Journey to DALLAS!

Oh What Fun ...

2012-02-08T18:44:00.000-08:00

SGK San Francisco 2010

I posted this picture to FB the other day.

We were approaching a hill in San Francisco.

Priceless ...'eh?

I miss these Blogger Babes.

BOOBIES.

ps--The rash on the leg is getting better.

79.2 Sticks of Butter

2012-02-06T18:20:00.000-08:00

That's almost 20 lbs!

Woo hoo!

I made it through a reunion luncheon at Carmine's and Super Bowl party at Myle's and Viv's! I'm really pleased.

...

I picked up a new medication for the rash on my leg today.

When the pharmacist said "$45.00" I said "But I have insurance. How much is it REALLY?" She looked and said ... "$45.00. The cost of the medication is actually $273.00."

It's a tiny 50g of foam ... a 20 day supply.

When I wake up tomorrow morning ... this rash better be GONE!

What do people WITHOUT insurance do?

...

BOOBIES!

Reunion

2012-02-05T19:44:00.000-08:00

It was reunion day for Burt's Babes. We reconnected with our training buddies and had a great lunch at Carmines. Everyone looked AMAZING!

Team Burt's Babes Dallas is still intact!

We all agreed that this week was a tough one ... but we also agreed that we have to let the "dust settle."

...

I just got home from an exciting Super Bowl party.

Congratulations to the NEW YORK GIANTS! It was an awesome game.

And now ... on to BASEBALL!

...

BOOBIES!

Almost At The End Of A Long Week

2012-02-04T15:51:00.000-08:00

Bee hated these ... and Sarge knocked them over in the middle of his service ... but I loved these flowers.

It was indeed a long week.

Yeah ... SGK disappointed us ... but that's the small stuff.

Saying goodbye to Sarge was difficult.

Now the number of my "loyal readers" is down to one.

I am so happy that I was able to be with Miss Bee, Chuck, Cat, and Sarge's family and friends yesterday.

He was a gentleman.
He loved his family.

He loved his country.

He was my friend.

Charlie loved two things about my blog.

One thing was this picture:

The other thing was writing this word in the comments:

BOOBIES!

So this is for you my friend.

I'm pretty sure you're reading this!

Love you.

Press Release From SGK

2012-02-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

February 3, 2012
For Immediate Release

Statement from Susan G. Komen Board of Directors and Founder and CEO Nancy G. Brinker

We want to apologize to the American public for recent decisions that cast doubt upon our commitment to our mission of saving women’s lives.

The events of this week have been deeply unsettling for our supporters, partners and friends and all of us at Susan G. Komen. We have been distressed at the presumption that the changes made to our funding criteria were done for political reasons or to specifically penalize Planned Parenthood. They were not.

Our original desire was to fulfill our fiduciary duty to our donors by not funding grant applications made by organizations under investigation. We will amend the criteria to make clear that disqualifying investigations must be criminal and conclusive in nature and not political. That is what is right and fair.

Our only goal for our granting process is to support women and families in the fight against breast cancer. Amending our criteria will ensure that politics has no place in our grant process. We will continue to fund existing grants, including those of Planned Parenthood, and preserve their eligibility to apply for future grants, while maintaining the ability of our affiliates to make funding decisions that meet the needs of their communities.

It is our hope and we believe it is time for everyone involved to pause, slow down and reflect on how grants can most effectively and directly be administered without controversies that hurt the cause of women. We urge everyone who has participated in this conversation across the country over the last few days to help us move past this issue. We do not want our mission marred or affected by politics – anyone’s politics.

Starting this afternoon, we will have calls with our network and key supporters to refocus our attention on our mission and get back to doing our work. We ask for the public’s understanding and patience as we gather our Komen affiliates from around the country to determine how to move forward in the best interests of the women and people we serve.
We extend our deepest thanks for the outpouring of support we have received from so many in the past few days and we sincerely hope that these changes will be welcomed by those who have expressed their concern.
###

...And This Is From Our Beloved (and brilliant) Captain ... Burt.

2012-02-02T20:55:00.000-08:00

In the last couple of days, lots of people – knowing my long-standing connection with the Komen 3-Day Walk for the Cure – have asked me for my reaction to the news that Komen will not be giving further grants to Planned Parenthood. I have been thinking about little else since the news hit; about the implications, and how this act – that like so many I believe to be a terrible misjudgment – should affect my future relationship with Komen.

I am very, very, disappointed in an organization that for years I have believed, and I think with good reason, was a model of a well-run, highly-motivated, group, dedicated completely to doing the right thing in a cause that is so important to so many millions of people. I am also disappointed in its response to the negative reactions of so many of its friends and supporters. I find it very difficult to swallow the contention that this decision had nothing to do with politics. The official statement, that this defunding is the result of an across-the-board decision not to give grants to organizations that are the subject of a governmental investigation, and that Planned Parenthood fits into that category because one Congressman has launched an investigation into its abortion funding, is, to my mind, a pretext. And I am saddened and angered that Komen has yielded to the threats of one end of the political spectrum to the detriment of women’s health. In these last two days, many of my walking colleagues, who I admire and respect, have announced that they are severing all ties with Komen as a result. I cannot, and will not attempt to, argue with that position.

But, I find myself unwilling to take that step. A part of me recognizes that this grave self-inflicted wound results from the organization being in a damned-if-you-do-damned-if-you-don’t situation. As Wheaton College political science Professor Amy Black put it, “to continue a partnership with Planned Parenthood would have significant political consequences that would harm them. To end the partnership with Planned Parenthood would have significant political consequences that also would cause harm.” I firmly believe that Komen made the completely wrong choice. But I have to recognize the practical dilemma.

I have found myself analogizing the situation to that of my reaction if a very good friend, or a loved one, who I have always found to be good and kind and fair, suddenly did something completely awful and out of character. Would my reaction be to drop them from my life? I hope not. And that is how, for now at least, I see Komen.

What has not changed as a result of this stupid decision, is that Komen is still the best resource we have in the struggle to find a cure for breast cancer. And I cannot walk away from that. I will separately donate to Planned Parenthood to help with its work in providing breast exams and information (apparently they do not do mammography). But the money Komen raises funds the research that has saved the lives of so many women, and will someday kill the monster. And, more than any other cancer charity, the money it raises goes directly to the work that so many of us deeply care about. I cannot ignore that.

I hate what they have done this week. But I love what they have done for 30 years. I am angry and disappointed. But I do not see myself leaving the Komen community.

IRS Circular 230
Disclosure: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the IRS in Circular 230, we inform you that any tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachment that does not explicitly state otherwise) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein.

If You're A Walker You Received This ...

2012-02-02T20:23:00.001-08:00

To our Susan G. Komen 3-Day family,

The current debate over the changes to Susan G. Komen’s grant-making programs continues. What also continues is the need for us to focus on the undeniable fact that women are diagnosed with breast cancer and die from breast cancer every day.

No group associated with Susan G. Komen for the Cure works harder than all of you who participate in the 3-Day. The energy and passion you demonstrate through involvement with the 3-Day is an inspiration to all of us. Regardless of the ongoing debate, we need to step back and remember why we all got involved in the first place. We are united in our energy and our passion to eradicate breast cancer.

The debate will continue. The dollars at the center of it are but a small fraction of the overall commitment made by Susan G. Komen over the past 30 years. What can never be debated is that our fight against breast cancer cannot be sidetracked.

On that we know we all stand together and we thank you for your shared commitment.

Sincerely,

The Susan G. Komen 3-Day Team

Planned Parenthood ...

2012-02-01T03:22:00.000-08:00

Susan G. Komen caved in to politics.

Within an article about SGK and Planned Parenthood I read this:

"At the heart of this issue is the shameful investigation of Planned Parenthood by House Republicans trying to score political points and appease their extreme right-wing base. Komen should not allow these sort of partisan games to put women across America at risk."

I am sick that SGK felt the pressure to back down.

It's their policy to withdraw support from any organization that is under government investigation ... and Planned Parenthood is under investigation.

Do your investigating Republicans.

As Senator Patty Murray said "Politics is again coming between women and their health care needs."

In the meantime ...

I will be lacing up my sneakers and walking another 60 miles in November.

I hope you will join me.

Susan G. Komen has made an enormous difference in the war against breast cancer.

I continue to support Susan G. Komen.

The end.

Are you reading this Sarge?

2012-01-29T04:24:00.000-08:00

Please read Sarge's last post.

Sarge Charlie and Sollie--July, 2011

I love you, Sir...
and I will miss you.
I am so very lucky to have had you in my life.

"True friendship is when two friends can walk in opposite directions, yet remain side by side."

OK ... Last Week Didn't Count!

2012-01-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

3 POUNDS!

12 sticks of butter my friends!

That's a total of 18 pounds (my lucky number) and

72 STICKS OF BUTTER!

Miss Bee ... thank you for being my inspiration.

I'll put up a picture when you do!

I feel a little funny when I hear that someone lost 10 lbs in 2 weeks or over 30 lbs since September ... but I'm chugging along and I'm pleased with my slow progress.

...

I took the broiler pan and Pyrex baking dish out of the oven to roast vegetables and put them on the stovetop. Somehow I turned on the burner and didn't realize it until ...

CRASH!

The Pyrex dish got so hot it exploded! There were huge chunks of glass all over the work area of the kitchen! If I had been there ... or Deb ... or one of the cats ... we would have been seriously ... and I mean SERIOUSLY hurt!

It's not the first time I have turned on the burner by mistake.

I don't like when that happens.

Well ... I think Deb and I swept up most of the glass ... but I know we'll be finding little pieces on the floor.

...

Our training team reunion is in two weeks. I'm anxious to see my training buddies ... and hope that we pick up a few more teammates!

The end ... for now.

Cancer: "The Battle We Didn't Choose."

2012-01-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Cancer: ‘The battle we didn’t choose’

“The minute I saw her, I knew. There she is. That’s the girl I’m going to marry,” photographer Angelo Merendino said of Jennifer, the woman who indeed became his bride.

Angelo and Jennifer had been married for five months and living in New York City when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2008. After surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, she was cleared of cancer. The good news came just after their first anniversary.
But the cancer had metastasized and spread to her brain. On December 22, Angelo Merendino lost his wife of four years. She was 40.
His photo documentary, “The Battle We Didn’t Choose,” follows her fight against cancer. Angelo began the project as a way for family and friends in Ohio to understand what Jennifer was experiencing after phone calls and e-mails didn’t seem to portray the intensity of the situation — or produce a response.
“They didn’t see Jen taking 12 pills, giving herself shots, going in for hospital visits,” he said. “If words weren’t working, then actual photos would jar people. This is serious. We needed people to be more involved.”
Being the subject of a photo essay can be intimidating, but Angelo said Jennifer wanted the photos to be an honest representation of her struggle.
“‘I don’t want to hide anything,’” he recalled her saying. “‘I want to help others — not just women, but anyone with cancer.’”
He found that telling his own story through a lens was challenging.
“It was our life. As a photographer I would see something and react as a photographer. As the story began to tell itself, I would stop and edit photos and realize, this is my wife. And she has breast cancer.”
The impact of these photos will be everlasting because Jennifer is in them, Angelo said, but the experience is what makes the biggest impact. There hasn’t been much time to process the past four years, he said, but now he has time to just stop and think about her.
“The photos get even deeper,” he said. “My admiration of her grows. I remember each moment. They show how strong, brave, courageous Jen was.”
While Angelo’s grieving side wants to curl up in a corner somewhere, the other part of him wants the world to know Jennifer’s story, he said, things about Jennifer that he loved. For instance, in the midst of her turmoil, she started a dragon boat racing team for cancer survivors.
“I want people to know about real heroes, someone who had something thrown at her and responded. That kind of hero.”
He also wants people to appreciate every moment. He wants women to get mammograms and men to do self-checks. He wants people to be more aware of others’ suffering — to know that sometimes you don’t have to know what to say. Sometimes you just say, “I love you.”
He’ll start spreading the word with an exhibit in New York on January 26. And he’ll continue working as a documentary photographer.
“I feel like I can help people with my camera,” he said, “and that is what I want to do.”

