Thursday, July 26, 2012

Williamson iver at Collier Park
This has been one crazy, busy month for me. After rv camping on the river at Collier Park for two days, it was home for a couple hours and off to do Relay for Life.

The river was so inviting but still too cold to swim in. Crystal clear blue water. The sound was heavenly. Good way to unwind before the big event.

After arriving at the high school where Relay for Life was to be held, we put up the tent and all the decorations for our Alice in Wonderland theme, and were in for the long haul.

We began the evening with a bbq dinner put on by Wubba's, a local restaurant. Then to start things out they had the Survivors walk, then there was a frozen Tshirt contest, and then the teams relay began their laps and a local radio station pumped out awesome tunes all through the night. Every song got you up and moving which was a big help as you can well imagine.
Survivors lap

left to right, April, me, MaryGail, Faith, Wendie, Christine, Robin
As you can see, everyone was in character. Thank you Wendie and Christine for coming all the way from California to help our team. I did'nt think I could get Wendie in a dress, but she was a good sport and was our Alice.
Kim (Queen of Hearts), Faith (Mad Hatter)

Faith recruited Kim just two days before Relay and she came dressed as our Queen of Hearts and even got us a sponsor who will pay $5 for every mile each of us walked. How awesome was that? She had tons of energy and motivated and inspired us all.

We had such a good time and hopefully raised a lot of money for the cause. We are already planning next years event and recruiting more girls. We plan to be a little more prepared for next year. We hope to bring a propane heater, hot cocoa, hot coffee and hand warmers as it got downright chilly in the wee morning hours.
This is our booth that we put together with lots of decorations along with
a variety of items for sale. From cupcakes and cookies, to lip balms, chemo caps and body oils. We did very well with our sales.

After the remembrance ceremony and many prayers, hugs and tears, I went to the tent and lay down for a couple of hours. I did'nt sleep much but my body aches went away and I was able to get up and walk a few more laps.

I am grateful to everyone who helped make this event happen and to all those who donated for the cause. For this being my first event since losing my sister and sister-in-law to cancer, to my mom who is a three time survivor of breast cancer, and to our friend Mary, who just became cancer free, I plan to be at each future event as long as I am able.

May some day soon we find a cure for cancer.

Blessings,
Gail

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Beach time

Last Sunday I decided it was off to the Oregon coast, even if it was only for a few hours, it was a much needed retreat. We chose Whaleshead beach just above Brookings.

I received the best exfoliation and foot massage and all while enjoying the great ocean sounds and fresh air.

My daughter and I walked around for 3 hours looking for shells and the long lost pirate treasure. Found a few shells and some nice driftwood.
treasure hunting

Although it stayed overcast the entire time, we did enjoy ourselves.
We ate lunch on the beach and listened to the sound of the waves as the tide was coming in.

Found a cave right on the beach in a huge boulder. Of course by this time my camera was up in the car. But I'll share a few pics I did manage to get.


Whaleshead beach




In one area of the shore, the waves coming in sounded like thunder. It was pretty awesome.

Some brave souls.
I totally enjoy the ocean, I'm just one of those who chooses to enjoy it from shore.

We can't wait until we can go back and spend a few days enjoying the sun and sand, but this is one crazy month of company, mini vacations, doctor visits and preparing for Relay for Life.

If you ever find yourself in Oregon, don't miss seeing the beaches. They're spectactular and less than a days drive.

Monday, July 2, 2012

I find myself smiling......

 I find myself smiling
when my Peonies finally open up into big, beautiful flowers.
When my Hens and Chicks are flowering for the first time.
When knowing that the momma delivered her babies safely and I get to see them with their spots.
When looking out the window and spying Mr. Jack eyeing my garden nearby and knowing that he can't get in.
When my mini Pearl walked with me for Bark for Life and smiled at all the people.
(of course she could'nt do it for her picture)
And when I happened upon this.
(I just could'nt help myself)

 May you all be blessed with things that make you smile.