Laura's Adventures

Saying Goodbye to Grieving

2011-02-06T08:12:00.003-07:00

What I have been learning in counselling is that there are 5 stages to grieving and on average documents indicate it usually takes on average 5 years to grieve a loss - to have a type of closure so that it (grieve) does not have a hold on your life.

On Feb 3 - it marked 17 years since my sister made the decision to end her own life. Definitely not something easy to get over. My counsellor has been telling me that I have made great progress in my healing of multiple traumas (griefs) - for me it is sometimes hard to see as I am in the thick of it as it were. So the last few sessions we have been trying using the quilt as our model - to tie things off - to bring closure. As I have written before - we tied off my social history has I accepted, forgave and changed my attitude of me and others too.

I have a shoebox of material things related to my sister - the NWT flag that she received when she ran up in Nanasvik, NWT with my parents; Christmas ornaments I have given her; autograph books from our summer days at Dorion Bible Camp (such great memories for both of us); and of course letters/cards I kept that Kathryn had written to me.

The letters actually were from 1993 - her last year with us, majority of which were months before she died. Funny, I have had these letters all these years - the words did not pop off the pages like it did this year - is it because I am in counselling and I am mentally ready to read between the lines in a way? The messages that I was a kind-hearted sister; I was precious to her and that Kathryn loved me very much. I was a good big sister to her. Her last Valentine's card she shared with me moments precious to her we shared.

When my counsellor told me to bring healing to me, this is one trauma I need to find closure - say goodbye to. The week leading into Feb 3 - I was on the verge of tears as I anticipate what I need to do. How do I say goodbye to Kathryn - such an important person in my life? The comments I received from friends from Facebook and going through my shoebox, I came to the realization that I don't need to say goodbye to "Kathryn" - but I need to say goodbye to "the loss, the hurt and the pain" that comes to Feb 3rd. I need to replace those feelings associated with Feb 3rd - the event that occurred on this day - instead take the time in that day to remember the gifts she gave me (the memories that we shared together as sisters).

The tears I shed should not be of the sadness, instead the tears should be the joy Kathryn left through the memories, moments only shared between sisters. Kathryn left those for me to hold onto - so I may cherish those times even more.

So I pray that on Feb 3, 2012 - my healing will have brought me to a place where I don't see "suicide" but set time asise to remember our times together and continue to find the joys and happiness in life, which I knows she wanted for me.

I love and miss you always my little Magoo.

Life is like a Patchwork Quilt

2011-01-18T22:30:00.002-07:00

It still amazes me when you least expect it - how words in a book you have browsed through before, catches you in a different time. This happened when a read a coffee table book at my counsellor's office. After reading it, then sharing it with my counselling - we realized that it like a theme we can use in my healing - finding closure to my "traumas".

This poem was written by Elizabeth Ryan Decoursey:

Life is like a patchwork quilt
And each little path is a day,
Some patches are rosy, happy and bright,
And some are dark and gray.

But each little patch as it's fitted in
And sewn to keep it together
Makes a finished block in this life of ours
Filled with sun, and with rainy weather.

So let me work on Life's patchwork quilt
Through the rainy day and the sun --
Trusting that when i have finished my block
The Master may say "Well done."
----------------------
Though I wished I didn't have to go through all those different traumas/challenges - but if you stop and think about - I would not be the person I am today if I HADN'T gone through those different traumas/challenges. It will be interesting to see how my Life's patchwork quilt unfolds.

Grieving one's Social History?

2011-01-18T21:50:00.006-07:00

The funny thing with counselling - you go into the session with a thought of what you are to deal with and next thing you know - you are covering something out of the blue. That is what happened to me last week.

The plan was to use the January sessions to help me prepare to "say goodbye" and find a closure with my sister's death. As we talked about different things - how I interacted as a child came to the surface. From the beginning of school days (kindergarten), I was teased by classmates for whatever reason. Around Grade 2/3 - I was "burned" and classmates who I thought were friends, did a 180 and suddenly they were not and they were cruel about it. Though others might remember something different - growing up I saw myself as an introvert and shy and liked to blend in the background - and hoped that I didn't have to speak anything out loud as I definitely didn't feel I had that confidence in public speaking. With the combination of "being burned" at an early age and being highly sensitive (emotional) - I learned quick to prevent some of the "hurt" - I built walls around myself. These walls allowed me only share/show what I feel comfortable doing.

Unfortunately, this feeling went on for years - into the highschool years. Thanks to society mentality - highschool life sees categorizes (i.e. the TV series Glee is a great recent example of this) - all one wants is to fit and be accepted for who they are. Another example is the movie that affected me greatly was the Grade 9 english book made into a movie - The Outsiders. I related so well to the "greasers" - the main character - Ponyboy in particular.

I was not atheletic (so didn't fit there); forget being a cheerleader too (so didn't fit there); didn't smoke (so didn't fit in the back-breeze way group); didn't feel intellectual for any those groups like "debate" (so didn't fit there). You would not find me in the cafeteria - too self-conscious (went to the cafeteria 5 time in the 5 years I was there - yearbook photos). Didn't have the $$ to go the local Northwood mall - so where does one "fit"? Well you found me in the library. That turned out to be my sanctuary for my highschool years.

So explaining this to the counselling she asked me - "Do we need to "grieve" what the so-call friends took from me?" We were both surprised by that question - can you grieve a social history? Interesting thought.

After thinking it over - my answer is No. I have in time forgiven in my mind that hurt. It wasn't until my 20's I was able to say to myself - you are a good person and the feeling of "liking me" began. Age 30/31 - I learned how to drive - now that is a confidence booster and the beginning sense of what freedoms await you. Age 34/35 - made the decision to leave Thunder Bay and make a fresh start in Calgary. Having a director that encouraged stepping outside that box contributed to a confidence that you are a contributing member of a team. Of course, buying a house - wow. Since then, participated in 2 reabstracting studies and now have taken a leadership role in my field. A leadership role where you need to be confidence in your knowledge and your self esteem/self-worth with good public speaking skills.

Yes, my social history life had a rough beginning - but look at me now - talk about a 180 I did myself. After I explained my answer, my counsellor had a smile on your face - "well we tied that one off - that issue is closed". She had to share the image she had while I was speaking - Remember that Rhino in the animated movie Robin Hood? When I speaking of what I have done in the 6 yrs since moving here - the passion and strength was like pushing my way through the crowd to say "Here I am!!" Pretty cool eh?

The other vital piece to this - today I have been blessed to have circled myself with friends - who love and care about me "what's on the inside". One friend recently shared with me - she never saw the "outside" - she just saw the "beauty that was inside". A true friend indeed.

What is holding me back?

2010-11-07T18:48:00.004-07:00

Funny thing happens when you are waiting in line to pay for your groceries - you get to catch up on the all "magazine headings" - who broke up or you got married/engaged or a headline from a global event (i.e. the miners in Chile finally being brought up to the surface after 69 days!).

Well, the magazine I picked up wasn't that glamorous or anything - Nov's issue of Oprah's magazine had an article called "What's Your True Calling?" That would be an interesting read - I thought. Must admit didn't get much from that article - it were stories of how others found their true calling. What caught me by surprise was my result from the article "What's Holding you back?". It was 8 questions (a to e). Depending on the common letters you picked for your odd and even numbers gave you 1 of 4 categories. Fear of Failure; Fear of Success; Fear of Disappoint and Fear of Losing Control. Before I knew my category(s) - I knew one of mine should be Fear of Failure - which it was. My other category was Fear of Success - wasn't really expecting that answer to appear.

Fear of Failure: You are terrified of stepping outside your comfort zone (yes that is me). The advice they give to have "you move forward" - "The important thing you can do yourself is work on building self-efficacy - the belief that you can actually accomplish what you want to do. Start by setting and achieving small goals. As you succeed at these smaller challenges, bigger goals will semms less daunting, and eventually you will develop the confidence to take the leap you've been dreaming about". As I mentioned in my last blog entry - one of those work related dreams - to work with data quality, working with the codes I assign to charts. Accepting the position of Coding Coordinator, could be like my "leap" towards that goal of working in Data Quality. A shout out to my counsellor though - she has been helping me find that "self" again - my self esteem and self-confidence - my self-strength. Thank you Deanna.

Fear of Success: You're fairly confident in your abilities, but you balk at the pressure of maintaining success once you have it. You know that your achievements will breed higher expectations, and you worry that you won't be able to meet them. People who fear success often credit their achievements to circumstances rather than to their talent and other assets. The advice they give to have "you move forward" - "The key for these people is to accept responsibilities for their accomplishments. Think of a recent success - now make a list of the skills and qualities you drew on to win it - determination, intelligence, creativity (ask a friend as they see your assets more clearly than you can). Once you begin to see your strengths in action, every day, you will recognize that you are, in fact, well-equipped to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead." I didn't think this would be one of my fears but after reading I would agree especially when my low self-essteem and low self-confidence surfaces - I begin to doubt my skills and if I complete a set-goal what are the expectations of me when future projects are asked of me.

I think for me with beginning to have faith in my own capabilities/talents and with the assistance of my counsellor to help me recognize my fears - we will place the safeguards I need so I can face the challenges I must in my path. At the same time, still move forward and accept what I have learned from my challenge or fear.

By applying the self-awareness tool I learned in counselling - I look forward what 2011 will bring in my growth as a person; as well as in my healing of hurts and emotional wounds. What I know right now in this moment - I am blessed by those around me - their love, support and encouragement and by watching their example - I gain strength from that. Thank you.

Burning both ends of the candle...

