Goodbye 2019 and Hello 2020!

Hey Everyone!

I wanted to write a quick post (I know it's been awhile since my last one) about 2019 coming to a close and welcoming 2020 with open arms.

2019 was a great year where many things happened: I started a YouTube channel, did some public speaking with DreaminOWLs (Follow our social media → Twitter, Facebook, Instagram), competed in the Ms. Wheelchair NJ competition again and was given the Ambassador title, participated in multiple sporting events, and so much more.

2019 was good to me and so was the 2010-2019 decade. SO MUCH HAPPENED during the whole decade like two graduations (high school & college), competing at multiple National Junior Disability Championships, started public speaking, ending my junior adaptive sports career, working at Kohl's, competing in two Ms. Wheelchair NJ competitions, starting this blog, and a lot more!

But what's next?

What is 2020 going to bring? And what about the rest of the decade?

No one ever truly knows what the future holds. But I have a feeling 2020 is going to be a good start to the new decade for me:

First, I will be speaking at a couple events with the DreaminOWLs. I am planning to start a new series on my YouTube channel (stay tuned for more info). I may also compete in the Ms. Wheelchair NJ competition again. I also will share more of my writing (more info coming soon). And of course, will compete in my sporting events.

2020 is going to be a year of possibilities and the beginning of a new chapter. I look forward to what is going to come and I always say "Bring it On" to whatever it may be.

I hope everyone has a Happy & Safe New Year. See you all in 2020!

CGoerlich <3

YOOCAN

Credit: YOOCAN - DO ANYTHING 

Hey Everyone!

A few months ago, I received a comment on one of my instagram posts from an Instagram page called yoocandoanything asking if I would like to post my story on their site.

The first thing I did was look at their instagram page and then noticed that they are a site for people with disabilities to share their stories and empower others. I was like "oh this is cool. Let me check out their website." And when I did, I immediately was excited to add my story (called "Roll With It and Never Give Up" to the site.

Yoocan was started by the Gaon family after a young boy named Erez was born in 2008 with a rare disease and complex cognitive & physical disabilities. This brought the family together in many ways but was also hard as they needed to adjust a new way of living. Erez is one of over 1 billion people in the world who are living with some kind of cognitive or physical disability.

They created yoocanfind.com was created to be the leading empowerment source in the world for ideas, tips, and solutions to make the life of people living with disabilities and more inclusive. The mission is the focus on what people can do and not what they can not do.

Their overall goal is to show the world the amazing things that people with disabilities are doing each and every day: sky diving, running marathons, being Paralympic athletes, etc. They want to reach every person with a disability living around the world.

If you would like to join the yoocan family, you can find them here:
Yoocan Website
Yoocan Instagram
Yoocan Twitter
Yoocan Facebook

I highly recommend joining the family. Also, if you are a parent or a relative of someone with a disability, you can post a story on their behalf (or from your point of view). If you are unsure what to write, make sure you check out the stories that people have already written.

Even if you aren't someone with a disability, you should still follow their Twitter & Instagram pages to see the posts about the awesome things that people with disabilities are doing across the world. On instagram, yoocan features one storyteller each day.

When I first joined the family and followed them on Instagram, they had less than 20,000 followers. Now they have more than 23,000 followers. They also currently have over 1,000 story tellers from over 100 countries.

It's always great to see their posts & stories every day on my feeds and I look forward to it every day. You will too once you click that "follow" or "like" button on each of their pages.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Happy New Year!

Hey Everyone!

Happy New Year! It's time for a new year ---> 2017. Hope you all had a great year in 2016 even with the unfortunate amount of deaths that came through the year.

I know I haven't written anything on here for a few months but I wanted to wish you all a Happy New Year and hope you all have a GREAT 2017. I also wanted to let you know that I will try and update more on the blog this year (new goal - write more on here than I did in 2016 = more than 38 posts).

So have no worries, I haven't given up on Wiki-Wheelz and won't stop writing on here. I have a good feeling 2017 is going to be a great year and I will give you more information on exactly why (and what I have planned for the year) I believe that when the time comes.

I am working on something and you will all know about it soon enough. But for now I hope you all had a great Holiday (Christmas, Hanukka, Kwanza, and other holidays) and have a Happy New Year!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Keep On Writing

"Write. Remember, people may keep you (or me) from being a published

author but no one can stop you from being a writer. 

All you have to do is write. And keep writing.

While you're working at a career, while you're 

raising children, while you're trout fishing - keep writing!

No one can stop you from you." - Katherine Neville

For as long as I can remember, I loved to write. Writing is something that always been there. Whether it's writing in a diary (when I was younger), free writing in a notebook (before and after classes), writing stories (novels, Fanfiction, scripts), and other types of writing.

But there's always that one moment where writing wouldn't be there. Or I don't know what to write. So there's that part of me that sometimes thinks about not writing at all. Because I mean, what's the point if there's nothing to write? 

But I've been thinking. What's the point? The point is to put words down on paper (or document) to build up something that can maybe become something. The point is to get out of everything that's inside of me (whether it's true or fiction). The point is even if it doesn't make sense, they are still letters that turn into words and mean something. So of course there's a point. 

Anything you (I) write means something even if it doesn't turn into something else. It doesn't matter what the words are, they are words that came within yourself (myself) and should be let out. I mean they're eventually coming out - don't need to hold them inside. 

So what I have learned is that I need to write. No matter what. Just write. It doesn't matter what I write, I just write. Whether it's just random words, it's still considered writing. So now when I'm stuck with writing or have that thought of not wanting to write, I do it anyways. I open a fresh new document or piece of paper and just start writing. 

And you can do that to. Are you having trouble with writing? Are you stuck? Do you want to write but don't know what? Well all you have to do is write. Don't let anything get in the way. If you work, keep a pad in your pocket, then take it out when you have a free moment and just write. If you're watching television - grab your laptop, tablet, phone, or notebook and start writing whether it's about what you're watching or anything else. There is a lot that you can do to keep on writing.

That's all you (I) have to do: Keep on writing. Don't stop for anything. It doesn't have to make sense. It just has to be you (I) doing what you (I) love and that's writing (even if you don't love writing). Everyone writes even if you don't think you do, you do. 

