I Would Rather Risk

Me, Myself & Time

2010-04-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

Me, Myself, and time - Demi Lovato

I can make the rain stop if I wanna
Just by my attitude
I can take my laptop record a snapshot
And change your point of view

I just enetered this brand new world
And I'm so open hearted
I know I've got a long way to go but I
I'm just getting started

I'm over my head, and I know it, I know it
I'm doing my best not to show it, to show it
Whatever it takes to be what I was meant to be, I'm going to try

Cause I'm living the dream and I know it, I know it
I'm trying my best not to blow it, to blow it
And I know everything will be fine
With me, myself and time.

I go where life takes me,
But some days it makes me want to change my direction
Sometimes it gets lonley, but I know that its only a matter of my perception
I just enetered this brand new world
And I'm so open hearted
I know I've got a long way to go but I
I'm just getting started

I'm over my head, and I know it, i know it
I'm doing my best not to show it, to show it
Whatever it takes to be what I was ment to be, I'm going to try

Cause I'm living the dream and I know it, I know it
I'm trying my best not to blow it, to blow it
And I know everything will be fine
With me, myself and time.

And baby there is nothing like this moment
To just be real and let the truth be spoken
Whatevers broke I can make it unbroken
Turn the lead in my hand and the stars stand golden
Just try more love, if I try more love then I'll find
Myself and time.

I'm over my head, and I know it, I know it
I'm doing my best not to show it, to show it
Whatever it takes to be what I was ment to be, I'm going to try

I'm over my head, and I know it, i know it
I'm doing my best not to show it, to show it
Whatever it takes to be what I was ment to be, I'm going to try

Cause I'm living the dream and I know it, I know it
I'm trying my best not to blow it, to blow it
And I know everything will be fine
With me, myself and time.

I'll find myself in time,
I know I'll find myself in time

You whisper 'Ain't life Sweet' I whisper 'Just like Sugar'

2010-04-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

So - it only comes natural that I should tweet about Meet The Wilsons. For those of you who haven't heard of them, they're Kortney and Dave Wilson. They're chasing a record deal while raise three children Jett, Sully and Lennox (who are adorable!). Dave is a Realtor and they flip houses.

I have watched EVERY single episode of this show, and I love, love, love it. They are two of the most down to Earth people I know.

The last two episode's have been hilarious beyond hilarious (don't get me wrong, because they ALL are. But still these two are my favourites!). Last week they decided to go camping! Yes, camping. It was funny because Dave tried very hard to set up the tent and I think they said it took him a good few hours to get no where. So what happened? Kortney, set it up in about an 8th of the time. I have to give Dave credit though - he took on the responsibility of packing everything.

Tonight's episode though.. I have never seen someone so afraid of their child chasing them...with muddy hands. It was hilarious though! They had came up to Canada to promote their first single "Stick Together" (title from their song.. and Kort's voice: amazing!), and decided to visit Dave's family... which involved a farm, which includes cows and unfortunately for Kortney, mud. Kortney, Dave, Jett, and Sully decided that they were going to have a race in the mud... yes, a mud race. Nobody fell, and honestly, I was waiting for Kortney to do a face place. But she didn't. But Dave got her with mud. Which was just a funny.

Why do I love this show? Because they don't hide anything. They let their kids be kids (even if it involves mud!), and they are just great people. I've had the honor to talk to Kortney via twitter and facebook, she's soo down to Earth and is a very, very nice person! I haven't had the same experience with Dave, because, well, I'm slightly ascared to email him, why? I have NO clue. I just am.

If you're in Canada, make sure you watch Meet The Wilsons Sunday night's at 10PM/EST . I promise you, you will not be sorry (just make sure you use the washroom before watching the show!).

How to keep up with the Wilsons:
Twitter
Facebook
CMT.ca
YouTube

These are the people that mean the WORLD to me.

2010-04-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

So, I've decided I want to write a post and talk about the few people who have made a major impact in my life recently, or are just that special (Parents automatically count!)

Tori (AKA Pinky) : Tori, my best friend, my 'sister' my fellow poop disturber. Even though when we first met, I thought she HATED me, she has been there through think & thin. We create the best memories. We don't just go through life. We LIVE life. We push each other to do things when we're ascared too. She's basically been my brick wall. We can handle anything anyone throws at us.

Ashleigh - BESTEST cuz-o in the world! She's one of the strongest women I've met. Why? Because she's doing something amazing with something that was so... tragic. After losing a child, then being able to do what all she is doing, and more is amazing. She's an amazing mommy to her two little girls and her angel. She's an amazing cousin, and does what ever she can to help people... except - don't let her set a mouse trap. That may not turn out to well. Ashleigh, I love you forever, and I love you for always :) ! You're my inspiration. You're what is making me want to make a difference in the world.

Kristine - A woman with a huge heart. She's telling the world about her angel, Cora. Her blog posts bring me to tears. I feel like Cora is part of my family. I haven't known Kristine for long, and I have never personally met her, but I feel like I've been friends with her then longer than what we have been. She trusts me, even though she hasn't met me in person. She's a wonderwomen , especially to Cora... Cora's Wonder Mom.

Whitfield - Oh where to start with her. Well for starters, she put up with me for an entire week. Not only out of town, but across the pond in England... anyone who does that clearly is amazing, and even amazing is an understatement. She's like my big sister. She's never said I couldn't do anything (unless, you know, it was illegal or something), she's always been there no matter what! She's like a big sis to me... and she talked me into being a cheerleader. a CHEERLEADER. Never in a million.. wait no, a BILLION years would I ever think I would be a cheerleader.. and I must admit, I LOVED every minute of it. Thank you for being there. You truly are like my big sis!

Joy - She's a mom, a heart mom. To a VERY beautiful little lady. Through Jilly, she has inspired me to learn sign language. Why? Because that may be the only way her daughter can speak. She's shared her story with me. I don't have much to say about Joy right now, because I haven't known her that long. But, I admire her for everything she's doing. She is too, a Wonder Mom!