2010-11-01T17:44:00.004-06:00

You soon realize moving from a smaller city to a bigger city - not only does the # of people go up, but so is the cost of your expenses. As my lifestyle allowed for it, I decided to take a second job in my field in the adjoining cancer centre. I enjoyed the people I worked with and seeing a different avenue being a HIM (health information management) Professional. And I just got used to putting in an extra 15-20 hours per week on top of my 77.5 hrs from my coding position. It didn't seem like an additional stress on top of coding.

April 2010 - I took upon the challenge of taking a Coding Coordinator position. As we have merged all health regions into one - I had to resign my position at the cancer centre as I am already full time. This is a position that I had applied twice before - and I am fast realizing that the position I applied for in Spring 2008 and Fall 2009 are not what is being expected of us now - the responsibilities are being changed. Changed becaused in 2008-2009 we didn't have to deal with topics like a 21-day Coding Turnaround Time (TAT); Increased focus on Data Quality of submitted coded data; VLAD (Variable -Living Adjusting Device) reviews; Cross-training staff in both the urban and rural settings; being asked to be a representative for the Calgary Zone in Provincial working groups and that is on top of any daily "office issues" that needs to be dealt with.

The past few months, feeling stressed is an accurate word to use in my vocabulary - stress of adjusting to a new role and all the bumps I have encountered. Feeling the stress coming from the very top of different initatives that are occurring at a provincial level that relate to Data Collection. Sept/Oct found me training outside of Calgary (High River and Strathmore) to other HIMs in the Inpatient coding discipline - which takes much out of you - but I do enjoy it as I learn just as much as they do and it does ensure you are up to date in your coding knowledge as well. The other learning portion is on seeing the differences (and similarities) when comparing rural vs. urban coding. This will be beneficial for me as I am a HIM representative for the Calgary Zone in a Provinical working group on Data Collection - therefore I need to know about both rural and urban coding.

Unfortunately, in the recent month, the focus has been on a 21-day Coding turnaround time to ensure timely data to be used by various stakeholders - this has translated into long hours - there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day to do everything on your "To Do List" each day. This lead me to burning both ends of the candle which means I usually get a nasty head/chest cold - which I currently have. Here I have ONE job that has equalled in times the hours I used to put in when I had TWO jobs! Interesting eh?

What I know - I do enjoy the different challenges and opportunities this current position as Coding Coordinator has given me. I find I am becoming a more confident person and realizing that my thought when I graduated from college of where I ultimately would like to work in my field (Data Quality - working with the coded data) is becoming more of a reality. That is pretty cool to see that come to light - 18 years later.

I know it is only November - but something I will need to work on in 2011 - finding an "off" button and find that balance again so I do not burn both ends of the candlestick.

Do you have a Happy File?

2010-09-12T08:24:00.003-06:00

For those who have been following my blog these past few months, you have read the struggles I have been facing at work as I am adjusting to my new position as Coding Coordinator. It definitely has been a growing experience. My biggest issue was dealing with my reactions with different managerial styles and feeling in the beginning alone as I didn't want to start off a new position as a complainer and "the weakest link" especially knowing I was going to have a learning curve as I had zero managerial-related skill practice - so it was pure instinct when dealing with a task.

I think one of my "saving graces" - I was going through counselling at this time (still am too). My counsellor was able to help me work through my "self issues" coming to the surface as I was coping with different managerial styles. I think at the height of it all I was questioning my self worth and what could I contribute to this position - basically feeling - I couldn't do anything right so why the heck did they hire me? The other one is finding a few people who "have my back" so I have this net that I feel safe to go to, to ask for advice.

A suggestion was given to me - make a "Happy File" folder that I could put emails with encouragement in - so when those doubts arise I will be able to go those emails and realize - "Yes Laura you do have the qualification and just being yourself - you are contributing in your position". Do you know that it works?

This past week - has been a good week for me too - as our team prepares for a presentation to a group of doctors - we created a powerpoint as well as a "cheat note" of clinical documentation tips. The response from the head of the group - awesome on both things and looking forward to our presentation to the group. That felt so good - told Chris next time we see each other we should give each other a pat on the back for a job well-done. Was told my part of our regional staff meeting - I spoke strong and explained the coding issue well (yeah improvement!!).

Counselling this week we had a first - laughter. I ended my work day with receiving an email from a coding specialist - who told me this was to go into my "Happy File" - after reading I swear I wanted to cry. So touching. At the same time - a sense of freedom began to come over me - like the light switch being turned on. Why is it so hard for ourself's to see the good in us - when it seems plain and clear for those around us? My words to myself - Laura will you get your head out of the sand and realize you are qualified and you ARE doing well - contributing to the team. Now move forward and remember that self-confidence you just found. We had a realization in sharing in counselling - I have not lost a "core" of who I am, which is my sense of humour/laughter throughout all my traumas and challenges. Yes, the laughter hide my pain and hurt but it helped me move forward and function in life too. I know if I "lost" my laughter I would be in huge trouble and I would need to seek help for sure as I would be in a dark place.

I hope everyone can find their "Happy File" or have a "Happy Cap" (for verbal positive comments).

Laura with her James sisters

2010-08-15T15:01:00.000-06:00

Amanda and Bob

Amanda and Sara

Amy

The Reception

2010-08-15T15:00:00.000-06:00

The Head Table

The MC had the wedding party to play game to choose the best answer - Bride or Groom. Don't know what the question was - the final answer by everyone was - THE GROOM!! The MC then turned the tables and had Bob and Amanda sit back to back and the MC asked them choose the best answer - Bride or Groom. Plenty of laughter with everyone's responses.

The beautiful couple - Bob and Amanda getting ready to cut the cake.

Random Shots after the ceremony

2010-08-15T14:53:00.000-06:00

Bridesmaid Sara with her husband John

Brad with his Uncle Peter (left) and Great Uncle Mark (right)

4 Generations!! - Morfar, daughter Char is holding her granddaughter Casendra. (Missing: Sara - Char's daughter and Casendra's mom)

Amanda with her daughter Ocean and her sister (matron of honour) Amy

2010-08-15T14:48:00.000-06:00

Brothers Jon and Brad posing and warming up for their duet!! Amanda looked beautiful walking down the aisle with a son on each arm and then they gave their mom a hug. A precious moment.

Amanda's family waiting for the photographer to call them up - (Front to Back) - Char, Morfar, Casendra, Andy, Garron, Sara and Solomon.

2010-08-15T14:43:00.000-06:00

Ocean with her Aunt Sara waiting in-between all the picture taking.

Sara with the girls - nieces Journey and Ocean while her daughter Casendra is hold her bouquet of flowers.

Amanda and Bob having a quiet moment. Sargent did wonderful - looking great beside Amanda. Solomen the ring bearer. His mom Amy took him to the store to pick out a Webkin to hold the rings. Despite having choices like a deer, moose, horse and chicken - Solomon's choice was this bright pink frog with hearts all over it. As Amy tells the story - Solomon made the perfect choice - Amanda likes frogs and she enjoys the children story - The Frog Prince. Today we celebrated Amanda marrying her Prince. Great choice Solomon!!!

Amanda and Bob with Sargent

Amanda and her family

2010-08-15T14:34:00.000-06:00

(Back row: L to R) - Amy, Sara, Andy, Brad (he is behind Andy), Bob, Char, Jon J, Peter (he is behind Jon J) and Jon K
(Front row: L to R) Ocean, Amanda and Hazel (Bob's Mom)

Ocean, Char, Andy, Amanda, Bob, Morfar (Char's dad), Jon K and Brad

Amanda with her parents - Andy and Char

Amanda with her children (Jon, Brad and Ocean). Brad is catching 40 winks in-between the picture-taking.

A beautiful ceremony

2010-08-15T14:15:00.000-06:00

Amanda's mom found a "Bride and Groom on a John Deere tractor" topper - how perfect!!

Introducing Bob and Amanda Sargent with the bridesmaids - sisters Amy and Sara and Amanda's daughter, Ocean. I love the brown and yellow contrasts. Everyone looked so beautiful in their dresses.

Here comes the Wedding Party - John Deere Style!!

2010-08-15T14:11:00.000-06:00

Keeping with the theme of "John Deere" - Amanda and Bob arrive for family photos in a John Deere Truck. Thanks to Bob's Best man - they arrived safe and sound. Amy (matron of honour) is along for the ride too.

Sara and the another groomsman with Ethan and Sierra in the back.

Ocean (Amanda's daughter) arrives with Don (groomsman)

The Newlyweds - Bob and Amanda!!!

Getting ready for their John Deere Ride

2010-08-15T14:03:00.000-06:00

While the photos were being taken - the kids enjoyed sitting on the John Deere ride. In the back are Journey and Casendra, while in the driver's seat its Ethan and his big sister Sierra is in the passenger seat. A couple of weeks ago, Sierra fell and broke her arm - she is such a trooper. Her family and friends decorated her cast with colourful signatures and sayings.

I heard a little voice, "Auntie Laura look how I make the wall sparkle with my shoes". Journey along with her cousin Sierra greeted everyone into the wonderfully decorated hall with a tube for blowing bubbles after the ceremony. Here is Ethan checking out how Journey's jewels on her shoes sparkle. Ethan and Journey did a great job pulling the white carpet down the aisle for their Aunt Amanda.

Journey wanted me to take a picture of her and her cousin Casendra. Casendra was the flower girl and she also brought Sargent (Bob's lassie dog) down the aisle too. Great pose Journey!! You both look beautiful in your dresses.