To see Angelo Merendino's photo documentary of Jen's fight against cancer ... click here.

Time to 'Fess Up and Get Back To Work

2012-01-18T18:36:00.000-08:00

Ok ... ok ...

so I gained .6 lb this week.

I blamed it on my trip to Florida.

I can't really do that, though, because Mom eats a big 2 meals a day for goodness sake.

So now I'm blaming it on the birthday party for Ronnie's cousin where I tried a number of different desserts ... and Sashi's birthday dinner where I ate some fried calamari and bread and a donut for dessert.

I think I'll be back down by next Monday.

You keep me honest!

...

Speaking of food, Burt's Babes will be publishing a cookbook (if we ever get it together.) We're in the "collecting recipes" stage ... so, if you would like to contribute and see your name in print, send your favorite recipe or two or three ... OR MORE ... to harris.robertak@gmail.com

...

Did I tell you that I was featured in the Commack Teacher's Association newsletter along with a few other teachers who do charitable work? Well ... the CTA is giving us $200. An email went out today asking what we would like to do with our share. Responses were to get something for the school ... host a breakfast or lunch ... go out as a group ... but I wrote that I would like to donate my small share to Susan G. Komen. I thought that made the best sense.

Let's see what everyone else says.

Lost and Found ... Found and Lost

2012-01-02T15:42:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve-2011 (or maybe it was 2012)

Last week I was a bit disappointed that I gained 1.2 lbs.

Sashi figured it was the jeans I was wearing.

So tonight, I took off the jeans and put on the black slacks I have been wearing since October 31st and drove off to "weigh in."

Maybe she was right! I lost 3.8 lbs ... almost 16 sticks of butter!

So I lost the weight I found last week.

Last week I lost my glasses. Tonight I found them in the meeting room.

So ... Found and Lost ... and Lost and Found.

It is a good thing!

...

That's a picture of me having a great New Year's Eve.

Great fun with great friends ... I hope that's just a preview of what's to come this year.
...

I have been watching Breaking Bad non stop since Friday night when my friends Lynn and Joel told me I'd love it.
ADDICTING!
I have watched the entire first two seasons and have five episodes of season three to watch. Thank you Netflix.
This is such a great show!!!!
...
It's back to work tomorrow.
Back to work 15.6 lbs down!

Happy New Year ... and Thanks for a Great 2011!

2011-12-31T06:42:00.000-08:00

I just ran through all the pictures I have used on my blog and this is still my favorite. Sollie did a good job, didn't he?

...

2011 was a good year.

I walked a lot of miles ... made great new friends ... and completed another 3-day adventure.

I raised $3000 with your help and made my/our contribution to finding a cure.

Maybe next year will be better.

Maybe there WILL be a cure.

...

Loyal readers ... you are the best! I love you with all my heart.

My GREATEST wish for 2012 is that YOU enjoy good health.

I look forward to walking with you ... to spending time with you ... to sharing every bit of happiness you enjoy in the coming year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Love--R

Dinner With (Some of) Burt's Babes

2011-12-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

Two of Burt's Babes came out to the Island last night to meet me for dinner.

Sandy just came back from her trip to Viet Nam and Lesley is getting ready for her trip in about a month to Southeast Asia. I listened with great interest. I don't think I'll ever travel like they do!

...

We asked my friend Enya if he would do a fundraiser at La P'tite Framboise ... (Ronnie's and my favorite place) to which he replied "of course!" (All those Friday nights paid off!)
I asked the girls to tell him how much money we have each raised for breast cancer research so far and it amazed me!

Lesley (3 walks) ... $15,000+
Roberta (6 walks) ... $20,000+
Sandy (8 walks) ... $90,000

That's 1,080 miles walked and $125,000 raised...
... by just 3 women!

When we get together with Burt and other walkers who have trained with us, we will go around the table and add up the totals.
Maybe next year we will celebrate a CURE!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

This is what the Chrismakkah table looked like before the meal started. Notice the little bags of Chanukah gelt on each salad plate. I didn't eat the gelt because I'm good.

But I guess I wasn't all that good this week although I really tried ... tried through Christmas breakfast at school, tried my way past cookies and cakes on the sign-in counter, and tried through an awesome Christmas dinner party at Bruce and Celia's.

In spite of all that trying ... I gained a STICK OF BUTTER+.

Do you know how long it took me to lose a stick of butter?

I did take a deep breath and stepped on the scale last night ... so I am taking ownership of my weight gain and starting over today.

The end.

Or is it the beginning?

We'll see next week.

Damn New Years Eve is just before the next weigh in. duhr.

Lucky 13

2011-12-20T02:56:00.000-08:00

Another 8 sticks of butter*!

The topic last night was "Moving Around." I haven't done much of that lately ... at least not the training walk kind of moving around. I have been moving around the Internet ... shopping for the holidays. I even moved around the malls (two malls in one week! Yikes!) and I moved in and out of stores. This kind of moving around will stop soon ... maybe even now ... because my credit card wants to stop moving out of my wallet!

I don't enjoy staying for the meetings.

I find some of my fellow "watchers" quite dull.

The leader is nice ... but I guess she couldn't pick her audience.

Last night she reported that a latke ... 3 inches in diameter ... is 7 points. She also talked about how everything smells like cooking oil after standing in the kitchen where the latkes are frying.

That's just not worth it.

No latkes for Bertie this year.

My Crayola Calendar says tonight is the first night of Chanukah.

The story of Chanukah is about miracles and lights.

May we all share in the miracles life offers.

Happy Chanukah!

Hag Sameach!

*two pounds. Total loss: 13 pounds

Monday Was "You Know What" Day!

2011-12-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

44 sticks of butter*, y'all.

11 pounds ... since October 31st!

First Training Walk of the Season--12 miles (or there about!)

2011-12-05T17:47:00.000-08:00

Here we are on our first training walk of the season ... Burt, Bert, Lesley, Val, and Jax. We're most of the members of Burt's Babes Dallas (except Jax!) It was a crisp day and a good walk. I would have gone the 16 miles ... but I was tired. It was a fun filled weekend ... but I was tired.

I'm tired today!

...

In other news ... my thank you cards went out and I'm getting lots of nice compliments. I had Minted print them. They have the best designs. The proof came back the day after I designed the card, then, after I approved the proof, the cards were produced and mailed and I had them within a week. That's my endorsement for Minted.

It's a great company!

...

Boardwalk Empire anyone? OMG ... it's the best thing on TV.

...

If you are reading this, please leave a comment.

Sarge and Bee are on a cruise with their family and they (plus Thumper and Sandy and occasionally 'Chelle and Rocky) are my only readers who comment.
...
I forgot ... Monday is weigh in night: .4 last week and .6 this week = 8.4 since October 31st. This is sooooo slow. And why did they have to change the program? PowerStart. Duhr! Now I'm only allowed 26 points!
The end.

At the Finish Line with Joan!

2011-12-01T17:46:00.000-08:00

Can you see this?

It's Joan and me as we are approaching the finish line at the Thanksgiving Day Race.

I hope that next year we make better time ... and that my hips and thighs are a little smaller!

OY!

...

Speaking of smaller ... I lost another .4 last week. Not great but better than gaining .4 after Thanksgiving, 'eh?

That is a total of 7.8 since Halloween.

This is going to take forever.

I have realistic expectations, however, and am beginning to see results.

Now that Debra is going to be 25 ... it's time to lose that stupid baby fat!

The end.

WhyHunger Video Full Version

2011-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving ... I Am Thankful For ...

2011-11-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

I woke up early to walk to the Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run. I arrived at the parking lot where Joan and I had decided to meet ... and I waited and waited. No Joan! Just before 8:30 the runners/walkers made their way to the starting line. I was carried by the crowd but moved to the side to get a better view ... still no Joan! I fell behind and waited for the last group of walkers ... no Joan. So I started walking my first Thanksgiving race solo. It wasn't a race for me so I treated it like a nice training walk on a beautiful day. I passed some people I know and asked if they had seen Joan. They said "Yes! She passed us a while ago." So ... the stroll turned into a fast walk. Finally, after marker 2.5, I caught up with my buddy and finished the five miles in 1 hour 26 minutes.

NEXT YEAR I WILL TREAT THIS LIKE A RACE! A walker race, that is. I just checked the results and I came in 13th in my division. (Don't ask my age!) Not great since it was 13th out of 14! Joan came in 2nd in her division!!! ( 2nd out of 2!)

OK ... so we weren't the fastest but we finished and we had a lot of fun!
...

I am thankful that my family and my friends were able to partake in a delicious and bountiful meal yesterday. I don't take that for granted!

In 2010, 17.2 million households were food insecure. In 2010, children were food insecure in 9.8% of households. Food insecure. I am sure that some children in my school, in the "middle to upper income" community in which I teach, are food insecure.
It's something to think about.
I hope your Thanksgiving was beautiful and bountiful.

Click here to see what the Harry Chapin Foundation does to help.
And click here to learn more about "Why Hunger"

Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run 2011

2011-11-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

Joan and I registered for the Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run.

It is 5 miles and we will most certainly WALK!

Let's call this the first training walk of the season.

It should be fun.

...

Tonight is Monday night so that means weigh in night!

I am pleased to report that I lost 2.6 lbs for a total of 7.4 lbs since October 30th.

Not bad.

My friend Fran reminds me every day that if I lose 1 lb a week I will lose 20 lbs by spring.

That would be just fine by me!

Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer - Susan G. Komen for the Cure Philadelph...

2011-11-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

Help us hit 5 million views by December 13, 2011! When this video reaches 5 million page views, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania will donate $50,000, to the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to empower the fight against breast cancer. Please help us achieve this goal by clicking the "share" link above to tell your friends about this video via email, Facebook, and Twitter.

For the first million views, UHC has already contributed $100,000 for this inspiring, powerful campaign.

Thank you for your support!

Why We Walk

2011-11-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

When one of Burt's Babes returned from the Boston walk in July, she emailed this picture of a little girl seen on the route at a cheering station.

The title of her email was "Why We Walk."

The picture was moving enough ...

Yesterday she emailed a link to YouTube via Facebook that featured a video submitted by another walker who saw this little girl.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2576450820507

Hopefully you will get to the video if you click on the link above.