So what I'm suggesting for writers and non-writers: Keep on Writing.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Update

Hey Everyone!

So, it's been awhile since I have updated what has been going on in my life. Now, usually I would separate them in different sections (education, sports, writing) but instead, I'm just going to write.

The only big thing that has really happened is I have finished all my classes! 4 1/2 years have come and gone. I should be receiving my degree in the mail next month and then will be walking (wheeling) with the rest of Class 2016 in May.

I can't believe that it's over. It's crazy. Feels like I just graduated high school. But now that I have finished with school (not planning to go to graduate school), I am looking at different jobs to apply for (have applied at a few places but no reply yet) and I'm also working on a writing project (that I used for my senior writing project).

Another thing that I did this year was in January where I spoke to a group of high school students (you can see that video on the side bar to the right [under social media]). I spoke about high school and transitioning into college with a disability. Check it out!

I feel confident that 2016 is going to be a successful one and we'll see how that goes as the year continues.

Now is there anything else going on besides being done with classes and working on my writing project? Hmm not necessarily except the sports season will be starting soon which will be my first one as an adult athlete.

Again, I will be participating in field (shot put, discus, javelin), table tennis, and archery as an adult. I will not be doing track as I've decided that last year would be my last season on the track. It is going to be weird that I won't be on the track but it's a decision that I had made.

So basically what I'm doing with my life is this: looking for a job, writing (and blogging), and preparing for a new season of sports.

Make sure you keep on coming to Wiki-Wheelz as I'm continually writing on here (as you can see I've written more this year than I have in the recent years together).

If anything big happens this year, I will be sure to update you all again!

(By the way - how do you like the new layout and template??)

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Handwriting or Typing?

Hey Everyone!

I have learned many different things when it comes to writing and one of those things is there is definitely a difference between handwriting and typing.

You're probably wondering: really, what's the difference? It's both writing out words with punctuation (or without) using two different types of ways. But I'm going to tell you yes, they may sound similar but again, it's different and you can do both!

First, exactly what is handwriting and typing?
Handwriting is well, writing with your hand (mouth, foot, [in case the write is an amputee]) using a pen, pencil, etc.
Typing is using a keyboard whether it's on a computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.

Now, I have used both ways and I've learned that they're both special and useful in their own ways.

Handwriting may seem like it could take time and effort (and you may not have the best handwriting so you don't understand what you have writing down) but the pen or pencil has a lot of power in it.

Putting pen to paper, you feel the pen against the paper. And to me, I have felt (connection) more with the characters when I write them down using a pen. You (I) feel the emotion that characters feel or even just the words that are written down. It's like all the energy in your body is coming through the pen and the words just come out of you.

Typing is great as well. It's quicker. It may seem easier. Especially with today's technology where if you don't have a computer around you, all you have to do is grab your phone, open a writing app and then just type away. Your ideas are fluidly coming out quicker and it seems to be easier to type it out and not as "painful".

I've found it is easier to type than to hand-write, however, I do feel more connected with my writing when I'm handwriting it out but I type more often because to me, it's easier and more convenient (especially since I'm not carrying around a notebook all the time even thought I really should and did for my Senior Writing Seminar class).

But when it comes to time to starting out a novel or an idea, I sometimes write it out on paper first and then transfer it to the paper. So I'm using both ways which, to me, betters my idea and writing. So, I would suggest you to try that way as well and see how it works out for you.

For the next week, I would suggest all of my readers out there to try out both ways. Grab a notebook and write something that means something to you. And then write the same thing (without copying) by typing. Which one did you feel more connected with? Which one will you continue using?

So for all my fellow writers out there - what do you prefer to do? Handwriting or Typing? Both? If you enjoy doing both, how do you choose when to do each?

I also recommend this "Handing vs. Typing..." article for more information on the conversation about handwriting and typing.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Writing and Music

"Music has the ability to move us—our 

memories and our imaginations." 

- Melissa Tydell 

(From: How to Use as Writing Inspiration)

Hey Everyone!

For years, again, I have enjoyed writing and I have learned many things over those years. One of things that I have learned about my writing is that listening to music helps.

We're always taught in school to not listen to our iPods (or any music device) because it would be a "distraction" well what I've learned, it's the complete opposite. There's even been studies done where it shows that student have done better in their work (especially in math and science) because they were listening to music or taking part in music (instrument, singing, etc.).

I can definitely vouch for that because I remember there were times where I had trouble with a couple math problems or writing an essay, a song would pop in my head and then the answer came to me or words would just start coming to me. Even though I wasn't physically listening to the music, it helped. It helped a lot.

So why are we taking the arts (music and theater) away? Who knows? I guess it's just "easier" to just have the students grab the book and read. Well, that maybe be good and dandy but it doesn't always help. I found that I did better in classrooms where it wasn't always "by the book" and we were able to be individuals and actually have fun learning. Amazing isn't?

Well, I'm going off track here. This isn't about taking the arts away from schools. I'll write another post that focuses strictly on that, don't worry I will!

Now, going back to my main focus for this post: writing and music. How does music help me with my writing? How can it help you? Whether you're working on an academic paper, news articles, blog posts, creative writing (novels, short stories, scripts, etc.), and others, music will help.

So let's going into detail on how listening to music has helped me. Remember how I said that it would to believe that listening to music devices would be a "distraction" well have we ever thought that maybe that distraction could be a good thing? No. Well, I definitely have.

When I'm having trouble with staying focus on what I'm writing (getting distracted from the outside world: television, people moving around, etc.), I immediately grab my iPod and plug in my headphones and I'm no longer distracted by the outside world and I'm now in my own little world and then suddenly my fingers start typing.

I don't really have an explanation but it works. I always guess it's because I feel the music go through me and it suddenly clicks some ideas that are hidden somewhere it my head and let them out once the music starts playing. Like the quote at the top of this post, music brings out our memories and our imaginations which will help strengthen our own writing.

I remember one night, recently actually, I was having a hard time to focus on my manuscript that I'm currently working on and the moment I turned my music on, I was writing and then when it was time for me to actually stop and get ready for bed, I realized that I had five-ten pages done. Amazing, isn't it?