Samantha - FART BUBBLE! Yes, that's right. Fart Bubble. She's the peanut to my butter the right hand (wo)man to the Phoenix Shaaaakedown crew. She's been one of my best friends since grade 8. We've had our major fights, but still. She's Samm. And who doesn't fight with their best friend? She's died my hair (VERY Blonde!), and she's made me spend money.. but hey, what are friends for.

Levi & Tracy, they too have a angel. A very precious one at that! They're amazing people. I love talking to them, they're just... I can't explain them (in a good way). There are SOO many positives about these too that I don't know where to start. For one - They're just adorable. I'm VERY glad I met them.

Now, there are other people that deserve a mention too! But because I'm exhausted, I'm running out of things to say. But Other amazing people who I look up too/admire/just mean the world to me are: Lauren, she's 22 and has HRHS, Laura, her son, Owen, has HLHS and he puts a smile on my face every time I don't want to smile, I watch video's of how much he's achieved and I have a huge smile on my face!! There are so many others that have made a difference in my life, and I know I can't mention everyone. But you know who you are, so THANK YOU!

XOXO,
Bobbie Jo

Sleep.. in ... finally!

2010-04-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

So, tomorrow, I finally get to sleep in. I am SO incredibly happy. I'm exhausted and I'm coming down with a cold I think. So I'm going to take sleeping in tomorrow and on Sunday for granted!

The next three months are going to be beyond insane, I have absolutely no idea how I'm going to make it through. I have so much stuff going on. Between school, work, JTF, helping plan a walkathon, Helping start a foundation, figuring out what I'm doing this summer, and assistant stage managing a school show... I really have no idea how I'm going to survive the next three months...but in the end it's soo worth it! Knowing that I helped someone in some way, shape of form, makes all the sleepless nights well worth it.

I cannot believe that JTF has 2,889 fans. I never, ever thought it would skyrocket like this. I didn't even think it would hit 100, I truly thought it would be a dud. But it hasn't, and I'm so happy about that. I've met amazing people through this page and I've been told numerous times that it's helped them get through something that they felt they were going though alone, and they've gotten to know other families and they've connected with one and other.

I think this weekend I'm going to start on my book. It was brought up at one of the Live Chats I had for JTF that I should turn "Letters to Mommy" into a book. And I really think I'm going to run with it. See where I end up. May even post it on my blog.

Anyways, I guess that's all the things I can think about writing tonight... I really need to start writing more!

14 days until I see Aaron Pritchett in concert! WOOHOO! (Found out who his opening act is gonna be too.. One More Girl :D)!

XOXO,

Bobbie Jo

Get me outta here!

2010-03-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

Either I've just been busy or I've gotten bored of blogging. I'm going with the second reason. But I figured it was about time to blog. I wish I had as much dedication to my blog as I know others do. But I feel like it's impossible to keep up with EVERYTHING!!

I've started doing live chats for JTF, and they've been going really well. I enjoy them. Their entertaining, and I think in a way they're making me sane and make me want to continue my work for CHDs. Join The Fight has 2,678 fans. That's 2,600 more then I ever thought possible. Almost 3,000. How many 18 year olds can say they have a site for a cause that has almost 3,000 fans? I don't really think many can.

Lately- I'm been in the grouchiest mood ever. I don't know if it's because all I do is go to school and work, and that I basically feel abandoned by all my friends, or whether or not it's just because I want out of here. I've noticed I've been tuning the people around me out. I feel like I'm too involved in technology. I'm either on my laptop, texting on my phone, or have my ear phones in. Technology has taken over my life. And I'm starting to feel it physically... I go to placement, come home and get on my laptop, go to my other class, come home and go on my laptop until midnight then go to bed and get up and do it all over again.

Another thing is, I hate my town. It's just.... bleh. I need out of here, I need a change. I just need out. I'm one of those kids who NEVER EVER moved. Not once. I always thought that it was cool that I never moved, because I didn't have to make new friends, but I'm now kind of wishing I had. I need a change from this house, this area. It's like when you hear that song that the radio and T.V keep playing and it become over played.

I'm 18 and I feel like I've turned into an over played song.

I've turned very anti-social lately and I'm thinking it's because, well... I have basically no friends in my town. The ones I do have, well... trying to make plans with them is like explaining Algebra to a brick wall. Useless and a waste of time.

The next two months are NOT going to help either. I mentioned that I'm working and I'm in school, I'm also helping plan a walkathon AND assistant stage managing a school show...

HELLO world of no sleep :) !

I want summer to come... and FAST!

ON A HAPPIER less depressing note - I get to see Aaron Pritchett in 23 days! I'm SO excited. He's an awesome artist and a great person who is crazy enough to put up with my DM's on Twitter. Some of which are just down right pointless!!

If you're on Twitter, you should follow these people (listed below). They have made a difference in my life, and I love each of them for it. They've helped me in many ways, even if there isn't a way that's equal enough for me to help them OR they're just down right worth following:

Kristine Brite
Jessie Farrell
Kortney Wilson (Meet The Wilsons)
Jesse Tucker
Aaron Pritchett
Nicholas Tetreault
Evelyn Epstein
Theo Tams

Bobbie Jo

Congratulations Canada & Alexandre Bilodeau !

2010-02-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

For some reason, this year I've really gotten into the Olympics. Maybe it's because I'm older, I respect it more. Maybe it's because it's being hosted in my country (Yes, I am Canadian. And right now, Proud of if). Maybe it's because I know someone who is competing, someone who carried Germany's sign in the opening ceremonies, someone who is working on Security, and last but not least, someone who is cleaning the porta poopers. Or maybe it's all these things...

Tonight, four Canadian's competed in the Men's Moguls three of our four competitors were sitting at the podium at one point tonight. The Australian who was attempting to defend his gold title, took the podium with only a few competitors left. Leaving an American in second and a Canadian in third. Personally, I didn't like the Australian because of what was shown before the Moguls. But then Canadian, Alexandre Bilodeau took gold from the Australian. We have won our first Gold on Canadian soil, and our first Gold of the Olympics.

