Nik Wallenda: King of the High Wire

On Tuesday and Wednesday after work, I had the opportunity to go watch Nik Wallenda practice before his walk across the Grand Canyon on Sunday. For those who aren't familiar with Nik, he is the King of the High Wire. Last June, he walked across Niagara Falls. ABC made him wear a harness, although he didn't want to. But this time, his Grand Canyon walk will be broadcast live by the Discovery Channel, and even though I'm not totally ok with it, they are fine with him not wearing a harness! So, it will just be Nik, the wire and the Canyon.

Here are a couple neat things about Nik. He is a hometown guy. He's from Sarasota, Florida! I love that we have such a great down-to-earth and talented guy right in this area! He's also a family man. Nik has been married to his beautiful wife Erendira, for 14 years and they have 3 kids. He has a great testimony, too. At his practices, there was merchandise for sale, and since his book was just released on June 4, I bought it and had him sign it. I wanted to read it anyway because it's such an inspirational and encouraging book. Nik is a Christian and his life motto is "Never Give Up." I love that!

At the practices, which were held at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Nik walked back and forth on the high wire once, and then sat on the wire to answer questions from the audience.

Then, he moved to a tent where he signed autographs and took pictures. I have to say that this was one of the best events I've ever been to. Nik's crew is awesome! They're all so nice and really knew what they were doing. The reason I went two nights in a row was because I decided that I should've gotten a book for my brother for his birthday, but I might have also had a little crush on Joe, one of Nik's crew members! ;) Joe was pretty busy tonight, so I didn't get to chat with him for very long, but if anyone knows how to help me get in touch with him, please let me know!! I actually have a funny story, too... on Wednesday night I told Nik that I was back again because I wanted to get a book for my brother for his birthday, and one of Nik's people overhead me and yelled out, "Yeah, sure! I bet that's not the only reason you're back again!" He winked and laughed, so maybe he got the feeling that I kinda liked Joe, too!!!

Anyway, Nik and his family are all very sincere and genuinely good people. I wish him the very best on his next adventure, and will most certainly be praying for his safety. Be sure to watch him this Sunday at 8 p.m. EST on the Discovery Channel. You will not want to miss this amazing guy!!