There is so much music does for us. It also depends on the type of music that you are listening to. I listen to almost everything but I found that the slow rhythm songs help me the most but I'm fine with the uptempo songs as well. It just depends on what works for YOU.

Now, how can music help you? Well, you can use my idea and just if you're struggling, plug in your music and start listening and see where that takes you. If that doesn't work, you can always try other ways: turn on the music and just listen for awhile, then start writing; read over something that you have already written and then turn on the music, read that same part over and see if you still feel the same about that part or if you think it needs more changing; or do anything with music and it'll help.

No matter what you choose to do with the music and your writing, it will help. If you find that music doesn't necessary help you either then that's ok as well. What works for one person doesn't have work for everyone and it doesn't.

I recommend you to check out the link above, where I found the quote, because it will give you another idea of music and writing, and inspiration.

I know that whatever I do and whatever I need, I'll always have music with me. Music will forever be a part of me and my writing (as I hope you will soon find out and if you do, remember this post).

I hope you that you will give music a try when you're writing or doing anything artsy really. And if you have any other suggestions or thoughts about how music has either helped or not helped you, please leave a comment below.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Why Am I a Writer? Why Do I Want to be a Writer?

Hey Everyone!

I hope you're all having a great New Year's. Can you believe it? It's a new year. Welcome to 2016. To me, 2016 is going to be a big year. I don't know. I have a good feeling about this year and we'll see how that feeling goes as the year begins.

Now what is this post about? Well, I haven't exactly been the questions yet but I know they will come. So I thought why not answer the questions now. What questions? ----> Why am I a writer? Why do I want to be a writer?  (This blog post is only an introduction to the answers to the questions)

Those who are writers are always asked these questions. The question is why? Because many believe writing is so unbelievably hard, not interesting, time-consuming, etc. however, all of those believers are wrong because writing is more than "a job" and is fun to do, not hard at all.

Writing is not just what I do but it's also who I am and there are many reasons why I enjoy writing. For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed writing. I used to have notebooks full of different stories (some didn't make sense and some did) and in different types of writings: scripts, short stories, novels; and then in different genres: mystery, romance, young adult, etc.

Why am I a writer? Because I enjoy creating characters that deal with real life situations and have relatable characters who my readers can relate to. I like bringing words together to create a story. I also enjoy hearing feedback from my peers on what I write. There are different types of writings that I enjoy writing: blog posts, newsletter articles, novels, scripts, and more. It's not just one thing that I write, I write multiple and again, I enjoy bring the subject (characters) to the reader and have the readers interested in what I am writing.

Why do I want to be a writer? The same answers as to why I am a writer. But am I a "professional" yet? No (but you can still write without being a "professional"). I blog, I posted stories on fanfiction, I write stories, etc. I am working towards on being a writer (novelist/scriptwriter and official blogger [why I'm writing more posts than previous]) and again to create more needed characters that people are able to relate to (disabled characters, those who deal with grief, family situations, etc.).

There needs to be more writers who are comfortable with what they are writing. I am one of those writers and plan to continue on writing. As you may have read in my previous posts, you know that I am working on novels (I am currently working on a different one, one that I did my senior project on). Writing is again, who I am. I can't picture my life without writing.

Why are people writers? Because they feel their characters. Because they love words. Because they want to reach an audience in a different way. The list can go on and on as every writer is different and has their own reasons.

I have decided to create a section in my blog that will be strictly on writing (and reading). I will take what I have learned in my schooling (English-Writing major here) and show how much writing is important and also show that you don't have to be a writer to write. There is a lot to write about!

I hope you join me on this writing experience and maybe even start writing on your own (if you haven't already).

Let me know what your thoughts of writing is and if you will be on board with this writing section of my blog.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Where Have I Been?

Hey Everyone!

How is everyone doing? It's been awhile hasn't it? Seven months. I don't know if you're interested in wondering where have I been or what I have been up to but as you are my readers, I'm going to say that you are and I will let you all know. Now let's see what should be first? I'm going to set up the post like I usually do and break it up in sections (below). 

But before I do so, I would like to say that I am definitely considering to bringing back the song, movie, and TV show of the week back. I know I only did one week of it (two for song but the same song) but at the time, I don't think I could keep up with it. Now I do. At least I might in about three to four weeks (you'll understand after reading Education section). I'm not going to be 100% on board with it until I do about three weeks (which will show that I can keep up with it). I might not start those posts until after four weeks from now. 

Anyways, here we go. 

Education: 
I am currently in my final semester in college. It will be 4 1/2 years in school. My final class will be in a few weeks (the week of December 16th) and I will be walking (wheeling) in graduation in May of 2016. I am looking forward in doing so. I have worked on my graduation papers this semester and felt a relief when I completed the papers needed for graduation. Now what am I learning this semester? A lot!, I know that. The following are classes that I am taking: Accounting, Social Media, Interpersonal Communication (a class I believe everyone should take), Sports Writing, and Senior Writing Seminar. In each class, I have learned so much more that I thought I would and will be looking to take what I have learned in these classes and previous classes with me as I move into the real world. Three weeks. That's all that's left and there is so much left to do - papers, tests, group projects, etc. So this is why I said, above, when I might update my blog next. But after that, expect reading many posts from me. 

Writing:

So as you know, from the previous post, I have finished one of my books and was looking into querying agents with the book but I have taken a break from that. But have no fear, I am still writing. I am not focusing on my senior project which I hope will turn into the book that I am going to definitely work on. I have not given up on the other book but I feel my senior project is something that I will be able to focus on more and have more of a chance with. I actually have a better feeling with this project but I'll always go back to the other one, possibly revising it once again. You (I) can never be finished with revisions!

Sports:
Well the 2015 sports season is coming to a close which also means that my career as a junior athlete is coming to a close. 17 years. 17 years with the Children's Lightning Wheels and I will never forget any of the time that I had with sports, teammates, coaches, parents, officials, competitions, etc. This year, we hosted the 2015 National Junior Disability Championships (NJDC) and it was a blast. We won 2nd place for the Large Team division and it was great getting to compete in front of friends and family. Thank you to those who came out and supported all the athletes. It was a great turnout and I hope that the future NJDC continue growing. It was also a bittersweet week as it was my final junior nationals and the final time in a racer (track). Thank you to all my coaches, teammates, parents, competitors, officials and anyone who I have met over the years for giving me a great ride and I will gladly take everything that I have learned from you with me as I move forward with my athletic career. I am looking forward to moving on to the adult word of sports, as well as helping coach archery with my junior team. Bring on Season 2016.


