A Friend Like Her

I'm one of the those people. That lost touch, with everyone I went to high school with. What you don't always understand, at the time, is that those people...they've gone through some big changes with you. You have history. And in some ways, they will always be in your life. You will always, carry a piece of them. After all, for a very vital part of your life, you were friends.

A couple of years ago, I reached out to a few of those people. Via Facebook. I was curious, about them. And their lives. Girls I had cheered with. Friends I'd studied with. People, that I spent so much time with. It wasn't like we were chatting every single day. Or even calling each other on the phone. We were Facebook friends. A far cry, from spending hours and hours together...like we had done 10 years before. We'd read each others' posts. But it wasn't like we were planning vacations together.

When my Dad past away, a friend reached out to me. Unlike most, she called. And we talked. It truly, meant the world to me. As my world was crumbling around me, she was there to talk to. To make me laugh, at the memories we shared. Amber and her parents, would send the most beautiful flowers. In a gorgeous vase. That my Mom and I, still use pretty often.

Amber has become one of those people, that have helped us, in our fundraising efforts. She works for a company, that prints things like T-shirts, bags, and other stuff like that. If you are involved in sports, you know what I mean. They are the people, that become your best friends.

Although I have a cousin, that does similar things, my friend has opened up her arms. And her heart, to us, and our foundation. You see, a year ago, I was trying to track my cousin down. To print us, some T-shirts. Maybe a banner or two. And my friend, offered to help me.

In a very short amount of time, I had a big box delivered to our home. Filled with T-shirts, for our fundraiser. Exactly how my Mom wanted them. And this year, when I dropped the ball in February, Amber rescued me. Yet again. Sending our order to be printed, just this past week.

Amber is so amazing to work with. And she really is an amazing friend. That I hope to have for life. Even if I don't answer calls, get on Facebook just a few times a month, or go MIA...my girl has my back! I'm pretty darn lucky.

My friend, is still the genuine girl, I went to school with. The one that made me laugh, when I needed to laugh. The person, that walked many of the same paths, as I. It saddens my heart, that we lost so many years, of friendship. But it always makes me smile, when I check her Facebook page. To see her three kiddos. All happy, just like their momma.

I can't wait, to see what our T-shirts look like this year. Or the other goodies, that we're cooking up. Things that we can sell all year long. Because, I'm pretty sure...I hear the Growers' Market calling my name! And maybe a couple of T-shirts, bracelets, and bags...might make their way to our tables.

When you do fundraisers like ours, it's a lot of grassroots, kind of work. And it isn't possible, without people like Amber. That have your back. Help you, to get the best possible products. So that you can turn around, and raise some funds. I'm lucky to have a cousin, that does this kind of work. I know I can call him, at any time.

But it's also nice, to have a friend that does it too. That loves my Dad, the way she does. We have a lot of history together. Amber and I. Years or cheerleading. And school. And just being friends. If you ever need anything printed up, I'd say call Amber! She is amazing to work with! ❤❤❤

Hey There Monkey!

My Dad and I, had this hilarious connection to monkeys. When I was born, I was a pretty hairy baby. And my Dad called me, his little monkey. I remember my Dad, liking to buy me, stuffed monkeys. All the time! As I'd grow out of my dresses, he'd put them on my monkeys. :)

When I got older, I'd call my Dad, "Daddy Monkey." When this series of commercials came out, I told my Dad, it reminded me of him. I was away at college. And he laughed. Every single time I'd see the commercial, I'd laugh. And when I'd move back home, to take care of my Dad, and we saw these commercials...I'd tell him, that he was on TV!

When my Dad went to the hospital in December 2010, I'd buy him a stuffed monkey. From the hospital's Gift Shop. Every single time, after that, when we were in the hospital...I'd buy my Dad a stuffed monkey. We got a nice little collection. In just a short time. And my Dad LOVED them!

