Everything happened so fast. I went from a fast-growing career to being abruptly entrenched in the middle of an enormous, highly complicated legal nightmare that would take years to rectify.

Many mules are simply used to distract border agents to get higher volumes through with other couriers and are forgotten after they are arrested. I was that disposable distraction. 

When I told people I would be going to prison, people were absolutely shocked. And worried. Very worried. "So you must be so scared!" or "Eeek! What if you get beat up!"

I just turned 30 on Saturday, November 3rd and for once I wasn't hungover the day after. This time, instead of spending my birthday inside of bars, I spent it behind them. 

When I was pulled into secondary screening at the airport, a surprising sense of relief came over me, which was a nice break from the state of panic I had felt for the last three days.

It was the first time I had seen her since I had been arrested, and I knew she was incredibly hurt, confused and angry. I didn't want to think about what was going through her head.

I didn't go to prison angry, and I didn't go in thinking things weren't fair. I went in with the objective of getting and staying healthy while creating something greater than myself.

I was able to start my exercise plan right away. The prison had a full size gymnasium, workout machines, homemade free weights - empty detergent bottles filled with salt - and a TV for fitness videos.

I don't know what I would have done without my mom. She has been one of the most supportive people I've had throughout my entire life, and I am lucky to have her.

Everyone has made a poor decision that they regret. So what happens when we royally screw up? We have to master the art of the apology.