Well, I believe that is everything that I have done since my last post. I could be missing something and if I am, you will be the first to know! So like I said, I will be more involved with my blog starting in the next few weeks and I am looking forward to being more conversational with you all!

I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Update!

Hey Everyone!

How is everyone doing? I hope you all made it through that rough winter that we had. Boy, wasn't that a rough one? Well it's in the past now and we are in the process of having some spring weather. Today was in the 70s and it felt great!

So anyways, I'm sure you all can tell that I haven't update my blog since January. It's been awhile. I have failed that whole weekly plan thing that I wanted to do. I had a feeling that I would. There is still a chance that I might bring it back up. We'll see. But back to this post, I thought I should update one what has been going on in the last few months.

Education: 
I am currently in spring semester. So far, this semester seems to be going well. There is only about a month away. The classes that I am taking this semester are advanced journalism, history of New Jersey, U.S. History 1877-Present, public speaking, and film history. I am happy to say that I have registered for my final semester (still waiting for one class) which will take place this Fall and I will be finished this December, as an Undergrad. It feels like I just graduated high school which was four years ago and now I'm thinking about my final semester in college. Crazy.

Writing:
I have finished my book that I was working on. I am currently in the process of sending query letters out to different agents and so far, nothing as come about from that BUT just because one thing doesn't go the way I plan doesn't mean that I am going to stop. I am always editing the book and query letter so if it's meant to happen, it will. I believe that. Remember you can follow me on my social media accounts (you will see them at the right of the screen).

Sports:
The new season is now in session! This marks my final season as junior athlete which is crazy. 16-17 years with the Lightning Wheels. I am planning to enjoy this year. I will continue to do sports as I enter the adult division. Also more news about the season this year - the National Junior Disability Championships (NJDC) will be held in NJ this summer. You can get more information here ---> NJDC2015NJ. It should be a fun one!

Well right now, I think that's everything. I am going to try and update this blog more often and as the spring semester comes to a close, I will have more time to do so (maybe). I hope you all enjoy the spring weather and have a great day, night (depending when you're reading this).

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

New Books For Me to Read

"The more you read, the more you things you know. 

The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."

- Dr. Seuss

Hey Everyone!

Recently, I have received new books in the past year. Most of them, as you see above, are Yankees books (Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera) and still have to read them. Also, as most of you know - I'm a major Yankees fan especially when it comes to the Core Four, particularly Derek Jeter (I'm surprised I haven't written a post about Derek Jeter yet..lol..there's still time though so who knows). Four of the books above, I received as 2014 Christmas presents, one of them I bought myself and the other was either a birthday present or a 2013 Christmas present.

Even though, I have not read these books yet, I am looking forward learning more of the ins and outs of being Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera directly from the sources of themselves. Two of Derek Jeter's new books (Jeter Unfiltered and The Contract) are his two first books under his own publishing company: Jeter Publishing and they already have made it to The New York Times Bestseller's List.

As a writer, that is one of my goals is to be on the The New York Times Bestseller's list but it is not a must as I'm more of enjoyment of writing. It would be awesome and I wonder how Jeter felt when he found out that he made it on the list not once but twice. I'm not really surprised he made it has everything Jeter is going to touch will turn to gold, his career already turned to gold, as well as The Player's Tribune, a website he created for athletes to share their thoughts and words without getting their words misinterpreted which to me is a great idea because it doesn't make the athletes hold back and lets them be true without having another name on the article or have to be restricted to 140 characters (twitter). I am looking forward to seeing more books come from Jeter's publishing company as I'm sure most or even all of those books will reach the list.

I am not normally into biographies or autobiographies unless you know they are the books of people I really care about and am a fan of like the guys in this post. Usually, I read romance fiction - one author in particular is Nicholas Sparks. I have read most of his books, not all but I know the ones I haven't read are just as good as the others. In 2014, I have bought two of his new books - Best of Me and The Longest Ride - I've read The Longest Ride and found it very good. It was interesting to see Sparks incorporate two love stories into one book. I highly recommend reading the book. I also recently saw the movie's trailer and yes, even though they have made changes, I am looking forward to seeing the movie. I have not read the other book that I have purchased, Best of Me, yet but I know that I will enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed all of the other Nicholas Sparks' books.

Nicholas Sparks have inspired me to write the book that I am currently working on now (one chapter left to be written). Writing is something that I have done for as long as I could remember and I have done much of it. I started out writing some mystery type things but as I got older, I decided to turn my genre to romance drama, family drama, and dramas in general. Not only did I make a change of genres but I also made a change of the type of writings I do. I used to just fully do books but I have also made the transition to screenplays (both movies and television).

Writing will forever be a part of my life so will reading. Reading and writing usually come into play with one another and I believe with doing so much reading that I have done in school and for fun, it has helped me with my writing. Also doing different types of writing also has strengthen my writing as well as the help of my writing classes in school. I have already seen a change in my writing for the better and I am looking forward to the day that you will too see that writing.

Well for this post, I think that's all for now. If you would like the summaries/descriptions of the books in the above picture, you can continue you on as I have written the summaries below this. The summaries are not in my own words but are the actual summaries that are in and on the book covers.

