I’m so excited that today a role model of mine and fellow Canadian blogger, Elan Morgan (aka Schmutzie), is sharing her thoughts on perseverance with us.  As I have said before in a previous post, "tome, my role models are individuals who have the courage to be real, to be vulnerable, to be themselves, and to share their journeys." Elan does this through speaking from her heart.  I was first introduced to Elan electronically when I was a juror for the Canadian Weblog Awards.  After hearing her Ted Talk, I had to ask her to be part of the "Profiles of Perseverance" series as Elan encouraged me to be more open and to dig deep by sharing my personal narrative online.  I'm so thankful for Elan's advice; she truly inspires me. Thanks, Elan, for your presence on my blogging journey!

As I mentioned in my last post, I found my answer to the question “Who are your role models?” To me, my role models are individuals who have the courage to be real, to be vulnerable, to be themselves, and to share their journeys.

Janine Shepherd certainly fits those criteria.

I was introduced to her TedTalk after a friend and fellow blogger shared Janine's talk on her blog. I cried the first time I watched it.  Thank you Amelia for introducing me to Janine's powerful story and for sharing your personal journey!

I have interviewed many people for my “Profiles of Perseverance” series about how they persevere through many types of obstacles.  After watching Krissy's TEDTalk online, I had to ask her to be part of this series.  I'm so blessed she agreed to take part. She really inspired me!  I'm so glad I heard her speak.  Krissy Moehl is a Ultra trail runner, event promoter of Runner Girl Races, Coach,  Patagonia Ambassador,  and a 2 time Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc champion. She is an awesome woman!  I love the work she is doing! I really respect her and think she has a powerful mission. Thanks, Krissy, for sharing with us the lessons you have learned throughout your life! Keep running, smiling, and sharing your story!

I love when messages come into our hearts at the moment we need them the most.  I had such a chance encounter today.

I went into a coffee shop this morning for my morning java, where I saw numerous people on their laptops.  As I was waiting in line, I overheard people talking about their favourite blogs.  There it hit me: my thoughts are online and totally public.  Anyone can access my blog and know the random thoughts that are going through my head. All of a sudden, I became a little anxious about “putting myself out there” through my blog.  I feared that people may judge me, thinking I am weak for exposing my insecurities and being vulnerable on my blog.

"If your life was a book, how would you want your story to go?"

This was the question Amy Purdy asked the audience at the beginning of her TED Talk.   Since I referred yesterday to this year being the year of No Limits for me, I thought I would share the talk a friend shared with me today.  Amy Purdy is a pro-snowboarder who lost both her legs when she was 19 due to an illness.  She has not let that obstacle prevent her from going after her dreams and living her life to the fullest.  She is truly an inspiration.