Casendra in her pretty pink dress

Food for Thought courtesy of Facebook

2010-08-04T21:55:00.002-06:00

In the beginning, I was apprehensive in joining "Facebook" Social Network, but finally decided to join as that seems to be a great way to stay in touch with family and friends who don't tend to email you often. This past Spring, it was cool reconnecting with a dozen or so from my Grade 6 classmates from Sherbrooke School as well reconnecting with some former swimming teammates and coaches from my Thunder Bay Thunderbolts days.

This evening as I was viewing the "Status updates" from my FB friends page - there was a comment posted by a Rev. Mark Brown from Australia that made me sit back and reflect on the comment. His comment:

"Brokeness means we are ready for change. Lord, come take my pieces and make me what want."

I found it an interesting comment to read as I head back into my counselling sessions tomorrow to continue with my healing, strengthen and growing as I overcome my past troubles and challenges. It reminded me of Step 1 in Celebrate Recovery process - You are not in control - God is - give it up to Him.

I was sharing the other night with another friend - it has been quite a year already (almost 9 months since things "hit the fan") but there has been some amazing moments with my friend's children and her family that just makes you realize the preciousness of those around us. Now becoming more comfortable in my new temporary position as Coding Coordinator - I also feeling more confident in my own skill-set and what I can contribute as well what new doors and opportunities will open by expanding my comfort zone.

I know there are and will be things in my road to recovery that I cannot control and may never have a full resolve/closure - but through my counsellor I hope to put in place safeguards that when that issue comes up again, it does not affect me the same way as it did say last Fall. It is realistic to say, counselling may be needed for another year, which I am fine with, but to show myself that I am recovering/healing, remember to look back reflectively and see the "baby steps" I have made to move forward. The amazing thing - many "baby steps" can become a few "big steps" - now isn't that encouraging?

Thank you to my family and friends who are sharing this experience with me, providing a shoulder (or kleenex) and words of encouragement - but they are celebrating my joys and "break-throughs" - both means so much to me.

That Darn Chest Cold!!!

2010-07-28T20:26:00.002-06:00

A few months ago I found out that my friend Carolyn, a missionary from Indonesia was coming back to the Americas on furlough. I knew her parents still lived in Thunder Bay, so as soon as I found out when she was going to find her way up to TB - I booked my ticket.

Was greeted at the airport by my mom and her friend visiting from out of town. Arrived Friday afternoon and not even at my mom's house 3 hours and already out the door - BYE MOM!! - off having supper with Sandy. Ellen and I did our "dinner and a movie" outing on the Saturday. On the Sunday, I finally got to meet Heather's two little ones. Adorable and you can tell who's personality they take after. Rest of the Sunday I was visiting with my dad and his girlfriend Christine. Did something I have never done before - play scrabble at Friendship Park. Different but it was a quiet day at the park and the main company we had were the ducks.

Monday morning - BANG!! Even though I tried to stay away from my mom's friend who had a terrible cough - was not so lucky. I got that nasty chest cold that is going around. Laid low on Monday and cancelled my plans on Tuesday. But I was so fortunate enough I felt better to see Carolyn today.
Down-swing to this cold - I had to change my plane ticket and instead of going to Toronto tomorrow to visit my brother and another friend; I am heading westward back to my home in Calgary. Thank you Westjet as they waved the administration fee, so I didn't have to pay a penny for the switch. Up-swing - I got to relax with my mom, enjoying her wonderful backyard garden and playing a few great games of Scrabble. Great points too - high 200s and low 300s. Plus we each got a 7-letter word in the same game!! Good times as we played alot when I used to live at home.

Well - I don't have to be at work until Tuesday - so plenty of rest and fluids and the dry Alberta air I hope will do the trick - too much happening at work to get sick now (exciting things too).

Inspiration from an unlikely source

2010-07-08T22:23:00.002-06:00

Through my learning process - I am finding words of inspirations from some unlikely sources. The most notable one - the gift shops within the Calgary hospital sites. The other is Facebook!

Was at Rockyview the other day, went into the main gift shop by my office - just behind the counter were bookmarks (from Blue Mountain). Two seem to call out to me saying "buy me", which I did. One bookmark was about having Friends for Life and the other is a Strength of a Woman (who knew 2 days later that is what I would be covering in my session).

This is what the bookmark said:

Strong women are those who know the road ahead will be strewn with obstacles, but they still choose to walk it because it's the right one for them.

Strong women are those who make mistakes, who admit to them, learn from those failures, and then use that knowledge. They fail time and again, but still keep trying until they succeed.

Strong women face the daily trials of life, sometimes with a tear but always with their heads held high as the new day dawns.

I took comfort in the middle verse - I might fail but do not quit - continue to learn from that obstacle that occurred. It is not a sign of weakness.

My Facebook (online Social outlet) provided words that just speak to me.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Pretty cool statement I think.

Do you have "M" in you?

2010-07-08T21:55:00.004-06:00

During my counselling session today - the focus was our inner strength and with that you can find your voice to say "Here I am!!". One of the learning curves I am processing is "how I interpret critisim?". Since the beginning of April, I have absorbed the "whole critism" as a reflect of me personally, therefore an attack. It has caused great stress for me these past couple of months. My counsellor shared that when someone is giving you a critism of your performance (even if it is constructive critism) - hold it out front don't absorb it all - take like 5% ownership and work with that to improve your skill set, which could be taking a course to hone that particular skill. The rest - basically give it over to God and let him take care of it. Its that 5% where you can see growth through the learning process and through that comes ones strength.

So wondering where "M" figures into all of this? As I am a visual learner - We were looking for an example of a strong woman who demonstrates she has compassion (soft side) but to succeed in that business that is male-dominant she illustrates she can be tough as nails and take no guff from anyone (including 007). We both agreed, it is not only the character but when you watch on TV interviews Judi Dench shows that same strength. When observing Judi Dench on TV, you can see her self-confidence but at the same time see her elegance and feminism. It is interesting how we agreed that another British actress that shared similar characteristics to Judi Dench is Helen Mirren.

As my counsellor and I were wrapping our session, she wanted to share that the healing within is occurring, baby steps right? Putting in safeguards or tools to handle better critism or "perspection of your picking on me" feeling - that backbone or broad shoulders I have mentioned in past entries develop - the inner strength we all have, comes to the surface for others to see. She shared - she see my "M" beginning to show - comes with my inner growth beginning and in knowing my confidence in my work, knowing my passion and pride for my work and to know I am going to be on a lifelong journey of learning my own strengths and limitations.

So my question for you - Have you found your "M"?

Finding my voice and release

2010-07-05T20:43:00.002-06:00

If I had to define my June - it was a month of hard lessons learned; finding within my peers who I could confide and vent frustrations too as well as finding my voice.

In April I accepted the temporary position as Coding coordinator. I knew accepting this position there would be a learning curve, plus I had some behind-the-scene knowledge (inter-departmental personality conflicts) that could be an issue for me and I would need to develop the necessary problem solving skills to resolve them. I knew there will be times I would stumble - and from what I have been told - you dust off, learn from your mistake that caused you to stumble and move forward remembering what you just learned adapting into your performance.

It seems the "issues" I would be adapting to is a micromanaging style where it seems I could do nothing correct or not meeting to their standards. Feeling like you are under a microscope and documents you worked hard on gets dissected to the max - it does a number on your self-confidence and you begin to question "why did you hire me in the first place?". I remember in school hearing of a Micromanaging style - so I googled it. Yes - that is what I am facing. One of the solution actions - quit or change jobs. Well I am not doing either of those.

I am now officially completed my training as a coding coordinator - last week of June I began working at PLC and RGH sites throughout the week. My first day as CC - I had to give a presentation to the new Residents about Data Collection (coding & abstracting). I had a rough beginning but I think ended strong (the presentation is only 5-10 mins). Upon review of my performance - I acknowledged areas where I need to improve the next time there is a presentation representing Data Collection. Then the dissection began - inadequate info given in the presentation, need to improve speaking in big crowds and strongly recommend taking a Toastmaster course (okay in a period of 2 months they have "strongly recommend" me take 5 courses to improve my "managerial skills"). I guess you can say I slipped - my resume did not reflect I had previous management/authority experience to resort to but had some experience in leadership (coding trainer for almost 4 yrs). Of course, I would not have "managerial skills" after accepting the position and my "formal training" did not occur until 2 months after I accepted the position. Those 2 months I was going on instinct and did my best under the circumstances.

Well somewhere I found the confidence to give my frustration a voice last week. I explained that the other coding coordinator went over the slides that have been used for the past few years at these presentation (so was blamed for slide information that I had no part of putting together) and finally told this person she puts me in knots and to stop picking on me. Unfortunately she does not think her actions would reflect the statement "picking on me".

So my learning curve will come from reacting and adapting to different managerial styles while maintaining a working environment that promotes positivity as well as learning and strengthening ones skills-set. This position is to end Sept 2011 - I foresee I will become a stronger person - to find that backbone and voice my feelings when warranted. To be proud of what I am contributing to my coding team.

I don't know if I have done myself any favours by my expression last week - but must admit it felt good to tell her how she makes me feel. A friend of mine suggested to read the book (which I bought this weekend) - People Styles at Work: Making Bad Relationships Good and Good Relationships Better. It will be interesting to see what the book says. Another suggestion was to great a "Feel Good Email" folder - put emails that acknowledge your positive skills - so when you feel low - read one of those emails it should bring a smile to your face or de-stress you that other see what you are accomplishing.

Thank you for your prayers and comments - it has helped me these past few weeks.

