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<channel>
	<title>Gillian Larson &#187; gillian</title>
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	<link>http://gillianlarson.com</link>
	<description>Gillian&#039;s personal Web Site and Fan Forum</description>
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		<title>Motivational Speaking Engagements</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/motivational-speaking-engagements/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/motivational-speaking-engagements/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:03:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=277</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Please watch my promotional video to get a flavor of my talk. I have now attended more than 321 events at organizations, schools, corporations, service groups and more. I have been the keynote speaker, I have been the entertainment, I am everywhere delivering my message of being the best you can be because you CAN be.. I have delivered]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Please watch my promotional video to get a flavor of my talk. I have now attended more than 321 events at organizations, schools, corporations, service groups and more. I have been the keynote speaker, I have been the entertainment, I am everywhere delivering my message of being the best you can be because you CAN be..<span id="more-277"></span> I have delivered my message to thousands. I actually do not believe in motivational speeches as I believe that motivation must come from within. I believe my talks are inspirational and I hope  something I say waters that seed of a dream in your heart and mind and helps it grow into a fulfilled dream.</p>
<p>That makes me the million dollar winner of my season!  You CAN do anything you want to do if it is reasonable. Do NOT listen to people who tell you you cant.  YOU are the only one who knows what YOU are capable of doing. Do IT today.  I do not charge for local schools and service groups. I charge $30 for gas costs out of the Temecula Valley area. Travel costs covered  for all distant travel.  Coorporate bookings negotiated. </p>
<p>Please read some of the testimonials on my webpage. People seem to love what I say and I love saying it. School kids from K-12 all sit and listen for 45 minutes. It is fascianting to watch.</p>
<p>Call me today at (781) 962-8234 or <a href="http://gillianlarson.com/contact-me/">contact me</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRHSSubdtIY" target="_blank">
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRHSSubdtIY">www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRHSSubdtIY</a></p>
<p></a></p>
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		<title>Some travel, some write ups</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/some-travel-some-write-ups/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/some-travel-some-write-ups/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Feb 2011 02:48:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=270</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Want to get some tips from my travels ? Check out My Life of Travel and and search for &#8216;gillian larson&#8217; in the member search.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Want to get some tips from my travels ? Check out <a href="www.mylifeoftravel.com" target="_blank">My Life of Travel</a> and and search for &#8216;gillian larson&#8217; in the member search.</p>
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		<title>Reality Rally Buffs are here</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-buffs-are-here/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-buffs-are-here/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:28:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=260</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Anyone who watches Survivor or knows about Survivor, knows what a Buff® is. To me the buff is the symbol of persistance and belief in oneself. Now Reality Rally has become a demonstration that good things  come out of any experience and Reality Rally is that.  RealityRally now has their own Custom Buff. YOU TOO CAN]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Anyone who watches Survivor or knows about Survivor, knows what a <strong>Buff®</strong> is. To me the buff is the symbol of persistance and belief in oneself. Now Reality Rally has become a demonstration that good things  come out of any experience and Reality Rally is that.  RealityRally now has their own Custom <strong>Buff</strong>. YOU TOO CAN HAVE ONE<span id="more-260"></span></p>
<p><strong>Planet Buff </strong>has designed our very own buff for Reality Rally that is now available through their website. <a href="http://www.planetbuff.com">www.planetbuff.com</a></p>
<p>Check it out,buy one today and you will be helping support our charity, Michelle&#8217;s Place which is a local breast cancer resource center that provides low cost and no cost services to people affected by breast cancer and their families. <a href="http://www.michellesplace.org">www.michellesplace.org</a></p>
<p>Reality Rally is being produced in tribute to Michelle who died at 26 of breast Cancer and Jenn Lyon who died at 37 and my brother Chris Dalton who died at 56 of pancreatic cancer.</p>
<p>You do want one of our<strong> buffs</strong> and it is very easy to get them. If you want an autographed Reality Rally buff signed by the creator of Reality Rally email me at <a href="mailto:gillian@realityrally.com">gillian@realityrally.com</a>. The creator is me BTW. !!!! Yea and also a Survivor Gabon contestant !!! that is why I have a buff from Survivor and now I have a Reality Rally <strong>buff.</strong></p>