It IS ... why we walk.

WOW!

2011-11-16T02:50:00.000-08:00

Get a load of this ... (because it won't last long!)

Top fundraiser on team Burt's Babe: Roberta Harris

Tenth place in top fundraising teams in Dallas 2012: Burt's Babes!

Now the top fundraiser on our team won't last long because once Burt sends out his first letter he will jump ahead. (He's pretty amazing ... he walks 2 events and is always among the top 5!)

As far as the top team ... who knows what can happen in the next 360+ days!

Perhaps we'll move up to the top 5 ... or even higher!

...

Here's something new! I am a member of the Commitment Club.

Here's what the Commitment Club is all about:

There are two ways to qualify:

Raise $5,000 or more for the 2012 3-Day season.
Participate as a walker who raises $2,300 or more each year for three or more years, including the 2012 3-Day season.

Commitment Club perks:

Designated phone number and email address to your 3-Day^® coaches through the Commitment Club Help Desk
Free on-event towel service
Recognition on the 3-Day website
Recognition at the 3-Day camp show
Commitment Club badge on your personal fundraising page and event credential

Well now ... the MOST exciting perk is the free on-event towel service. We have to pay for those towels, you know!
I went to the link and found my name listed with hundreds (and maybe more) of other names. That's impressive when you multiply that by (minimum) $2300 for breast cancer research... just as a start!
...
OK ... drumroll please:
I lost another 1.2 pounds this week. The total in two weeks is:
4.8 pounds!
Boy Howdy ... this is NOT moving along as fast as it did when I was in my (ehem) 30s ...
But ... I WILL carry on!
As a Weight Watcher would say "It's better to lose 4.8 than to gain it!"

This one is for Sarge ...

2011-11-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

There is another new member of Burt's Babes.

Meet Liz ...

Liz and Sandy are demonstrating a breast exam on a recent training walk!

(You wouldn't know from this picture that Sandy is disturbed every time we pose at "Eyes"!)

I knew you would enjoy it Sarge. I hope it cheers you up and makes you feel better!

...

So now we are five!

There's always room for more!

The Blossoming of Burt's Babes!

2011-11-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

Lesley, Burt, Roberta


Roberta and Sandy

Our Dallas team is blossoming! Today Lesley joined. So Burt's Babes has four fabulous members ... Burt, Sandy, Roberta, and Lesley. Two more "babes" will be joining soon ... I am excited! I sent in my first donation yesterday ... (Thank you Bob!) so I'm on my way.

...

OK ... I'm going to tell you a "sort of" secret.

I joined Weight Watchers last week. Bee and Lesley ... you are my inspiration!

I'm doing just fine. I have found foods that are satisfying and keep me on track.

So ... drum roll ... I lost 3.6 lbs this week.

It used to be 5 lbs the first week ... when I was younger!!! but I'll happily take 3.6 lbs.

So you, dear readers (Bee and Charlie and Thumper and SANDY!) are going to keep me honest! I will report to you on Monday nights!

The ... beginning!

Here I Go Again!

2011-11-06T05:24:00.000-08:00

When Lesley and I saw this sign held by a lovely woman in Atlanta, who is finishing her Dallas 3-day walk today, we just had to take a picture!

Our next journey will be to Dallas ... in just under a year!

We will be team BURT'S BABES!

We will be walking in honor of Burt Lipshie, our New York training leader, who walks in Dallas every year for his cousin ... who did not survive breast cancer.

This will be a really special walk because we will train TOGETHER and walk 60 miles side-by-side!

Here's Bert (me) and Burt, side by side before a training walk.

...

My NEW 3-day page posted the following this morning:

363 days until the event!

Participant ID: 3038281

Registered as a: Walker

...

The minimum fundraising goal for a walker is $2300.

Fundraising for me is always the scariest part.

I HATE rejection and I worry "what if they say 'no'?"

So, sometimes, I don't even ask!

This year I raised $3500... and that's GREAT!

This time I am aiming HIGH!

My personal goal is $5000.

Whaddya think?

Day 3 ... and a New Journey Begins!

2011-11-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

We awoke Sunday after a restful sleep for me ... not so much for Paula in the next tent (I guess I snore) ... and gathered as team Pink Slips for our last day. We were all very excited that we had accomplished two amazing days so far. We were anxious to get the show on the road as Closing Ceremonies were near!

I saw this sign as we left camp.

I think it says it all for me.

I am "lucky" that I can walk and that, with your help, was able to raise $3,500 this time around.

Atlanta is great. I especially liked the reflection of the building in the glass building behind it. Can you see it?

The 3-day Coffee Kids were out in force again on Sunday. This group was terrific and will be one of the great memories I will have of the Atlanta 3-day. They had this amazing bread that they offered with butter and honey.

Did I mention it was amazing?

Thank you Coffee Kids!

I was moved when we walked past the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial and past the Ebenezer Baptist Church. We had just enough time to walk in and view the tomb and eternal flame.

Throughout the three days spent walking through Atlanta I was moved by the wonderful support we were given. The cheering stations were fantastic! It was an emotional walk to say the least!

Thank you Atlanta!

Just before we walked into "holding" a small group of Pink Slips gathered to toast our accomplishment!

Other walkers were in the bar and, as each group walked in, we cheered for one another!

It was a great moment of camaraderie!

(and Atlanta has some mighty fine home brew!)

Holding is where all the walkers and crew gather just before Closing Ceremonies.

Walking in to Turner Field was really special for this walker!

Before we were officially welcomed by thousands of walkers and crew ... we hammed it up in front of the day 3 banner.

Another 60 miles in the books!

Before receiving the 3-day shirt and a rose ... walkers complete this part of the journey by making their way down a path flanked on both sides by fellow walkers and crew. The cheers and high fives make you feel so much a part of a spectacular community!

Turner Field is just a bit smaller than Yankee Stadium.

I loved it!

Team Pink Slips gathered one last time as we locked arms. We marched with all the walkers ... all the crew ... our 3-day family ... to Closing Ceremonies.

Lesley wore a pink shirt and walked with the survivors.

The heroes.

Survivors Circle ...

Walkers salute is a sneaker in the air!

...

And so, dear friends, Bee and Sarge and Thumper and those of you who read my blog but don't often comment (!) thank you for joining me again this year.

Your support means so much to me.

You have made a difference!

...

Sarge ... this last picture is for you!

Whaddya think?

Day 2--Another 20 miles

2011-10-30T05:18:00.000-07:00

Day two and we're off!

You know folks ... Atlanta is hilly ... not San Francisco hilly ... but l-o-n-g, let-me-tell-you-about-it hilly! It seemed as if we were walking uphill all day long! But Atlanta has some really wonderful people to get a tired walker up those hills. We all looked forward to seeing the 3-day Coffee Kids waiting with coffee and bread and just looking so adorable!

Day one had us walking through Stone Mountain and downtown Decatur. Day two took us through Buckhead. Boy howdy ... there are some beautiful homes in Buckhead!

...

Here's a shot of the port-o-potties. Some were more "fragrant" than others ... but when you gotta go ... well ... you know the rest!

...

The kids were out in force all day! They were almost always dressed in pink and they were adorable! They "slapped five" and cheered us every step of the way! (The little guy on the left doesn't look happy ... it's because his mama took him away from his job welcoming the walkers to pose for the picture!)

...

We walked past pink plumbing trucks ... and pink fire trucks ... but I think I liked these fellows at the car wash best!

Boy Howdy ... Atlanta knows how to do PINK!

Lesley picked up this guy by the car wash.

...

We arrived back at The Georgia World Congress Center after a long day of walking.

This was my 6th walk ... and I have to tell y'all ... there's nothing like camping indoors! The shower trucks are still outside ... but indoor plumbing is AWESOME! It's also comfortable to sleep indoors!

Here's Lesley in our 3-day accommodations! The air mattresses worked just fine.

...

The Girl Scouts took very good care of us. They should earn a couple of badges for their work in the "dining tent."

...

I think Night 2 was the dance party ... but I enjoyed wandering around, finding a place to charge batteries, and talking to people. That's all part of the experience!

We were sore and tired, and our friend "Advil PM" helped us get through the night.

After all the months of training, we were about to take our first steps on our last day.

...

And for you Sarge ...

I thought this was a little girl.

It wasn't?

Atlanta 3-day: Day 1 (20 miles)

2011-10-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Ah ... Day 1 is always so exciting.

You get up before the sun is up (like 3:30 or something) and you dress in your finest 3-day gear and you wander downstairs (dragging your 35+ lb. duffle on wheels behind you) and suddenly you find yourself in a sea of pink and see the greatest get-ups you will find in one place! (someday I will wear a tu-tu and a tiara!)

You grab something to eat (usually included in the hotel bill ... this time NOT!) and then you wait for the bus to take you to Opening Ceremonies.

Opening Ceremonies this year were in the shadow of Stone Mountain.

It was chilly but we were excited ... and the warmth of the thousands of participants ... walkers and crew ... was enough for me!

One of the first things we do (after throwing our duffles on the truck to be transported to camp) is remember for whom we are walking. As always ... I walk for Muriel, Cynthia, Phyllis, and Bee. I have added Lisa to my list. You might remember we lost Lisa 2 years ago to Leukemia.

Always emotional ... Opening Ceremonies is a time for us to honor the survivors. This is the Survivors' Circle. These are the heroes.

You wipe your eyes ... and you're off!

We always start together ... then little groups walk together.

Sometimes we walk alone.

It's a time to reflect.

I met these three gals along the way ...

3 generations of walkers!

I love it!

The cheering stations in Atlanta were amazing.

I almost lost it when we came to the Stone Mountain cheering station. To hear their cheers and read their signs made me walk just a little faster ... and helped me to forget that my feet were beginning to hurt ... just a little!

Although I was just fine with port-o-potties all day ...
it was very exciting to be camping indoors in Atlanta! That meant flushing toilets! What a thrill! It also meant that we didn't have to drag our gear over grass ... we didn't have to find the heaters in the dining tent ... we could walk around in our pjs and feel warm! Lesley and I found that Advil PM is a miracle ... and we quickly fell asleep in our pink tent ... ready to begin a new day and walk another 20 miles in the morning.
...
Always on the lookout for something to bring home to my dear friend Sarge, I decided on the following:

get a load of them balloons ... 'eh Sarge!

Breast Cancer Claims Another Brave Woman

2011-10-28T15:03:00.000-07:00

When my friend Denielle told me her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 ... she was upbeat and KNEW her mother would BEAT THE BEAST!

It didn't play out the way the family and friends of Joanie Balsari thought it would.

Today we said goodbye to another brave woman.

I never knew Joanie ... although I knew she couldn't be anything but amazing ... because Denielle is just that!

I learned about Joanie as I waited to hug Denielle and her dad. She clearly was amazing!

Hundreds of her friends paid tribute to her.

Letters from her students decorated the walls of Connell's.

The pictures showed a vibrant ... beautiful woman.

I knew that she fought breast cancer with all her might.

As hard as she fought, though, in the end ... she lost the battle.

...

So ... in memory of Joan Balsari and the women who lost their battle today

and in honor of those women who conquered this disease

I WILL WALK AGAIN!