The Garden is growing

2010-07-04T20:44:00.000-06:00

The Clamais is taking root - I can't wait to see purple flowers bloom

The green bean and snowpea plants are pushing through the clay soil - Maybe next month I will be enjoying fresh veggies at supper time!!

The front garden (above)

The backyard garden (above)

2010-07-04T20:40:00.000-06:00

The Blooming Fields

2010-07-04T20:37:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, I finally got to take Amy for her birthday present "Going out for tea" (Her birthday is in March!!). Three Hills has a great tea house, but I thought it would be nice to visit another tea house in the area. So I googled tea houses near Three Hills - there is one in Delia, one in Drumhellar and another one in Didsbury. We decided to go to Didsbury where The Blooming Fields is.

It is a definite keeper - we received a wonderful surprise - they have a gluten-free menu!!! Amy has Celiac disease (have to eat gluten-free products). The sun was shining with a small breeze - we enjoyed our lunch out on the outside patio with our Canadian Breakfast tea. In the Greenhouse we found "chocolate mint" plant which Amy bought 2 for her gardens. We had a wonderful day together - drive and lunch.

We were treated so well by the owners and their staff - Tabby the cat (unfortunately gave Amer a fright as the cat decided to take a shortcut under our table) and Henry the Rooster. Amy and I were amazed to see Henry's back claw - neither of us have seen one this long before. It was quite interesting watching him walk without cutting himself.

The Garden is planted

2010-06-06T21:48:00.000-06:00

Mom's Garden - this little garden are plants that my mom brought from her garden. Still can't believe that it survived the plane ride and then the snow to boot!!! They seem like hardy plants - hope they continue to thrive.

The garden in front of my bedroom window - the stepping stones were a birthday gift from Amer!!!

View of the front gardens. My mom and I decided to plant similar plants like the flower garden in the backyard. We planted Marigolds with the tree to add some colour. One of my mom's friends has a background in forestry so he came handy with his saw and chopped off the dead part of my tree - hence why it looks like the middle is missing - it is as it was diseased. It seems it will fill in nicely though.

Happy Birthday Solomon!!!

2010-06-06T21:41:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we all gathered in 3 Hills to celebrate Solomon's 4th Birthday. The huge Scoobie Lollipop came from his big sister Journey. As you can tell by Solomon's face - he was very happy to receive this gift from his sister. If you are wondering about the face-painting. 3 Hills hosted a car rally - where the old cars and motorcyles lined the main street. It was quite the day for Solomon - he got to see all those cars and then have cake, ice cream and had fun opening his gifts too. (Today I helped Solomon and Journey put together a couple of their toys - it was a wonderful visit)

Group photo - The Hald family (Mike and Meagan with their 2 children), the gal in the black shirt is Garron's niece from Bolivia; Garron, Journey, Solomon and Amy.

Amy, Cassendra (her face is being covered by the card that Journey made for her brother Solomon), Sierra with her Grandma Char; Ethan, Jon J and Sara.

Get ready for bubbles!!! Solomon with his new bubble maker - Journey, Amy and cousin Cassendra looks on. They used it later in the day - all the kids enjoyed running after the bubbles.

Finding words of comfort

2010-06-02T20:50:00.004-06:00

Last week, the stress level for me of a work-related issue hit the fan as they say. (sorry for the vagueness but that is how it will have to stay). It totally blindsided me and shook me to the core and it has been heavy on my mind and heart.

As you know since the beginning of this year, I have been going to counselling - it has been helpful sorting things out and beginning to find out abit of about me too. With the changing of my position at the hospital it has given me a rollercoaster ride for sure and I have been trying to use the tools my counsellor has been sharing with me, but the other one is what my friend Sara gave me - Celebrate for Recovery Steps. There are 2 sets of steps - one has 12 steps and the other one has 8 steps. I have the 8 steps in my wallet - the #1 step - Know you are not in control, only God is in control. One needs to trust in that when faced with a challenge in your life, of course easier said than done.

This past week in the morning as I wait for my bus shuttle to the hospital - I read those 8 steps and pray that I will find that "peace" once again. It has not always been natural for me - but I think I am seeing He is with me through my environment. Mother Nature might not have been nice for my visit with my mom - but being she has been in the health field for 45 yrs she was a source of comfort plus she is my mom. I also had friends keeping me in their prayers (thank you). But it is surprising where you can find a word of comfort.

After an important meeting on Monday, I was exhausted and drained - I stopped in for the first time at the Rockyview Site a little gift shop to buy a soft drink. While waiting in line I see a stand full of cards - one card just connected with me - so much so I bought it. Reading the words it felt like someone talking to me:

If I Could, I'd Make Everything Better for You.

If I had the words to bring comfort and peace to your heart, I would speak them.

If I had the knowledge to know what course would bring you happiness, I would share it.

If I had the ability to take away all that troubles you, I would do it.

If I had the means to show you all that is good within yourself, I would use it.

I don't have power to change the world or to control the path on which you wald.

But I have a hand willing to hold your own, an ear willing to listen, and a heart willing to care.

I'll Always be Here for You.

I have a counselling session tomorrow afternoon and Solomon's 4th birthday on the weekend. So thinking positive - moving forward - lessons learned for sure.

A Visit from my Mom

2010-06-02T20:37:00.003-06:00

This past week, my mom has been visiting me (dropped her off at the airport bright and early this morning). As I had a work commitment I could not get out of - this left my mom alone at my house during the day. Depends on how you look at it - unfortunately Mother nature was not kind to us - it either rained or snowed for the first 3 days of her first. The main reason she came out was to help me with planting my garden - we were wondering if it was going to be possible? My roommate Melissa and I figure we have the cleanest house on the block - my mom bought me a wonderful vacuum cleaner (Dyson) as well as a carpet cleaner. The days of winter weather - my mom cleaned the upstairs and downstairs and the kitchen appliances too!! She also mended a few things for Melissa as well as our upstair curtains. Finally on Sunday - no moisture falling - headed over to Rona to buy the peat moss and perrineals/annuals. We had to do it in 2 rounds as I could only fit 2 peat moss packages in my trunk of the car!! Few hours later - we did it - 4 out of 5 flower gardens had peat moss and some sort of flora to them. Only the vegetable garden which my mom completed yesterday (she surprised me by mowing the small amount of grass in the front yard too!! What an awesome mom I have!!!

We did fit in some visiting time too - enjoyed watching the movies "The Blind Side" and "Invictus". She really enjoyed the latter movie. Never got around to playing Scrabble - next time I guess. We had a visit with old friends (their friendship with my mom goes back to the early 70s). Last night we enjoyed an awesome pasta dinner at the World Health Club - Edgemount Grill. Freshly made in front of you - stayed piping hot for the whole dinner!

Next visit is at the end of July when I head to Ontario to do a wee tour - parents/friends in TB; visit my brother Bruce and wife Kristen as well as my friend Heidi who live near Toronto. I have a friend who lives in Indonesia who is visiting her parents in TB so I am making sure I am in town when she is. So great to see Carolyn again.

How do you grow a "thick skin"?

2010-05-10T21:50:00.002-06:00

April 29th I officially could use the title "Coding Coordinator" but things have come up that my training for this position is not occurring until mid-June. One of the things that have come up was representing the HIM professional - Health Information Management Professional. One of my sites has been involved in a pilot project that interwines data quality (coding from me and other coding specialists) and continuing providing and improving patient care. This pilot concentrated on only 3 services. As a coding specialist - I found the chart reviews that we did on Friday and today a great learning and educational tool. It was a honour to be able to be part of something like this magnitude involving other health care providers as well as clinicians (aka doctors/nurse practioners). Having received some feedback from those involved int he chart review process gain a small appreciation of what coding specialists do, sort of provides a validation of what our contribution is to the local as well as the provincial health care system.

My "thick skin" comment comes from the feedback I have received from my boss. From my counselling we have both agree I have suffered from self issues - esp self confidence and self esteem. One of the things my counsellor is trying to point out - when a critism is directed towards me try to not to personalize it. It is easier said then done as this is my nature - internatize and when critism/comments are direct to be about my person I take them personally. In learning self-awareness, I am realizing I need to re-format this thinking of the critism is to be structive therefore is mentioned so that I may see an area I can improve upon and in a way would also increase my self -confidence. This week though - it has the opposite affect - having "structive critism" mentioned to me back to back in private mtgs over a half hour in length - attacked my self-confidence - questioning if I made the right decision in accepting this new position. Friday I sort of had a small snap with my boss - and was totally honest with her on how this is affecting me - a positive, a negative, a positive, a negative routine daily - the critism on how I need to improve upon my email content writing (size of email), my communication as well as listening skills. By Friday night I was mentally exhausted - I thought to go to a movie for some downtime - I was too tired for that. Basically this past weekend - stayed in my PJs and either vegged watching tv shows I had taped or slept.

So how do you grow a thick skin or a backbone so when your boss or anyone for that matter directs a comment/remark that normally would attack my self confidence or self worth and allow it to not exhaust me mentally or affect me personally - like it did this weekend? Learn to roll off my shoulder - easier said than done in my case. I wish there was a store or a magic wand for this - unrealistic of course as I know it has to come within me. Believing in me once again.

What I know for fact - I accept I have much to learn about being in a lower management level position - but I do not what to change the person I am beginning to enjoy again - someone who knows she is a contributing member to a team and is beginning to see "joy" in things personally and professionally (having a glimpse of the what the future holds with the data quality component of my field.)

A quote I saw on my counsellor's table - "Determine to live life with flair and laughter"

Front Yard - curb appeal done!!!