During the last few weeks of his life, my Dad was in bed a lot! He'd look out his bedroom window. And I'd attempt, to make my parents' bedroom, a little more fun, for my Daddy. I'd go out and buy some of these solar toys. And I'd put them in the window. For a few years, I've been buying them for my grandma. And she enjoys them so much! My Dad thought, they were pretty fun too!

For hours he'd watch them dance around. He'd tell me, to never forget to take him some, to his grave. And I still find myself, looking for new characters. Every store I go to, I look for them. If you would like to donate some, for our fundraiser, I'd gladly except them!

I'd also put up my Dad's Birthday cards, flowers, and his collection of monkeys. He'd tell me, that he really enjoyed those monkeys. That every single time, he saw a monkey, he smiled. And he thought of me. And our fun relationship. When I see monkeys, I think of my Daddy too!

There's just something about them. The silliness behind them, remind me, of how silly my Daddy could be too! I'm hoping to sell some monkey items, at our fundraiser, in April. And I'm looking for donations. Here are a couple of things, that I found. But we're open to anything, and everything!

I see these bracelets everywhere! In fact, my Dad is the one, that bought me my first one. We were at Walgreen's one day. Picking up his prescriptions. And he saw them. He threw a couple in our basket. Because I'm ALWAYS wearing bracelets! And he liked them. The expression on the monkey's face, makes me think of my Dad's silly smile.

I'd LOVE to sell these. But I don't know where you can buy them. I've contacted the company. And hope to hear from them soon. Because online, they start at $4 a bracelet! And I haven't been able to find these monkey bracelets, at the store anymore. I just find the other animals.

 

I think these little cups are cute. They are $13.48, per dozen. So cute! I LOVE their silly grins. Honestly, these cups, totally made my morning!

 

These girly monkey cups, are $15.50 a dozen. I think they are adorable! The little girl monkeys, make me want to have a birthday party. For myself. And I'm not really into that sort of thing. But these cups are so cute!

 

These cute and colorful monkeys, are $17.99 a dozen. And I think they'd be fun, to add to our sale. My Dad LOVED things like this! In fact, I bought him 3 hanging monkeys, in December 2014. When we were hospitalized over the holidays. For weeks, they hung in our hospital room!

 

 

These cuties, made me laugh, when I saw them. They are $9.73, for 100. And are about an inch tall. But seriously, they are cute! The one that is laying down, with it's hands behind it's ears, reminds me of my Daddy. That's the way he liked to lay in bed. In the hospital, at home, wherever!

 

So there you go. I'm looking for some sponsors. To add to the items, that we are going to sell. Monkeys, remind me of my Daddy. Just like school buses do. Model cars, from Danbury Mint. Driving caps, still bring tears to my eyes. Mini tools, were his favorite! Coin collections, make me smile. And double chocolate donuts, make my heart sing. :) Those were all favorites of my Daddy.

 

And we want the Love for Blue Fundraiser, to represent my Daddy. We want to have things, that remind us, of him. That bring a smile to our faces. And to the people that will be there. If you are interested, in sponsoring us, please leave me a comment here, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or contact me on Facebook.

 

This is our BIG fundraiser, for the year. And we want to raise, as much money, as possible. To be able, to continue supporting those people, touched by cancer. To help fund, research. And to continue, supporting our community. Our goal is, to grow our scholarship fund. To double it, for next year. Thank You, for continuing to read our blog! And have a very Happy Wednesday! ❤❤❤

Caring For The Caregivers

I know. It's the toughest job, you'll ever have. But it's also the most rewarding one, you'll ever have! And honestly, as tough as it can be at times, it's not a "job." The days are long. Sleep, is not easy. Rarely, do you have alone time. Your own needs, they come last. But you wouldn't have it any other way.

At least, that's the way I felt. I put myself, last. Every single day. Because there were more important things, that needed to be done. I've learned, most caregivers are the same way. They always put themselves last. ALWAYS!