<p>Also check it all out at <a href="http://www.realityrally.com">www.realityrally.com</a></p>
<p>Buy your <strong>buff </strong>today while supplies last. I appreciate it and the funds it raises for Michelles Place will help bring a much needed service to someone fighting for their lives. You can make a difference.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">&#8220;There is no greater mistake than he who does nothing because he can only do a little&#8221;  Edmund Burke.</span></strong></p>
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		<title>Reality Rally has taken off like roller coaster, check it all out.</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-has-taken-off-like-roller-coaster-check-it-all-out/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-has-taken-off-like-roller-coaster-check-it-all-out/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:28:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=254</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When I envisioned and created Reality Rally during my 5 hour daily walks in the jungles and on the beaches of Gabon,Africa, I only hoped it would be so amazing&#8230;..and it is. Thanks to an awesome Steering committee and the entire town of Temecula, Southern California.   People asked me after Survivor, &#8220;what will you do now]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When I envisioned and created Reality Rally during my 5 hour daily walks in the jungles and on the beaches of Gabon,Africa, I only hoped it would be so amazing&#8230;..and it is. Thanks to an awesome Steering committee and the entire town of Temecula, Southern California.  </p>
<p><span id="more-254"></span></p>
<p>People asked me after Survivor, &#8220;what will you do now that you got on Survivor&#8221;?  Well,my many Motivational Speaking engamenents and the organizing of this amazing Reality Star event ,Reality Rally has become my new passion. It is in tribute to 3 wonderful people who died too young from Cancer and it is all a fundraiser for Michelle&#8217;s Place, a local breast cancer resource center. Read all about the who, why, when,where etc on our website. <a href="http://www.realityrally.com">www.realityrally.com</a>   a &#8220;Fun for Funds&#8221; weekend event.</p>
<p> I  have been so busy with all this and my family that I dont have much time to write all about it. Please &#8220;friend me&#8221; on Face book, go to our fan page Reality Rally on Face book and watch it all develop and grow into the premier Reality Star fundraiser it is already being called. I am here,there and everywhere and almost meet myself coming and going&#8230;.but then I always loved dozens of balls in the air. Anyone who knows me,knows that.</p>
<p>Help spread the word in your world, we will appreciate any promotion you can give us.</p>
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		<title>I am alive again on Survivor, in South Africa</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/i-am-alive-again-on-survivor-in-south-africa/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/i-am-alive-again-on-survivor-in-south-africa/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:11:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=251</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am the only South African to play in the US game of Survivor and proud of it. I went into the game with the spirit of Ubuntu by which I lead my life. This came up during all my interviews and it fascinated the Survivor Production crew.   As you may know I tried to]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I am the only South African to play in the US game of Survivor and proud of it. I went into the game with the spirit of Ubuntu by which I lead my life. This came up during all my interviews and it fascinated the Survivor Production crew.  <span id="more-251"></span></p>
<p>As you may know I tried to get on Survivor for 8 years, sent in 15 applications, went to 2 casting calls, had 2 face to face interviews, one long phone interview and was offered a place on 5 others shows  including The Amazing Race. I never gave up and would not have ever given up until I made it onto Survivor. The theme of my Motivational Speaking engagements is “Dream it, believe it, prepare for it and DO It “ and I did just that. Everyone out there must do the same for whatever their dream or goal is. YOU CAN DO IT IF YOU BELIEVE in YOURSELF.  My last video application was filmed in South Africa as I abseiled off Table Mountain with Abseil Africa, dived with Great Whites with Brian McFarland, Danced at the Shona Cultural Center and fed an elephant up to my elbows at Sun City. They were looking for an adventurous Granny and at 61 I fit that bill.</p>
<p>I am one of 8 to play the game over 60. Another accomplishment for this South African player.  I now come alive again in the game of Survivor down in my homeland.  I wanted you to know and so you can tell your friends. I am the only South African to play in the US game of Survivor and proud of it. I went into the game with the spirit of Ubuntu by which I lead my life. This came up during all my interviews and it fascinated the Survivor Production crew.  </p>
<p>I am published this week in TV Plus Magazine by Clayton Morar  and I will be having radio interviews in South Africa later this week. Don’t know the stations yet.</p>
