As promised in my last post - Beaches, 4 Women and a Bad Kitty...  

I had the opportunity to travel with some amazing women to St. John.  It's truly hard to put into words how beautiful - fun - amazing - breathtaking ... this place is.  I feel the pictures do better than words. 

Welcome to St. John...

Every now and then - one must set aside things in life to live out an adventure.  There is no perfect time.  There are only incredible moments that happen when you take a moment.  Thank you to 3 amazing people for a trip that goes down in my books as one of the BEST EVER.  Thank you to the new friends that were made along the way.

And for those of you who need some adventure in your life - head to St. John and try out the Bad Kitty...

It is an honor to post this photo.  About 2 years ago, I received a hand written note from Kayla explaining her vision and desire to help families dealing with cancer.  She is truly a remarkable young lady - with an amazing spirit - and a vision to "Pay It Forward".

Through her hard work, she was able to make this donation to Team Vogel.

Please take a moment to check out her website.
www.CraftsForCures.com

Kayla - Thank you for being you!

Some of my best days are making things...  I am sure this is a surprise to many of you (OK - maybe not).  This past weekend I had the chance to get together with some friends and craft away.  We created - exchanged - ate - had some beverages and a BLAST!  We even let the dogs join in our fun.  Every now and then - a little crafting is good for the soul and it really does wonders to one's entry way...

And to bring cheer to your home over the holiday season, I will leave you with this photo.  Truly know caption is needed...  I am so excited to spend my Christmas looking at this tree.

Sending love and cheer to all.  Cheers!
-Rach

Before I even get into my thoughts on change…When the heck did a simple definition become 3 pages long.   English has not been my strong area.  I enjoy writing, but grammar and spelling have always been an area I have to work at.  When looking for the definition of change, I typed it into google and dictionary.com came up…  The first part had 8 different options (definitions) and then I scrolled down and there were tons more (more information than I needed).

So back to the "old school dictionary" I go…

And holy buckets – it’s a long one in the “old school dictionary” too.

Maybe that’s because change can happen in so many different ways…forced, influenced, growth, gained independence…  

It’s a word that holds meaning in so many different ways.

People change, relationships change, careers change, lives change…

Sometimes change is good.
 
Sometimes scary.

 Sometimes needed.

 And sometimes it happens to you.

The past 4+ years I’ve been trying to deal with change.  At first I had to survive…  Then I tried to find a new sense of normal – changing this / trying that.  Throughout, some change was good, some not so good, some downright terrible.  I feel change has made me a stronger person, understand myself better and realize things may not fit, but a small change here or there will make them squeeze into place.

The one change that happened to me has made me embrace change on a different level.  Take some chances and live in the moment, while embracing the past.

I am sitting here at my desk at school.  My last day here.  I’m excited to make the change and embrace a new path as I venture out on my own.  But I am grateful for my time here…

Some changes are bittersweet.

The one thing I know …

… A little “Joe” Reminiscing…  

Often I would find a note left on the kitchen counter stating, “Dear Harry,… Love, Lloyd”.  One year Joe even surprised me and made Christmas stockings and instead of our names used our code names – Harry and Lloyd.  Why we fell in love with this movie (Dumb and Dumber)  - well I am sure there are many of us out there wondering why.  But I know one person upstairs who is probably driving everyone else NUTS reciting lines in preparation for the release of Dumb and Dumber To.  I can’t wait to watch it!  And what are the chances one of the main photos they have used to advertise the movie includes a buck….Makes me think :).

Love and Hugs - 
Rach

...And stay tuned for the next post...  Beaches, 4 Women and a Bad Kitty.

Join the Winona Winhawk Football Team for their last home game of the season - AND WEAR SOME PINK.

In support of October's Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Winhawk Football Team and Winhawk Touchdown Club invites all of you to wear pink and come enjoy the last home football game of the season tonight - October 15 at 7 pm (Paul Giel Field).

Pink t-shirts (shown above) will be for sale before the game, with all funds raised going to Team Vogel and our "Pay it Forward" efforts.  (Please feel free to wear pink you already own too.)

A note to thanks to another group embracing Team Vogel and welcome to the Team!

...And Go Winhawks!

-Rach

Welcome to the most amazing club I’ve ever belonged to and the one club I would not wish anyone to belong to - The Widow’s Club.  (Ironic we have this title for when you read on – many of us don’t appreciate the “W” term.  With the club though – it has a meaning of fun, understanding, and a true bond.  And as terrible as this sounds, no one ever questions if you’re heading to Widow’s Club :).)