That is why I started the Caregiver Boxes. And trying to reach out to caregivers. Because it's a tough job. One that doesn't get much, if any, glory. People aren't paying you. They're not thanking you. Most of the time, you're overlooked. And I wanted the caregivers out there, to know, they matter too!

This project, is one of my favorites. Out of everything we do. To acknowledge the caregivers. To send them a little something, that hopefully makes them smile. Brightens their day. And lets them know, they are not alone. There are other people, just like them, traveling a tough journey.

I never realized, the cost, of these boxes. I mean, I use the USPS frequently. As most of my friends, live out of town. But the cost, has added up quickly. And I now realize, I need a little help. So on this Wishful Wednesday, I'm asking for some help. For the caregivers.

My plan is, to sell some items, targeted at raising funds for our Caregiver Boxes. The "color" for caregivers is purple. So that's our next color, I'll be tackling. I want to be able, to set up a "purple area," at our sales. And I'm hoping to have everything put together, before our big Love for Blue Fundraiser, in April.

I do need some help though. I have already begun, making purple items. And I look forward, to seeing what I can create. But I'd like to be able, to sell a few of the following items...

These purple awareness bracelets, are $28 for 50. And I know, from experience, that I can sell them for $1 a piece.

These angel pins, well to me, they scream caregiver. The silent angel, that is taking care, of their loved one. They are $45 for 18. I'm sure, we can get $5-10 a piece, for these sweet pins.

These keychains, would also be a nice item, to sell. I'm sure, we could get $1-2 a piece. And the cost is, $12 for 25 keychains.

If you would like to help out our cause, you can directly purchase the items. Which would be a HUGE help! You can also choose any of the items, from this section of the website. I'll be collecting, purple items. Of any kind. Or you could make a monetary donation.

As always, we welcome any assistance, in the form of postage, gift cards, items, cards, and money. You can always contact me here at the blog, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. Thank You, for taking the time to read this. This cause, has such a soft place, in my heart. Happy Wednesday! ❤❤❤

2nd Annual Memorial Love for Blue 5K Run/Walk Fundraiser

I wanted to share a little more, about our plans. For our 2nd Annual Memorial Love for Blue 5K Run/Walk. This year, we've had more time, to plan. And to get things together. I've also asked, more people to help out.

First and foremost, we will have a 5K Fun Run/Walk. On April 23, 2016. At the Valle Del Bosque Park. Located at Sunset and Sunset Gardens SW. It comes out to, 4 times, around the trail. The entry fee is $25. Which will include a t-shirt.

Next, we will be having a Car Show. Same location. Again, the registration is $25. And will also include a t-shirt. And one voting ticket. We will be selling tickets, to vote on people's favorite car. For $1. And will have a 1st place prize.

There will also be food for sale. Hamburgers, hotdogs, nachos, frito pie, desserts, drinks, and snacks. We are asking for help, on the day of, to cook. Also to set up, and tear down.

My Mom and I, will also be hosting a sale. Where we will be selling the items we collect. And also our craft items. With the money going towards our scholarship fund.

Lastly, we'll be hosting a raffle. I am making a blanket. And we have begun to collect items, from the community. Gift cards, donated items, and such. With the tickets costing $2.

If there is anything, that you are interested in helping out with, please let me know. Volunteering on the day off. Advertising. Collecting items for us. Donating items. Helping to organize the event. If you would like to participate, let me know. You can always contact me here, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), and on Facebook.

And of course, feel free to spread the word. It's the only way, we will make this event, a success! Please share this post on your social media. And if you know of anyone, that is interested in donating items, please let me know. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤   

Humble and Kind T-Shirt Sale

One of my Dad's favorite sayings was "Always stay humble and kind." So when this song came out, it was natural, for me to think of him. And I decided, that our next T-shirt sale, would reflect that.

