Godsend

Toast #2

Many of you have had the wonderful pleasure of being a passenger in my gem of a car whom I've recently renamed Stella. I have done so, because she tends to have issues a lot, and when she does, I've found it's a great opportunity for me to yell "Stella" in my best Marlon Brando voice. If you've got no clue as to what I am referring to, I am deeply ashamed of you and advise you to either read or watch (your choice) the American classic, "A Streetcar Named Desire."

Back on topic, I was out running errands last week and when I got to the sports academy, I realized I'd absentmindedly left my water bottle on my kitchen counter. I debated whether I could get through my workout without it and came to the conclusion I couldn't. Reluctantly I drove home to fetch it. When I got to that crazy awful four-way stop on 6th and 10th, I waited my turn and then began to move forward. Oddly, Stella died. I started her up again and moved through the intersection, but not 60 feet through, she died again and this time unable to be resuscitated. Diagnosis: out of gas, usually preventable unless your meter is broken like Stella's is.

Not only was my baby dead on the side of the road, she was parked right in front of a bus stop. In a panic I called my roommate which labored no avail. Luckily my soul sister Josie came to my rescue. Upon her arrival we pushed my car in front of the bus sign and ventured to the gas station.

As I walked in, I saw the man at the counter wasn't my usual gas related savior. When I got to the counter, I explained my predicament only to have the Chevron attendant tell me that they didn't have gas cans and he couldn't help me. I was internally irate. I knew his statement was false as I'd used such services not only a month ago. I stood there hopeless, confused, and distraught about what I would do. And then HE came...

He worked at the Ford dealership next door. He offered me a can they had just "kicking" around the shop. I couldn't believe his kindness. We walked over and retrieved it from the dealership, and to my surprise it was already full! He said to use what I needed to get to the gas station and return it after.

So here's to you, lovely man from the Ford dealership. I am forever grateful for the kindness you provided a stranger in need. The world could use more of you.

And of course, here's to you Josie Olsen, for being a constant rescue in my life. Whether it's Stella breaking down on the side of the road or I'm in need of emotional support, you're always there and I love you unconditionally for it.

For All You Women Out There

Some Kind of Wonderful

Foreword: After reading through some past entries, I noticed one phrase that seemed to reappear a few times. "Here's to you." So after some inspiration, I will begin a new type of posting...Toasts! So whenever I feel something needs recognition, I will do it in this form. Enjoy!

Toast #1

After having extensive conversations with my good friend Lori about my pathetic lack of a successful love life, she reminded me of the 1987 film that would hopefully lift my spirits. Its been years since I'd last seen it, so I gave it a shot.

If you've never seen "Some Kind of Wonderful," drop whatever you're doing right now and drive to your local video store and rent it! I don't know how I've been missing it in my life. If you are anything like me, the storyline seems to fit perfectly into your life on a number of occasions, with the exception of the ending. The good news is...you only need one really good ending!

So here's to you, Watts, for giving hope to girls across America since 1987. May your legend pull us out of the man-hating depressions and help us find our own Keith Nelsons.

Living the Dream

Recently I aquired an internship with a company called A Caspian Production. It is an event firm based out of San Francisco owned by USU Alumna Heather Mason. I'm really excited to be working with the company. I am their new Public Relations Representative. My responsibilities are as follows:

1. Evaluate competitive analysis of the marketplace

- Similar companies in the space

o Specifically those which market to social entrepreneurs or non-profits

o Those which target ‘Event Design’ or ‘Event Strategy’

o Conduct ‘Mystery Shopping’ or write questions/scope for Mystery shoppers

2. Interview owner of Caspian and write main messaging documents

- Revise General Capabilities presentation

- Rewrite messaging for website

- Collect bios and photos of all Caspian staff

- Deliver to website manager to upload and QC all uploads

- Create ‘buckslip’ or ‘leave behind messages for Caspian

3. Create press releases, newsletters, testimonials, specific to relevant clients or success stories

- Gain permission from past and present clients for stories

- Research best press sources for releases

- Discuss strategic long-range approach with Caspian owner

4. Work with graphic designer to on ‘unique’ and particular presentation materials

- Interview and assess 2- 3 graphic design approaches

- Discuss client ‘touch’ program with regard to gifts, etc

5. Research appropriate conferences and pitch speaking opportunities

- Discuss pitch and potential topics

- Contact HSMAI, MPI, eWomenNetworking, Entrepreneur, etc.

6. Research and present additional business development opportunities (OPTIONAL)

- Social entrepreneur organizations new to the event space

- Non-profits with significant new capital

7. Assist with Siena Italy Registration

- Provide customer service emails for Siena Attendees

- Compare data and provide reports for Siena Attendees

As you can see, I'll be pretty busy this year. If you are interested in seeing any of my work feel free to visit my PR blog at rachaelhansen.wordpress.com

TGI Friday

On this wonderful day, Friday, it is only appropriate that I wear my TGIF tie dye shirt. A little less than a year ago, Alyssa and I were growing sad that summer was ending and I'd be back at USU and therefore no longer able to spend my Fridays with her. Our solution? Tie Dye TGIF shirts. We decided that if we wore them every Friday, no matter where our lives had taken us, it would be as if we were together. We also made one for our precious Skyler, who we hope is secretly sporting his shirt beneath his white shirt and suit coat at the MTC. Happy Friday!

Adventure Crew

Ok, due to the probability of there being infinite amounts of postings about adventure crew in the future...I have created an entire blog in its honor. So if you want to keep up to date on all of the fun outings we venture out on just keep your eye on the Adventure Crew Blog. Enjoy!

Farewells and Commencements

Farewells: Goodbye Stacia and Skyler! I will miss them both terribly but am so proud of them! They will both make fantastic missionaries.

Graduates: Alyssa, Britni, Hailey, Cloey, Cassie, and Sarah, you are done! Congratulations my girls! Welcome to the life of college. Over the next 4-6 years you will experience new and crazy things that will only continue to mold the beautiful girls you are into the incredible women I know you'll be. I raise my glass to you and your future success!