Been gone for a while, I know, but I am now back from the Olympic vortex I've been residing in for the past little while. I call it a vortex because for the past couple weeks my usual daily routine of slapping on makeup and trompsing around in stilettos had been put on pause. It was the first time in my life that I took on a job that had NOTHING to do with what I do. Unfortunately, the first two days I singlehandedly confirmed the stereotypical view that models aren't the sharpest knives in the drawer. I have never worked in any sort of office environment, so I had no idea what the heck was going on. Thank god for the four women in the picture below. They were infinitely patient, understanding, and helpful. Without them I don't know what I would have done. I was definitely a fish out of water. They guided me through unknown territories of filing, copying, and customer service as well as constantly petted my shattered self esteem. It is a humbling experience to work in an unknown and unfamiliar environment. If any of you girls are reading this, THANK YOU!!!
From Left to Right: Rita, Ellin, me, May, Joanne

I have to admit though, at times, when I would wander around the venue, I would get a bit sad. Seeing these beautiful horses, feeling the energy, watching the riders practicing, it all made me wonder, just for a moment, whether I had chosen the right path all those years ago when I chose modelling over horses. Running into a once competitor of mine who now rides for the USA Olympic team really made me long for the dream I once had. I too, once upon a time, had an Olympic dream. Oh that was so long ago....... In the end, I snapped out of my melancholy and decided to really enjoy the volunteer experience. I figured that if this is the closest I'll ever get to that "Olympic Dream" then I'll take it.
Two more new friends I made. This is Gerry, one of the head honchos at the Equestrian Events, and Marie who worked in the office I was in.

I did have some time to goof off, and so I headed for the judges booth in the middle of the ring to fantasize about being and Olympic Equestrian Judge.

And then this is me playing the radio commentator...

I'm so happy I decided to become a volunteer. Its really cool to be able to say that I took part in helping at the Olympic Games. It was really wonderful to be able to spend so much time once again around the majestic beasts that defined my childhood. Now I must set my sights on early retirement so I can spend my days riding horses... I just need to figure out how to make a gazillion dollars in the next ten years...