group as we are, we get along quite well. We're from Utah, Texas, Cali, Idaho, and Oregon and we vary between the ages of 22 and 29.

My Family: And especially my Dad. My Mister fix all and ultimate life line.

Snowboarding: When all else fails, this is one thing that makes me feel alive, free, and happy.

Reality Check

2008-11-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

I think we all have days when we're just going along and suddenly a bite of reality will slap us in the face. Well, you could say I had one of those days.

Basically every aspect of my life came into perspective in a matter of hours and I think its enough to make a girl break down and cry. I'm not about piti parties and I don't like to complain. Usually I just suck life up and deal with it, but for some reasons I really just wanted to share a small piece of things.

1. I came to realize the other day that I'm just not enough "girl" for most of the guys i happen to know. Whither they're willing to admit it or not, secretly; they like the shopping, blond drama moment, hours in the bathroom, lipstick wearing, high heeled divas. Even if I wanted to be a high heel wearing diva, lets face it, I'm not and never will be. I've always been "one of the guys," and I love it. At the same time, I'm coming to realize that it can be a problem in the dating field. So, for everyone that's said, "I can't believe you don't have a boyfriend." theres your answer. I'm just too cool for the school.

2. Shredding. I love shredding and the few people that knew me before I started shredding know what a positive impact it has had on my life. . . . but lets face it, I will never be Tara Dakides good or the Shaun White of Adaptive Shredding. Technically I'd like to tell myself I can do whatever I put my mind to, but mechanically, the physics just aren't there. So either some mechanical genius needs to get on my case or I'm gonna need some help building a personal year round jib park in my backyard.

3. School. Ok, get with the program people. School is good, but without work skills to go along with it, its completely useless. I happen to know a few too many people that wasted a load of money getting bachelors degrees that have never amounted to anything. Like it or not, we all have to do it the hard way. Work and School come in one stressful package, period. So It doesn't matter if you have three PhD's, if you don't have the street smarts to go with it, your still screwed.

4. Nitch, really does go with the above. It has become ever so clear (over several years) that opportunity is about "who you know." NEVER burn a bridge. You want a job? Its who you know. You want funding? Its who you know. Want a place to live? Its who you know. Want a Nitch in this world? Made possible by who you know.

5. Money, no matter how much you make, get, or save. YOU WILL NEVER HAVE ENOUGH MONEY. Fact of the matter is, the more you have, the more financially troubled your bound to be. So in that case, I'm perfectly happy being as broke as ever. . . . at least that way I don't pay the government as much :)

Theres a whole lot of other thoughts streaming though my brain but five seems like a number we can deal with.

2008-2009 Season Comp Schedule

2008-11-10T23:46:00.000-07:00

Yeah,

Season Dates are posted. . .

Everything comes down to the last minute these days but if the season goes as planned this is when you can catch me:

January 16th: Park City Mountain Resort Halfpipe Competition
January 22nd - 25th: ESPN Winter X-Games in Aspen, CO
January 27th - 29th: Canada Snowboard Federation Nationals at Whistler, BC

February 7th-8th: USA Snowboard Disability Classification Summit
February 27th-28th: PC Snowboard Team Alpine Races

March 6th-7th: World Superpipe Championships in Park City
March ??? Italy Snowboard Adaptive Cup ???
March 28th: Queens Cup Open

April 3rd-11th: USASA National Championships at Copper Mtn, CO

Snow's Back!

2008-11-10T03:08:00.000-07:00

To my delightful surprise I walked out of work last week to a good three inches the fluffy stuff. With 33" and more in the forcast, shred season is finally back! This was the sight at the Bird yesterday.

I've waxed my snowboard and spiffed up my gear, now where just waiting for mother nature to work her magic!

Brighton is hoping to open on Wednesday November 12th and Solitude on Friday November 14th. We'll have to wait a week for the others. Pray S-N-O-W.

SUSHI!!!

2008-11-02T23:15:00.000-07:00

I met up with my friend Jonathan this weekend at one of our favorite sushi restaurants. Tona Sushi Bar and Grill is located in Ogden's 25th street district and your bound to find a tasty treat or two.

Check it: www.tonarestaurant.com

I f your in Salt Lake I would recommend Go Sushi on 2015 East and 3300 South for quality at a decent price. Go Sushi has a small industrial like atmosphere, but its still a local favorite. I love to get Nigiri sushi here.