I, once again hope you all have a great day.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

______________________________________________________________________


Here are the descriptions of those books in the above picture:

The Closer by Mariano River with Wayne Coffey: "The greatest relief pitcher of all time shares his extraordinary story of survival, love and baseball - Mariano Rivera, the man who intimidated thousands of batters merely by opening a bullpen door, began his incredible journey as the so of a poor Panamanian fisherman. When first scouted by the Yankees, he didn't even own his own glove. He thought he might make a good mechanic. When discovered, he had never flown in an airplane, had never heard of Babe Ruth, spoke no English, and couldn't imagine Tampa, the city where he was headed to begin a career that would become one of baseball's iconic. What he did know: that he loved his family and his then girlfriend, Clara, that he could trust in the Lord to guide him, and that he could throw a baseball exactly where he wanted to, every time.
                With astonishing candor, Rivera tells the story of the championships, the bosses (including The Boss), the rivalries, and the struggles of being a Latino baseball player in the United States and of maintaining Christian values in professional athletics. The thirteen-time All-Star discusses his drive to win; the streets behind his legendary composure; the story of how he discovered his cut fastball; the untold, pitch-by-pitch account of the ninth inning of Game 7 in the 2001 World Series; and why the lowest moment of his career became one of his greatest blessings.
                 In The Closer, Rivera takes readers into the Yankees clubhouse, where his teammates are his brothers. But he also takes us on that jog from the bullpen to the mound, where the game - or the season - rests squarely on his shoulders. We come to understand the laserlike focus that is his hallmark, and how his faith and his family kept his feet firmly on the pitching rubber. Many of the tools he used so consistently and gracefully came from what was inside for a very long time - his deep passion for his life; his enduring commitment to Clara, whom he met in kindergarten; and his innate sense for getting out of a jam.
                 When Rivera retired, the whole world watched - and cheered. In The Closer, we come to an even greater appreciation of a legend built from the ground up."

The Contract by Derek Jeter: "As a young boy, Derek Jeter dreams of being the shortstop for the New York Yankees. He even imagines himself in the World Series. But on the day of Little League assignments, Derek starts at second base instead of shortstop and is given jersey number 2, not the number 13 he has always had and that his father wore.

             He tries to make the most of the situation while wishing and dreaming for that shortstop spot, but then he realizes there is one way to get there - always play his best. And to make sure he stays focused on school, too, his parents make him sign a contract - with keeping his grades up a requirement for getting to play baseball. As the season progresses and his team experiences ups and downs, Derek learns the importance of being a great teammate and friend...and comes to realize that there are specific steps he can take to make his dream come true!

             Inspired by Derek Jeter's childhood, The Contract launches Derek Jeter's middle-grade baseball series, an important part of the Jeter Publishing program which will encompass adult nonfiction titles, children's picture books, middle-grade fiction, ready-to-read children's books, and children's nonfiction."

The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter by Ian O'Connor: "Every Spring, Little Leaguers across the country mimic his stance and squabble over the right to wear his number, 2, the next number to be retired by the world's most famous ball team. Derek Jeter is their hero. He walks in the footsteps of Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, and Mantle, and someday his shadow will loom just as large. Yet he has never been the best player in baseball. In fact, he hasn't always been the best player on his team. But his intangible grace and Jordan-esque ability to play big in the biggest of postseason moments make him the face of the modern Yankee dynasty and of America's game.

          In The Captain, best-selling author Ian O'Connor draws and extensive reporting and unique access to Jeter that has spanned some fifteen years to reveal how a biracial kid from Michigan became New York's most beloved sports figure and enduring symbol of he steroid-free athlete. O'Connor takes us behind the scenes of a legendary baseball life and career, from Jeter's early struggles in minor leagues, when homesickness and errors in the field threatened a stillborn career , to his heady days as a Yankees superstar and prince of the city who squired some of the world's most beautiful women, to his tense battles with former best friend A-Rod. We also witness Jeter struggling to come to terms with his declining skills and the declining favor of the only organization he ever wanted to play for, leading to a contentious contract negotiation with the Yankees that left people wondering if Jeter might end his career in a uniform without pinstripes.

           Derek Jeter's march toward the Hall of Fame has been dignified and certain, but behind that leadership and hero's grace there are hidden struggles and complexities that have never been explored, until now. As Jeter closes in on 3,000 hits, a number no Yankee has ever touched, The Captain offers an incisive, exhilarating, and revealing new look at one of the game's greatest players in the gloaming of his career."

Jeter Unfiltered by Derek Jeter with Illustrations by Christopher Anderson: "The Legend. The Leader. The athlete. The man. - Derek Jeter's twentieth and final season in Major League Baseball truly marks the end of a sports era The New York Yankees' shortstop - a five-time World Series victor, team captain since 2003, and one of the greatest ballplayers off all time - is a beloved and inspiring role model who displays the indefinable qualities of a champion, on and off the field.

          Jeter Unfiltered is a powerful collection of never-before-published images taken over the course of Derek's final season. For the first time ever, fans will have unprecedented access to "The Captain," as Derek takes us behind the scenes - inside his home, at the stadium, working out, at his Turn 2 Foundation events, and more - as he looks back with candor and gratitude on his baseball career. The result is an intimate portrait bursting with personality, professionalism, and pride.

          Also featuring more than 100 thrilling archival shots, Jeter Unfiltered is the definitive and only book looking back on his career authorized by the Yankees shortstop. This is Jeter as you have never seen him before - unguarded, unapologetic...unfiltered."

Derek Jeter: Born to Be a Yankee - The New York Post's Commemorative Book By the Writers and Photographers of The New York Post: There isn't a summary/description on the back cover or inside cover but by the name - you can see that this is a book filled with previous written articles about Derek Jeter in the New York Post, over the years. It starts with an introduction written by former Yankees captain, Don Mattingly and ends with an article written in 2014 by Mike Vaccaro.

Derek Jeter: Excellence and Elegance - The New York Times' Collection Compiled and Edited by Tyler Kepner: Again with this one, there isn't a summary/description on the back cover or inside cover but by this name - this is a book filled with previous written articles about Derek Jeter in The New York Times, over the years. This book opens with a foreword written by former Yankees manager, Joe Torre (Mr. T as Jeter calls him) and ends with an article written by Tyler Kepler about Jeter's final home game. 

Updates!

Hey Everyone!

As you can see, I have only posted three posts for my weekly plan so it hasn't worked out as I planned. BUT if you have been following me on my public Facebook page, you will notice that I have decided to come up with another plan that might work. That plan is doing song of the week every week (might not be the same day each week) and also I will try to do a TV show/movie a week but alternate each week. Not sure how that will work out as, for me, doing a TV show and movie seems to be harder for me to write about but we'll see how things work out.

Now for this post, I wanted to update you on what has been going on. The first part was to update you on my original weekly plan which the previous paragraph is about. Other updates include my education and writing careers.