2010-04-27T19:25:00.000-06:00

July 2005 - sod was just put down in the front yard and a tree planted too. My little blue house - only one on the block.

April 27, 2010 - the transformation!!

I guess you can tell I have a thing for cobblestones - I love it!! Now you don't have to walk to the house in single file anymore - at least 2 by 2!! Please I won't feel like I am running down to the curb because of the grade of the step. Tylor thought it might look nice to add the shurbs and he added the solar lights in between each of them.

Raised flower garden in the front and one created around the tree.

Backyard finally done!!

2010-04-27T19:12:00.000-06:00

The original natural masterpiece

What turned out to be Stage 1 of the backyard landscaping project - cobblestone patio framing the deck and part of the backyard. The remaining area is crushed rock and flagstone patio stones.

Here is Stage 2 - just finished yesterday!!! It is great that the new cobblestone pathway is level to the retaining wall and it will be a dream to shovel next winter (don't have to worry about shoveling stones everywhere). Now the fun part - furnishing my backyard.

Tylor added this retaining wall against my neighbour's fence so that the pathway could be leveled - it looks great. He even filled all my flower gardens!! Hey mom - they are just waiting for us now. The sun better be shining the one weekend you are here too.

One Frosty Day

2010-04-27T18:52:00.000-06:00

These were taken last month - woke up one morning that I was not working and captured the thick frost on the trees. It sure does make things beautiful again. When you are driving it makes things sort of magical.

A sister's hug - the best kind

2010-04-26T22:32:00.000-06:00

Story goes - Kathryn was crying in her crib and by the time my mom came to check on her I had already climb into Kathryn's crib to comfort her and give her a big hug - it must have worked - she's not crying in the photo.

A bedtime hug

Sisters giving each other hugs and smiles

Remembering the Joy of a Smile

2010-04-26T22:25:00.000-06:00

When I was a teenager Kathryn decided that I have a nickname (I gave her Magoo) - it was Smila - that would be smile and laugh put together as she said I did both so well. I recently converted some of my mom's old negatives onto disc and my counsellor asked that I remember "joy" - so I thought I would share some photos of joy of me growing up. I guess my sister's nickname suited me even as a toddler.

I still have that highchair!!

Ready to perform my first dance recital - Jazz/Tap class with the music of Sesame Street

A wee scottish lass in her comfy black chair in the living room

See - I brushed my teeth - ready for bed now!!

The Rollercoaster of Self...

2010-04-26T19:46:00.005-06:00

It has been awhile since I blogged anything - to be honest - had increased my hours at Tom Baker the past couple of months and was not motivated (don't think my camera has been touched for months either). From this blog and the last one - I have been consistent with my continuing counselling for healing and learning about my "self".

During the first few sessions - I was sharing what lead to my need of a third party and as we delved more we realized I had to open "a whole kettle of fish" first before true healing could occur. I was able to "categorize" them into 3 groups - Traumas, Relationships and Self. As you can see - vague titles so each holds so many things to them. Some need baby steps - recognizing what are traumas I had gone through and seeing the role I play in my family (no surprise the emotional one). One of the huge steps I had to begin to learn is my own self-awareness (my action and reaction to things directed towards me).

For those who know me now might have a hard time seeing it - but all through my elementary and secondary schooling I was an introvert, a loner basically. School was not always fun for me as being the "big gal" in the class lead to continuous teasing or rude comments by classmates. Grade 5 being called "green tomatoe" for the simply reason I was wearing a green snowsuit. (from what I hear on TV nowadays - teasing/bullying is way worst as I never contemplated taking my own life because of it). As I have mentioned previously, one thing that became clear early in my counselling - I internalize and therefore make assumptions on things - like the competition between siblings. For those who knew my sister she excelled in so many talents and my older brother has a beautiful gift of artistry (So grateful my mom saved his early artwork as I now have them hanging in my hallway upstairs). Well me - I had no materialistic talent/skill to display. Unfortunately that lead me to have low self confidence, esteem and self-worth - basically I did not like me.

It wasn't until I moved to Toronto for college that begun to change - here were a group of peers who seem to like me just as I was. So you begin to think - hey I should rethink this - maybe I am likably. I did make strides, moved to Victoria for work and became a youth leader at a local church. And then the world came crashing down around me - Kathryn died. I moved back to Thunder Bay to grieve and regroup - 12 years it took me to find that inner confidence that I was ready to expand my "comfort zone" and realize that under the current working conditions I was under I would be stuck and unhappy. It was August 2004 these two items collided on the same day - the realization hit me like a ton of bricks and seeing 3 Full time Permanent positions at Calgary Regional Hospital. I had a planned visit Calgary 3 weeks - the day before I had to head back to TB - I wrote my coding test at 7am!! The test was an inpatient, an ER and Daysurgery chart - I got 78% and the encouragement from Cheryl H that if I truly wanted to come to Calgary be patient through the domino effect of current staff applying for the same positions. So 6 months and 12 job applications later - I was given my chance - I arrived in Calgary March 10, 2005 with an open mind and excitment of what the hospital could offer me that I couldn't find in Thunder Bay.

Wow - unbelievable is basically what has happened these past 5 years. I started at Foothills (trauma and burn, cardiac, and high risk pregnancies) and then allowed to code at other sites and learn their specialty services. Within months of starting, I went from coding one discipline (ER) to all 4 (inpatient, maternity, daysurgey and ER)!!! I was so excited about learning inpatient and maternity - the final hurdle for me. I attended workshops to better my skill set - being a sponge soaking in all what my field could offer me. For the past 3 years, I have been a trainer in daysurgery and inpatient coding and I have been able to participate with our national database for 2 reabstracting studies taking me across Canada. And today - I started my new position as a Coding Coordinator!!!

If I had to give a visual description or in a nutshell what the past 5 years professionally-speaking has been for me - I was in a cocoon for too long and now I am a butterfly - spreading my wings feeling that excitement of what a coding specialist can do. When I did the 2 hour and 10 minute interview in March - I had to do a powerpoint presentation which I felt I did well and my responses were pretty unmuch without hestiation. Riding a bit of a high but reality hit the following day with a constructive critisim about the lengthy wording of my emails. Old insecurities hit hard - felt totally deflated. (Happy that I had a session that day - as by the end I was feeling better and accepting that the remark was exactly what I mentioned in the interview - if I needed to improve on something I am willing to learn more about it so it can improve.)

This is the strongest feeling of self-confidence that I have had in some time - you know its that smile that comes more naturally. You know that saying when things get rough - you find or you see who your friends are. That still holds true for me - but recently I have seen it in my support and encouragement of my peers, their confidence that they picked the right gal for the job just wants me to do that much better in this position.

Being reflective - remembering being that little girl basically being the last one chosen for teams, the teasing, spending many lunch times in the library - I have come a long way baby!! I could not have done it with my family, my true friends and me finally believing in herself that she can make myself unstuck and see what life has to offer me. Let the Rollercoast of Self continue....

2010 - the beginning of Self Discovery?

2010-02-01T20:36:00.006-07:00

You know that saying "the truth hurts" - it is very true. I guess the outcome is determined by what you do with that truth. This truth mixed with other personal issues that rose to the surface, I took the advice of a couple of close friends and decided to seek professional advice in the way of a counsellor. My friend recommended a name and I have found her "safe" in where I can be myself. In the 3 sessions I have had, it interesting what I have learned - one of the things is with every trauma that one deals with there is a cognitive (mental) way to deal with it and going through the pain to deal with the emotional attachments. Well, it seems I have done well cognitively but have partially "buried" the emotional attachments so those wounds are not really healed - it is a scar. The terms "I am emotional bruised" or "I am traumatized" were used early in our sessions. Stepping back, I can see where the counsellor was coming from - my first homework assignment was using that "brain-storming" technique. When I began associating my age, the year of traumas occurring (was only looking at 16-27 of age) - seeing on paper it makes you react - wow there was alot. My counsellor feels confident I will see a light at the end of my tunnell, but of course it will take time and she is willing to see it through with me; for that I am encouraged.

For those who know my family years ago - February 3rd is a date that forever changed my family. As weird as this might sound - there is like a dividing line when describing my life - how it was then and how is now. One is my individual relationships with my family - Life with Kathryn and Life without Kathryn. Some relationships be it family or friends changed after my sister's passing - some grew out of necessity making a decision to move forward -making a fresh start, a clean slate or some grew deeper because of foundation of friendship already there (a great source of strength for me) or found with some, we drifted apart as we had no common threads to bind us and we are no longer a part of each others lives.

Year 2010 - is this my year, the year I begin my self discovery of the inner me and learn how to deal with my emotions and allow for true healing to begin on past traumas/challenges? Tonight, I look at my bookshelf where my journal books are - I pulled out my first one - writing from the first 4-6 months after Kathryn passed away. I decided as I am now in counselling, maybe it would be fitting to read my thoughts and feelings on that day. Tears have fallen as I re-read some of the entries but I also saw words of comfort as I had written words of scripture - one of those sources was a desk calendar I had given to my friend - on the Feb 4th date - it read:

"God can mend a broken heart, but we have to give him all the pieces" "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18

How fitting reading that again - the road that lies ahead will bring me heartache, emotions (and in need of plenty of kleenex too) - but if I remember to put all of my hurts and troubles in His hands - He will remain with me to the end and onward - it is a journey I must take "alone" but to try to remember that while I am in "darkness" - I actually will not be facing them alone.