For me, it's not even completely about us winning our first Gold on Canadian soil. It's about the story behind it. Alexandre Bilodeau has an older brother, Fredrick. But his older brother has Cerebral Palsy. The look on Fredrick's face when Alexandre won gold was priceless. Alexandre even said, he was doing that competition for his brother, and when the medal ceremony happens, he's going to do whatever he can to get his brother up on that podium with him to receive the Gold. If this isn't a great way for Canada to win their first gold medal on Canadian soil, I don't know what is. The story behind it is beyond amazing. I think it was a GREAT way for Canada to get their first Gold... What do you think?

XOXO
~Bobbie Jo

Cora, Olympics, CHD Awareness week. Unstoppable.

2010-02-13T20:27:00.000-08:00

Cora was 5 days old when she passed away from an undetected heart defect. Her Mommy, Kristine has been working very hard, and especially in the past week. Kristine has been guest posting on blogs like a mad woman. she's amazing. I really do look up to her for what she's done and continues to do. I tell her constantly, but words will never be able to describe how proud I am to be her friend.

Earlier this week, in CHD awareness style, I had a Live Chat on Monday night and it was a great success. There was a lot of great talk. It was a little bumpy at first, but hey. It was my first time putting together a Live chat. And we had 15 viewers for our first live chat. Tuesday night, I worked really hard to make the Cora's Story Video. It has had 145 YouTube views in three days and over 60 comments on Facebook.

I must say, Join The Fight: CHD has the BEST fans on Earth. We are currently sitting at 2,255 fans. It's increible what JTF has turned into... I've been told it's a place for families to connect, to get advice, to share stories, to gain friendships, and to help through the tough times, and I'm fine with that. I started JTF not knowing where it would go. What would happen. Would it even be a success? I seriously thought I wouldn't even hit 100 fans. But in the past two and a half months it has sky rocketed into something amazing. Something that I never imagined. I have become friends with many, many different people from so many different places. It's beyond unbelievable.

Last night the 20l0 Vancouver Winter Olympics started. With that was the tragic death of a Luger from Republic of Georgia. I wanted to take a moment and state that my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow athletes. This accident could have easily been avoided if Canada (and I am slightly blaming Canada for this... mainly the track developers) had of padded up the metal polls and put some type of netting there, the young man killed could have lived. He may have been badly beat up, but he would have had his life, which is the most important thing. On a happier note for the 2010 Olympics. Canada womens hockey team completely kicked Slovakia's butt tonight with an 18-0 victory while setting an new Olympic record. Congratulations to the Canadian Women's Hockey team. One sport I am rather looking forward to is one of the Snowboarding events. One of the females who attends my high school is competing in, I believe, the half pipe. I will indeed be cheering her on.

A ran across a song that's on the USA Team Olympic Soundtack (Just to verify, I am rooting Canada on 2,255%) but I loved it. I thought the words fit how I feel about what's going on with me, and what's going on around me right now.

Unstoppable (Team USA Olympic Mix) - Rascal Flatts

So, so you made a lot of mistakes
Walk down the road a little sideways
Cracked a brick when you hit the wall

Yeah, so you didn't do your best
Pull you down faster then a sunset
Hey, it happens to all of us
When the cold hard rain just won't quit
And you can't see your way out of it

You find your faith has been lost and shaken
Here's your chance and it's worth taken
Get on your knees and dig down deep
You can do what you think is impossible
Keep on believing, don't give in
You've got the strength to raise the win
Remember what one dream can do
You are unstoppable

You, you can weather any storm
Don't you know that you were born to win
Oh, you'll find a helping hand when you need it most
A lighthouse shining on the coast
That never goes dim
When you're backs against the was
When you stumble when you fall

You find your faith has been lost and shaken

Here's your chance and it's worth taken

Get on your knees and dig down deep

You can do what you think is impossible

Keep on believing, don't give in

You've got the strength to raise the win

Remember what one dream can do

You are unstoppable

Like a river keeps on rolling
Like a North wind blowing
Don't it feel good knowing

Yeah

You find your faith has been lost and shaken

Here's your chance and it's worth taken

Get on your knees and dig down deep

You can do what you think is impossible

Keep on believing, don't give in

You've got the strength to raise the win

Remember what one dream can do

You are unstoppable

So you made a lot of mistakes
But you got back into the game
You, you are unstoppable

Anyways, It's bedtime. I work in the A.M. Hope you all have and Awesome Saturday night and Sunday!

~Bobbie Jo Stewart

"Letters to Mommy"

2010-02-07T15:44:00.000-08:00

I mentioned a couple posts ago that I wrote "Letters to Mommy" for my final project in Writers Craft back in January and I posted it on JTF ! I decided for my first CHD Awareness week post I would post it. This is from the point of view of an 8 year old girl who has a CHD - comments are welcome!!!

~ Bobbie Jo

(Ps, JTF has 2,071 fans as of RIGHT now! Thanks everyone!)

Dear Mommy,
June 23, 2007
Today I overheard you talking to the doctor about me... you didn’t know I was listening. I was pretending I was asleep. They said I needed another heart surgery because a heart wouldn’t become available. Mommy, I’m scared and I know you are too. You try to hide it from me but I can see it in your eyes. Daddy’s at home looking after my brother and sister for a while... will be here for my surgery? When will it happen? What are they going to do? Will I die?

Mommy, I don’t like being in the hospital. I don’t like going in for surgeries. I don’t like staying in bed. I’m mad that I can’t play with my brother and sister outside in the sun, or go back to school. Why can’t I be normal? Why did I have to have a broken heart?

Are you mad because I’m not normal? Are you mad that I can’t go un-watched for more than 5 minutes? I’m scared that I may not get to see my 9th birthday, mommy. Will I get to? If I have this surgery, will it be the last? Please tell me it will be.

Mommy, why doesn’t Grandma come to visit me anymore? You have pictures of her and me when I was a baby right next to my bed. Is she mad that I have to be in the hospital?

Mommy, I’m scared. I love you.