<p> Since Survivor I have devoted my time to giving back in many ways. I do Speaking engagements encouraging people to be the best they can be and never give up. I have talked to thousands and the feedback I get is worth a million dollars. I also do charity appearances and am organizing an amazing and huge event in my town next April. Check it out. Reality Rally in Temecula Valley</p>
<p><a href="http://www.realityrally.com/">www.realityrally.com</a></p>
<p>I intend to have a major South African  presence and flavour in Reality Rally so I am asking for any leads any of you might have. I am looking for trips and goods for prizes and to auction off for the fundraising.</p>
<p>Looking for travel trips, items, safari trips, clothing, adventure opportunities, anything. The event will have International exposure due to the Reality Star component so it will be good for South African publicity. “Use me South Africa”</p>
<p>Please pass my info on to anyone who can do something for me.   I will always have my South African soul and thank my country for forming me in my youth, making me the person I am.</p>
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		<title>Reality Rally in Temecula Valley is up and running</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-in-temecula-valley-is-up-and-running/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/reality-rally-in-temecula-valley-is-up-and-running/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Aug 2010 04:58:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=246</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[“Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.” &#8211; Edmund Burke. www.realityrally.com Reality Rally in Temecula Valley was a seed planted in my heart after I was booted from my game of “Survivor” in Gabon. During my 5 hour walks in the jungle and on the beaches]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>“<strong>Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.</strong>” &#8211; Edmund Burke.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.realityrally.com"><strong>www.realityrally.com</strong></a></p>
<p>Reality Rally in Temecula Valley was a seed planted in my heart after I was booted from my game of “Survivor” in Gabon. During my 5 hour walks in the jungle and on the beaches I came to realize that my game was not over</p>
<p><span id="more-246"></span></p>
<p>My game would continue through all the good I would now have to opportunity to do using my “Survivor Status” as a platform.  I had a passion and drive to get on Survivor for 8 years because I <strong>wanted </strong>to do it and I <strong>did</strong>. I will now put the same passion and determination into  “Reality Rally“ because I <strong>need </strong>to and <strong>will</strong>.  I heard Edmund Burke and it will only be “my little” but “my little” combined with yours will amount to a huge, generous donation of time, energy and funds. Join us in a fight against cancer and support those fighting that battle.</p>
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<td>Reality Rally is in tribute to 3 wonderful people who succumbed far too young, to the dreaded disease of cancer. They are my inspiration and energy force. They were fun adventurous positive people who made a difference to people around them and always “paid it forward” in any way they could but now they cannot but I can and I invite you to do the same.  The idea was a little seed planted but with all the combined talent and time of many wonderful people who have joined forces with me it has become a mighty oak. It will “take a village” and that village is Temecula, CaliforniaCheck it all out www.realityrally.com<br />
Reality Rally is a three-day weekend event intended to raise funds for a charity of choice while highlighting the unique locations your community has to offer.  Race Day is the main event. Teams consisting of <a href="http://www.realityrally.com/stars">Reality Stars</a> and the public who want to play a 4-hour &#8220;Amazing Race&#8221; kind of game, will race throughout your community in a competition involving crazy activities and fun challenges, all for the coveted trophy, cash prizes, and most importantly raising funds for the charity of choice.</p>
<p>Teams will be given route instructions taking them throughout the community to Challenge Checkpoints. They will choose challenges and follow clues to complete in activities within the race while highlighting the reality shows represented by the <a href="http://www.realityrally.com/stars">Reality Star</a> participants. It is also a great opportunity to highlight and promote what your town represents and is so proud of.  The checkpoint choices could be physical, mental, focus or fun. The other event days include mingling with the <a href="http://www.realityrally.com/stars">Reality Stars</a> at special events for all participants and the public.  These events include registration, opening ceremonies, kick off celebrations prior to Race Day, the Awards Ceremony, and Closing Ceremony.  Reality Rally is a total win-win for everyone as it will provide many opportunities for the racers and the community.  The opportunity to meet many of your favorite <a href="http://www.realityrally.com/stars">Reality Stars</a>, hear their stories, and spend the day racing the rally with them. As a Racer you can at last have your chance to challenge yourself and do a mini &#8220;Amazing Race&#8221; type game which many people dream of doing. It gives the community an opportunity to showcase their assets and what attracts people to their part of the world while bringing everyone together in a common bond in one event that highlights them all. The public will see every event in one place at one time.</td>