Education:
I am currently on winter break. For the fall semester, I took six classes (Writing about Writing; Script Writing; Business & Professional Writing; Poetry; Worlds of History; and Infant and Toddlers in Diverse Settings). So far, I have received three grades (A in script writing, B in worlds of history, B- in Poetry) which I'm proud of as this was one of my toughest semesters. As of now, I will only have two semesters left which will leave me to be finished with my Undergraduate studies in the fall!

Writing:
Currently, I am working on my first novel. I am 1 1/2 chapters away from completely finishing it. I have previously thought I finished it but throughout editing it, I decided to add two more chapters to bring more out of the novel. My goal is to finish the novel completely by this upcoming weekend then work on a query letter to send out to agents. We'll see how things go from there.

Well for now that is all I have to update for you. I mean, there is some more that I can update with you all but I'll let you know about more, later on. My next post on here would be possibly be a song of the week song but I won't know until I figure it out. Remember if you want to follow my writing career or anything of the sorts, you can follow me on any of the social networks on the right.

I hope you all had a great holiday and have a great New Year's!!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Song of the Week - Week One - The Heart Wants What It Wants

Hey Everyone!

I have decided that I will do my weekly plan that I wrote about in my last post. Well, right now the plan is that on Mondays, I will be doing a song of the week; on Wednesdays, I will be doing show of the week; and on Fridays, I will be doing movie of the week. Now remember these are going to me my personal favorites and I am open for anyone to comment on the posts (even on my other posts that don't involve the weekly plan). As I am doing the weekly plan, I will continue to write other posts when things come up.

So here we go! Time for Week One.

The song for this week will be Selena Gomez's new single "The Heart Wants What It Wants."

Even before we start listening to the song, we can picture what the song is about by just looking at the title and also looking into "who" the song could be about. The title makes an impact on many things but with this particular title - many people go through heartaches and deal with people telling them that what they are doing is wrong because it's hurting themselves but what if you can't help it? what if what your heart wants is not good for you? Do you listen to your heart or your brain? Especially if each one is telling you something differently. This is exactly what this song is saying.

We all know who this song is about. Even before Selena confirmed it to Ryan Seacrest on his radio show. We can just look at her relationship, the relationship that has been public for the past few years. The relationship that everyone seems to have an opinion on. Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber. (I am keeping my personal feelings about Bieber out of this post) Their relationship has been up and down for the past year/longer than a year. We don't know for sure everything.

But with this song, we can a glimpse of the inside, the inside of how Selena was dealing with everything has has been going on. She says this song was written and the video was filmed, a year ago. It makes you wonder, if it was written now or filmed now - would it be even more emotional than it is now? Honestly, either way - it is an emotional song that even if you haven't gone through what she has gone through or feel the kind of up and down love before, you can feel the emotion. Everyone has at least asked once in their life - should I listen to my heart, my head, or the people around me?

In order to feel the real emotion behind the song, you need to watch the video - listen from the beginning (starting with Selena's monologue), listen to every lyric, watch every moment. Don't miss a second. You can watch the video below:

To me, this song right now is one of Selena's best songs that she has sung. First, would be Who Says and then this song would be second. That is my opinion. Both songs have a powerful meaning behind them that anyone can listen to and feel something while listening to them.

There are many supporters behind Selena for this song. Selenators who have supported her since the beginning of her career, new fans because of this song (some who used to think she couldn't sing until this song), and her friends & family. But, there also have been those who haven't changed their thoughts about Selena but even have mentioned that she's "using" Bieber for fame, she's playing the "victim," etc. I, honestly don't know what to say to those people.

You have a girl who is 22 years old still trying to find out who she is in life and she has been through things that not many of us know about and she is sharing a small glimpse of her life with Justin. Singers and songwriters use music to let their emotions out instead of hiding them away inside which can be unhealthy. I give Selena a lot of credit for her sharing this song with the rest of the world. She could've just kept this a secret for just herself, for longer than a year (that she has).

I love this song and I can feel the emotion through the song; and I feel that more people should be listening to it and letting it touch your music soul. Also, if you want more background behind the song - make sure you watch Selena's interview with Ryan Seacrest about the song!

This Sunday, November 23 - Selena Gomez will be performing "The Heart Wants What it Wants" LIVE for the first time at the American Music Awards on ABC starting at 8 PM ET.

Well, that's it for the first song of the week post! Hope you enjoyed it. Please leave comment below if  you would like!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

New Weekly Plan!

Hey Everyone!

I have been trying to figure out a way to update my blog more often! I tweeted out yesterday asking my followers, other tweeters, and bloggers if they had any ideas for what I can post but unfortunately, I received no feedback...HOWEVER, once I tweeted that tweet - ideas just started coming to my mind. I thought about writing about music, movies, and shows. but I realized that one post would not be enough for either of those subjects so I have thought about a way how I can write a lot without writing a lot.

This brings me to the title of this blog post - New Weekly Plan! - and I will explain exactly what that is or what it could be. I was thinking about doing a weekly thing where I write a post about a particular song, movie, or show. The title of these posts would be - Song of the Week; Movie of the Week; Show of the week. These will be of my favorite music, movies, and shows. Now, I'm not sure if I'll do all three every week but that is an option that I am thinking about doing.

I, of course, will still be writing other posts if and when anything else comes up in my life but I thought this would be something exciting to try and a great way for you, my readers, to be involved! You can share your input on what I choose at the song/show/movie of the week.

I am still figuring out the exact details of with me doing this but I am excited for this plan of mine and I'm hoping that you will be too! I am also hoping that I will stick with this because I'm not sure if I'll have as many shows/movies as I do with songs, but we will see what happens as the time goes on.

Please let me know what you think in the comments below. (I am going to try and get started this weekend with my first weekly posts) Have a great day and week!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

What's Been Going On?

Hey Everyone!

So it's been a month since I last posted about something. I thought that I would let you all know what I have been up to. It hasn't been much, really so this isn't going to be that long of a post.

Mostly, I have been doing is school, writing, and sports.