We are currently, selling these T-shirts. In 5 different colors. In all sizes, from kids to adults. For $20 each. If you would like to buy one, you can go here. And if you have any other ideas, for T-shirts, please let me know. I'm always looking for new ideas! ❤❤❤

Striped Hats

Just a few weeks ago, I made these hats. And posted a picture on Instagram. By the next morning, I had sold the three. And they were in the mail. But I managed to get some more yarn. And I got to work!

This is the same self striping yarn, that I used on the cowl and scarves. It makes each hat unique, and interesting. At least in my opinion. The smaller sizes, look like the one on the right bottom. Have a more "blocked" look.

The larger sizes, all have a more "striped" look to them. Sizes 3-6  months, 9-12 months, and toddler are $12. Plus shipping. And the child and adult sizes are $14, plus shipping. As always, you can e-mail me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com, or contact me on Facebook. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤

Crochet Baby Blanket

As always, it's been a busy week. But I did manage, to finish a baby blanket this week. From this pattern.

Here is an up-close shot. I snapped a picture, while I was working on it, one night. This picture is very true to color. The blanket is made with baby yarn. So it's incredibly soft!

And this picture shows, more of the design. It's a large baby blanket. Probably just larger, than a standard crib sized mattress. And I'm asking $45 for this blanket. Like always, if you are interested...contact me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com, or on Facebook. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤

Looking for Jewels

We're gathering our items, donations, and supplies...for our 2nd Annual Memorial Love for Blue 5K Run/Walk. I've been posting about it, all month. And will continue, until April. You may have also noticed, our new tab, on the top of the page. At anytime, click on it, to see what we're looking for. Maybe you can help us out.

Other than our walk, we are also planning to sell food, have a Car Show, a raffle, sell some homemade items, and sell donated items. We are also sticking to our plan, of having blue items. We want people to remember, our reasons, for our fundraiser. Ultimately, we want to be a part, of the cure of colon cancer.

There are many things, that my Mom and I create. We crochet, sew, and do other crafts. One thing neither of us do, is make jewelry. And I know, people are always looking at jewelry. I know I am! And we'd like to have a few handmade, blue pieces, to sell at our Love for Blue 5K Run/Walk.

If you are a jewelry maker, and would like to donate something, please let me know. Either on the blog, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. And please share this, with as many people as you can!

Here are a few pieces, that I came across on Etsy. And just adore! But honestly, we'll be happy, with any and all donations!

I like the simplicity of this necklace. And the color is stunning! I found it here, for $21. I'm serious when I say, this necklace, almost makes me want to learn, how to make jewelry!

This necklace is selling for $25. And honestly, it is so beautiful! It has just enough detail, with the lace. But it's simple. Something that can be worn daily.

I came across this bracelet, and it's perfect for so many reasons! This bracelet is $20.50. And I know, someone like my Mom would enjoy it. I'm actually thinking, of asking the seller, to make me one with "Love" or "Blue." For my Mom.

The second I laid eyes, on this bracelet, I was in love! I'm not lying. It's just a stunning piece. For $39.95, you honestly can't go wrong. The lapis is beautiful. The design is simple. It's a gorgeous piece!

These are also gorgeous. For $25.99, you can own these earrings. I like the design. The wrapped wire, reminds me of a bird's nest. And the beads, make these earrings, simple enough...to wear daily. That's my kind of earring!

For $10.50, these are some cute earrings! Something I like to wear every single day. Small, but with a little whimsy. They'd also be perfect, for the little lady in your life!

For $24.99, this would be the perfect box, to keep all your baubles. Actually, I've begun making, a few jewelry boxes. For our sale. This one, just speaks to me!

So if you are a jewelry maker, or know one, would you consider a small donation? We are continuing to raise funds, to support other cancer patients in New Mexico, to help find a cure for colon cancer, and to continue giving back to our community.

I hope you'll take a minute, to consider a donation. Nothing is too small. We're all working, towards making our world, a better place. If you would like to contact me...you can always leave a message on our blog, contact me via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. Happy Wednesday! ❤❤❤

Hats

This week, I've got a couple of items that I've finished. As always, you can contact me, at LoveforBlue2015@aol.com. Or on our Facebook page. Here we go!