So to answer my question - is this the year I begin my self discovery of the inner me - my answer would be I think so - yes. I can not tell you who I will be at the end of this - I would hope a more honest person to myself and a stronger person in dealing with life situations better and love the person I will become after going through this process. Time can only tell me that.

Bonfire and Fireworks

2010-01-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

Garron taking a photo of him and Amy with the bonfire in the background. A family affair (their children Journey in pink and Solomon in the blue hat) - Three Hills annually as a bonfire where you can bring your real Christmas trees to have them "go up in smoke". Garron and Amy made their donation this year. The Firefighters ensure the firepit remains a controlled fire as they pile on the Christmas trees.

Of course what is a bonfire without hot dogs!!! They supplied free hot dogs and hot chocolate for everyone. Here is Solomon enjoying his hot dog.

The roaring fires and the burning ambers of the Three Hills Christmas trees.

2010-01-21T21:23:00.001-07:00

After enjoying the bonfire and our hot dogs with hot chocolate - the light show began. To end the evening, the city put on a spectular light show of fireworks. They were pretty good - great big booms!!! Around I hear the sounds of young children crying as the noise scared them. Perfect air quality - the booms were quite loud (heart thumping at times) - I must admit I am not one for fireworks (I was like one of those kids and my parents think that is one of my reasons for my fear of thunderstorms - the light show with the thundering clap). I am not the best outside night photographer - but I did try to take some of the fireworks.

The Olympic Torch Run

2010-01-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

The Olympics begin in Vancouver, BC on Feb 12 - on Sat Jan 16th - the Olympic Torch Run passed through Three Hills - there was a great crowd greeting the runners. It was a beautiful morning too. The kids were given tamborines and plastic tubs you inflate with the RBC logo as they are one of the sponsors of the Torch Run - the other being Coca-Cola. Just as the two torches touched we tried our best to sing "O Canada" - though in a big group it actually sounded more like a round than an anthem.

2010-01-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

The runner coming into Three Hills

The runners meet at the Public Library to continue the torch run - lighting the new runner's torch. If I remember correctly - this flame has originated in Athens, Greece - where the Olympia began all those years ago.

The new runner waving to the crowd as he carries the torch running towards the runner awaiting their turn.

The Patersons waiting patiently for the runner to enter Three Hills with his lit torch.

Happy Birthday Ethan!!

2010-01-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Ethan's Spiderman Birthday Cake

The Rishes have the ice cream - they are waiting for the cake to go with it.

Amy with the international student, Ren that stayed with her family last year.

Solomon

2010-01-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Sara trying on the Spidy glasses - great look Sara!!

Ethan's choice for birthday meal was Kraft dinner - here is John P finished up his plate while Amy's internation student Edgar (from Mexico) await for the gift opening part of the birthday party

Garron with daughter Journey await for dinner - next weekend it will be Journey's turn to have her birthday party - just like her cousins Ethan and Josiah she will be turning 6 years old too.

Casendra getting some cuddle time with her Auntie Amanda

Who is that Masked Man??

2010-01-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

Who is that Masked Man?? Well it is Ethan in his new Spiderman's outfit (if you go to the Privyet blog link - David and Erin - you will see that Ethan's cousin Josiah (who turned 6 this week) also has a Spiderman outfit too!! They could have been Spiderman twins if Josiah still lived in 3 Hills)

Spiderman has special glasses with lights too!!

Sara helping Ethan put together his Spiderman outfit.

Oh Ethan received a non-Spiderman related gift - a new pair of pants for school.

Snowed in 3 Hills

2010-01-08T18:59:00.001-07:00

These photos were taken from Ethan during the snowstorm we were having that first weekend of December. I had the day off work and was going up to have a lunch date with Amy - I made it 20 mins out of Calgary - at the moment I decided to turn back my cellphone went off and it was Amy saying we should cancel due to the weather. So I arrive home and there was John P finished up some projects at my house. A couple of hours later in the van we took the back roads and we eventually made it back to their house where I stayed until Sunday night where Jon J and Char drove me safely to my house. That weekend was John P's Christmas Concert and of course Ethan's birthday - so it was nice that I was able to be a part of those events.

One of the things we did while the snow and wind blew outside - watch the old TV series - The Young Riders (based on the movie - Young guns that starred Emilio Estevez and Charlie Sheen). It has the action for Ethan and of course there are the horses so perfect for Sierra.

Sierra - the photographer

2010-01-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

Here is Sierra with my old camera that I gave her. She has a good eye for capturing a moment. Candid photos are so great to have as they seem the most natural. I don't think photography would be as interesting for them if they had to wait until the roll of film was developed - seeing the photo the instant you take it is so exciting.

Make a face

2010-01-08T18:51:00.000-07:00

The first weekend of December, I was snowbound with the Paterson family - it was also Ethan's 6th birthday celebrations. On the Friday night, they had found my camera and tried out their photography skills again. These photos are the one when either Sierra or Ethan said "Make a face for the camera" - so here you go...

Ethan

Sierra

Myself with Casendra

Ocean and Journey's School Christmas Concert

2009-12-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Ocean singing a Christmas carol

Journey in her favourite red Christmas dress - singing along with her classmates

Ocean (top left) and Journey (bottom right) singing with their classmates Christmas carols.

Was my first school Christmas concert - it helped you get ready for the Christmas season. We enjoyed tea and cookies after the performance at Amanda's house. Then I went to Amy's down the street to have my first sleepover with Journey (we were excited about it). It was fun playing dominios with both Journey and Solomon - Solomon was the big winner in that game. We will have to try to do it more often in 2010 - it was nice.

Christmas season

2009-12-26T09:54:00.002-07:00

This Christmas season was quietly spent at home. As my life can be chaotic and busy with work, I enjoyed 3-4 days off work from both jobs I have. I was able to get together with a friend for coffee and try to beat the mad afternoon rush at the grocery store and enjoyed a few days of not waking up at 4:30am!!

For the month of December, I took every Friday off (I think I will do that next year - It made the month a bit more relaxing actually) - I was able to take in Journey and Ocean's school Christmas play. I then stayed overnight at Amy's house (first sleepover I have had with Journey - we both enjoyed it). In the morning, I played the memory game (which Journey won) and then dominos (which Solomon won) - as Journey would say - Amy and I were the last winners. I shared with Journey and Solomon a fond memory I had when I was their age - receiving the Lifesaver Storybook in my stocking - I found these in the local IDA store and gave them to Journey and Solomon. Amy told me last night that Solomon made small ornaments for his tree - I hope to stop in tonight to see his decorations and to give them a Christmas hug if they will let me .

Christmas Eve I made for the first time - a meat tortierre. Both of my parents are from Quebec and it was a tradition in both of their families that on Christmas Eve you have a meat tortierre before going to church service. I believe the recipe asks for pork and veal but I used pork and ground beef in mine just as my mom used to make it. As I had seen it before in other recipes - I add thinly chopped potatoes within the meat mixture. For a first attempt, don't think it was too bad.

Christmas Day I enjoyed a sleep in - made a few calls to Ontario - received a phone call from my dad who is currently traveling in New Zealand. It was nice connecting with him as he will be traveling around New Zealand on one of those hop-on/hop-off buses that go to the local hostels in NZ, so he won't be reachable for the next month and a half. Then I ventured off to the movie theatre to see the new film Sherlock Holmes. I was shocked to see how many people were at the theatre - many families actually. The first show of Sherlock Holmes was sold out so I went to the second one (thought the banter between Robert Downey Jr and Jude Law was good).

Today (Boxing Day) - I did venture to Future Store with the hope to find a DVD player to fit the shelf width of my new entertainment stand that my friend John built (other friend Jon painted) for me - success!! Will be leaving in a couple of hours to visit with my friends in Three Hills staying overnight - I am sure Sara and I will be able to sneak in a cribbage game tonight.

Wishing that you all have had a wonderful Christmas season with your family and friends this year.

Yes, I am still here

2009-12-26T09:36:00.003-07:00

Hello there - noticed that my last blog entry was Hallowe'en - yes I am still here but was not inspired to blog I guess. November I enjoyed a week visit to Thunder Bay. It was wonderful as I was able to see everyone I wanted except for one person. Enjoyed the Hoito and shopping on Bay street finding some unique Christmas gifts for my brother Bruce and Mom. I visited a new Timmy's it seems with every visit with a friend - funny to say but it seems in Thunder Bay at every corner there is either a Tim Horton's or a Shopper's Drug Mart or both!

In November, with my full time job, my bosses are beginning to look at re-vamping the training process and stragedy. In a recent email it was hinted that they are looking at having everyone cross trained in multiple disciplines - so being I am a trainer for 2 of 4 disciplines I can see my next few months quite busy with all those processes involved in training. When I took over the role as inpatient trainer especially I knew it would be a challenge - but at the same time it has been educational of all the things you need to know to be a good trainer and the importance of staying updated with new changes too.

Personally, been sorting through some emotions that I "thought" were dealt with from the best of my ability but a family issue came up that re-opened some old wounds I am finding that need more treatment before healing can begin again. So I have found a counsellor that I am hoping will be able to assist me in dealing with these emotions properly and learn to "move forward" enjoying all that life can offer me. I have been blessed with some special people in my life that have been encouraging and supportive as well as loving me quirks and all. I have appreciated that so much. Thank you.

Hallowe'en Night in Three Hills

2009-10-31T21:11:00.000-06:00

Amy's family made these paper mache pumpkins this year - it looks like they all have their own different personalities. The creators from Left to Right - Garron; Solomon; Journey; and Amy

Amy's house was the gathering place for tonight's Hallowe'en with the kids. The pumpkins above were made by Solomon and Journey. I arrived at a great time too - Amy and Garron's international student from Mexico just finished making burritos with nachos for supper. They were delicious - thank you Edgar.