I will walk because I CAN ...

and because EVERYONE DESERVES A LIFETIME!

Will you be join'n me?

A SHOUT OUT TO KRISTEN!

2011-10-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all ... I'm back in NY.

Youse guys in Atlanta are the greatest.

I will add pictures and a wrap up tomorrow ... tonight I'm filled with sadness because our good friend Tom passed away while I was walking the hills of Atlanta.

Ronnie kept the news from me as he didn't want to ruin my amazing 3 days.

I'm glad he did that.

Tom Harkins was the sweetest guy.

I will miss him.

...

I do want to give Kristen Cincotta a shout out.

She sent me the nicest note while I was in Atlanta.

I don't think she'll mind if I share it with y'all:

"You don't know me, but I've been reading your blog for a while now. I've actually linked to a bunch of your posts (my blog is "Kristen Walks") I keep coming back to your posts because you are always so positive about everything. So, let me give some of that back to you: I'm positive that you're doing a great job! I'm positive you're inspiring others and I'm positive that you're awesome! have fun stomping across Atlanta!!"

Well readers (Bee and Sarge and those of you who say you read my blog but don't comment) that made my day ... no ... that made my YEAR!!!

Thank you Kristen! Thank you!

Hello From Hilly Atlanta

2011-10-22T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hi y'all!

I have now finished day 2 and another 20 miles here in this BEAUTIFUL city. The people are amazing!

I am pleased to say that I don't have one blister.

I guess that's because

I haven't complained!

More later (with special pictureS for sarge!)

FIRST STEP IN THE MORNING

2011-10-20T19:50:00.000-07:00

I am in Atlanta.

I am taking my first step tomorrow morning.

I have so many people to thank.

My family ...

My friends ...

My supporters.

It has been another journey to get to this point and I'm ready to go.

I have raised over $3500.00 and I thank you all!

Our team PINK SLIPS has raised over $30,000 for the Cure.

AMAZING!

Pictures to come soon.

I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!

(oh ... and by the way ... I had DELICIOUS chicken and waffles this afternoon, y'all.)

Another 10 miles in Sands Point

2011-10-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

It is a gorgeous day ... perfect weather for a walk. So I did another respectable 10 miles in Sands Point. I saw this little guy just sitting on the side of the road. He's a bit of a mess ... just waiting for someone to pick him up. No ... I didn't.

But I did a deed. I gave directions.

I saw this guy at the water. Could he be one of the "Three Amigulls?"

Probably not. He's a Sands Point Gull ... the others were Port Washington townie gulls.

My neighbor goes ALL OUT for Halloween. The house is decorated inside and out ... and he and his wife have the best "Party on the Hill" every year. Here are some shots of his house:

Finally ... something, as always, for my dear friend Sarge.
I love you sir ... and hope you're feeling better soon.
This is for you:

Sands Point

2011-10-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

Yom Kippur was Friday and Saturday ... no walking just praying and fasting for me. Yesterday, after the fast, I was pretty tired ... so ... another day of no walking! Today I made up for my lack of training and took a nice long walk through Sands Point.

It's a magnificent day in Port. The temperature is in the 80's with zero humidity! Perfect! It's hard to believe that Halloween is just around the corner with these temps!

I couldn't resist stopping by the water at the tip of Sands Point to take it all in. This is one of my favorite spots ... so I stopped and sat on the rocks for a while and listened to the gulls having fun.

On the way home I saw this in the road:

Could this be a booby, Sarge? What do you think, sir?

So ... I was out for about 3 1/2 hours ... I would call that 10 miles for today.

It's a respectable training walk.

...

Atlanta is less than 2 weeks away. I'm just shy of my personal goal of $3000.

I think I'll make it.

My Dogs are Barking

2011-10-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

Here we are ... Burt's Babes ... on our way to Inwood for lunch at Grandpa's Pizza.

Today's walk was a total of 21 miles.

Honestly ... I feel fine ... just listening to my "dogs" barking!

Oh ... and my thighs are a tiny bit sore ... but that's because we really slammed the last 5 miles or so!

I am ready for the walk in Atlanta.

I can do 21 miles ... I can do 60 miles!

Now ... I'm going to bed. Gotta quiet down those doggies!

The Path Not Taken

2011-10-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

I always wondered why this part of the path along the water is usually a little muddy ... now I know. When it's high tide it floods.

So today ... this was the path not taken!

Fall has finally arrived and it's much cooler here on Long Island.

I feel sad that another summer has passed.

Some people love this season ... but to me ... it's an end and I don't love it at all.

There are still some pretty things to look at ...

... but most of the flowers are gone ... and the trees are beginning to lose their leaves.

Pretty soon it will be so cold I won't remember complaining about the heat!

...

Tomorrow is a 20 mile training walk to Inwood.

I love my training team and look forward to seeing them.

Did I mention that we have committed to walking together in Dallas in 2012?

Of course, I want to take one step at a time ... and will register after I complete my 60 miles in Atlanta.

...

This morning Sandy was on the Today Show!

Well ... she was on camera!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the 3-day folks told us to put on our 3-day shirts and put together our 3-day signs and make for Rockefeller Plaza! It was not a beautiful sunshiney morning but Sandy made her way to the Plaza and had her 15 minutes (or 60 seconds) of fame!

Me?

I watched in my kitchen!

Training Walk With Lesley

2011-09-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

Here's my tentmate folks.

Lesley took the LIRR from the city to Port so we could walk Sands Point.

I walked to the train to meet her (2.1 miles) then we started our walk.

We walked past the town dock so she could see it ... then we were on our way through Port North, Manorhaven, and, finally, Sands Point.

Total miles today: 14!

Exhausted (because it was really humid today) we grabbed some water and went off to have some lunch. Just missed Lesley's train so we went to the dock and fed ...

an old friend!

Great day!

Less than a month to Atlanta.

Training Walk ... Penn Station to Bay Ridge, Brooklyn--19 miles

2011-09-17T18:58:00.000-07:00

I think this is in Gowanus in Brooklyn. The picture is out of order ... but I like it. Posing with these two was fun!

Burt's Babes met in Penn Station. I didn't know any of these people last year. This year we're such good friends. I guess that's what happens when you walk and walk together for hours. Here we are at "Eyes" (yeah ... sure) We had decided that we will walk together in Dallas next year ... to honor Burt.

I thought you might like this one, Sarge.
What are those two doing?
Disturbing?

This is one of the gazillion pictures I took of the Freedom Tower. Actually, it's just before the sculpture.

Here I am with my tentmate, Lesley.

We walked over the Brooklyn Bridge, one of my favorite things to do. Mickey Mouse was actually on the Bridge ... I gave him a dollar and posed with him ... but I'm not posting it here! That's just too touristy!

After we walked through Prospect Park ... we met these two lovely boys on Ocean Parkway.

I asked "Who's Buck and who's Wayne?" They answered "They're made up names!"

They sold the BEST candy!
I love Reese's!

We walked through so many neighborhoods in Brooklyn. It's an amazing borough and I love it. We ended up in Bay Ridge. You might remember Bay Ridge from Saturday Night Fever. We stopped at a fabulous restaurant for a well deserved lunch. We were hungry after 19 miles!

We took the R train out of Bay Ridge and the 3 train to the Village to visit TY and her brood.

It was a great day.

I'm tired but feeling great.

I can do this folks!

New Member ...

2011-09-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

Pink Slips ... my Atlanta 3-day team ... has a new member.

Although ALL the members inspire me ... Jenn's story was very inspirational.

I asked Jenn if I could copy some of what she shared with us and she said yes. She also shared a picture with me.

I hope you're reading this Sarge and Bee ...

Jenn and her mom

I lost my Mom 2 years ago to breast cancer after a 10 year on again, off again battle. I saw her through to the end. It was an amazing journey and I am forever changed. The best thing that came from it is that my family (Dad and 4 very stubborn brothers) became much, much closer.

The first year after Mom died, I wasn't strong enough to get out there and do what I am now doing. I was actually a bit mad and selfish and didn't want anything to do with Komen. And then, as a little time went on, I realized that my Mom was here for 10 years more than expected because of experimental treatments. That's a good thing. Everyone should have a chance. And no one else should lose a Mother or a Wife. So, I sucked it up, threw on a smile and said, "I can do this!" Something in me changed and I turned my anger into a fight. And here I am. :)

I am a military spouse. ( Or should I say, he is a Civilian spouse, lol) I am married to Michael. We've been married almost 17 years. He is a pilot in the Army. He flies Blackhawk helicopters. He is currently in Afghanistan until Feb. This is his 2nd time to Afghanistan. He has also been deployed to Iraq and twice to Bosnia. Oh, and to the Bahamas. (How do you get deployed to the Bahamas? All I know is that he came back with the best tan!)

I work on the military post hand in hand with the soldiers. I work with everyone from able bodied young bucks to Wounded Warriors to 80 year old retirees. I love what I do.

...

The rest of Jenn's introduction was about how happy she is to be on our team, etc.

Both Beth and I are incredibly moved and can't wait to meet this amazing woman.

I wanted to share this with you, loyal readers.

Just because ...

No Black Cat Got In My Way Today!

2011-09-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

I was very careful, kept my eyes on the road and stayed focused on not falling today!

I'm a little sore from yesterday ... and I still have that fat lip ... but you don't really need a lip to walk!

I decided that it has been a long time since I walked my Sands Point route ... and I really have to add some miles to my walk so I went down the hill instead of up ... and walked into Sands Point.

It was a brilliant idea. It was a beautiful day. The sun was out and there was a nice breeze. Perfect walking weather. Sands Point is spectacular so I had a great walk.

Pictured above is the tip of Sands Point.

You can see the City in the distance.

10 years ago people drove to this spot to see what remained of the towers.

Smoke. Nothing else.

So many people drove here that the police finally shut Middle Neck Road.

It is still hard to truly believe what happened that day.

I won't forget.

...

I did a few deeds today.

There is a Medieval Festival at the Sands Point Preserve and two cars stopped me for directions.

I gave them the correct directions, too!

I would have turned in to take a look ... but I wanted to get home.

I got a message while I was walking that I received another donation!

Thank you Marsha!

I'm on my way to $3000!

...

I saw this in the road and want to send it to someone special ...

Doesn't that look like a heart Sarge?

I'm sending it to you ...

(and you may share it with Bee!)

I'm Not Superstitious ... but ...

2011-09-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

I was walking on Haven Avenue ... my regular route ... when out ran a lovely pure black cat. He rubbbed up against me and let me pet him. I sat down and talked to him and he even let me take a picture of him:

what a great looking cat, 'eh?

Well ... less than five minutes later, I turned onto Mackey ... a street I have walked almost every day. I know that the sidewalk is uneven ... so I usually keep my eyes on it! Today there is a block party on Mackey and I was watching the kids in the castle bounce when ...

SLAM ... I fell on my face!

Thank God I didn't break a front tooth! They hurt, though. My knees are both scraped and, as you can see, I have a fat lip. I'm not sore ... but I think I'm going to take a little nap now.

I did walk to my nail appointment.

We girls do have priorities!

GOAL!

