Here in Michigan all the buzz is about the North American Auto Show which got started this weekend. I hear about it every time I turn on the radio or TV. Every time I hear about it, my heart beats a little faster because I know the day of my speech is approaching. Every year the Detroit Auto Dealers Association and State Farm Insurance hosts Automotive Education Day at the show. They bus in students from schools in the Detroit area. This year they are expecting 5,600 kids, which is the most they have ever had, and they asked me to be the speaker.

It is an honor to be able to do this but I am really nervous about it. I have never spoken in front of that many people before. But mostly I’m nervous because I really want to do a good job. I want to connect with the kids, I want them to be able to relate to me, and then maybe something I say will stick with them and inspire them. I’m trying to convey that they can be successful and have a career that is meaningful to them through dedication, education and confidence. I’m also trying to convey that there is a lot of job opportunity within the racing and the automotive industry.

I wrote the speech and had it approved before I left for Christmas break. Now I’m working on memorizing it. I went on a drive down to Indiana on Saturday. Being the multi-tasker that I am, I worked on memorizing it while I drove. I also worked on it when I’m on the treadmill at the gym.



I watched some football over the weekend. I actually enjoy the pregame shows as much as the game. I feel I can learn a lot about being a successful competitor. I have recently become a big Tony Romo fan. Early on, I noticed his unwavering confidence. Even the commentators pointed out his confidence level and they contributed that to his successes. I think that’s important. I did feel sorry for him though when he dropped that snap on Saturday. I’m sure he will learn from it, forget about, move on and be a better player because of it. I can relate to that. It was interesting to hear one of the TV analysts talking about how good athletes have amnesia. They learn from experiences but they don’t dwell on the bad things nor do they dwell on the good things. I forget exactly how they put it but it was something along those lines and it sounded believable.

Tom Brady, if you are reading this, don’t worry; I’m not a traitor. I like Tony Romo, but you are still my favorite. Just look at the little shrine of you that I have in my office. I just recently got the helmet as a Christmas present. The bobble head and cards are from some of my very cool fans. The Pats won on Sunday, so that made me happy.

I am off to kickboxing. Talk to you tomorrow.