School: I am taking six classes this semester (I know what you're thinking - You're crazy!). Three are English classes (Business and Professional Writing, Poetry, Advance Composition) and three are electives (Script Writing, Worlds of History, Infant and Toddlers in Diverse Society). This is my fourth year in college and I am planning on my final semester to be next Fall (Fall of 2015), as I still need 10 classes (mostly electives) after this semester.

Writing: Starting back in August, I decided to bring one of my unfinished novels back around. I am really focusing on the possibility of getting this novel published. At first, I thought editing was all that was needed but I have noticed that there were missing pieces in it, so I have decided to add a few chapters which right now would make the novel to be 25 chapters long. I have finished one of my new chapters but I am still in the process of writing the other two new chapters.

If you would like to stay up to date with my writing career - you can go LIKE my new public Facebook page. I post quotes about writing, updates on how I'm doing with my writing, etc. Also, if you would like a preview of my writing - you can go read some of the stories that I wrote for Fanfiction. Letting you know, it's High School Musical fanfiction but if you know me - you know how much of a fan I was/am of the High School Musical franchise.

Sports: The sports season, currently, is over until February/March but we did have a month of practice for our last meet of the season. At the last meet, I won Outstanding Female in Table Tennis. It was a fun time as usual. I have been having archery practice, which might be coming to an end as the winter air is coming and the sun is setting earlier. We are starting up the gym program again, this coming Tuesday so that should be fun. Next season marks the final season of my Junior career, which is crazy because I have been doing this and been a part of the Lightning Wheels since I was five years old. I'm going to enjoy next season and will continue the sports as I enter the adult division, after next year.

Besides being busy with the sports that I compete in, I have also been busy supporting the professional sports. Hockey is back! Let's Go Devils! I have gone to the final preseason game when the beat the New York Rangers, and I am hoping to get to a regular season game for this season. For baseball - unfortunately the Yankees did not make the playoffs but it was one of those "it was meant to be" moments as Derek Jeter ended his career with a walk-off win at home and RBI-single at Fenway. (I may do a Derek Jeter post so I will not be going into great detail in this post). This Tuesday starts the World Series (San Francisco Giants vs. Kansas City Royals). I am not picking a favorite as I picked both teams to make the World Series, so I will be fine with whoever wins. Now for football, ehh, we can skip that right? The Jets aren't doing that great. Are we surprised? No? Yeah, me neither.

In football, my family take part in the Weekly Pick'Em on NFL.com where we pick the winners of each game, each week. I am currently in fifth place of the group and I am hoping to move up some more, but we'll see what happens. Yay football!

Well, I think that's everything that has been going on in the past couple months. If there are anymore updates, I will let you know and write another post. My next post might be about Derek Jeter, as I feel I should write one since I'm a huge fan of his and have a lot to say about him.

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

It's Been Awhile

Hey Everyone!

I know, I know...It's been awhile, more like two months. I was going to try and write a post each day that I was in Iowa but even though there was time, there wasn't time. So, I have decided that before I start back up in school for my fourth year, I will update you all on how this Summer has gone and is going. What do you all think about that? 

Let's first start with the National Junior Disability Championships (NJDC) that were held in Ames, Iowa during the week of July 5th-12th. After having tons of fun on the bus ride on the way to Minnesota, we decided to do another road trip with the bus, as well with the same awesome bus driver! First half of the ride out to Iowa was fun, watching movies, reading books, listening to music, laughing and talking with each other. One of the movies that stood out to me, of course, was watching Eight Below (my favorite of Paul Walker's [RIP]) which was one of the movies that I brought. Reason why it stood out was because of what happened when this following scene happened:

The whole bus jumped in surprise when the seal came out of the whale because it was something that no one but my mom and I were expecting it (even I jumped, it gets me every time). It was a little funny seeing everyone jump out of their seats because it brought be back to the day when I saw the movie for the first time in the theaters and everyone jumped up. Sorry team for not warning you! 

Now, another moment that stands out on the bus ride was when broke down in Indiana due to mechanical issues with the bus. We had stopped a few times before our bus driver pulled off at a rest stop while we could get our bus be fixed. We were stuck in Indiana for a about five-six hours but once we got back on the road, we were about seven hours away from our destination. 

Now, after the road trip, we are now in Ames, Iowa getting ready to compete! My first competition was the first day of competition and that was archery. I had a rough time during the first round due to issues with my bow and arrows but I improved during the second round. I shot a 100 which wasn't my worst but not my best either. My next competition was table tennis and I had very close matches that led to game 5 but overall, I won one match but two of my teams made top three of all the athletes! Two days later, I had both field and track which was my final day of competition. For my 100 meters race, my time was 34.22 seconds and I was also in a relay which did great/awesome! For my field events, the following distances were my best that day: Discus - 5.93m, Javelin - 7.49m, Shot Put - 2.88m. All distances were close to personal bests. Overall, I had a great week in competitions and had a fun time with my friends, teammates, officials, event organizers, coaches, families, and more. Children's Lightning Wheels won 2nd place in the large team division! Yay team! 

Our ride home seemed like it went quicker than the ride out there and we got home a little earlier than planned which always feels good. Here are some pictures from the week. Also, if you want more information for the week of this year's Nationals: NJDC 2014. 

 

So, that is the update for Nationals. What else have I been up to this Summer? Well, two days before we left for Nationals, my sister had a new baby - a boy! I met my new nephew the day after we came home from Nationals and he is very adorable. Also, my other nephew (7 years old) stayed with us for a week, a couple weeks ago. It was an interesting week.  When Summer comes around, I always go to work with my Mom to help her with shredding, filing, putting together packets, etc. 

So far, I have done two other things Summer that were a blast. Last Monday, I went to the Somerset Patriots game with my parents, aunt, and uncle which I always enjoy doing. It was a hot day so I wasn't able to stay in the spot where I normally sit the whole time so I moved to the back for the shade. Good chicken fingers and french fries which is usually what I get when I go to ball games. I don't like hot dogs. Well, I do but I don't. That's a story for another time. Sadly, the Patriots lost but it was still a fun day.