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		<title>Reality Rally in Temecula Valley &#8211; Fun for Funds April 13-15, 2012</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/temecula-valley-reality-rally-fun-for-funds-april-15-17-2011/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/temecula-valley-reality-rally-fun-for-funds-april-15-17-2011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 May 2010 17:04:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=234</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Check it all out at www.realityrally.com Sign up for the newsletter to be kept informed. Do you have what it takes to beat a Reality Star &#8221; at their own game. ??  Can you Beat the Best and Race with the Rest. ? Race around our town with or against TV  Reality Stars collecting clues,]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Check it all out at <a href="http://www.realityrally.com">www.realityrally.com</a></p>
<p>Sign up for the newsletter to be kept informed.</p>
<p>Do you have what it takes to beat a Reality Star &#8221; at their own game. ??  Can you Beat the Best and Race with the Rest. ? Race around our town with or against TV  Reality Stars collecting clues, choosing challenges or just come out and meet them.  A weekend of  Fun for Funds to benefit Michelles Place, our area cancer resource center.Full information  and a website dedicated to the event is under construction and will be up soon.<span id="more-234"></span>Check out the press release to pique your interest.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.pe.com/localnews/temecula/stories/PE_News_Local_D_srace17.e70092b.html">http://www.pe.com/localnews/temecula/stories/PE_News_Local_D_srace17.e70092b.html</a></p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.nctimes.com/news/local/temecula/article_830cefff-d4ec-5f51-a940-53667ae70fa5.html" target="_blank">http://www.nctimes.com/news/local/temecula/article_830cefff-d4ec-5f51-a940-53667ae70fa5.html</a></p>
<p>Please watch my site for full info as it unfolds.</p>
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		<title>Looking for a motivational speaker?</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/looking-for-a-motivational-speaker/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/looking-for-a-motivational-speaker/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:51:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=218</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am frequently asked how Survivor has changed my life and the major way is the opportunity and privilege of getting in front of as many people as I can to tell them that they too have a dream, with a flame that burns within and never to allow anyone to put their dream down,]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I am frequently asked how Survivor has changed my life and the major way is the opportunity and privilege of getting in front of as many people as I can to tell them that they too have a dream, with a flame that burns within and never to allow anyone to put their dream down, snuffing out their flame. <span id="more-218"></span>In my game on Survivor Gabon, Jeff snuffed out my flame because my tribe had decided I was someone that did not suit their tribe so they voted me out. But guess what, NO ONE will ever put out the flame I have inside of me and I am still in that game by getting in front of as many people as I can leveraging my &#8220;fame as a Survivor &#8221; <img src='http://gillianlarson.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' />   I do not charge for school assemblies, faculty meetings, service organizations, church groups , parents groups, senior citizen groups or any group who is looking for a speaker or a fundraiser. I only ask for travel expenses if it is more that a 2 hr round trip so I do not go in the poorhouse doing what I love. I do charge for larger corporations and a fee is negotiated.</p>
<p>I did 96 talks in a year, have now done 110 and people are loving what I have to say and I am loving all the feedback I get from everyone. I do not believe anyone can motivate as that has to come from within but I do seem to inspire. The feedback I have received has truly made me the Million Dollar Winner of my season and a few testimonials are on this website to attest to that.</p>
<p>My message applies to anyone from 2 to 102 as it is all about my motto of Dream it, Believe it, Prepare for it and DO IT. Have persistence and never give up. Work towards that dream as long as it is reasonable and if you do the preparation it takes.  If one approach is not getting you where you want to be then try another but keep trying. If a 61 year old woman can achieve her dream after 8 years when thousands and thousands of people try to get on Survivor then anything is possible. I have been one of 301 contestants and one of 7 over 60. My dream however was not just to prove that I could get on the game despite all odds but to have a platform to turn that game into something long lasting and my story is powerful and far reaching. The message is also that sometimes things do not turn out the way one hopes but it is how you deal with it that determines the path of the rest of your life.  My talks are generally 45 minutes which includes 10 mins of photos from my game and then time for questions and there are always many asked. My audiences are always totally interested and focused on my message and stories of Survivor. I have talked to groups of 10 to 5000 in a school PSA and Quad party. The average is 300. I have photos and write ups from some of the engagements on my Facebook page.</p>