Dear Mommy,
August 4th, 2007

I did it mommy! I had another heart surgery with no problems. I didn’t even cry this time. Aren’t you proud of me? I was happy to see Grandma there when I woke up. It made me happy. The doctors came in and told me I can go play in the playroom next week. Can I? I like the playroom here. It’s fun!
Mommy, when can I see Erin and Braison? Can they play with me in the playroom next week? I like it when they are here too. I miss them.

Thank you for getting me the teddy bear I saw in the gift shop when we got here. I love it. It’s so soft and cuddley.

The Doctors here to check on me. Mommy, I’m not as scared anymore. I love you.

Dear Mommy,
August 7th, 2007

Mommy, Mommy, Mommy! I got to see Braison, Erin, AND Daddy yesterday. I liked playing with Braison and Erin in the playroom.Daddy is staying here for a couple days with me. I like spending time with Daddy. Him and I read books, and we color, and we play games... and he talks the nurse into giving me extra jell-o because it’s my favourite.

The doctor’s told me that I was doing really good, mommy. Does this mean I get to go home and sleep in my own bed soon? I hope it does. I miss Mr. Snuggles, Blackie and Creamsicle. They are my favourite stuffed animals you know! Can you bring them back to the hospital for me?

Daddy brought in another game! I’m going to win again! I love you.

Dear Mommy,
August 28th, 2007

Mommy, I’m really tired today. The doctor said my stats aren’t normal, what does that mean? Will they be normal tomorrow? I don’t like it when they say they aren’t normal. It scares me, mommy. What will they do if they can’t change? Will I need another heart surgery? I don’t want another one mommy. I just had one last month. My scar hasn’t healed this time.

Guess what Mommy. The nurses brought my THREE jell-o’s today to make me feel better. They were even three different flavours! I was happy.

Thank you for bringing me my stuffies. I feel a lot safer now. I love you.

Dear Mommy,
September 19, 2007

I feel a lot better today Mommy. I’m sorry I scared you when I crashed. But you know the doctors here use magic to fix me every time! The nurses brought my popsicles today. I got a purple one this morning. A pink one at lunch and my favourite nurse brought me a rocket ship one this afternoon when she got back from her lunch break. She said she thought I deserved it!

I thought it was cool that Erin and Braison got to spend the night here with me last night. I miss them so much. Can they move in here with me so we can make forts and play princesses and the prince like before I was back in the hospital?

Is Daddy remembering to feed my goldfish? I love you.

Dear Mommy,
October 3, 2007

Mommy, what did the doctors mean when they said that they couldn’t fix me anymore? Did they run out of magic? Can they not fix me anymore because they have a new heart for me? Were you crying because they have a heart for me?

Mommy, I love you.

Dear Mommy
October 10, 2007

Mommy, why did you have to give me “the talk”. There is so much I wish I could still do. I’m going to keep fighting just for you, Mommy.

I’m tired now, I’m going for a nap. I love you.

Dear Mommy,
October 15, 2007

Mommy, I love you. I love Daddy. I love Erin. I love Braison. I love Grandma. I love Auntie. I love Mr. Snuggles. I love Blackie. I love creamsicle. I love Jell-o. I love stars. I love snow. I love playing games with Daddy. I love playing in the playroom here at the hospital. I love playing with Erin and Braison. I love coloring. I love rainbows. I love my goldfish. I love spaghetti. I love sleepovers. I love birthday cake. I love Doctor Nicholls. I love nurse Kassie. I love wheel chair races down the hall. I love swinging. I love singing. I love swimming. I love music. I love Disney. I love jokes. I love painting. I love pictures. I love soup. I love McDonalds. I love carrots. I love you.

I’m giving these letters to Nurse Kassie. She knows I’ve been writing them lately. I don’t want you to miss me. I want you to be happy.

You’re the best mommy a girl with a broken heart to ask for. You fought for me. You loved me. You colored with me. You cried for me. You spoke for me. You stay with me. You cuddled with me. You cleaned me. You me read me stories at night. You watched my favourite movies with me. You brought Braison and Erin to come see me. You let Daddy race with me down the hall in wheel chairs.

Tell Daddy I love him.
Tell Erin I love her.
Tell Braison I love him.
Tell Auntie I love her.
Tell Grandma I love her.

Please don’t forget, I love you

"I don't wanna be afraid ; I wanna wake up feeling beautiful today"

2010-01-24T18:51:00.000-08:00

The title of this post comes from a song by Demi Lovato called Believe in Me and I suppose it has something to do with the last blog post. When I first heard this song, I instantly fell in love with it because it's a song that I felt (and still feel) resembles me. Here are the lyrics:

I'm losing myself
Trying to compete
With everyone else
Instead of just being me

Don't know where to turn
I've been stuck in this routine
I need to change my ways
Instead of always being weak

I don't want to be afraid
I wanna wake up
Feeling beautiful today
And know that I'm okay
Cause everyone's perfect in unusual ways
So see,
I just wanna believe in me
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la

The mirror can lie
Doesn't show you what's inside
And it can tell you
You're full of lies
It's amazing what you can hide,
Just by putting on a smile

I don't want to be afraid

I wanna wake up

Feeling beautiful today

And know that I'm okay

Cause everyone's perfect in unusual ways

So see,

I just wanna believe in me

I'm quickly finding out,

I'm not about to break down

Not today

I guess I always knew

That I had all the strength

To make it through

I'm not gonna be afraid

I'm gonna wake up

Feeling beautiful today

And know that I'm okay

Cause everyone's perfect in unusual ways

So see

Now I believe in me

This song is beautiful, in more ways than one. This song is a song that gives you that push to believe in yourself. I like to put songs on repeat (sometimes they're on repeat for 4 plays, or for hours, days... and I think about what the meaning is and how I relate to the song.

Something I want to say.... and you're going to hear it a lot for the next 81 days... I cannot WAIT to see Aaron Pritchett in concert, I'm SO excited. He's a really nice guy, and I'm glad him and I have gotten the chance to talk on Twitter. I really enjoy it!