For those not familiar with the sushi world, nigiri is the real deal as it is fresh sliced fish on a bed of rice. Most sushi goers opt for the Maki rolls. This is the americanized version of sushi and well worth a try.

Fish in a maki is sliced small and mixed with cream cheese, avacado, cucumber, mayo based sauces and all kinds of other tasty things. It is then rolled in rice, dried seaweed, or rice paper. You'll also find lots of tempura (which means fried) shrimp and crab.

If your looking for a more romantic and creative restaurant. . . I'd check Ichiban Sushi. The food here is a bit more expensive but worth every penny.

Another Recommendation would be Sakura Sushi at about 1600 South and Foothill.

If your just in Utah for the weekend and spending time in Park City, the staff at Sushi Maru will make your taste buds happy. Enjoy the flava!

Night on the Town

2008-10-26T00:59:00.000-06:00

My darling friend Whitney and I went out on the town this weekend for some good girl time fun. So for this post I'm going to suggest some of the hoppin places to chill in Salt Lake City.

GreenStreet @ Trolley Square: this is a sports bar for 21 years and up, but its has a great mix of everything. Karaoke, pool, and a hoppin DJ dance floor.

Huka Bar and Grill: Looking for a chill Social Scene? This place is perfect for a group of friends looking to relax, eat and have fun.

The Pie Pizzeria: I always get the cheese pull apart, but I'm sure the pizza is great too.

The Tavernacle: I love this place because they give entertainment a nice spine with dueling piano players!

Studio 600: Utahs Non alcoholic, non smoking dance club just in case you've got underagers tagging along.

So there you have it. There are a ton of other places to chill in SLC and Ogden but these are my personal favorites.

At it Again. . .

2008-10-23T05:20:00.000-06:00

The Weekend is lining up and I'm once again dropping at the scene. Come see the premier of Warren Miller's Children of Winter in Salt Lake City or Ogden (http://www.skinet.com/warrenmiller) followed by CAPITA's Art Show. Form of Rockets is back at it in Salt Lake City to rock out the scene. TJ, Tyler, and Cory will also be there showing their work. See ya there!

Lake Powell! Sep 08

2008-10-05T21:12:00.001-06:00

CHILLIN

KAYAKIN

AND JUMPIN.

This is how we survive summer and fall. Not half bad eh?! This last picture is what its like to land a jump on a prosthetic leg. A sensation like no other. Don't try this at home. (on the brightside. . . If I blow out the knee. . . it can be replaced in a week ;)

Weddings!

2008-09-15T13:02:00.000-06:00

My friends Chris and Jenn got hitched last night. I have to give them compliments for hosting the best and simplest wedding I've ever been too.

The hitch happened at 6 pm. at the waterfalls behind Jeremiahs Lodge in Ogden and was followed up with cheesecake, mini eclairs, cookies, chocolate strawberries, raspberry lemonade. . . . and. . . . you guessed it, wedding cake! Oh, and of course a massive dancing crusade. We even had the old fogies stomping up a storm.

I think this wedding set a theme for next year. We've got a couple hitching in February and another in June!

Congrats Chris and Jenn! Have fun in Cabo!

Dew Tour

2008-09-12T02:06:00.000-06:00

Salt Lake. . . . This weekend. . . . Check it.

. . . over and out.

2008-09-12T02:02:00.001-06:00

So. . . . life is good.

I'm not too great at keepin this thing updated now are I?! Well At the moment I'm waiting to find out all the details with the Park City Snowboard Team til I make some last decisions about this season. ie. when I will be training, where I will be living, when I'm gonna work and if its enough to get my promotion. Yes I said promotion.

Way back three months ago I was offered a job in Colorado. . . . which would have come with a very nice raise. I can't imagine leaving Utah for more than a few weeks though so I tossed that real fast. I'd rather be poor and close to my mountains, friends and family.

Couteous of a certain Miss Cathy's blog heres a picture of Willard Bay. . . much like what it looked like from my last blog.

Freakin Fabulously Fantastic Fun

2008-09-12T01:23:00.000-06:00

MMM hmm, weekends are awesome. It just occurred to me how often I used to work weekends and how much better it is when I don't.

Take two days and just play. It all started off with a random text from my darling Whit in Salt Lake. We made a deal to meet up and go out on friday night. One thing led to another and by 5 I was on my way north instead of south. I had a last minute wakeboarding invite.

