Who am I? What a great question.

I am no one. I claim no superior knowledge compared to anyone else. My thoughts are no more profound that yours. What makes me special enough to deserve anyone following this blog? Well, nothing. I simply have a desire to share my thoughts with you, and for you to share your thoughts with me. This blog is not intended to be a unidirectional transposition of thoughts. Instead, I invite you to join me in this adventure, and follow the blog’s motto – join me in thinking critically, developing/affirming your beliefs, and to trying to carry those beliefs forward to live intentionally.

What am I? Even better of a question.

I am a listener, a motivator, a lover, a feeler, a questioner, a Follower, a leader, a reflector, an adventurer, a caretaker, a friend, a shoulder to cry on, a reader, an athlete, a hiker, a camper, a challenger, a wife, a mom, a sister, a daughter, a student, a teacher, a co-worker, an investigator, an analyzer, a hugger, a loving soul, a listener of music, a champion, a servant, a thinker, and a believer, who is trying to live life to its fullest.

 

The Nitty Gritty? For those who need a little more concrete information about me….

I attended the University of Oregon (UO) for my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology, with an emphasis in Spanish. I then continued my education at the UO to work toward my Masters in Psychology, but life had other plans for me. My interests started to carry me toward studying the body, rather than the brain, and I began taking courses in anatomy, physiology, and emergency medicine. After a while, I took a short break from school to help build a business (Rescue Training, Inc, specializing in outdoor emergency medical care). During this time I was a Training Center Coordinator for the American Heart Association, and taught a variety of emergency medical courses (urban and backcountry emphases). However, my thirst for knowledge got the best of me, and I returned to school to earn my Masters in Human Physiology (also from the UO), specializing in women’s cardiovascular health, environmental physiology, and exercise physiology. I currently am certified as an EMT-Intermediate in the State of Oregon, and as a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine (formerly known as ACSM- Health & Fitness Specialist certification).

I own my own business (BElieve Health & Fitness). Through a playful and whimsical approach to life, I challenge people physically, mentally, and emotionally – Empowering them to add more YEARS to their lives and more LIFE to those years. I work with clients mostly online, and build a community of support, helping you to reach your health and fitness goals.

I have also taught in the field of medicine, health, anatomy, physiology, fitness, and emergency medicine since 2001, and taught in the field of psychology prior to then. I currently work at Lane Community College (LCC) in the Exercise & Movement Science Program, where I teach individuals how to become personal trainers (courses have included exercise physiology, anatomy and kinesiology, strength training and conditioning instruction, lab techniques, fitness for special populations, and injury prevention and management). I divide my time between that program and the Emergency Medical Technician program, where I assist with Paramedic courses (mostly behind the scenes). I also have worked recently as adjunct faculty at the University of Oregon, mainly teaching exercise as medicine courses, and anatomy and physiology courses.

 

I have a wealth of information that I would love to share with you, so please feel free to wander around my blog, as you never know what you might find.