Better get to bed, Exams start tomorrow!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

My Reality

2010-01-23T15:35:00.001-08:00

Today, as I was telling some of my co-workers about my upcoming excitements, I realized that my reality is more exciting then I ever thought possible. I walk down the halls of my school and I see a lot of people who act like they're the big thing. Skipping class, partying every weekend, etc (notice how I said a lot? I know not ALL do.) and I think what do they really have going? They aren't trying to make something of themselves. A lot of people do work hard, and try to make someone of themselves at my age and I get that. But, my point is how many are 3,000% dedicated to something?

I'm not trying to brag about myself, but I have accomplished so much in the past year and I've met some amazing people in the past year. I've gained respect from people I never, ever thought would even know who I am. And do you know why? Because I pushed myself to be the person I am right now. The person writing this blog. The person who is trying to make a difference in a child's life.

I've finally realized that I am content. I am happy. I've been working hard, thinking I haven't been accomplishing anything at all... when really I have been. And I should be proud of my work, the people I've met, and the friendship's I've made.

On a happier note, I've been tweeting/blogging about my school raising money for Haiti. I believe we raised around 4,672.83 or something like that in 4 days. It was over the $4,000 mark that's for sure!

Also, I'm SO happy right now about April 15th (and everything else too)! 82 days until I get to see Canadian Country Music Artist, and my good friend Aaron Pritchett in concert in Mt. Forest! I've been listening to his CD Big Wheel constantly the last 24 hours, and each time I listen to a song I get that much more excited to see him perform! Seeing him perform is only 1 reason why I am excited.... the other reason is, I get to thank him. I like thanking people in person rather than through an email because when you are face to face you get to show your emotion better and how much you truly mean what you're saying.

Speaking of friends. It would be greatly appreciated if you could check out my friend, Greg Hanna's music video for "It's a Man's Job" and request it on your local country music radio station... please !

I've started a petition online, and I'm hoping to get 1,000 supporters for it! Once again, Join The Fight: CHD is teaming up with Team Phoenix again, to try to get on Ellen's show! Once we hit 1,000 followers I'm sending Ellen the link. If you would like to Support us please sign!

Better go continue studying! Exams start Monday!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

Late night posting, 84 days!

2010-01-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

I really should be getting to bed, but I thought I should blog since I'm not sure if I'll be able to this weekend... It's the weekend before exams and I'm working all weekend, so that most likely won't leave much time for posting!

I have one more day of classes... then an exam at 9am Monday and then 1pm Tuesday and then I'm off for an entire week! No work. No school. Just me, my laptop, my bed, and some movies. Oh how I'm looking forward to that. I will probably go nuts by the end of it, but I'm looking forward to staying up late and sleeping in. I rarely get to do that anymore.

Today for Haiti we raise over 900 dollars. I'm not entirely sure how much we have raise at the moment, but I will let you know tomorrow how much we actually raised in our 4-day homeroom challenge.

Now for the 84 Days factor. I have finally talked my mom into going to the Aaron Pritchett concert on April 15th in Mount Forest. I am SO incredibly excited. I got to meet Aaron in September, and it was cool... I'm meeting a big country star whose music I love and he has no idea who I am. But I've had the experience to talk to Aaron via Twitter and he's been to my website, he's signed the guestbook, I've gotten to know him as more than an artist like I've gotten to do with Jessie Farrell. And I think when you've had the chance to get to know them, it makes the experience a lot more exciting when you meet them in person. The same goes for me and Jesse Tucker (Jessie Farrell's guitarist), I've gotten to know him through facebook a little bit so if/when I get the chance to meet him in person I think it would be that much more cooler.

Anyways, random post.. but I'm off to bed. Goodnight :)

XO,

Bobbie Jo

donations, photos, CLEANING

2010-01-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I wrote about how my school is collecting money for Haiti. I also found out this morning that Haiti had an aftershock that was almost as bad as the original earth quake. It's terrible that Haiti has this to deal with, and a large part of me wishes I just up and go help, but I'm afraid that this is something I can't do. Yesterday I watched a video of Demi Lovato on YouTube when she accepts the Honorary Ambassador of Education award and she says "I just want to use what I can, and that's my voice". That's what I'm trying to do. If I can't physically be there to help, I want to do what I can by using my voice!

Our goal for our 4-home homeroom challenge was originally $1,400.00, which would be one dollar from every student. I'm happy to announce that at day 2 of CCI's 4-day homeroom challenge for Haiti (all proceeds going to the Red Cross), Collingwood Collegiate Institute has raise $1796.00 I believe the total was. I donated $10.00 today, and I felt amazing doing so! Not only is CCI doing the homeroom challenge, we're also collecting blanket for Haiti too. A couple of the teachers are also selling pizza after school (What teen doesn't want a slice of pizza for an after school snack?) at the bus loop I believe.

So, since I didn't post a photo with the "I got a new haircut" post, I thought I would post one.

Not the best photo most likely but I loooove it! The color looks SO natural and it's just... I love it!!

Also, yesterday I posted that I wrote "Letters To Mommy" for my final collection in one of my classes. If you were interested in reading it. Check out the Note "'Letter's to Mommy'-- Bobbie Jo" On Join The Fight's Facebook page.

Off to start the much needed room clean! It's a war zone. Trust me !

XO,

Bobbie Jo

Haiti, New Doo, & Tears

2010-01-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

In one day my high school raised $900.00 for Haiti. That's in 1 day! Because of exams next week we're having a homeroom challenge for donating. Our goal is $1,400.00 by the end of the week, one dollar for every student at CCI. One of the teachers at my school announces on the announcements this morning that his little boy (who is in Senior Kindergarten) wanted to donate 1 dollar for every day of our 4 day homeroom challenge. I thought this was very inspiring for a little kid to want to help with Haiti. One of the girls in my class donated the most (in our class) by donating $20.00. I have yet to donate, I forgot my money at home but I do plan on donating, how much, I'm not sure of yet. But I will be donating something. Every little bit helps, right?

They need so much right now, that I kind of feel guilty. They have nothing right now, and I went and spent $95.00 0n my hair last night. I could have donated that 95.00 to Haiti instead of getting my hair coloured and cut. Even though I'm in LOVE with the outcome. This brings me back to one of my earlier posts. We take the fact we can go to the movies and what not for granted.