The gang is ready to go trick-or -treating - Journey - the cat; Sierra the horsewoman; Logan (one of Mr McQueen's crew members - okay you have to know about the movie CARS to understand this costume); Solomon the bubble-bee; Baby Emily the pretty princess in pink being held by her mom Meagan and there is Amy - let's see going out as a French painter (she is very artistic)

Well, I did something I haven't done since I was like 9-10 years old - went out trick-or-treating. Sierra, Journey and Solomon need to let loose some energy so while waiting for Mike and Meagan to come up from Calgary to join us, I took the 3 kids out to just around the block to get some candy. I must admit it was quite fun walking around with them. They all said thank you when they left the houses and Solomon held my hand as we went house to house and crossing the road - telling us it was safe to cross the road (no cars coming). Thank you Sierra, Journey and Solomon for a wonderful time tonight. It was great spending time you at dinner and then hanging out with you as you went to get your candy. Love ya guys!

Solomon - the Bubble Bee

2009-10-31T20:57:00.000-06:00

Solomon decided to be the same as last year - a bubble bee. His mom Amy found an example of a bubble bee face painting in Ocean's face painting kit we were able to borrow tonight

Solomon - the bubble bee!! Buzzzzzzzz!!!

Hey - watch out for that stinger!!!

Just as Amy was finishing up with Solomon, her niece Sierra came over with Grandma Char. Sierra went as a horsewoman (for those who haven't seen previous entries on my blog - Sierra is quite a natural horsewoman. Beautiful to watch her ride). Amy finished off her costume with some black freckles on her cheeks.

Journey - the Cat

2009-10-31T20:52:00.000-06:00

Journey decided to be a cat this year for Hallowe'en. Here is Journey's mom Amy getting ready to face paint her face so she can look like a cat. (thanks to Journey's cousin Ocean to allow us to use her face painting kit - had an example of a cat, bubble-bee and many other ideas too).

Face painting is complete - Journey has transformed into a cat!! Meow!! Great job Amer!!!

Landscaping: Before and After Photos

2009-10-26T20:59:00.000-06:00

I know I have posted these photos before - but here are the before photos of my backyard. Full of weeds and had seen better days that is for sure.

2009-10-26T20:57:00.001-06:00

Here is the after photo - dramatically different I would say. Yes, there is no grass. My theme was low maintenance and I definitely got that!! I will have to have a proper backyard party in the spring time (after I have some flowers in the flower gardens that in the backyard).

Thank you John P and Jon J for doing a great job on the fence. I will be able to enjoy all your handiwork inside and now outside of my house. Thanks for all your help in my renos over the past couple of years. It has throughly been appreciated.

2009-10-26T20:55:00.000-06:00

Before and after

This is the gate that John P and Jon J made for me to make my fence complete. The guys did awesome - I am one happy customer!!

2009-10-26T20:51:00.000-06:00

Before and after

Happy Birthday Logan!!

2009-10-26T20:40:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, we celebrated Logan's birthday - he turned 3 years old. After blowing out the candles, he couldn't wait to take the cars off the cake. I guess he is like every little boy - loves his cars/trucks.

Logan and Solomon looking at the cake - maybe figuring out what kind of piece of cake they want

"Hey I am out of juice guys!" Logan says to Ethan and Solomon, "See my cup is empty."

Logan's parents - Mike and Meagan (getting the camera ready for birthday photos)

2009-10-26T20:35:00.000-06:00

Time to open presents Logan - let's see what's in this shiny bag...

Logan had plenty of helpers for opening his gifts - there is Journey (pink); Ethan (black shirt); Sierra (purple) and Solomon (blue)

Since August, I have babysat for Mike and Meagan - mainly to look after baby Emily but I have looked after Logan a few times. I do remember how he enjoyed cars and transformers. So Logan is holding the cars while Journey is holding the transformer car that I got him. I had to giggle - his expression and excitement seeing them was so adorable. Glad I got the right thing for you Logan.

2009-10-26T20:30:00.000-06:00

Logan's dad Mike was showing Solomon and Logan the new books he received.

Hard to tell what this present is - it was from Logan's parents - CARS bed sheets. Logan was very happy as he loves the video CARS

What do you want me to do with this Casendra? (John P asking his daughter Casendra) - it is baby Emily's teething ring I believe

Sara and Ethan discussing about the new cars that Logan. Sierra playing with this gooey stuff that all the kids seem to enjoy playing with. The compare it to play-doo.

The Fog Rollin' In...

2009-10-19T23:40:00.000-06:00

Only the tip of the Golden Gate Bridge is showing now that the fog has rolled into the habour

It was so neat to watch this thick wave of fog/cloud enclose the San Francisco Habour - sweeping behind Alcatraz Island

San Fran Wax Museum

2009-10-19T23:38:00.000-06:00

George Clooney

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

The Future and Past collide - Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) and Johnny Depp (Captain Jack Sparrow)

Governor Arnold S, John Travolta, Denzel Washington, Mel Gibson

2009-10-19T23:35:00.000-06:00

Harrison Ford with Tom Cruise

Gone with the Wind

The Duke (John Wayne) hanging out with Butch Cassidy (Paul Newman) and the Sundance Kid (Robert Redford)

Comics - Jim Carrey and Robin Williams

2009-10-19T23:30:00.000-06:00

Reese Witherspoon; Marilyn Munroe and Julia Roberts

Selma Hasek; Oprah and Halle Berry

Donny and Marie Osmond; Dick Clark and Tom Hanks

"Crikey" says Steve "You scared me Rambo!!"

2009-10-19T23:26:00.000-06:00

Van Gough - a self portrait

Mona Lisa

American Gothic

Jackie O with her husband JFK; Ronald Reagan; George Bush and Bill Clinton

2009-10-19T23:24:00.000-06:00

The Last Supper

Moses with the 10 Commandments

Sermon on the Mount

2009-10-19T23:20:00.000-06:00

Leo and Kate - on top of the world!!

Prince Phillip and Queen Elizabeth II

Lady Diana

Dorothy with her friends following that yellow brick road

Golden Gate Bridge

2009-10-19T23:17:00.000-06:00

To rest my foot but still as much of San Francisco as possible - I rode one of those open-top hop-on and hop-off buses. Oh my goodness - the wind was brutal as we drove across the Golden Gate bridge - I am so glad I didn't have to walk against that just a few days earlier at the 3-day walk. It is quite something seeing the GG from a far - the first thing you see and the last thing you see when you ride a ship.

As we were waiting for the light to change colour - I saw this sign. I couldn't help by chuckle - never saw a sign for a future paving project. I can tell you though - they are running a bit behind schedule - it is now Fall 2009 and the roads didn't look smooth to me.

What a view!!

2009-10-19T23:11:00.000-06:00

When we realized how far our original hotel was from downtown - Kristy let her fingers do the walking and found this great hotel - Suites at the Fisherman's Wharf. We were like a 20 min walk to Pier 39 (Fisherman's Wharf) and just up the street from Ghirardelli Chocolates (oh that brownie was so yummy!!). It had 2 bedrooms (the master suite had a queen and a flat screen tv to boot and the other room had a double. The living room had another tv and a sofa bed as well as a small kitchenette - perfect. Will definitely have to remember this hotel the next time I find myself in San Francisco. Kristy and I were on the top floor with a great view of Alcatraz from our small patio, but these photos were from our roof top baloncy - amazing views.

the famous San Francisco trolley - this one is Powell & Hyde line

You can just make out the Golden Gate bridge in the distance

Celebrity Cruise line ready to set sail - thinking heading to Canada then to Alaska

A Tallship and Alcatraz

The Crooked Street at Lombard & Leavenworth

2009-10-19T23:02:00.000-06:00

Flowers of The Crooked Street

2009-10-19T23:00:00.000-06:00

Streets of San Francisco

2009-10-19T22:55:00.000-06:00

The steepest street in San Francisco - Filbert at Hyde. According to the guy on the trolley - this street was used in the TV series - The Streets of San Francisco (starring a young Micheal Douglas from 1972 to 1980)

I would seriously have some tough times driving around San Fran being I don't like heights - YIKES!!

My hotel (Suites at Fisherman's Wharf) is just down the next part of this street - I took my baby steps and eventually got down the hill. Great view - so couldn't really complain can I?

2009-10-19T22:45:00.000-06:00

The Painted Ladies

2009-10-19T22:39:00.000-06:00

The Painted Ladies - Victorian homes painted in more than 3 colour to embellish the architecture design of the homes

For my generation, "The Painted Ladies" were made famous as a part of the opening credits for the TV show "Full House" (starred John Stamos - formerly of ER)

Shopping anyone??

2009-10-19T22:34:00.000-06:00

Macy's or Louis Vuitton

Saks 5th Avenue

Tiffany & Co.

Sea Lions at Pier 30

2009-10-19T22:31:00.000-06:00

After enjoying our caramel apples, we walked down abit on Pier 39 and found the star attraction to this Pier - home of the Sea Lions. Oh my - never though sea lions could be so entertaining and boy were they noise. I have to say though - I think the kids would love it though. I did take some videos of a few sea lions having some play time, but I don't know how to load into my blog (going to have to ask Erin for some help on this one). I just sat there memorized by all the sea lions - they were just piled in layers and not really taking much notice from us. Quite a site. Kristy and I figure close to 700-800 sea lions were there enjoying some sun and relaxation. Amazing really.

