Shoals Elementary West Virginia Day

I had the great opportunity to attend West Virginia Day at Shoal's Elementary! This was such an incredible experience. I had my own tent with a very carefully stenciled Mrs. West Virginia International sign and the kids made my day. 

I have to admit, getting to know the children in West Virginia has been one of the most rewarding experiences of being Mrs. West Virginia International. They are always so excited to see me and have the best stories to tell. 

Thank you so much, Shoals Elementary for welcoming me to your school on this great day!

Black Walnut Festival

On Saturday, I hit the road toward Spencer, WV - a small town with a lot to offer! It is home of the Black Walnut Festival. I had the opportunity to ride in one of the largest parades I have seen in West Virginia!

This was truly something I will remember for a long time because the Newton Volunteer Fire Department allowed me the amazing opportunity to ride with them! This is special because my Pawpaw, Doyle Tawney, was a huge part of starting this Volunteer Fire Department. He's been involved with it for as long as I can remember!

It was so great to meet the volunteers and those who risk their lives to save others. I'm so thankful for the many opportunities I have as Mrs. West Virginia International - this one is surely one to remember!

World Arthritis Day Rocked!

Saturday was World Arthritis Day! Did you know that!?

I am so excited that I had the opportunity to talk on-air on Electric 102.7 with Coach Kidd and Morgan and on 97.5 WQBE about my arthritis, my mission and my involvement with The Arthritis Foundation. 

Here are a few things that came up that I found super interesting.

• I was able to talk about Juvenile Arthritis! We MUST raise awareness that arthritis can happen to ANYONE at ANY AGE! It's not just a disease for the older population, which is what is believed.
• Of course, we talked about the Jingle Bell Run! I still hope people are going to join my team or donate - check out www.jinglebellruncharleston.kintera.org for more information or to join a team or donate!

The guys and gal at the radio station were so great. They asked awesome questions and it really gave me the opportunity to spread awareness about this unacceptable disease! Sending a special thanks to you guys today - and sharing a few photos, too!

A Real LOOK At My RA

What does RA look like? Today, I had a good example. This is it...in its smallest of forms. Red, swollen, hot, painful.




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Great Foods for an Arthritis Diet!

Fish, Fruits & Veggies, Olive Oil & more...The Arthritis Foundation has shared this awesome article about foods that are best for a person with arthritis! Take a look...it's a great article!

The Arthritis Diet

10 Feelings I Have About Arthritis:

1. I hate it.

2. I can't believe people still think it's only a disease for older individuals. It does not discriminate...it can happen to anyone at any age.

3. Sometimes, I'm exhausted because pain keeps me up at night.

4. Meeting others like me and getting involved with The Arthritis Foundation has really helped me cope and have a better understanding of the disease.

5. Sometimes, I can't hide how bad it hurts...It's the one thing I hate MOST about arthritis because I know it worries my family and my husband.

6. It really ticks me off when I can't fix my hair or put makeup on because arthritis is in my arms, shoulders or hands.

7. I have a fear of not being able to wear high heels.

8. I want a Pediatric Rheumatologist to come to West Virginia. Children don't deserve to hurt like this.

9. Low Carbs make me have less pain...I think this is just mean.

10. I really want people to join my Jingle Bell Run team. Here's How :)

Brickhouse Cardio Club & World Arthritis Day

Check this out! On World Arthritis Day, Brickhouse Cardio Club is teaming up with The Arthritis Foundation to make a difference.