On a bit of happier note. I decided I would check my comment on my Myspace page and I noticed one from Katie Lawhorne... I'm happy to announce that the 4th Annual Phoenix Francis has a donation for our auction. So Thank you muchly Katie!

As I mentioned a little earlier, I got my hair did. And I love it. Before I had a blonde box dye on it (done in July) and you could see the roots and it was just a big ball of bleh. It's now a light brown with some dark brown chunks and blonde highlights and the style is really cool. I love it!!

Today in Writers Class, We had to create a collection for part of our exam and I decided to try something different and what I thought could be tricky, but it didn't turn out to bad. I created "Letter's to Mommy" which are letters from a CHD child's perspective (not any in particular). This brought my teacher (who is a male) into tears as he was marking it last night. I got 80% on it and I'm debating about posting it on JTF. Thoughts?

Anyways, I believe that this is a long enough post!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

CCMAJTFCHD (: !

2010-01-15T19:13:00.000-08:00

CCMAJTFCHD may just seem like a bunch of letters but this is going to be the latest mission of Tori & I. As Tori mentioned in her post, we're going to try to get to the CCMA's this September. It started out that it was just me wanting to go. Then Tori , Then Tori thought she'd ask her sister then I asked Samm and then it was mentioned to my cousin Ashleigh. Well, Needless to say there is a long list of people wanting to do this. But, Tori and I want to turn this into something more then just a fun vacation with the friends/fam (Caitlin + Tori = Sisters. Ashleigh + me = Cousins. Tori + Samm + me = friends). We want to create the Mission: Canadian Country Music Awards: Join The Fight CHD. Yes, we are taking JTF Edmonton with a lot of expectations.

As I was telling tori tonight, last week I had a dream that Tori, Ashleigh, and I went to the CCMA's, but had a booth or something for spreading CHD awareness. and then Tori and Ashley had been secretly planning her coming to help too because Ashley and I hadn't met and Tori got Jessie Farrell, and Aaron Pritchett in on the plan too and then I was interviewed by Elissa Lansdell about what we were doing and she told me that Jessie and Aaron had been telling a bunch of others there about what we were doing and everything. It's one of those dreams when you have a good feeling about it, when you remember it. But you're not sure if you should believe it or not. I'm not sure how plans are going to turn out for this, but I am sure that we're going to succeed in something similar. I'm not expecting this dream to come true by any means. But it would be cool if we pulled something like this off!

Today, I also heard that a little boy by the name of Pierce lost his 2 month battle with a CHD. Please keep the Helms' family in your thoughts and prayers this weekend as they do need it.

Also, there is still a need for donations for Haiti, I know in my town the local Wal-mart has set up change jars at the entrance. Even if you just donate a bunch of your change, you're still helping these people out who desperately need it. They appreciate it more then you know. So please help out!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

My life in 40 pages

2010-01-14T16:02:00.000-08:00

Earlier last year, I started reading Miles to Go by Miley Cyrus, and I thought it would be cool to do what she did. She has accomplished so much in just a few short years, and she wrote about it. Why can't I write about what I've done?

I know that it won't get published or anything fancy like that. But, in a way, I hope that younger kids, that I know, can read it so then they know that they can do anything they put their mind too. Most (not all, I know this) teens really could care less about what goes on around them, and a lot of people don't care about a situation unless they are directly involved. Not to brag about me, but I've accomplished a lot in three years and most of which in 2009 alone so why not take a shot at it?

I was working on it today, and I have 40 pages. 40. I personally didn't think that my life would fill 40 pages.. 10, maybe. But apparently I've came up with enough stuff to come up with 40 and I'm still not done. It's been interesting reading it, and adding on to it. Knowing what's happened and always having the memory of it.

Anyways, I watched The Mist tonight, and it's based on Stephen King's novella, and if you've seen it you might agree but I think the movie was a joke. It was really stupid. I was told buy a guy that it was going to be as creepy as Paranormal Activity but it was FAR FAR from it! I felt that the movie had a lot of Harry Potter aspects. Big spiders, weird flying dragon things. I did like the older lady in the movie, who threw the canned peas at one of the other ladies (who in my defense, completely deserved it) then went with the guys to the pharmacy. I want to be like her when I grow up. She's got guts!

Good news on baby Pierce today! His kidney seems to be working a little better. This little man has been through a lot in the past little while. So please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. As well as David, he goes in for his fenestration closed first thing tomorrow morning!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

Ever have that one song that's stuck there?

2010-01-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

I was a chubby little baby, my first word was no

I was singin' country music since I was five years old

Wrote a song with words like kissing boys and beer

Sand it in the mirror and got my belly pierced

Nobody says no to me

Worked my way through college serving drinks to drunks

Slept through half my classes somehow I didn't flunk

I shot down a boy for askin' me to slow down

So I blew past him

I shake loose anything standing still

Nobody says no to me

Nothings free, so I'm gonna take it

I've always known there is no road

For the path I'm on, so I'm gonna blaze it

I got fired from selling things from bagels to bedding

That was just stuff in the way of where I was heading

I broke heels climbing fences

Runin' from creeps advances

Just another day in the life of me

Nobody says no to me

Nothings free, so I'm gonna take it

I've always known there is no road

For the path I'm on, so I'm gonna blaze it

I have always been a force, a bullet in a storm

I head right to it

I can't ask for nothing more

My life's an open door

I'm gonna walk right through it

Nobody says no to me

Nothings free, so I'm gonna take it

I've always known there is no road

For the path I'm on, so I'm gonna blaze it, blaze it

Nobody says no to me

Nothings free so I'm gonna take it

Nobody, no nobody

Nobody's gonna say no to me

Nobody, no nobody

Hey, hey, hey

Nobody, no nobody

Nobody's gonna say no to me

Nobody, no nobody

I dare ya

I mention the artist of this song in a previous post. "Nobody Says No" is by my friend Jessie Farrell. This is her second single of her album "Good, Bad and Pretty Things".. The more you hear this song, the more you want to listen to it, and the more it gets stuck in your head. This has been my favourite song since the first time I heard it, which I believe was in September.