<p>Contact me for bookings and I will send out some brochures. I know you have a school,a group or a fundraiser  that is waiting to hear my message that is inspirational, entertaining and free.</p>
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		<title>Testimonials from my speaking engagements.</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/testimonials-from-my-speaking-engagements/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/testimonials-from-my-speaking-engagements/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 07:29:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://gillianlarson.com/?p=211</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I had the pleasure and privilege of doing 198  Motivational Talks since early 2009Here are some of the testimonials I have received. There are many many more plus the feedback I get from many of them makes me the million dollar winner of Gabon. Gillian Larson brought an inspiring and positive tone to our annual National Honor]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I had the pleasure and privilege of doing 198  Motivational Talks since early 2009<span id="more-211"></span>Here are some of the testimonials I have received. There are many many more plus the feedback I get from many of them makes me the million dollar winner of Gabon.</p>
<p>Gillian Larson brought an inspiring and positive tone to our annual National Honor Society induction ceremony.  Her experiences as a contender on the CBS program <em>Survivor Gabon</em> were interwoven with her challenging mantra to attain the most challenging of life’s goals – “Dream it, Believe in it, Prepare for it and Do it!”  Gillian’s presentation reached the faculty, students, parents and extended families at our program. With a wonderful sense of humor and a positive approach, she captivated and encouraged each one of us to reach for the best in our own lives. This was a wonderful way to make a special night extraordinary.</p>
<p>Eleventh graders in my English classes at Vista Murrieta High School were thrilled to have Gillian Larson “pop in” to visit. She was invited by our administration to participate at a rally to celebrate the success of our student effort during the CST testing that semester and had provided a wonderful campus television spot to challenge the student body to give its best during the weeks of the testing.  After my students completed a journal response to her motto for reaching goals, Gillian was introduced and interacted with the class in an open dialogue about her adventure and about the students’ life goals. The day included a class photo with our “star” visitor and an inspiring question and discussion session.  Gillian brought a fresh and positive approach to a diverse classroom population.  Her pictures and motto remain posted on the classroom assignment boards.</p>
<p>Arch Aitcheson. English Teacher  Vista Murrieta High School, Murrieta, CA</p>
<p><strong>Gillian Larson entertains, encourages, and brings hope.  My sixth grade students were excited when they heard a member of the hit show Survivor was going to speak at their school.  As I watched my students as Gillian spoke, I saw them sitting still, engaged, and eager to ask questions when the time arose.  This is unusual for my sixth grade class as they aren&#8217;t easily engaged, let alone sitting still.  Gillian speaks in a way that helps you visualize what it&#8217;s like to be on a reality show.  She goes into detail about her experiences trying to get on the show as well as when she was on the show.  She brings along her Survivor torch and the shirt she wore on the show which really brought the show to life.  The students were in awe.  More importantly though, Gillian talks to the kids about hope, perseverance and living their dream.  GO FOR IT!  I wanted Gillian to know how much we appreciated her taking time out of her day to talk to our school, so I asked my students to write a thank you letter to Gillian.  I told my students I would not be reading their letters because what they had to say was for Gillian and not for me.  I asked the students to write about what they liked most about the assembly and what dream they wanted to pursue.  A week later our class received a letter from Gillian.  Gillian Larson wrote a personal letter to my sixth grade class thanking them for their letters.  She also included survivor photos personalized to each student.  The kids were so excited.  Thank you Gillian for showing my students that if you have a dream you can achieve that dream by working hard and never giving up!<br />
Susan Meath.  Sixth Grade Teacher    Peyton Elementary School<br />
Stockton, California</strong></p>
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<p>Gillian came to Helix High School to talk to my students about following their dreams.  My students are considered at risk of not graduating.  They have had very little success in school, but have all showed the desire to succeed.  I invited Gillian to talk about Survivor and the lengths she went to get on the show.  She spoke about much more.  Gillian&#8217;s talk reinforced what I was trying to teach them in terms of setting goals and achieving them.  For months after her visit, they were still quoting her saying &#8220;Dream it&#8221; and &#8220;Don&#8217;t give up&#8221;.   Not all were big Survivor fans; however they all became Gillian Larson fans after she spoke.  I still see many of them in the halls and they ask if she is coming back.</p>