I have 5 of these hats. For sizes 3-6 months, 9-12 months, and a toddler size...they are each $12. Plus shipping costs. The child and adult sizes are $14, plus shipping. I just have one of each size. But if you want something else, please feel free to let me know.

And I have one of these round ripple blankets. I actually had two, but one turned into a gift. This blanket is $50, plus shipping.

Again, if you are interested in purchasing anything, let me know. You can e-mail me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com. Or you can contact me on Facebook. Also, you can follow me on Instagram. I'm trying to post projects on there. ❤❤❤

Scarves

It's been really cold around here. And I've been working hard, on projects, for our Love for Blue Foundation! And trying to keep warm.

This is a side view, of a crochet cowl. I used self striping yarn. So the stripes are pretty even. And it made for a really fun project. I have 2 of these. And 2 traditional scarves. All made with the same yarn. Each item is $18. Plus shipping costs. I you are interested, please contact me at LoveForBlue2015@aol.com, or on Facebook. ❤❤❤

Detective Jacob Grant Fundraiser

Over the last few days, it's come to light, that we have another police officer in need. Detective Jacob Grant, protected our community. And was injured. His family is now struggling. The Grant Family, could use the support of their community.

My Mom and I decided, to raise money for this family. Not just because the holidays are coming. And this family, has 2 small children. But because this officer, was injured. While on duty. And he is, part of our community. It's time, to take care, of him and his family. So they can focus on Detective Grant's recovery.

Just like we did for Officer Webster's Family, we will be fundraising for the Grant Family. I have been completely surprised, by the love our community has, for our first responders. I don't think, I've ever made so many blue beanies, in my life! If there is anything you liked from this post, let me know. And if there is anything you are looking for, let me know.

If you are local, don't forget to support this family. Buy a gift, for the young Grant kids. Go to a fundraiser. Donate a few dollars. I'm sure the family, will appreciate all the community support, love, and help! ❤❤❤

Officer Webster Fundraiser

On Tuesday, I shared with you, that we are raising money. For Officer Daniel Webster's family. I really believe, that this is a good cause. Something my Dad, would have gotten behind. Something that my Mom and I, are passionate about.

I made a few things, over the last couple of days. And I'm still working on some new items. Since I posted our plans on Facebook, I've received so many orders! Keep them coming. If there is anything you'd like to see, let me know. I want to raise as much money, for this family, as possible!

First of all, I've made more of these hearts. They have pins on the back of them. And they are $1, a piece.

I also made some headbands. The ones with the black flowers, are limited. So if you are interested, let me know, right away! The headbands are $3 each. Also, if you have any black or blue flowers to donate, let me know. I've got plenty of headbands. I just need the flowers.

This is a size 6-12 months beanie. We're asking $10, for it. While trying to take pictures of my beanies, I sold them all! At the park. I only have this one, and the next. But if you are interested in something else, let me know. I had made some beanies for boys. And some hats, with the earflaps too.

This is the only other beanie I have. Again, a 6-12 month size. With a large flower. We're selling this one, for $12.

 

And I have these coffee cup cozies. I'm asking $3 a piece. I've seen people use these, on their water bottles. And coffee cups, that you get at places like McDonald's, Starbucks, and the gas station.

There you go! As always, you can contact me on here, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook. My goal is, to make our donation on Monday. But if I continue to get orders, I may push back the date, until the following week. Again, 100% of the profits made, will be donated to the Webster Family. Please support them! ❤❤❤

Officer Daniel Webster

Today, we are Albuquerque Strong! We lost a police officer, just days ago. He fought for his life, and ultimately, was called home. Rest in Peace, Officer Webster.

I never knew Officer Webster. But there was something about his story, that called to my Mom and I. And we decided to use, some of our scholarship money, to help his family. To show our support, for what they do for us. Officer Webster's wife, is also a Bernalillo County Deputy.