It's a fun song to rock out in your room too (trust me, it's been done many, many times), and rock out with your girls to. The music video it's Super duper as well! Ont of JTF's admin's is in it. It's hard to see her, but Ashley is there.

Here's the link -- Let me know what you think !!

XO,

Bobbie Jo

Disaster in Haiti

2010-01-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

I think as most of us know by know, there was a major earthquake in Haiti that has basically destroyed the lives of many, especially with it being I think 5 years after the Tsunami that destroyed various countries due to an earthquake. What can someone do?

You can donate money to the Red Cross Relief fund in Haiti by text messaging "HAITI" to the number 90999 which will add $10.00 onto your next phone bill. There are probably other ways to donate to, but I know that this one is the most common one that I've ran across on twitter.

One mother, Kristine, who I mentioned in my first post, also blogged about the Haiti disaster, and she donated $5.00 in memory of her little girl, Cora.

Dear Cora,

Many little babies join you today. Many more Moms join me. I can't help but think of the women in in Haiti whose babies died in their arms.

I found this orphanage. The director was on the Today Show this morning. Mommy and Daddy don't have much, but I donated $5 in memory of you, hoping you save a baby in Haiti. Others on your Facebook followed suit. Many more abandoned babies will need help

http://glahaiti.org

I hope even more people join in. I hope you save more babies in Haiti. Mommy's heart breaks into a million tiny pieces today

Love,
Mom

(http://instructionsarenotincluded.blogspot.com/)

I have to give a LOT of credit to Kristine. She's been doing SO much for getting people to donate to Haiti right now. She has been tweeting about it all day, and deserves a lot of credit for doing so. Her post, practically put my in tears while reading it. Kristine and her husband have been through a lot in in the past month after losing their daughter. But they're bound and determined to help others as best as they can. Kristine sets an example for everyone, and I hope everyone will help out in anyway they can.

Haiti needs all the help they can get right now. They're one of the poorest countries in their area, and having this doesn't help either. A lot of us take what we're lucky to have for granted. We have clean drinking water, food, healthcare, heat, electricity, jobs, clothes, doctors, medicine and the list goes on. I know there are children here that are in orphanages, but their are a lot more babies in countries like Haiti in orphanages, a lot of them with illnesses, diseases. Our government helps out to an extent money wise for our orphanages, but not in Haiti. A lot of the orphanages there rely on mostly donations.

I just heard via twitter that a spokesman from the Red Cross says that the aid organization has ran out of medical supplies. Clearly there is a need for donation. Please, if you can donate, do so, no matter how much you donate every little bit helps.

XO,

Bobbie Jo

365 days of excitement.

2010-01-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

I was talking to my friend Tori last night, and I came to the realization that so much has changed in the past year. I've grown as a person (clearly not in height, I'm still short). I have formed new friendships, and new accomplishments.

I remember in grade 9, when I didn't do much. Who does in grade 9? All I did was attend school, go home did homework, maybe went out with Samantha for a walk/Tim Hortons (which we still do today, just not as much). I wasn't involved, I didn't really have anything going for me, as I was only like 14. But then there was grade 10, I was apart of the "Haunted Street Walk" here in Collingwood (which I will admit was really fun), and I stage crewed CCI's school show "Little Shop of Horrors" and that was pretty much it. Grade 11 there was the newspaper, I was assistant stage manager for "Grease" and I believe that was the year that I went to Brampton with the grade 12's, because I was the sound manager for their performance at the Thespian Festival. Then there was last year. Grade 12. Though I didn't have a school show to help with, I still had the newspaper, and I was just starting to get involved with Congenital Heart Defects.

These are some of the things that have happened in the past year:

- I've arranged an assembly at my school

- Created my first CHD awareness video

- Put together Phoenix's Shakedown Crew: Collingwood

- Did the Hoedown Throwdown, TWICE in my cousins restaurant

- Started emailing Jessie

- Formed a friendship with Jessie

- Met many heart families, CHD'ers who I admire and I'm honored to know

- Had an epic Watermelon fight with great friends

- Fell down rapids

- Started a "war" by glittering Brad

- Graduated high school

- Met Jessie Farrell (twice!)

- Met Aaron Pritchett

- Created a website/facebook page/twitter for CHD Awareness, all of which are successful

- Aaron Pritchett signed the guestbook for my website

- Johnny Reid emailed me back about my site!
- Jesse Tucker joined my facebook group/checked out the website

- JTF's facebook group (as of 11:33am today) has 1,260 fans!

That's a lot of accomplishments in 1 year. All of this while going back for an extra year at high school, and working part time! Anyways, gotta get some food, before heading to math class...

XO,

Bobbie Jo

Risk -- Paul Brandt

2010-01-12T18:25:00.000-08:00

I’d rather stand on the edge of a cliff
And hang my toes over a bit,
And then jump when they dare me,
Even if it scares me and I get hurt.
I’d rather build my wings on the way down,
Do my best not to fall to the ground
and than laugh at my mistakes
‘cause there only lessons I’ll learn

I’d rather burn with desire deep in my soul,
And love like a fire that’s out of control, and laugh and dance and fall
and chance and kiss
I’d rather live my whole life
with a sense of abandon,
Squeeze every drop out,
no matter what happens.
And not wonder what I've missed
I’d rather risk.

Well I guess I could just play it safe
and forget about love, hope and faith,
with my eye on the shore line,
keeping my boat tied and staying home,

ohhh but I’ll never discover new land
by keeping my feet on the sand
No I’d rather set sail
and get carried away by the storm.

I’d rather burn with desire deep in my soul,
And love like a fire that’s out of control, and laugh and dance and fall
and chance and kiss
I’d rather live my whole life
with a sense of abandon,
Squeeze every drop out,
no matter what happens.
And not wonder what I've missed
I’d rather risk.
I would rather risk

I’d rather burn with desire deep in my soul,
And love like a fire that’s out of control,
I’d live my whole life
with a sense of abandon,
Squeeze every drop out
no matter what happens.
And not wonder what I've missed
Oh I just can’t resist,
The chance to risk

Ohhh live, and love and laugh and dance and fall and chance and kiss

I’d rather risk
I'd rather risk
I’d rather risk
I'd rather risk
I’d rather risk
I'd rather risk

This song has so much meaning to it. I'm also personally attached to this song. I forgot to mention it in the list from my last post, but I'm glad I did. Because I can now do an entire post on this song and what it means to me. For all the really know me, you don't need and explanation for why this song describes me, but for those of you who don't, here's a quick overview.