<p>Rick Fortin, Helix High School, San Diego</p>
<p><strong>Gillian Larson is an inspiration to people of all ages.  Her positive and energetic attitude is contagious.  She helps others believe that they can do anything they set their minds to, reminding them that they each have a &#8220;fire&#8221; that burns within that no one else can extinguish.  Her message will give any group of adults or children a feeling of empowerment which will in turn enhance their lives.  Our school felt privileged to have her as our guest speaker.</strong><strong> Andrea Borrell  PALS Preschool, Temecula. Ca</strong></p>
<p>&#8220;Gillian has a message that motivates us all to dare to dream, and do something about it!  Our group left the event energized and excited to pursue their interests, even though the average age is about 70 years young&#8221;!       Katie Clemens,  Publicity for Fallbrook Woman&#8217;s Connection</p>
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<p><strong>You and I have been connected since February of 2003 and during that time your dream of 8 years came to fruition. Your REFUSE TO FAIL demeanor has fueled me to aspire an aim to eradicate the notion of a homeless Veteran by 2035! I am humble and honored that you agreed to be part of our November 1, 2008 grand opening in Fallbrook CA in honor of Veterans Day to share your REFUSE TO FAIL journey with us. The fuel you have given me was nicely distributed to those you spoke on that day and many have enjoyed meeting you in person. Since that day of our grand opening, we have just yesterday signed on a total of 71 American Veterans as Learners with the aim to eradicate the notion of a homeless Veteran. You were and continue to be an inspiration to us all and thank you so very much for setting the bar so high! God Bless and always know, you are part of our life and dreams. Semper Fi,  Albert R. Renteria CEO and President,</strong></p>
<p><strong>A Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business <a href="http://www.arrenteria.com/" target="_blank">www.ARRenteria.com</a> </strong></p>
<p>Your talk was very inspiring!  It provided the clients at Wellness WORKs!  an understanding that a positive attitude and perseverance are critical in achieving success.  And, that if we want something badly enough, we have the inner resources within us to achieve it!  Thank you for the wonderful example you set to all of us!</p>
<p>Diane Feneck, Coordinator,  Wellness WORKs!</p>
<p>California State University, Stanislaus</p>
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<p><strong>I want to “Thank You” once again for your truly inspirational story.Your message of, Dreaming, Believing, Preparing and getting it Done is so relevant for both children and adults alike. I would strongly Encourage anyone with a team or who teaches others, to have you Share your message of persistence, hope and the value of the journey. Thanks again for your wonderful story and the vision you had.</strong></p>
<p><strong>CORY STEPANEK. CLTC Genworth Insurance Agency, Inc.&#8221;</strong></p>
<p>I want to directly thank you for the inspirational assembly you provided for our students at McKinley Elementary School .  Our students demonstrated active participation and interest in the motivational words and the interesting pictures of your “Survivor” journey.  I know that you touched more than a few students to dream big and never give up.  On behalf of McKinley staff and students, Thank you!!</p>
<p>Sonia Ambriz, Principal  McKinley Elementary School, Stockton. Ca  95206</p>
<p><strong>I thought the assembly was fantastic. Gillian did a wonderful job of keeping her audience spellbound. Usually, assemblies don’t cover so much geography combined with the strong message about the importance of having drive and motivation. Of all my years in the business, this was the best assembly The assemblies were for grades 3-8 and each grade level felt that you did a great job adapting to the age group. This is the response from one of my teachers.  I heard this echoed from many others as well! &#8220;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Dale Borgeson,  Principal,  McParland Elementary School.  Stockton Ca.</strong></p>
<p>Thank you so much for speaking to and inspiring our group.  You were a HUGE hit! We loved your story of persistance and how it finally paid off for you.  You are really a very inspiring speaker<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>R. Lange . Vice President Aviara Women&#8217;s Club</strong></p>
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<p><strong><strong>Thanks for a terrific presentation at Kiwanis in Valley Center, a really great program.</strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>B Rohrer. Program Chair. Kiwanis Valley Center </strong></p>
<p>Nice video your speech was very inspirational <img src='http://gillianlarson.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' />                                                          <strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>High school Student.Roseville</strong></p>
<p><strong>You are SO awesome! You came to my school today (Woodcreek Highschool in Roseville, CA). You were so inspirational to me. You have done all of these amazing things and have been all over the world. Thank you for speaking at my school. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Student Woodcreek High. Roseville </strong></p>
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<p>&#8220;Hello, You spoke at my son&#8217;s school (Parker Whitney) today and he came home so excited. He was so inspired by your message of dream, believe, prepare and go after what you want.&#8221;.</p>