Last week, I made a bunch of these blue hearts. I attached pins to the back. And sold them for $1. At the Growers' Market. Almost immediately, we sold out. $25 made, in less than 10 minutes. Goes to show, the support our community has, for our fallen hero. I've made more. And will be adding some pictures, on here and Facebook, of other items I'm making.

All the sales, will be donated back to the Webster Family. My Mom and I, have talked about this. And decided, this is what my Dad would have done. Had he still been alive, my Dad would have already made a donation. Of a few hundred dollars. Because, that's what he did. He gave back to his community. He support them. And rallied behind them.

You see, my Dad was a little bit of a softy. When it came to local law enforcement. Actually, anyone that asked him for help. If my Dad ever got a call from the Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department, or the Albuquerque Fire Department, he couldn't say no. Whether it was for active duty, or the retirees, my Dad donated.

It made me cry, just recently. I went to look at some papers, and came across a folder. Where my Dad kept all these bumper stickers, from all these agencies. They were all supporting our local first responders. Saying Thank You, for your donations. And all these letters. For years and years. It made me realize, just how much my Dad, loved his community.

When we first heard of Officer Webster's story, it touched my Mom and I. Because my Dad was so passionate, about helping out. Supporting his first responders. Because over the past few years, we've gotten to know so many of these people. Personally. Along with the ambulance drivers.

My Mom and I, have gone out to as many fundraisers, as possible. Stood in line, for hours, for a pizza. My Mom donated blood. We've tried to rally behind this family. Because Officer Webster, was a good man. Trying to make, our community, a better place.

Over the next few days, I'll be adding more items for sale. Sticking with the "Blue Theme." As our city is being painted blue, for our local Superman. And on Monday, I'll be making a donation, of all the money raised. If you would like to purchase anything, let me know. Here on the blog, via e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or on Facebook.

 

If you are local, remember to wear blue today. Change your porch light, to a blue one. Or add a blue ribbon to your home. Today, our community says goodbye, to a good man. Thank You Officer Webster! You have done your community proud! ❤❤❤

Thank You!!!

Weeks ago, when I loaded up our crafts, for our First Growers' Market...I never realized, how much support we'd get. Saturday, was our last day, of the season. And as I look back on these few weeks, I realize that you guys, made it a success!

I can't even begin to tell you, how many people, came out to support us. Even on the cold days. Like Saturday. I'd see smiling faces. I'd take orders. I'd sell items. There were new people to meet. Old faces, to reminisce with. It was a joy!

So many of the nurses, that we'd gotten to know. They supported us, each and every week. They'd bring me a warm drink. Or a snack. They'd come to share stories with me. About my Dad. And they'd purchase items from us.

 

And all those early mornings, in the cold, were well worth it! We did so much fundraising. Spread our message. And touched many hearts. I feel blessed. To know, that people are supportive. As passionate, as I am. About our cause. And remember my Daddy. With love, in their hearts.

This entire journey, is for him. My Daddy. My Hero. And now, my Angel. We started this foundation, together. And I will carry it, for him. I will continue his work. Will try to reach his goals. And work hard, to make his dreams, come true.

I thought of my Daddy, every single morning. As I unloaded boxes, tables, and that tent. Well before, the sun had rose. It wasn't all bad. I had so much fun too. First and foremost, getting our message out. Raising money. And meeting new people.

The other vendors, were amazing! From the very first day! They welcomed me, and our cause, with open arms. They made a difference in my life. Helped to sell our goods. Spread the word. Helped me, to find, other places to sell. And were just kind. Thank You, to any of you, who are reading this. It doesn't seem like enough. But Thank You!

You see, these people became my friends. I looked forward to seeing them, every week. And talking to them. We shared food. Lots of food! Funny stories. And they ALWAYS sent me home, with fresh produce. More than anything, I enjoyed their company.