One of my best friends, Tori, and I have said this was our song since it came out, and it really is. We're both risk takers. We're the ones who do Chinese Firedrills* at night, downtown Collingwood. Okay, okay, it's not THAT bad at night, downtown Collingwood... (*Chinese Firedrills; when you hit a stop light, that's JUST turned red, get out of the vehicle and run around it.. It's safe, trust me!). Tori and I call ourselves "Pinky & the Brain" because we are. We attempt to take over the world, in a good way. This song basically explains that her and I risk so much, just for the possibility to get that much farther in life. I take a risk everyday with what I do for CHD's. I try to make myself sound more "Respectable" because I am a teenager, and teenager today aren't exactly what you might call the adults of tomorrow, because most don't act like it. I could say/do one wrong thing, and I feel that is not everything then majority of what I worked on in the past year can fly out the window. That is something I don't want.

I guess you could say that in way it's like being.... say, Demi Lovato, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas brothers... They're all being watched like a hawk by the media, parents, kids, etc. I'm being watched by adults, parents, my niece, my nephew, cousins, etc. the only thing that's different is I'm not watched by the media. I may be watched by the fans of my facebook group, twitter, and website. But, if I do mess up, which I'm hoping I don't, it won't necessarily be plastered all over the TV, radio, internet, newspapers, or magazine's. So with everything I do everyday, I'm taking a risk.

There's something Ironic about this song too. I mentioned in my last post that I've become friends with Jessie. You'll hear a lot about both her and Tori in my posts. But it's positive things. These two ladies have helped a lot, and they've given me a lot of faith and have basically said without saying that I can do anything I put my mind too. These are just two people out of a lot that have done that. But for now, we stick with these two. Anyways- back to the ironic part. I had never told Jessie about this song, and what it meant to me. But when she was special guest on CMT Canada's show "Dedicated" her dedication went to me and the song she just happened to pick was "Risk" by Paul Brandt. It was already enough that she emailed me, donated a CD for the walk I did, wore the Phoenix Bracelet to the CCMA's, recognized me when I met her.... then this? She started out about this girl who gave her a bracelet with an angel on it, I had tuned out because I was reading a text and mom smacked me to pay attention and so I took a bite of my potatoes, and then Jessie said "and this girl is Bobbie-Jo Stewart..." well I screamed so loud my dad jumped and then I choked on a potato! To be recognized by someone who you admire for the work you've done, is something so amazing that I can't even put it into words. I felt like I had hit a new high, and those new highs have been continuing ever since.

Also - in the video there's a boy who has pulmonary Stenosis, which is a Congenital Heart Defect. I personally thought that was cool that a CHD baby (whose name is Levi I believe) is featured in a music video about taking risks.

XO,

Bobbie Jo

First post.

2010-01-12T15:14:00.001-08:00

About me:

I'm 18 years old. I have a website for Congenital Heart Defect Awareness, called Join The Fight: CHD (JTF) which has been open since the end of August. JTF also has a Facebook page too if you would like to become a fan!

I'm a MAJOR country music fan! Love, love, love country music! I've become friends with Jessie Farrell, who is the most amazing person I think I've ever met. She's SOO down to earth. I <3>

I'm very stubborn, especially when I know what's right and I will stand up for what I believe in, no matter who you are. You could be the president, and if I knew you were wrong, or if I didn't agree with you I would still argue with you... just maybe not as much. But I still will.

I mentioned above that I love country music! I also love other music too, but I'm mainly country. So here are some of my favourite songs you should check out!

Everytime you Lie - Demi Lovato

Nobody Says No - Jessie Farrell

Hold My Beer - Aaron Pritchett

Years Ago Last Night - Gord Bamford ft. Jessie Farrell

How Far Do You Wanna Go - Gloriana

Need You Now - Lady Antebellum

Consider Me Gone - Reba

Naturally - Selena Gomes & The Scene

The Fight - Shiloh

Average Girl - Emily Osment

According to you - Oranthi

Lead Me On - Gloriana

Stayed 'til Two - Gord Bamford

Barefeet on the Blacktop - Shane Yellowbird

Burn So Bright - Jessie Farrell

All The Way Up - Emily Osment

I want a Cowboy - Reba

Roadside Sandwich - Jessie Farrell

Fried - Jessie Farrell

Now that we've covered SOME of the favorite songs, I'm also about inspiring/funny/"they actually happened to me" quotes (*- They actually happened with me and people I know) :

"He looks earthy...makes me wanna go camping"*

"Spill"..."No thanks, I like my coffee"*

"And then you have instant mashed potatoes"*

"Heads up there's a knife in here".... "Heads up there's a watermelon between my legs"*

"You Should get your hair cut like that"*

"This is not general surgery in miniature. These are tiny humans. These are children. They believe in magic. They play pretend. There is fairy dust in their IV bags. They hope. And cross their fingers. And they make wishes. And that makes them more resilient than adults. They recover faster. Survive worse. They believe. In peds we have miracles and magic. In peds anything is possible" -- Grey's anatomy

"I'm all over this like chocolate on a Viva Puff"

"This is the week we start to make our stand. Stand for what YOU believe in. Stand for all that is right!" - Billy Ray Cyrus

There are a few of my favourite quotes. Now, here are a photo's I made in honor of a little girl named Cora. She has an undiagnosed CHD and only lived to be 5 days old. Her mommy, Kristine, has been spread her daughter's story like mad! I've had the honor of getting to know her and other heart parents, I'll tell you all more about them in different entries!

Hope you enjoyed reading my first entry. They'll get more interesting as they come!

XO,

Bobbie Jo