<p><strong>Donna. A parent</strong></p>
<p>&#8220;When Gillian spoke at Reality Changers, our inner-city students from disadvantaged backgrounds learned how to become true survivors in life.  One of our 11th graders said it best: &#8216;Gillian, you&#8217;re amazing!&#8217;&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>Christopher Yanov, Executive Director.  Reality Changers San Diego</strong></p>
<p> The members ejoyed your presentation Gillian.<br />
Some have said it was the best yet. A tough bunch to please and you won them over.</p>
<p><strong>Phillip Tonkin. The Exchange Club of Magnolia Center.</strong></p>
<div>Gillian came to our co-op and was <em>amazing.</em> Her story was so motivating, and she taught us a lot about planning for your goals, believing in them, and going out and doing them, and about perseverance, belief, and initiative. She is truly an inspiring person.</div>
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<div><strong>Olivia Lofstrom. Home school Co-op. Boston</strong></div>
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		<title>Fun and meet ups at the Survivor weekend &#8211; Jan 2010</title>
		<link>http://gillianlarson.com/fun-and-meet-ups-at-the-survivor-weekend-jan-2010/</link>
		<comments>http://gillianlarson.com/fun-and-meet-ups-at-the-survivor-weekend-jan-2010/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:51:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>gillian</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[People who make it on Survivor are not the quiet retiring kind. They are full of fun, know how to enjoy their lives and love being a part of this Survivor family. It is actually “The Reality TV Family” and I can still hardly believe that I have become a part of it and my]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>People who make it on Survivor are not the quiet retiring kind. They are full of fun, know how to enjoy their lives and love being a part of this Survivor family. It is actually “The Reality TV Family” and I can still hardly believe that I have become a part of it and my husband and family can share this very different experience.</p>
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<p>and you know what, ? for the most part we all know we are just ordinary and behave like just ordinary people who had a really great experience that continues. 211 of “us” gathered in Hollywood last weekend for the 10<sup>th</sup> Reunion of all Survivors and the whole weekend was one fun time. Meeting so many of the players I had not met before and being able to share our stories and experiences was awesome. It was so good to hear what people are doing with that experience and so many are doing a lot of good. I absolutely loved so many of “them” There was much shrieking with recognition in the hotel lobby as people came in and I am still fascinated that “they” who I have watched for years know me. !!!!</p>
<p>Our good friend Murtz Jaffer (Reality Obsessed) was in from Canada and he arranged a gathering at The Saddle Ranch where the shrieking, hugging, photos and endless chatter without a breath continued. He had also arranged for us to go to another club M-6 (I think) where we had the secret password to get in!!!! “Murtz” How Hollywood is that. We were quite clearly the oldest in the room <img src='http://gillianlarson.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' />  and tried to look like we belonged, had a drink and yelled in each others ears. At the last party I also thought I was definitely the oldest in the room until I saw another gray haired lady and was relieved until I realized it was me in a mirrored wall. J. Age has never mattered to me as we will always know how to have fun. What I did also learn looking back on photos was to stand up straight and not look like an ad for Osteoporosis. !!!! After M-6 we walked along Sunset to another club, My House, for a party organized by Earl. Here the password to get in past the milling ‘young” crowd was Survivor which how ever didn’t hold any weight with the enormous bouncers who declared they were filled to capacity. We stood outside with a whole lot of party hopefuls for an hour and watched people from “The Hills” get in despite capacity. Once again I could have passed for an AARP Cover girl but what fun watching the action outside. One cute young guy kept hanging onto me giving me compliments and chatting despite my husband behind me which I pointed out. I think he thought I had to be “someone” and would be able to slip in with this “someone” After all it is “Cougar Town” We gave up just before 2 and walked back. The next day continued with a lot of “gathering of the tribes” as dozens hung out at the pool where Dale took many many great photos. He is just great and tireless shooting for us to have photos we would not necessarily get otherwise. He does amazing photography and anyone in So Cal should check him out and book him. <a href="http://www.killerimage.com/">www.killerimage.com</a></p>
<p>That night was the CBS party and an after party organized by Johnny Fairplay at Villa something or other. We did not make that one as we were the last to leave CBS and the party was almost closing down so a bunch of us continued talking in the lobby till 4am. No wonder I am hoarse….2 weekends of party party party and talk talk talk. What fun life can be and I have never been a bar fly…one could never tell by my yearly excursions to LA..</p>
<p>Photos on Facebook.com/gillianlarson</p>
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