2011-09-09T03:53:00.000-07:00

I love this picture. My Sollie took it. 92 years old ... with Alzheimer's ... it's one GREAT PHOTO!

...

I reached my fundraising goal yesterday ... thanks to my friend and tentmate, Lesley. She's moving in on $5,000 and saw that I needed another $200 so she asked her friend Judith to make her donation in support of me! Thank you Lesley ... and thank you Judith.

...

I have been a lazy walker this week. I took a break last weekend ... and then, with the start of school, I haven't been able to get out in the morning. This weekend I will get back on my feet!

...

SAN FRANCISCO WALKERS ARE ON THE ROAD! I'm so proud of my friends who have made the commitment again this year. Karen will be walking a total of 120 miles ... as she is also joining me in Atlanta. Now THAT'S a commitment! Michelle will be crewing in what, 3 walks this year? Amazing! I want to believe that I encouraged them to take the first steps in their journeys.

Last Day of Summer Vacation!

2011-09-02T12:36:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of summer vacation. It goes fast, doesn't it? I am anxious to get back to work. I had a great summer and now it's time to continue to do the thing I love ... teach! I could have tutored this summer ... but I didn't! I think my tutoring days might be over!

My walking days aren't over, though. I did my regular route today.

The wind was ruffling this guys feathers ... not I! I really love these gulls. I especially loved when they were yackin' away that day. (Remember the 3 amigulls?)

Can you see the egret hanging out with the gulls? I love it! I just drove past this afternoon. The tide is high and this guy was standing tall and proud ... all by himself!

...

Yesterday Beth, Faye, Lesley, and I made our plane reservations to Atlanta. Now we have to find out the host hotel and make our room reservations! Then we'll start getting really excited. Beth and I are working on the t-shirts. It's a little complicated but we'll get them done!

...

I saved another cricket today. Boy howdy I'm a hero!

Back On Track!

2011-09-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

Irene (hurricane or tropical storm) is gone and the clean-up around town is pretty much done, so I finally got back to my walk today. All that's left is some debris (branches and leaves) that I had to maneuver around.

This street was blocked off ... I don't know why.

I had to walk around this mess. No problem.

There was erosion on Shore Road. I saw a picture in a Long Island newspaper of a guy kayaking on Shore Road after the storm. By the time Debra and I drove down to see it, the water had receded. I have to look at my "waterfowl pictures" to see if some trees came down, too. It looked different to me.

Some windows are still taped ... and these windows are still boarded up.

We were lucky. No damage to our house ... although we did get some water in the basement. Cambell's Carpet came Tuesday to wash and deodorize the carpet and I have been listening to their fan drying it for 3 days! The gardener came today and all the leaves and twigs are gone ... so we are looking good here! I brought all the lawn furniture IN the house ... but that went back out Monday. I even found the cricket I brought in with the ficus ... caught him ... and returned him to the great outdoors! Is that a deed or what?! There are still people on Long Island without electricity. I think I would be going crazy! Hopefully they will get it back today. Irene might not have been the ferocious hurricane that was anticipated ... but she certainly did a lot of damage. Who expected upstate New York and Vermont to get walloped the way they did?!

Speaking of the unexpected ... I asked my friend who works in the convenience store about the earthquake. I guess I really missed something! He said it lasted about a second ... but he felt it and a customer in the store felt it. We didn't feel it on the beach in Provincetown! I do remember an earthquake around 29 years ago when Mike was an infant. It was a very eerie feeling!

So ... my summer of walking is almost finished! It's back to school for me Tuesday ... (kids come back Wednesday.) I'm almost at goal and I put in some good miles. I'm ready to go back to my work routine. I love teaching and can't wait to see the kids.

Home From Provincetown! Hello Irene!

2011-08-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

A week without Internet! Wow!

We had a perfect week in Provincetown ... blue skies and sunshine every day! It was great walking weather. I walked a little more than eight miles every morning. My walking partner was Susan (pictured above with RH). One day we were joined by Beth, Faye, and Sashi. Can you see the dunes and grassland behind us? Just beautiful! Got a little too much sun and I have a rash on my arms and legs. Oh well. I also have a amazing tan!

This is my favorite spot in (my) world! Behind those dunes and up the beach a bit ... is a nude beach. Beth and I once walked that beach and it was really interesting. It was one of those times when I laughed so hard I didn't think I'd be able to walk on!

...

My cousin Baz made a very generous donation and I'm very close to goal! What a great surprise to see when I arrived home at 3:00 this morning!

...

Yes ... Ronnie and I drove through the night so he could leave from Port Washington to his job in New Jersey tonight. We left Provincetown just before 10:00 and arrived home at ... well, I told you when we arrived home! I'm confused by the storm reports. I don't know if Irene is a hurricane or a tropical storm. I know that low level neighborhoods in Port have been evacuated. The tide is high ... almost to the road. We are going to have flooding on Shore Road. I brought in all the furniture from the patio. The house is a MESS!! Ronnie's in New Jersey now ... so Debra and I are on our own tonight. The storm is supposed to hit somewhere around midnight. I hope we both sleep through it! Jeter and Mickey are in the house ... just have to convince Joba and Matsui. You can tell that Joba feels the storm is coming, but he isn't ready to come in yet.

We're getting on and off rain storms ... then it gets very calm. It's going to be an interesting ride!

Quick Walk

2011-08-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

What's this?

Just wondering.

...

This was a quick walk today, but I was able to accomplish a few things.

Firmed up the cat sitter and rented a car for Mike to drive to the Cape.

The entire family + 1 will be in Provincetown for a few days.

It will be great to have all the kids ... and they will happily get along!

At the end of the week, after a few days alone with Ronnie, my friend Cynthia will join us for a few days.

You know Cynthia.

I walk for Cynthia ... a 3 time survivor.

She had another birthday a few days ago.

Another year cancer-free!

YES!

Horn Honkers... Be Advised!

2011-08-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Maybe you have had enough pictures of egrets.

I am sensitive to that, so today I give you this lawn ornament that I pass every day.

In fact, I have been passing him for the past three years on my training walks.

He's a cute little troll.

...

I hate horn honkers! I especially hate them when I'm walking. It sort of catches me off guard. So, this morning, when I was walking on the Boulevard, I was pretty miffed when this guy in a black car honked his horn to get my attention. He asked for directions to Mackey, which, by the way, I was able to give him! He could have said "Excuse me ..." and I would have stopped to help him. But he had to lean on that stupid horn.

Well ... I put him in the right direction.

That's a good deed ... yes?

...

Apologies to Sandy. I realized that in a previous post I had mentioned rabbits and chickens. Those are, indeed, BARNYARD ANIMALS. I'm glad you liked the shout out though!

...

Finally ... Sarge ... here are today's mushrooms:

A nice pair for you my friend!

I had to move one to be next to the other.

They look like ...

mushrooms.

The end.

Walkin'

2011-08-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

My friend Sandy wrote "OK ... what is with you and the barnyard on your blog?"

These are waterfowl, Sandy ... not barnyard animals like pigs and chickens! But I would like to know ... is this an egret or ...

is this an egret?

Will one of my bird loving friends please help me?

Specimen #1 does not have the dark beak Mrs. Glass was talking about, and it is much bigger.

Specimen #2 does have the dark beak... making it a snowy egret, yes?

I saw them both today on my walk and ...

I SAW THE SWANS!

(no picture)

...

We have had so much rain lately ... I was sure I could find a few mushrooms for Sarge.

Alas ... I could only find one.

This mushroom booby is for you sir.

What's In Your Waist Pack?

2011-08-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

I was moving at a good clip today ... in other words ... it was a walk not a stroll day. I left the house late so I didn't do that really long walk I promised ... but it was longer than yesterday (6-7 miles)

I was moving along until I had to make a stop at Petland Discounts to pick up these...

... for $108.00.

I stuffed them in the waist pack and moved along.

Carrying the two boxes slowed me down.

I wonder why.

I also wonder why they call themselves "Petland discounts?"

I don't think $54 for 3 treatments is a discount.

Go figure.

The end.

Walk vs. Stroll

2011-08-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

Today I walked.

Probably not as fast as those long-legged, small butted (?), YOUNG walkers ... but I walked.

I didn't slow down when I got to the hill on Port Blvd., I didn't slow down when I got to the hill on Irma, and I didn't slow down when I got to the hill on Glamford. I moved right along at a nice even pace.

I did not stroll.

When I stroll I slow down and even rest when I hit those hills.

Not today.

But I didn't do more than 5 or 6 miles, either ... and I really have to start working on increasing the miles.

Maybe this weekend.

It is another perfect day here in Port and

this guy was waiting for me at the pond.

What is it?

An egret?

...

No mushrooms today.

Sorry Sarge.

Perfect Day

2011-08-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect day for a walk.

The temperature was in the 70s this morning and the humidity was low.

So I did a quick 4-5 miles.

I had to get home because it was Gail's and my annual "HOW MUCH did you spend for those seats" trip to...

... the ole ball park.

That's Mr. Derek Jeter, himself. If he only knew how close he was to the mom of the Grate Jeter Harris, hizself.

Gail and I decided that we will not sit more than 20 rows back ever again.

I wonder what that will run next year!

...

A few houses up I found these ...

ENORMOUS mushrooms.

They remind me of ...

BOOBIES ... 'eh Sarge?!

Anything to make you happy, my friend!

It was a perfect day!

What The Heck Are These?

2011-08-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

Boy Howdy! These are mushrooms!!

I found them on the other side of one of the streets I usually walk.

They are amazing ... yes?

...

I haven't walked in quite a few days.

I feel a little guilty about that.

Oh, I have some excuses ... but none are really any good!

...

When I got to the pier, I decided to sit for a while and take in the bay.

I was surprised to find this bench.

Alan Becker lived in Soundview (my neighborhood) with his wife and two kids, one of whom was a good friend of Debra's.

He died suddenly when he was quite young.

The Alan Becker Bench.

It was my spot today.

Why Did The Walker Cross (Shore) Road--(part deux)

2011-08-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

To get a closer look at the swans of course.

I can't help it.

I'm swan obsessed!

I was so close I could have touched them.

And they would have given me the what for!

...

I also crossed the road so I could sit on a bench and enjoy the bay.

Busy Shore Road is on one side ... and the peaceful bay is on the other.

It's a good place to sit and think.

...

I was supposed to have a "morning walk" but by the time I finally left it was afternoon. I would rather walk in the morning but with all the excitement of the call from the New York Yankees, I lost track of time.

Before I Step Out For My Walk This Morning ...

2011-08-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Want to wish my training guru BURT (pictured above with my tent mate Lesley and me posing at "Eyes" last year) a great CHICAGO WALK!

Chicago has 1900 walkers.

Chicago has 400 crew.

Chicago has raised $5.1 million for Breast Cancer research.

This is Burt's first of two 3-day walks this year.

Next stop for him will be Dallas!

GOOD WALKING BURT!

Are You A Sister?

2011-08-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

I was looking at some sculptures (maybe I should call them stone carvings) that were recently installed on the Bay Walk and this woman (pictured above) stopped to talk. We talked about the carvings and how nice the Bay Walk is and how long it took to (almost) finish Mill Pond and how beautiful it is.