Ryan Schmiato or (something like that) took his boat out on Willard Bay. I've never ridden Willard and it was getting dark fast but there was NO ONE there. Throw a Supra on an empty lake and your in for a freakin sick wake. It was really quick trip as we only had an hour and half, but I hope we get another chance before the season ends.

We got the boat off the water and I zoomed on back home to slip in a quick shower before meeting Whit, her friend Nick and some of his friends in Salt Lake. I'm not spillin details but lets just say we had a good time. . . . before Whit and I ventured off to meet friends in Midway (park city).

We ended up spending the night up there and all was good and dandy til the mexican music started rockin the walls at 10 am. I don't know how people listen to that stuff. . . . I'm talking about the stuff with a very strong two note bass. ITS TERRIBLE. . . . and even worse first thing in the morning. But all in all, we ended up eating at 3 pm with all the hunting camo guys. I always though Midway was more of a cowboy town but the truth is, there ALL about the power of CAMO. Kinda hott actually.

1 day and 200 miles later. . . . I was back in Salt Lake. Why do I live in Bountiful again? This time with a whole different band of friends. My friend Matt. . . . aka Motorhead loves engines. Well theres something up with mine. its got this thing about 1st gear. . . . air filter maybe?! Well I couldn't figure out what it is so I drove to matt. Matt and my other friend Matt were hittin up the shop in South Salt Lake trying to fix the power steering pump on a 1987 Jeep Wrangler.. . . . it wasn't going very well. Come to think of it, we didn't figure out what was up with my car either.

BUT, right in the middle of it all, who walks in but my old friend Torg. I haven't seen Torg since I stopped working at IHC 3 years ago. Torg is the kind of guy thats funny and sarcastic but also deathly serious. The kind of guy thats so hard to read but a joy to be around. The one downside of my job now is that I don't really work with co-workers, its just me, the patients, and a big empty building. Only thing I have to entertain is a buttload of computers and my math textbook. I miss Torg and some of the nurses that used to rock the graveyard shift. I miss having an all you can drink beverage, access to the cafeteria, and lots of people to talk too. . . . . but I don't miss the pay, or really anything about the job. Despite what people say, being a nurse or nursing assistant is no picnic. . . . sure its got is highs and lows but I truly remember why I left and why I ain't goin back. Thanks Torg.

Hmmm, well if your still reading this ultra long post, I, Matt, and the other Matt cruised off to join some friends for a Wii Party. I love Wii. . . .can't imagine actually buying one but its the perfect party pleasure. Bowling was the hook this time. . . . and drum rolll. I WHIPPED ASS. I can't bowl worth my life, but I can wii like a rock star. Yeah.

Moral of the whole weekend: good times, good people, good fun. Lifes for living, get off the couch and live it.

XOXO

2008-08-30T17:27:00.000-06:00

BUDGET LIV'IN

2008-08-27T08:46:00.000-06:00

Ya know what I love?!

Old crummy motel rooms. Oh yeah, love it. You know the kind I'm talking about. The walls are either white with smudged dirt and cracking paint or they are still partially covered with faded floral wallpaper and odd decor in all the wrong places.

Now I'm not an interior designer, but I know when somethings just not in its element. I'm sitting facing south (I think) and there's an electric socket parallel to my eye level, now that would be just fine, since its above a desk. . . .but its just the plate. . . . with no electrical plugins. Hmmm, Useful?! And lets see. . . . ya know those old bedside lamps that stick out from a wall plate? Yeah, there's one of those about 8 inches from where the door swings open. Odd.

But while I'm on a complaining crusade. . . .lets mention the other things. There is no handle on the bedside table drawer. The side of the TV looks like it had a run in with a paint scraper. The grout in the bathroom, now don't get me started with that. And . . . . as in creepy movies. . . . the bathroom lights flicker!

Oh yes, I love this place. Its got personality!

And . . . . figure this one out. I paid a too much on a hotel room in Michigan last month but the bed was AWFUL! This bed is OOBER COMFY. Cheap is the way to go my friends. Want better decor? Bring your own.

Must BRINGS when traveling cheap:
1. Sheets. . . . you never know what you'll find.
2. Anti-frizz spray. . . . the hairdryers are killer!
3. Sanitation Wipes. . . mostly for the shower.
you might also want to consider bug or spider spray . . . depending on where your going.