The final event that I just recently was at the 19th Annual Softball Benefit Tournament for Children's Lightning Wheels, this past Saturday, which is an event that I go to every year. This tournament is held every year to raise money for my team and I always have a blast. This year was no different, maybe even more fun than other years (don't know why..lol). I have a new nickname from the guys (players, umpires, event organizers), and it is The Commissioner (Commish) which I will enjoy having from now on. I had lots of fun seeing, hanging out, and laughing with the players who I have known for awhile and meeting many new ones. I can't wait for next year and excited for it because it will be the 20th Annual Tournament and it's going to be awesome! Also can't wait to see everyone next year. 

I have more pictures from the event, but the above collage are four of my favorite pictures from the day. Once again, on behalf of the Lightning Wheels, thank you to all the players, sponsors, umpires, and event organizers for another great day!

Well, that is everything that I have done this Summer. Oh! I forgot to mention that for my Spring 2014 Semester for school, I made the Dean's list. I was very happy when I achieved that honor and I'm going to push myself for my last couple (few) semesters to make the list again. 

I hope everyone has/had a great Summer and if you are returning to school, have a great year and push through everything. 

I am not sure when my next post will be but it will be sooner than two months (maybe). 

Until Next Time 

CGoerlich <3

Birthday Week!

Hey Everyone!

I had a great week this week and I couldn't wait until I could share it with you all! But first, how were everyone's holidays (Easter/Passover)??  I hope you all had a great one! I had a great Easter, getting to spend time with my family and some friends, watching Yankees and hockey playoffs (even though the Devils aren't in it). It was a great day which lead to another great day, MY BIRTHDAY! :) Not just any birthday but my 21st birthday!

My birthday was the Monday after Easter making it April 21st and it was another great day. Went to school and archery practice which equals spending time with friends and then spent the night with my parents which was awesome.  For my first drink, I tried Frozen Blue Hawaiian and probably shocking to my family, I liked it! Why shocking? Because well I'm a very picky eater/drinker as I usually only drink either water or Sprite and eat pasta, chicken, steak, and some other foods. So they were happy they did find something that I enjoyed.  It was a great day.

Another great day happened this week (birthday week) and that was yesterday, Thursday, April 25th! Want to know what happened? If you are family or friends, you probably already know what happened but I GOT A CAR! Yep, a car. I have been waiting to get a car for awhile and thanks to town's fundraising and help from some other people, I got it. I would like to thank whoever has helped me get this because again, if it wasn't for you all, this wouldn't have happened like this so THANK YOU!

 I am already enjoying having a car and excited to be able to drive. My car is a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan and it has hand controls (thanks to Mobility Works).  Due to one of my friend's request, I may post an istagram video or even a YouTube video of me getting in the car and stuff :) So keep a lookout for that! Again, I'm very thankful for everyone's help for this to happen and can't wait to get out and drive some more! I was on Cloud 9 yesterday and was still on it today, I believe.

This week has been awesome and I don't know if I could've asked for a better one! Next weekend is the first track meet of the season and I'm excited for it. You will probably get another post from me after that meet or after next weekend. We'll see. But thank you to all my readers for reading! Have a great weekend!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3

Updates!

Hey all!

So it's been a few months since I have written a post. I am sorry! I really did mean to write more but life has gotten in the way but I am hoping to write more as the time goes on now, especially now that the new season has begun and I have a feeling all great things are to come this year! But that's for another time. Right now, for this post, I thought why not catch you up with what I have been up to since December (my last post). What do you all think about that? Great? Good. And so we're off!

• January marked the beginning of my second semester of my third year in college. Can't believe it's been three years already since I graduated high school in 2011! This semester, I am taking interesting classes that will help me further my writing skills, computer skills, and knowledge. I am taking the following classes this semester:

1. Disabled Person in American Society
2. Media Journalism
3. Writing Fiction
4. History of Rhetoric in Writing
5. Writing for Cyberspace
   
• So far, this semester is going great and I have already learned so much! There is still about a month and couple of weeks left of this semester and I am looking forward to what else I will learn. For my Writing for Cyberspace class, I am working on a group blog with two of my friends in that class called Bark. and it is all about dogs (how to take care of, treats, food, parks & beaches, etc.) so I was wondering if you all could go check that out! You can click here - Bark. and also for this class, I am working on a Paralympic Movement website so I hope you check that out when I have it done!

• February marked the beginning of a new sports season! I have been going to the gym with my team since around October but now all the sports have started up again! February 27th was our team's opening dinner which brought most of the members of Children's Lightning Wheels back together, as well meeting new teammates/friends. Then March 6th was our first indoor practice = we're off! Some of the members of the team had a swim meet on the Saturday after our opening dinner and did very well. Archery is plan to start this upcoming Monday, and as planned this Thursday will be our first outdoor practice if the weather agrees with us!  I have a feeling this season is going to be another great one and I am looking forward to meeting new people, enjoy the sports that I have, help new members learn new things, and reach my goals that I have set out for myself for this season!
  
• Oh also, I have started a newsletter for my team which helps all the members and non-members keep up with what we are are doing and if you would like one, please let me know through twitter, instagram, Facebook message (if we're friends), or even on YouTube. All links to my social media sites are on the right  side bar -------->

• Raise your hand if you watched the Paralympics, last month, on television! (How many of you actually raised their hands? lol) How awesome were the Paralympians and sports? Awesome right! I know a lot of it was in the middle of the night, that's what happens when the country is about 11 hours ahead of us, but anyways it was still awesome that they were LIVE on television. United States won two gold (one of them being the US men's sled hockey team beating Russia), seven silver medals, and nine bronze medals. This was a great step towards the Paralympic Movement especially when I saw many comments from people who want even more television cover for the Games and also the great support the sled hockey teams got from Olympians and NHL teams, here in the U.S. This was a great experience, getting able to watch these sports on the television and hopefully there will be more hours to come. Remember to keep a lookout for 2016 for the Rio Summer Paralympics for some more amazing athletes and sports in the summer! :) 

So that's basically what I have been up to lately, also working on some side things with my writing that I hope you all will be seeing soon and I have a good feeling that you will. What stuff am I working on? Well, time will tell because I don't like ruining surprises. So, I hope you all have a great start to the Spring, especially after that crazy Winter we had, and have enjoyed this updated blog post. I promise my next one will not months and months away. Thank you!

Until Next Time

CGoerlich <3