2009-10-19T22:25:00.000-06:00

2009-10-19T22:22:00.000-06:00

Hey - you took my spot!!

I now call this meeting to order - Hey wake up we have business to take care here!!

An afternoon swim - cooling off from the warm sun rays

2009-10-19T22:18:00.000-06:00

Hey - I am ready for my photo op!! This is my best side too.

Scratch...Scratch...Oh that feels much better now.

Some cuddle time

Pier 39 - Fisherman's Wharf

2009-10-19T22:07:00.000-06:00

The Golden Gate Bridge - wow and I walked that whole way across (such a cool feeling)

Kristy and I enjoyed a carmel apple from this store - oh my so good!! The best part - the apples they used were Granny Smith apples - my favourite!!! How did they know? The fudge was great too. Below is Kristy enjoying the view of the habour as well as her carmel apple.

Stores on Pier 39

2009-10-19T22:03:00.000-06:00

Kristy and I had brunch here - the crepes were awesome. They filled your whole plate!! When I think of crepes - I remember them like roll-up shape - these ones were just like the above photo - a pizza triangle. I had the ham and cheese - soooo yummy!!! Kristy had the Florentine Crepe and when we were done - not one crumb left on our plates. What a way to begin our day of adventure on the famous Fisherman's Wharf!! Pier 39 had all the wonderful shops to visit - places for munchies/sweets, to find that perfect purse or tea store.

Never went inside - but loved their sign

Unfortunately, I just missed seeing Forrest Gump - oh well next time.

Escape from Alcatraz!!!

2009-10-19T21:58:00.000-06:00

We did it - we all escaped from Alcatraz in one piece - we even have smiles on our faces. It was incredible to see what a prisoner would see. I think the crueliest punishment is seeing outside the city lights and the city's bustling noises each day - freedom within their sights but in the end it would be out of their reach.

My night photos did not turn out - it was beautiful to see the San Francisco city lights as we were driven into port/wharf. Thank you Kristy for organizing this tour of a "must see" in San Francisco. It was quite a night.

Happy 75th Anniversary Alcatraz!!

2009-10-19T21:53:00.000-06:00

These two movies I have seen - above (great action movie) and below (great drama movie - Kevin Bacon was so good in it)

Way before my time - I don't know any of those actors/actresses names

Alcatraz siege - May 2 to 4, 1946

2009-10-19T21:50:00.000-06:00

June 11, 1962 - Escaping using a Spoon

2009-10-19T21:48:00.000-06:00

Who knew that a spoon could cut through concrete? That must have taken like forever to get a hole that size for a person to fit through - now I call that plenty of patience and a guy with plenty of time on their hands too.

We need your help - Does anyone have bail $$$?

2009-10-19T21:43:00.000-06:00

Sara must have known the secret pass work - maybe it was "open sesame" or was it "Please officer?" Either way, she was sprung free from her cell - you can see she is happy by that smile on her face.

2009-10-19T21:40:00.000-06:00

Prison BC - Kristy

Well - when Mother Nature calls you listen, right Kristy?

Help - I swear I never did that crime. Can I come out now?

Inside Alcatraz Island Prison

2009-10-19T21:37:00.000-06:00

The hospital rooms

Hydrotherapy room

Prisoner guard outfits

2009-10-19T21:35:00.000-06:00

Military to Federal Pen to a Reservation to the Native Americans

More rules - you could only visit your family once a month and it could only be from 1:30-3:10pm Monday to Friday only

Playing checkers against himself - I wonder who was winning - Me or Myself?

Kept busy doing pencil sketching - they didn't look too bad either

2009-10-19T21:28:00.000-06:00

Looking at the cell below, not only did the prisoners read alot, they also took up art work - those look like oil paintings on the shelves to me. Reading such in-depth authors, meal time or spare time in the rec area must have had some good conversations or debating over theories (I wonder how the prisoners there would settle those disagreements?)

2009-10-19T21:25:00.000-06:00

Games to pass the time away within the walls of the prison - baseball, horseshoes, and even cribbage!!

Al "Scarface" Capone -a 5 year Alcatraz resident

Caught a photo of a visitor within one of the isolation cells - they sure didn't want you to come out - double doors!!

2009-10-19T21:21:00.000-06:00

Public Showers anyone?

I guess it depends on your crime - to have a bed or not have a bed - how nice if you get the bed you can even receive a blanket

That is a lot of prison cells - 3 levels.

2009-10-19T21:15:00.001-06:00

Interesting quote. So the question is - if they break the rules at Alcatraz, where do the prisoners go then?

The layout of Alcatraz Island Prison

After Alcatraz Prison was closed, the Native Americans took over the island as their land - hence you have the combination of the US Jail sign with a welcome sign for all Native Americans to come and live on the island.

Views from the boat

2009-10-17T19:41:00.000-06:00

The Golden Gate Bridge as the sun is going down.

Wow - the sun looks so huge!!! Sorry the photo doesn't do it justice - it was beautiful.

San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf and the city behind it

The captain called this "Little Alcatraz" as it is where they found one of the escaped prisoners who couldn't make it across the Bay to the city. Looks like the seagull enjoys its resting place though.

Heading to Alcatraz...

2009-10-17T19:36:00.000-06:00

The sun was setting and we are ready to head for our evening tour of Alcatraz - I would imagine the most famous jail in US History. If films were made about this jail - last one I saw was The Rock with Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery.

It is the day after the walk - the night before Sara's friend Kristy from BC joined us in San Francisco - it was Kristy who organized us this evening tour of the Bay and Alcatraz. I had the guy sitting across from us to take a photo of us (nice British accent). Thanks Kristy - it was neat to walk around history and all the stories those wall have (I am sure some were not shared on the headset they gave us).

3-Day End Breast Cancer Walk - Words of Encouragement

2009-10-17T00:03:00.000-06:00

3-Day 60 mile Susan G Komen End Breast Cancer Walk - San Francisco - Fri Oct 2 to Sun Oct 4, 2009. Our team met our goal for fundraising - $10,000 US. At the closing ceremonies they said that our San Fran event raised over $4 million dollars towards finding a cure for breast cancer as well as towards programs for education, support and prevention of this disease. Thank you to all my supporters - financially as well as being a part of my cheering squad - I can't tell you how much I appreciated your encouragement and support. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.

Doing this walk allowed me to support a disease that will always be a part of my life. It allowed me to accomplish 2 goals I never thought I would be able to do or capable of doing - completing a Half Marathon (my first time) and walking across the Golden Gate Bridge (of note this was also on my Travel Bucket list of things I wanted to do in my lifetime - so cool to cross off an item from my list.). Throughout the walk, I met breast cancer survivors as well - young mothers especially or a man who is not only walking for his wife but his daughter too - both had just completed their treatment. Those I spoke to - positive thinking - their purpose being - have to be there for their children to grow up. Hearing the cost value put to each chemo visit ($2,000.00 and this person's health plan covers only $1500 per visit), I am so glad to be living in Canada too.

"We walk because we must. We are strong because the journey demands it. Together in body and united in spirit, we lay down our footsteps for this generation and the next. This is our promise.."

A gentle reminder at the opening ceremonies - "Take you Time - It's a walk, not a race. Savor the experience"

2009-10-16T23:44:00.000-06:00

60 miles = 120,000 steps!!!! Wow!!

2009-10-16T23:22:00.002-06:00

Our supporters came in all ages - children to adult. The community support was simply put - AWESOME!! At times they lined the street holding out bowls of candy or red licorice, clapping and cheering out words of encouragement and some saying simply a "Thank you" for doing this for them. I was told that San Frans don't like to honk their horns - well they broke that rule 10 times over this weekend - the amount of honks from local drivers were amazing - windows down waving to us as they drove passed us. One part of our walk I remember this lady across the street on her patio yelling out to us - "Thank you!!". So cool.

The Wonders of Duck Tape

2009-10-16T23:14:00.000-06:00

One of the major side effects of walking 60 miles - Blisters. Well, here is another function to add for duck tape - preventing blisters or at least protect them for increasing once you have them. Sara choose the fitting colour - hot pink!!

Closing Ceremonies

2009-10-16T23:11:00.000-06:00

The banners of who we were walking for...

Words of inspiration for survivors of cancer - Courage, Patience, Hope, Healing, Opthism, and Commitment

Knowing I can wear my emotions on my sleeve and having a personal connection with this disease - surprisingly it was at time moment that my eyes became wet (so were so many other around me too). The last group to walk into the closing ceremonies were all the breast cancer survivors - as they walked in, fellow walkers took off their shoe and held it in the air as a sign to shoe their support. Of course, my thoughts were to my mom and sister -hence why there were tears running down my face.

The Reason we are here...

2009-10-16T23:00:00.001-06:00

This is why we walked for 3-day - To end Breast Cancer. Below is another sea of pink - these are all breast cancer survivors - they are either had gone through treatment or are currently in treatment for their breast cancer.

Survivors holding hands together - united in a circle with the same dream - "A World without Breast Cancer"

The 3-F Crew Crossed the Finish Line

2009-10-16T22:56:00.000-06:00

You ladies rock!! Sandy, Sara and Katie completed the 60 miles in 3 days - with blisters on their feet and sore leg muscles too.

When we walked across the finish line we were given our white shirts indicating we were walkers and they also gave us a pink rose.

Mother and daughter - Sandy and Katie

The 3-F Crew together at the end - together we were there for each other to see us reach our goals we set for ourselves for this incredible event. It was an honour to participate in this event with you Sara, Sandy and Katie. An unique experience to have been a part of.