Then she asked "Are you a sister?"

At first I wasn't sure of what she meant, then I realized I was wearing my 3-day shirt.

"A survivor?" I responded. "No ... I'm a walker. I walk for my mom and for my friends who are all survivors. Are you a survivor?"

She told me, with a GIANT smile, "I am in remission 14 years."

I shook her hand and told her ... "I will walk for YOU!"

So Ellen, I dedicate this training walk to you ... and I will add your name to the growing list of those for whom I walk!

...

Here is what we were looking at:

They are installed on two metal benches.
...

My friend Terri wrote that I should be taking time to stop by the water ... listen to the birds ... meditate. Here is a picture (or two) from the bay walk:

Sarge ... My goal today was to find a pair of mushrooms ... take a picture ... and ask you what they remind you of. Sadly ... these are the only mushrooms I saw. Boobies!

Berta's Got a New Pair of Shoes!

2011-08-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

And here they are ladies and gents ... my new shoes! Just like the old shoes! (And what an attractive photo of yours truly!) Just to let you know ... or to remind you ... it is recommended we have 2 pair of shoes for the event. These are just as comfy as my other pair!

...

If you follow me on Facebook you will see pictures of how I spent my morning at Haven Auto Care. Someone (possibly me ... possibly Ronnie) ran over a screw that punctured the tire on my new car. The tire was ruined (I was told by the professional ... Eddie) and he ordered a brand new tire to replace the brand new tire that was ruined. $320! Duhr!

So, I started my walk later than I would have liked. About an hour into it my old friend Mitch (AKA Michelle) called and we decided to meet for lunch. We had a great time catching up. She took the picture of me. Thank you Mitch!

...

The stupid geese were walking across Shore Road and stopping traffic! I hate that. Joan and I saw a car hit a goose one Sunday. Disturbing.

The swans are back in the bay. They were swimming close to the walkway ... but I was on the other side of the road and this walker wasn't crossing ... not even for the swans.

I did stop for this, however!

Here is one of the neighbor bunnies. I think there are four.

'Chelle ... This bun's for you!

Then I Started Walking Down Central Drive When I Slipped On Some Gravel and ...

2011-08-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

No ... I didn't fall ... but it was a close one! The part that hurt the most was the guy in the black car who watched the whole thing happen. Embarrassing.

So I felt good that I was able to get myself together ... but you know how after something like this happens, like a few minutes later, you get this funny feeling ... like a shock or something? Well ... that started ruining the rest of the walk (which had been more of a stroll anyway) so I decided just to sit by Mill Pond and get myself together.

Brilliant!

I have to say ... the pond project might have taken MANY years to complete (and I think it's not completed yet) but it really is beautiful. I enjoyed sitting on a bench in the "Slade Family Garden." (Thank you Slade Family) The pictures I took don't do it justice.

Here's one of the flowers.

Pretty!

As I made my way home, I noticed something in my neighbor's yard ...

A chicken coop!!!! With 2 chickens!!!!

And there are a couple of bunnies, too!

I love seeing something unexpected!

ATLANTA ... I'M WALKING IN ATLANTA!

2011-08-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

There has been confusion among my cousins as to where I will be walking this year.

I love you all and I'm walking in Atlanta.

I guess my comments on Boston, Cleveland, and Chicago have confused my family.

I think I might confuse a lot of people.

Sometimes I confuse myself.

Endearing?

...

Look who I had a little talk with this morning on my walk.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull.

He wasn't quite as noisy as the Three Amigulls were.

...

I finally put the 3-day widget on my Facebook page and right away ... a friend from school made a donation! Makes me wonder why I didn't do that sooner? I still have a way to go ... but I know I'll make it to that $2300 mark. It's just taking a little time!!!

Training walk # ... I don't know.

2011-07-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure of where the park is, but there were a number of signs posted to save it! Think I'll have to find the park and see what the scoop is!

...

I sort of d-r-a-g-g-e-d myself out today. It wasn't THAT hot. I just felt tired and heavy. You know, on event you HAVE to get out early ... and too bad if you're tired!

...

Cleveland is finishing up day 2! click here to watch a video!

Next week is Chicago and our Burt is on his way to his first of 2 3-day walks. He shared the following from a DC crew member named Larry. I am sharing with YOU now: (I apologize for some of the language ... but I think we're all adults ... right Sarge?)

“I hate this Walk. I’ve participated dozens of times, over ten years, in seven different cities, but I still hate this Walk.

“I hate training. I hate waking up early to walk, and walk, and walk some more. I’d rather sleep late, and spend my free time reading, napping, or just being with family or friends. I hate training.

“I hate fundraising. I hate asking people to donate their hard-earned dollars to fight this damn disease that affects us all, while folks on Wall Street make $50 million a year to destroy our economy as they pad their already overflowing bank accounts. It’d be nice if those $50 million paychecks went to find a cure, and the Wall Street folks had to run a freakin’ bake sale to support themselves. I hate fundraising.

“I hate pink. Pink is for ‘My Little Pony,’ Barbie cars and 4 year old girls. I don’t care what women say, no man looks good in pink. Just once, I want to be part of a Walk whose official color is ‘flannel.’ I hate pink.

“I hate rain. Camping in the rain sucks. Walking in the rain sucks more. And don’t get me started on mud. I hate mud, and I hate rain.

“I hate tents. I hate sleeping all curled up, so my feet aren’t hanging out the door. Getting dressed in a tent? Really? Can’t they make a tent that an average sized guy can fit into, without having to crawl in and out? And for God’s sake, can they please make soundproof tents, so I don’t have to listen to snoring all night? Ladies, I don’t care what you tell your husbands, but you snore too! I hate tents.

“I hate sports drink. I hate Gatorade. I hate Powerade. I hate every damn ‘ade.’ There is a special place in hell for whoever decided to put salt in fruit punch. If I wanted a salty drink, I’d order a margarita. Just once, could ‘beer’ be the official sports drink of a Walk? I’d even settle for those tropical drinks with the goofy paper umbrellas in them. I hate sports drink.

“But there is one thing I hate most of all. I hate Breast Cancer. I hate hearing that my mother-in-law’s latest pathology report shows that her cancer is back again. I hate the look in my wife’s eyes when she has a mammogram, and then has to wait for a follow-up because ‘we saw something we didn’t like.’ I hate that my daughters had to learn about breast self-exams when they were still in their teens. I hate going to funerals, and listening to sermons about how ‘she is in a better place.’ Screw that. You think that’s any comfort?

“I hate that a young woman was diagnosed at the age of 21, and told by her doctor, ‘I want to be wrong, but I would be surprised if you lived to see 30.’ I hate that a friend has been diagnosed with breast cancer just a few years after her father fought his own battle with breast cancer. I hate that Mother’s Day is a day when some people go to the cemetery to visit their mothers, or even worse, to visit their daughters. No one, no one, should ever have to go to a cemetery to visit their child.

“I hate this Walk. But I hate breast cancer even more. Fuck breast cancer. Sorry if the profanity offends you, but I can’t think of any other word that fully expresses how I feel. So fuck breast cancer. Can we please just find a cure already?

“But until we find that cure, maybe we can compromise on pink flannel and light beer?

“larry
2011 DC & Philly Lunch Crew”

Good Morning!

2011-07-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

This is the Port Washington North pier.

Nice, huh?

They have been working on the waterfront for quite a while ... and it's very beautiful.

...

It was another perfect day for a walk.

I did my regular route.

Along the way I thought ... I haven't been saying "Good Morning" and that makes a big difference ... acknowledging the people with whom I share the road (or sidewalk). So today was a "smile ... hello ... and good morning" day.

It felt good.

Is it a "deed?"

...

I'm glad you took the time to read Monica's letter. I had the opportunity to do a training walk with her once ... and I was very impressed. She's (obviously) quite a woman!

I have been so fortunate to walk with amazing people!

(Yes "walker readers" I mean you!)

...

'Chelle ... you're so lucky to be doing sweep van!

Don't get upset with the comments on the SGK Facebook page. I think everyone who wants a particular assignment should be given the opportunity to do it! How can anyone get to be an "experienced crew member" if the same "experienced crew members" do the same jobs year after year.

...

Speaking of crew ...

2010 San Francisco crew member extraordinaire Phyllis (not Mr. August, Sarge)

and I will be taking a leisurely stroll on the streets of New York tomorrow.

No long(ish) walk around PW!

A Letter From Monica--PLEASE READ!!!

2011-07-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

Please take the time to read the following email from Monica (right in front wearing the grey shirt) I know it's long ... but it is worth it! You will read her experience as a Boston walker. I am so emotional reading her words.

It's why we walk.

...

Hello to Burt & the Gang -
Well, I returned from Boston last night and I feel great. What an experience! We had our ups and downs with the weather; but all in all, things were OK.
Thanks, Burt, for the suggestion to stay at the host hotel in Framingham on Thursday night rather than drive in from Boston in the morning. Getting up at 4:30 a.m. was early enough!
Opening ceremonies were beautiful. We got there just in time to see the sun coming up, glistening over the lake. Everyone was anxious, but invigorated; and the ceremony itself was touching. The spokesperson (who I understand is new this year) was a fabulous speaker - Jenna and I were both in tears.
It wasn't too hot when we set out, but it warmed up rather quickly. I made sure I was drinking plenty of water, so by the first DD, I needed to wait in the bathroom line. (I decided not to do that again, since I lost SO much time on line and got to the first pit stop long after the gramwiches were gone) It got pretty unbearable by late morning and I started to get a migraine. I kept walking, but unfortunately, even with meds, I couldn't eat or drink because of the nausea, so I spiraled from there. I got into a cooling bus just in time to find out the course was being closed. (Although I know many people were unhappy with the decision, I was glad it was taken out of my hands. I know so many of us were trying to trudge on in the heat because of our commitment and it was getting really dangerous. The ambulances couldn't keep up with the need.) Anyway, we sat in the bus for about an hour while the powers that be figured out the logistics of moving all the walkers, and the buses got authorization to move, etc. etc. Still I could not eat or drink. Well, by the time we finally got to the holding point for lunch (a big park in the middle of town) I was totally dehydrated. I made lots of new friends in the Medical Tent while I got 2 bags of IV fluids and met a wonderful nurse who used acupressure to relieve my headache a bit. (Word of advice to virgin 3Dayers - water is not the same as Gatorade, which I was avoiding because I really do not like it. You need the Gatorade to keep the electrolytes in check so, even if you have to choke it down, drink it to avoid dehydration. And, even if you think your drinking enough, drink more.) Needless to say, I was redcarded and we were transported back to camp. (They need a button for that!) We had a hotel room so I could get into a/c and by evening felt much better. Kudos to those brave souls who stuck it out in tents with that heat!!!!
Saturday morning was much cooler with a misty drizzle as we headed out. The crew held us at the first pit stop because of an anticipated lightning storm, so we wasted some time there and made great new friends on the cooling bus. The thunder and lightning show was impressive, but I was glad we weren't on the route. But how nice that people along the way opened their front porches and homes to protect the walkers! Once it passed, we were on our way again. Jenna was practically force-feeding me Gatorade, so I felt fine. I needed a sweep van at some point because I was getting another headache from the heat, but this time a little time in a cooling bus with meds and I was OK to keep going. (Roberta, you were right. The sweep vans are all part of the experience) By late afternoon, the sun was so strong and the heat index was again above 100 degrees; so the route closed again, but this time only a few miles short of camp...and before the infamous hill that I've read so much about. (I found out later that the Medical Tents were actually busier and more people went to the hospital on Saturday than Friday!) Jenna and I spent Saturday night at camp (even though we went back to the hotel to sleep) so we didn't miss the experience and camaraderie, which you know was so important to me.
We started Sunday's walk in real rain which lasted about an hour or so. A few miles in, we needed another sweep as Jenna developed bad pain in her heel. We were a bit disappointed because we had been looking forward to walking Cambridge and that was cut short. But she was taped up by the PTs in one Medical Tent and I got the same treatment in another, but we trudged along with pink and blue stripes up our legs. Everyone was right - Day 3 is a beautiful walk through Cambridge and downtown Boston. Like in the small towns we walked though, people were out in force to cheer us on, give us snacks, drinks, etc. Lunch along the water was so nice and the weather was perfect at that point. By the last 3.2 miles my feet were hurting and I was so tired. But once we got close to the campus, there were more and more people along the way and you could hear the crowds cheering up ahead. There was nothing like entering that track, hand in hand with my daughter, to the cheers of so many strangers. I cried all the way and have goose bumps even now as I type just thinking about it. Needless to say, the tears continued to flow at the closing ceremony which was just amazing. As you know, I walked the 3Day in celebration of my 5 years out and it was probably the most healing thing I could have done.
Thank you and my 'training group' for all your good wishes, support, and inside tips. I will be forever grateful.
I'm giving my feet a bit of a rest, but please keep me posted on future training walks and, if I can join you in support, I will. Good luck with your upcoming walk, Burt. I hope it's a little bit cooler in Chicago than it was in Boston! And happy walking to all of you in your 3Days...especially the newbies, like me. It's a wonderful experience.
Take care - Monica

