reality check - relay for life

Each year, Paul takes care of the logistics for the East Grand Rapids Relay for Life.  It's a tough job - setting up, tearing down, saying no when he wants to say yes, hauling trash, setting up power - everything that makes the event run.  Along with the hot-dirty-man work, he also raises money.  This year, from generous family and friends, over $3500.  And it's still coming in. 

It is overwhelming to see the number of people who come out to support this event.  To see the number of kids running around, taking part.  The names on the huge electronic board.  The white sashes.  The white sashes on young people.

Whew.

I went and took some pictures.























If you are well, be thankful.  And donate if you can.  If you are battling, helping someone battle, or have lost someone to cancer, these events are for you.  And for the world.  So we can all have more birthdays. 

More inspiration

Wrapping up the Relay was no small feat.  Everything put up had to be torn down.  And it was a gorgeous day so under the abundant sunshine, everyone was scrambling to bring closure to a wonderful event and head to the beach.

One man walked several laps around the track.  He wore a white sash and used a cane.  White sashes = Cancer survivor.


As everyone closed out, I was able to a few pictures of all the volunteers who made this event possible.  Many hands went into the work.  Wonderful, all of them.



And then, just like that, it was over.



Until next year!  

It's May

and almost June.  It is FINALLY feeling like some kind of spring-into-summer weather, complete with sunshine and big, blue skies. 

The school year is ending.  The cottage is ready.  And it was time for the Relay. 

Every year, Paul does it.  This year was no different except that he has a horrible ear infection.  So his participation was more supervisory than participatory.  He couldn't stay away.  One of his colleagues called him a rockstar so who can blame him?  :)











Someday.  Until that day, we will keep walking, raising, and supporting the Relay.

The day after

We are still here.  The big news is that the East Grand Rapids Relay for Life raised $70,456.78 and donations according to Paul, are still coming in.  That's awesome.   We bid and won a cute tile complete with a dog house and dog.  The dog is cute but of course, @thedogsamson is cuter.

I will be using this tile to highlight the culinary adventures here on Argentina, along with some snarky barbs.  Sounds delightful, doesn't it?  :)

From 2011-05-21

It was a long two days for Paul and we celebrated this AM by sleeping in until 8 am. Really, this is a not-very-often-occurring event. Looking forward to a short work week and the unofficial start of summer with a long Memorial Day weekend.

Cheers!

Day 1

Friday,  Paul worked at the East Grand Rapids Relay for Life.  He does this every year.  He does it to give something back and to remember some dear people.

From 2011-05-20

People walk continuously for 24 hours

From 2011-05-20

Some tents have wild decorations

From 2011-05-20

We take a minute to remember those who inspire us to keep fighting.

From 2011-05-20

From 2011-05-20

Every penny counts. It's not too late to contribute!

From 2011-05-20