It's during these difficult times, that God sends us, the people we need. He makes sure, that we have, support. And love. I'm grateful, for all of it. And for the ability, to raise money. For our cause. To continue to work toward, our goals. And I look forward, to next season. All the amazing people. And the many people, we can reach, with our message! ❤❤❤

Selling at the Growers' Market

I just wanted to let everyone know, I'll be selling at the Presbyterian Growers' Market tomorrow. From 7AM-12PM. Off of Central, in the northeast parking lot.

I'll have all of our crafts, for sale. And the money made, will go to our scholarship fund. Hope to see you there! ❤❤❤

Holy Family Craft Sale

I just wanted to let everyone know, we will be selling at the Holy Family Craft Sale tomorrow. From 8AM-3PM.

Holy Family is located at 562 Atrisco Dr. SW. The profits we make, will go back to our scholarship fund. Hope to see you there! ❤❤❤

Blue Round Ripple Blanket

I want to start showing a few of the items, that we have for sale. Of course, they are all blue. But we also welcome, any other orders. Our profits, go back to our foundation. To donate to the Presbyterian Cancer Center, the Cancer Services of  New Mexico, and for colon cancer research.

This is a round ripple blanket. The size is between a large baby blanket, and lap blanket. Definitely large enough, to snuggle up on the couch with. We're asking $45. You can read more about it, and find other items of ours, in our Etsy Shop.

If you are local, and are interested in purchasing something, feel free to contact me. You can leave me a message on the blog, send me an e-mail (LoveForBlue2015@aol.com), or contact me on Facebook. And I can work with you. I have to increase our prices, slightly, to cover the costs of Etsy. And shipping. Happy Friday! ❤❤❤

Love For Blue

Hey guys! If you are here, you are probably friends or family...of my Dad's. Blue. Today is his 82nd Birthday! And we feel so blessed, to share another year with him!

So far, 2015...has been tough. We've definitely spent more time, in the hospital, than at home. But what can you say? We're fighting for the man we love. And nothing will stop us!

But why are you here? A while back, my Dad starting talking. About his good friend, Patrick. And the work that he and his family started. It really has gotten my Dad thinking, after spending a month, during the holidays, in the hospital. And all that we have been blessed with. He wants to start a foundation.

Our idea is, to model it around, "paying it forward." We want to give back to our community. And show the love, that we've been shown. We know that we are very fortunate, to be by my Dad's side. All the time. That he doesn't have to be alone. And as a family, we can fight this together.

But along our journey, we've met many families, that are not as fortunate. Families that struggle, just to visit their loved ones. Families that sleep on the floor, in the hospital waiting rooms. Just so they can visit on the weekend. We've met so many people, traveling a similar journey.

Our hospital staff, has been AMAZING! Thank You Presbyterian! From the oncology unit, to the staff at the chemo office, the staff at the radiation center, the staff at Rehab, and our Homecare Team. They are the best!

But like I said, we know, we are very fortunate. Not many people, have the same resources. We are blessed. And even some of the people that we see at radiation, chemo, or the hospital...they are traveling a much more difficult path.

So with all of that being said, our first goals are...to pay it forward. To help those people, that need assistance. The families traveling hundreds of miles, to get care. Or to visit. The people we see struggling, who need assistance, of some sort.

With all of that being said, we are kicking off our fundraising, with a 5K Fun Run/Walk on April 25, 2015. My Dad was first diagnosed with Colon Cancer on April 28, 2014. My Dad wants the fundraiser, to be a celebration. To say, "Hey, I've got colon cancer. But I'm fighting it. I want to live! And I want to give back. I want to make it easier, for the next family."

So we hope to see you then! Bright and early, at 7AM. Ready to run or walk around Valle del Bosque Park. We will be charging a $25 fee. And you will receive a "Love for Blue" t-shirt. You can sign up, on the morning of the 5K Run. And you can also purchase t-shirts, or make donations here. Thanks everyone! Let's make our 1st Annual Love for Blue Event a special one! ❤❤❤