...

Amazing ... truly amazing.

I'm so proud of Monica and Jenna... and ALL THE BOSTON WALKERS!

Until now ... Atlanta was just a place ...

I CAN'T WAIT FOR OUR JOURNEY TO ATLANTA!!!

I can't wait!

Perfect Weather for a Walk!

2011-07-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Look what I saw on my walk today.

I hope this picture is clear. (I'm typing on my little netbook and I'm never sure of what the picture looks like enlarged.)

Today is a PERFECT day ... highs in the 80s and not a cloud in the sky. I left the house MUCH later than I wanted to. (The trick is NOT to turn on the TV. I start watching some of the morning stuff and just can't drag myself away!) I had a leisurely walk for 4-5 miles. I stopped to say hello to this guy and his friends:

A group of geese (would that be a gaggle???) made their way across Shore Road and are now at Baxter Pond. No geese in Mill Pond but I did see a number of white birds diving into the water to catch fish. Wonder what they are.

No swans today.

Wonder where they went!

...

Susan G. Komen has just posted the calendar of events for 2012.

Some of my friends have already signed up for walks!

I have to take it one step at a time. Can't make a commitment this far in advance!

Gotta get another 60 miles under my belt first!

Walking in Normal Temps!

2011-07-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

The heatwave is over ... for now!

I walked my regular 7 mile (or so) route this morning and didn't feel like the heat would do me in! I didn't have to look for sprinklers to walk through. I was actually able to walk more than 4 miles!

The Boston walkers had quite a weekend. They walked through extreme heat ... and storms ... and they had to cut short their route Friday and Saturday. But I'm sure they felt the amazing camaraderie shared by thousands of walkers and crew participating in the Susan G. Komen 3-day for the Cure.

...

I walk past this sign every day.

It's the Roberta Nixon homes ... not the Roberta Harris homes.

I'll just show the "Roberta" ... it's almost like having my name in lights ... well ... on a brick wall.

The end.

Hot Hot Hot!

2011-07-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Instead of taking a picture on my walk today ... I took this picture of what I came home to:

Ah ... there's nothing like a "welcome back mom" greeting from JH!

I just HAD to give him a scritch or two.

...

I got out later than I wanted to this morning ... so I cut my walk short. Let's call it 4 miles, ok? It's getting hot ... but the cooldana and water bottle kept me reasonably cool.

Boston walkers had to cut day 1 short yesterday. Some women who train with Burt's Babes and are doing the Boston walk said that a lot of walkers went to the hospital ... some left the event ... but most stayed on and are walking today.

Here's a video of a cheering station in Wellesley neighbor of Natick, my hometown.

I'm so proud of these walkers.

20 miles a day is NOT easy ... and in this heat ... it's doubly difficult!

I bet they're thinking, though, "not as difficult as a diagnosis of breast cancer!"

As one walker said "We walk because we can."

Yes, Sarge, I WAS out (around) 6 AM

2011-07-22T05:16:00.000-07:00

Perhaps it was a tad later than 6:00 ... but I did get out.
I wanted to walk because the Boston walkers are.
I tied my cooldana around my neck, loaded a water bottle with ice, and set out in the early morning heat.
Debra called me* about 20 minutes into my walk and asked if she could pick me up so I could drop her off at the station.
10 minutes later I was in an air conditioned Jeep!
duhr.
So ... let's call today a 30 minute, 1.5 mile walk.
I'm not going out again. The thermometer is rising and an excessive heat advisory has been posted.
It's 85 at 8:00 and expected to hit 100+ today!
...
Three of the four cats are in the house ... and staying in the house!
Joba has opted to stay outside in this heat.
That is just fine with Jeter!

*If you have taken your safety quiz Thumper, you know that it is FORBIDDEN to talk on the phone while walking ... but I carry mine for emergencies only!
The end.

It's Just Too Hot!

2011-07-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

I did NOT walk today.

I saw a few people walking and I even saw a guy RUNNING up our hill ...

but I did not walk.

It's just too hot.

But ... I did some Susan G. Komen 3-day for the Cure business.

I received a donation that took me over $1500 ...

and I did my online check-in.

I have my tentmate ... and ...

I'm good to go.

Speaking of good to go ...

Boston walkers are probably in bed now ... getting reading for day 1 tomorrow.

The route takes the walkers right through my hometown ... Natick. I wish that had been the route when Beth, Beth, and I walked in Boston years ago. I think I could have rounded up a few old friends for a cheering station!

...

I'm going to try to get out early enough to beat the heat tomorrow morning.

Let's see if I can do it.

Gimme' Sprinkler!

2011-07-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

Clicked this just before the water hit the walker ... me!

The Boston 3-day is this weekend. When we did the Boston walk it was HOT and the sprinklers cooled us down!!! We weren't proud ... and we weren't shy ... we ran right through them. I can't quite run through them when I'm walking on my own ... I might just get arrested ... but I wait for the sprinklers to hit me as I walk by.

REFRESHING!

...

I have been getting out early enough so it's not too hot yet. Here's a tip: I pick up my $1.00 bottle of Poland Spring at the convenience store about 1/2 way through the walk when I'm really heating up. That cold bottle on the back of the neck and on the wrists really cools me down. Little sips of water is better than gulping it.
...
Lots of little things to do today.
On the list will be a good deed or two.
Are you doing yours?

Am I The Only One Who Thinks I'm Funny???

2011-07-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

I thought my 3 Amigulls was so funny yesterday. Apparently, however, a few members of my immediate family (like ALL of them) did NOT see the humor ... or just didn't understand.

Sashi said "I don't get the 'ami'" part.

Duhr! Have you never seen the 3 Amigos? Get it? Amigulls.

"Oh." she replied.

Ronnie said "Gulls?"

Are you kidding? Gulls ... Seagulls.

He still didn't see the humor.

Mike made some kind of comment about me taking pictures of seagulls and being crazy.

Debra was the kindest ... but gave me that smile that means "It's ok, Mom."
I still think it was absolutely hilarious. So ... for those of you who are reading this and don't remember (or never knew) here are ...

The 3 Amigos ...
and here are ...

my 3 amigulls.
The end.
...

We're having a heatwave here on Long Island.
When I started my walk this morning it actually felt like I was walking in the Funshine State. Hot and humid! I made it a shorter walk (because I can do that!) and stayed out for about an hour-and-a-half. That was enough.
Before I started, I retrieved this email from an old friend:

Roberta,

Your daily training is truly awesome and inspiring to me.

I wish you the best with it.

Barbara

I have to admit ... I was really pleased to receive her message ... and it got me out of the house!!! It would have been so easy to say "It's too hot ... I'm staying in."

Thank you Barbara.

...

For your information ... that song is no longer in my head.

The 3 (day) Amigulls

2011-07-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

These gulls were "singing" up a storm at the town dock this morning I was going to call them the 3 tenors ... but then thought the 3 amigulls was better. Then I thought I'd throw in (day) and really make it fit my walker blog.

So here they are ... the 3(day) amigulls.

They were NOISY!!!!

The tide was low and I didn't see "my" swans this morning. I was disappointed. No swan pictures today.
...

The summer heatwave is here. The weather report for the next week is 3H ... hazy, hot, humid. I was able to start out early this morning, so it wasn't too bad. That will be the plan for the week. I don't like to start walking late morning, anyway.
...

I'm still thinking of the McCartney (or "macca" as some of us now call him) concert. Amazing!
Of all the wonderful songs, though, the one that is stuck in my head is

"someone's knocking at the door, somebody's ringing the bell.

someone's knocking at the door, somebody's ringing the bell.

do me a favor ... open the door ...

and let 'em in."

Really.
Couldn't it have been "Let it Be" or "Blackbird" stuck in my head?!

Resting

2011-07-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

I'm resting today.

You would think I would have learned a lesson about flip flops and long(er) walks.

I wore the "flops" to the concert last night and ... woke up with SORE HEELS!

I think it's time for these:

Actually ... they're not bad!

Yup, I think it might be time for some fancy Birkenstocks!

I'm goin' shoppin'!

Staying close so we can leave early to see Sir Paul

2011-07-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

I didn't walk with Sandy's Sistah's in the city today because Ronnie and I are going to Yankee Stadium tonight to see Paul McCartney. Needed to stay close to home so we can leave early.

I did the regular route which is between 6 and 7 miles.

My virtual trainer wanted me to do 10 miles today ... but I think my training is working for me right now.

I'll do 3 days of 6-7 miles then a day off.

Then I'll change to my old Sands Point route (which is longer) for 3 days and a day off.

That works, yes?

Gotta rest my heels.

...

The swan is still patrolling the area.

Why are all the geese in the bay? They have a beautiful newly renovated pond right across the street! There were only 3 geese and an egret in the pond.

I don't get it.

I have to do some research.

Motion Control Insoles ... The Greatest!

2011-07-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Why the picture of the MC (motion control insoles) box?

Because they're helping me walk through a sore heal... and THEY WORK!

The end.

...

In other news ...

on my walk today ...

There was something happening in the water.

One of the swans was clearing the area around the other swan and the cygnet. Boy howdy ... that swan was moving ... and the geese were listening!!! They moved away pdq!*

The ducks didn't care.

