We Have A Winner!
Congratulations to the winner of the Jeff Probst Bobblehead:
(PS: We had 81 comments, I rank order those--and then use Random.org to generate a winning "number.")
************
Now, onto today's post.
Last night was Episode 3 of Survivor South Pacific--and I lived to see another day in the game!
(Can I get a woop woop!)
Here's a deleted scene from last night's episode that explains how I'm feeling at this point in the game:
And here's a photo taken during this stage of the game
(see, we had some down-time):
 |
| Me, Elyse Umemoto, and Whitney Duncan. CBS copyright, Monty Brinton, 2011. PS: This is taken during Episode 3 time-period. |
For today's post I thought I'd answer some of the questions I receive from emails, friends, and family about me, my family, or what it's like to watch each week.
PS: I'm under strict legal commitments NOT to share details of the show's production/outcome/etc. So, there are lots of things I just am not able to answer. Sorry.
Your Questions Answered
1. Are you Mormon?
Yes. I converted to my faith when I was in college. A little over 20 years ago. (Thank you Huckvale and Langford tribes!)
2. Does your tribe know you are Mormon?
I can't speak about the details of the show. It may or may not come out. Sorry. I will say that I wear my religion on my heart, so I hope that comes across in most of what I do in life.
3. Does your tribe know your children are adopted?
I can't speak about those details. Sorry. It may or may not come out. I will say that our family speaks on behalf of the Utah Foster Care Foundation regularly. It's something we love love love to share. In fact, we are speaking tonight!
4. How do your kids feel about seeing their mom on tv?
My 12 year old daughter's answer, "WE LOVE IT." [This goal and audition process was definitely a family experience. So, even though super comfortable to see your mom cry on tv or fall in a challenge, I personally am so happy they get to see their mom live out the experience.]
5. How did your family "survive" without their mom for so long?
With an incredible dad and lots of faith. Literally. Our ward (Mormon-speak for "congregation ") helped so much! People brought dinners, moms arrange hair-doos, and friends literally took their vacation time in order to help juggle the load. Being a single parent is not easy... and my husband is Superman, in my mind. I've often said that I'd like to see the footage or SHOW of what went on at home while I was gone playing in the game. It's like the Home Edition of Survivor. 8)
6. Why did you want to be on Survivor? Reality tv seems . . . well, not like something you'd do.
This interview/clip best explains that:
7. How does it feel to be on tv?
I'm nervous every week the show airs. I think because my family and friends gave me so much support in order to do this--I just want them to be proud. And I'm literally watching this for the first time--with 10 million other viewers, so I have no idea what's going to happen each week. It's a roller coaster ride for sure.
8. Do people recognize you in public? How do your students respond to having you on the show?
There are definitely a lot of loyal Survivor fans. I know, because I'm one of them. LOL! Yes, people do notice our family more now than before. I'm just now getting used to taking pictures with people in the grocery store or at the gas station. It still seems silly to me. And, the first few times people asked, I declined and said, "You don't want a photo of me." Then, our son said, "Mom, you can't shut people down like that. Take the pictures." And I think once he said that I realized, "Oh, I'm Survivor Dawn to them, not Dawn-the-mom."
My students. Hmmm. I think they are supportive and kind. I try not to discuss it in class. It has to be a little awkward for them, I mean, having your teacher on national tv is just funny. And given this situation, it's even more funny. (PS: I apologize now if I embarrass any of my students.)
8. Did you win?
We'll find out at the LIVE finale on December 18th. (Yes, we've got a lot of tv ahead of us.)
9. Is Ozzy really cute in person? And, is Albert single?
I can't answer the Albert question. I may or may not know him. He's on the other tribe.
BUT, yes, if Ozzy were my son, I'd be proud. He's pretty on the inside and out.
Well, I hope that answers some of your questions. I will try and do more over the coming weeks.
THANK YOU for all of the love, kindness, and support friends. It means so much.
