3Day Walk 2015

Pink....

Last September when I was in my final prep for the 3Day walk to Stomp Out breast cancer I colored my hair PINK. It was to be just a fun addition to my walking outfit.

As life seems to do sometimes, it threw our family a curve. My daughter in law was diagnosed with breast cancer. In HOPE of showing support I decided to keep it pink until she is done with chemo. I had no idea the doors to hearts it would open and the incredible life experiences it would offer ME.

Now, I am a Grandma who has been pretty conservative in all areas of my life, my whole life :) It is not a common experience for me to color my hair, let alone pink. So when I called my hairdresser to ask if she would help me out it was a definitely a first for me and she was determined to be very conservative. Not so much for one of her coworkers whose Mom is now a survivor. She was determined I should 'go for the gusto.'  I have never regretted a moment!

My pink hair has given others the courage to ask "Are you a survivor" and upon determining we share a common bond, they have opened their hearts and shared their stories. It is my prayer that they never leave without a word of encouragement, and for some an assurance of HOPE.

Pink hair has brought smiles to the faces of strangers as I walk through a store,down the street,or on laps in the mall, I am the 'Pink Lady" in the chemo room! It has opened conversations with young and old alike. The funny thing is that I forget that my hair is pink until someone mentions it and it always catches me off guard :)

A childhood friend, with whom I recently have reconnected, messaged me..."My daughter and her fiance are in your town visiting this weekend. I told her if she sees a crazy lady with pink hair walking she should stop and say HI"

I have taken a challenge to "Walk the Year"..2016 miles in 2016. It is great training for my next 3Day 60 Mile Walk with thousands of others...the goal...To Bring An End To Breast Cancer!
So if you are in my area and see a lady with Pink hair walking,stop and say HI, I will be honored!

If you would like to join me in my effort to be a part of seeing an end to breast cancer...join me by clicking the link below:
Ending Breast Cancer

I walk the miles and folks like you provide the donations. (all donations are tax deductible)

It has been several months since I posted here. I have made a new commitment to spend a little time reflecting each week. I hope you will join me.

My youngest daughter has for the past couple years chosen a  "WORD FOR THE YEAR". I decided to join her this year. As I began to contemplate what it should be, one word seemed to pop up everywhere..."HOPE" ......"an optimistic attitude of mind based on an expectation of positive outcomes related to events and circumstance." PERFECT I decided!! I can go with that one :)

For the past 3 years I have trained for and walked the 3Day 60 Mile walk for breast cancer. I have walked every mile with the thought of bringing HOPE to others. Because it is the yearly fund raiser for Susan G Komen, I am required to raise $2300 in order to participate in the walk. That money is used for research, education and assistance to those walking through breast cancer. Ultimately it is used to bring HOPE!
Check out my link...

The walk has been a life changing adventure. It has opened doors to new friendships and opportunities to share life stories and bring encouragement to others. In other words, it is a way to share HOPE.

I found a quote that I have hanging in front of my treadmill, and on the cover of my daily planner, "I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say "Because of you, I didn't give up!" That my friend would be the result of causing someone else to embrace HOPE!! I can't imagine a greater joy that this.

 So as January appeared on the calendar and 2016 revved up its engines I have chosen HOPE, In all areas of my life... Spiritual...Personal....Family...Health...Friends...I choose to expect positive outcomes to related events and circumstances in all these areas, because ultimately my HOPE is grounded in my God and Savior. Romans 15:13  "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him,so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit"(NIV)

Come back and join me on the journey for 2016 it is guaranteed to be filled with adventure!