They stayed away.

*pretty damn quick

Waterfowl

2011-07-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

I love waterfowl!

I love ducks and geese and egrets and heron ...

most of all I love swans.

So, you can imagine how happy I was to see the swan family on my walk today.

Mother or father? I don't know.

They found some bread in the water.

Down the way, though, there was a goose convention. The geese were EVERYWHERE!

They didn't pay much attention to me as I walked by.

They didn't hiss or honk at me.

I guess they decided I'm harmless.

...

My new inserts feel good. I was pretty comfortable for the walk.

The end.

DETOUR!!!

2011-07-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

I was NOT happy to see this sign just before the very last lap of my walk this morning. The detour wasn't too bad, though. I had a chance to see some sites I wouldn't ordinarily see and I missed having to walk up that very steep hill on which I end my walk.

I was out for just under 2 hours ... so let's call today's walk 5 miles.

I visited my friend Mark at the New Balance store yesterday and picked up inserts for my shoes. He said they would give me stability and take the pressure off my sore heels. It didn't take too long for me to get used to the new feel!

I have been resting my heels, by the way, by walking every other day. Need to go easy on the plantar fasciitis!

...

It's going to be a scorcher here today. Good day to stay indoors, get some work done, and take in a movie later this afternoon. (Going to see "Tree of Life" with my friend Lynn.)

...

Remember the lady I helped to the station a few weeks ago? I ran into the other woman who was trying to help her. It was a nice little reunion!

R.I.P. Big D ... whoever you were

2011-07-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

I took a different route today. I had to pick up Mickey's meds at the Feline
Veterinary Hospital ... then I went to Uncle Giuseppe's for a banana ... and walking back I noticed police cars holding up the traffic.

As I approached Nassau Knolls (our village cemetery) I heard the music and saw the signs "R.I.P Big D" I tried to get a better look because it looked like a lively procession. The reggae music was playing at a respectful volume... and the big truck with the sound system was slowly trying to pass under the entrance to the cemetery.

I have NEVER seen so many flowers!

Is it disrespectful to take pictures?

Big D arrived in this hearse.

Amazing.

Big D must have been loved because his mourners filled Nassau Knolls today.

...

I couldn't stay ... I had to move along ... but I would have liked to pay my respects.

Rest in Peace Big D.

Holy Boom Boom Batman! That was some storm!

2011-07-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

Yeah ... it looks nice now. The sun is out and the sky is clear ...

but at 6 this morning it sounded like the end of the world!

I HAVE NEVER HEARD THUNDER LIKE THAT!

It rattled the blinds and woke everyone up!

By 7 the rain had stopped and by 7:15 (or so) I stepped out for my walk.

6 miles or so and done!

...

In a little while, visitors will arrive ... YEE HAW!!!

Two of the best reasons to visit Florida will walk in this house wanting to talk about their best friend Jeter Harris!

I love you my friends!

...

If you're wondering about my deed-doing ... I'm doing fine.

No need to fill you in on the many good deeds I do each day.

Let's just say I'm "keeping up the good work!"

Have a wonderful, thunder-free, sunshiny, good-deed-doing day.

I know I will.

Stories

2011-07-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to report that the dollars are beginning to come in and today I have raised over $1300 for Breast Cancer research.

This is the time that I really start "feeling it!"

You know my story ... Cynthia, my childhood friend, a three time survivor.

Mom ... diagnosed only a few years ago ... a survivor.

My beautiful friends Phyllis and Bea... survivors.

...

Last night I decided to read the personal stories of the three top fundraisers participating in the Atlanta 3-day. I was blown away.

They are all young survivors.

I wept as I read their stories.

I know they won't mind if I share parts of what they wrote on their SGK blogs ... and the money they have raised so far.

...

AMY

Walking towards a cure

As most of you know, I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2009 at the age of 36. My doctors and friends tried to prepare me for what would come. Honestly, nothing could. In the course of one year, I had 4 surgeries including a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, 5 rounds of chemo, and sometimes as many as 4 doctor visits in one week. With that having been said, I truly feel like I am a very lucky person. I am blessed with a loving husband, 3 amazing children and the most supportive family and friends, all of whom made my journey so much easier.

Amy has raised $8,636.00

...

DEBBIE
So the next day when the doctor called to give me the pathology results, I was not surprised. It took a little while to sort it all out. Stage 2, Triple Positive, Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma. And the next several months are almost a blur, I do remember the surgeon asking if I was opposed to having a mastectomy, because "that would be in my best interest". 6 rounds of chemo, topped off with a full year of Herceptin treatments, and an additional IV medicine to "keep it out of my bones" for a full 5 years (which I am nearly halfway through), and Bilateral Mastectomies with staged reconstruction surgeries and I think we now have it under control!

One other thing I do know is that I am very fortunate and truly blessed. I was wrapped with incredible support during the worst of my treatment days. And it was from that support that I drew strength.

Walking with Gratitude

So it is with Gratitude that I will walk 60 miles this October. I am grateful to all those I love who prayed for me, cooked for me, drove my kids, sat with me during treatments, listened to me, laughed and cried with me.

Debbie has raised $6,801.00

...

ARLENE

In August of 2010, I was diagnosed with LCIS (Lobular Carcinoma In-Situ) and chose to have a preventative bi-lateral mastectomy. I am 47 years old. Ironically, my sister, Caryl Ann, was diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In-Situ) and Invasive Ductal Carcinoma two weeks prior to my mastectomy in December 2010. She had her mastectomy in February 2011 and started chemo in May 2011. As of today (06/05/11), she is halfway through with three more rounds to go. She then has five years of Herceptin to follow.

Arlene has raised $6,080.00

I am honored to have the opportunity to walk with these brave women!

When You Walk Through A Storm ...

2011-07-02T06:03:00.000-07:00

Well ... that's not exactly true.

I did not walk through a storm. The sky was clear on Woolbright, but as I looked east toward Boynton Beach Blvd., the sky looked grey-blue ... the color that means there's going to be some lightning and some rain.

As I walked on, the clouds moved off to the north and it was a stormless 2 hour walk.

But the song was in my head the entire walk.

No pictures!

I decided to walk unemcumbered. No phone ... no camera ... just my sunglasses (just in case!) I have to admit ... I felt free! I could take in the Florida flora and fauna (waterfowl) that I love so much without having to stop to take a picture or two (or more!) I saw three unhatched eggs and one hatched egg on the ground next to a palm. Did the mother mean to lay those eggs in that spot? I wonder. I have no picture to show you. You will have to take my word!

...

It's good to be here.

It's good to be with Mom

A Walk In The (Ball) Park

2011-06-29T04:22:00.000-07:00

Gail's dog had an appointment with the vet down the street ... so Gail and I walked while Roxy had her teeth cleaned.

We took a quick walk (4-5 miles) through Sands Point. We had to walk fast because we had to get to ...

Yankee Stadium!

It was a great game and a great time ...

My personal trainer gave me the usual pep talk ...

Unfortunately ... my trainer is recuperating from Tommy John surgery and won't be back on the pitcher's mound until next year ... but look at Joba's enthusiastic words of encouragement for me!

...

Deed of the Day? I paid it forward. Debra's boyfriend, Alex, gave us tickets to the game ... and I gave Gail one of the tickets. Does that count?

Thank you Alex!

Why Did The Walker Cross The Road?

2011-06-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

To avoid this group.

Did you ever get in the way of a goose... especially a goose with its family?

Fuggedaboutit!

...

Summer training is in full swing. I did my walkabout early this morning before my appointment with the great Dr. Eliot Auerbach ... who tells me I brush like a 3 year old! (Actually today he told me I'm somewhere within the average range of brushers!) While on Main Street, a woman, who appeared to be somewhere around my mom's age or older, approached me asking where the bus stop was. When I asked where she was going ... she replied "The train." Now the train station was only a few blocks from where we were ... so I sent her directly there. She was walking so slowly ... and I felt bad that I was making her walk ... so I turned around and quick-walked to catch up to her ... and joined her on her stroll to the station. She was so lovely. A retired high school history teacher, she lives in Soho and takes the LIRR to Port because she likes the library! (Although she LOVES the New York Public Library!) I was a little concerned because I met her around 8 AM ... and not much is open at that time in Port. Well ... whatever reason she was here ... I got her to the train ... made sure nobody hit her while she slowly made it across the street ... and felt like I did something nice.

It felt good ... so I decided that this will be the summer of good deeds. A deed a day!

...

The count down to the Funshine State has started.

When are you available Funshine readers?

And ... where are we going???

Late Night at the Hitchfest!

2011-06-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

It was a late night at the Hitchfest and I woke up pretty tired.

The LIRR is working on the lines so I would have had to take a bus to another station ... then the trip would have taken over an hour ... then Lesley and TY and I would have had to take a subway to Brooklyn ... so I canceled and decided to take in the sights in Port. (pictured is Baxter Pond. Prettier than Mill Pond ... )

I strolled most of the second half of the walk. I sat down a few times ... checked my phone ... even got a little shut-eye! I walked 7 miles or so, though. I started late and I don't like that. It was pretty warm ... but not horrible. (Not like it's going to be in the Funshine State!)

...

We didn't know what to expect last night ... but the hitchfest was beautiful. The weather was perfect for an outdoor wedding right on the water. Here's a picture of the bride and groom making their entrance:

(A lot more fun than the family station wagon that took me to my wedding!)

Hors d'oeuvres were served outside and the dinner was under a tent. I loved it. It was a great night.

I'm tired now. Think I'll take a nap!

Let The (daily) Training Begin

2011-06-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

I live in a really pretty little town ... just sayin'!

School is out and it's time to do my daily training. I did my old walk around town this morning. I was out for about two-and-a-half hours ... so I figure 7 miles. Next time I'll wear my GPS.

This picture is Mill Pond. It looks great after many years of work. The pink ribbons I showed you last year are still there ... beyond the garden.

The swans weren't out this morning.

We're going to a "Hitchfest" tonight! That's right! They're calling it a Hitchfest!

The invitation is great:

"Jane and Jesse invite you to rock out at the celebration of their marriage."

Yeah ... Muriel wouldn't have allowed that when Ronnie and I got married!

I'm looking forward to the fun!

What does one wear to a hitchfest? Any ideas Sarge?

New Age Walking

2011-06-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

New Age Walking?

Well ... yesterday was my birthday ... today I'm a new age ... and I'm walking.

Took my old-old route and took it easy.

The heel(s) start feeling sore around 5 miles or so.

I decided to stop wearing flip flops ... and I put the innersole in a pair of shoes ... so maybe that will make a difference.

I do NOT want a cortisone shot in my heels.

The swans were out ... is that their little "ugly duckling?"

I had to zoom in to get this shot. I hope it's not fuzzy on a bigger screen.

...

It's Father's Day and I wish you a most happy day, Sarge.

I put this picture on Facebook ... but want you to meet my dad here.

His name is Irving Kessler.

He was the gentlest man I've ever known.

He was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in his mid 50's.

He died one month before his birthday.

He was 69 years old.

This picture was taken over 30 years ago. I believe I was pregnant with Sashi.

I'm pretty sure he would be proud of this.