Before we share a little bit about each of our journeys, let me shed some light on how we met.  Some of us tried counseling after our spouses died (Joe - colon cancer, Liz - lung cancer, Kati - colon cancer), some tried talking to others…  and at one point our path’s crossed in different settings and we found the connections each of us needed.  Widow’s Club began with Matt and I having lunch and talking for hours.  We could say things to one another and know the other just got it.  It was true therapy.  A few months down the road (maybe just a month), I had the opportunity to show the true Rachel Colors at a Loggers Game and cross paths with Wade.  I sent Matt a note and said – we have a new member for the club, are you up for inviting him too.  And then the club became 3.

We laugh together, talk, have dinner, we cry, we share some beverages…  And most recently went to Georgia together.  No one wants to belong to a group like this – but these guys are my sanity.

Prior to going to Georgia, I started thinking of a group blog the 3 of us could do.  I wanted to reach out to others who could benefit from some honesty and insight.  As you will see, there is no right or wrong way to live… but here are some ways we continue to live on, some moments that we are grateful to have survived and some advice (please take with caution:)).

Welcome to the Widow’s Club…

·Name: Rachel Vogel

·Age: 32

·Marital Status: Ummm…This one I’ve always struggled with and still to this day stutter when asked.  So I am going to say – “Married / Single”.  I am thinking that may cause more questions than just using the term…OK – I am widowed.  One may question why this is hard.  For me - I don’t like the term for it shares more than I am sometimes willing to share almost defining me before you even get to know me.  I also think there is so much more to the status than the wicked “w” word.

·What has been your best and worst day?
Best Day – Too many…Every trip I took with Joe (even when he would become a nervous wreck and end up dropping a suitcase on my toes in the security line…)  Truly my best days are when I can set aside daily life and enjoy the moment I am in.  It seems this happens for me while traveling.  This past trip to Georgia featured many of my “Best Days” too!

Worst Day – The night before the 1 year mark of Joe’s death – August 5th, 2011.  I had got to a point where I didn’t know how I was going to make it another day…  I was completely lost – I found myself pacing in my own house trying to find a way to make things right.  I knew I needed to talk but sometimes there are no words to share.  Thank you to my mom for picking up the phone that night and just listening to me…(Not to add humor here – but I am sure the snot sniffing – tear filled tone was amazing.)  This day comes back to me so vividly…

·What is one thing that you’ve changed in your life that you might not have changed before?  
Joe was always my biggest fan when it came to doing things independently for a career.  He would encourage me to pursue my art and always supported me even when the ideas seemed a bit out there.  I’ve always been a person that tries to embrace each day – but now I truly see life differently.  We don’t know how long we have, we need to make the most of the time we are given.  Therefore the biggest change I’ve made…I “retired” from my job and am in the beginning stages of developing my own business Muddy Hands.  This is one area in my life I know Joe would say – “I told you how long ago to do this…”  Well – I’m finally listening :).

·What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone experiencing a tough situation? (One thing that has helped you work through your grief other than friends and family) 
One piece of advice I would give – there is no right or wrong way.  Maybe running… Maybe reading… Maybe traveling… Maybe crying… Possibly Screaming… Maybe a glass of wine (sometimes the bottle works too).  My advice is to keep searching and trying new outlets until you find one that fits for you.  There will be one.

For me – I found an outlet in new surroundings.

And although the question states “other than friends and family” – they were my rocks.  My family (including Joe’s) and friends picked me up when I was falling – listened – gave space and just embraced me.  I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

·What is one thing that you wished people didn’t ask/say? 
This is tough to answer.  First – most of the time it’s only because people care…  Second – it depends on the day.  Some days the question wouldn’t bother me, other days it would send me spinning.

If I had to pick one… It would be, “…at least you had a year with Joe before he died.”  Although I was able to have a year with Joe when his cancer returned…It will never be enough for me and they were not the easiest days.  I can’t compare to someone who loses someone without having the chance to say good-bye, but for me this is just not a great phrase.

·How do you keep living? 
I get up each morning!  And I make sure to have fun every now and then…

Although this may seem simple, it is the truth.  I made a promise to myself when Joe died.  I will get up each day and try.  In the beginning, some days I would make it until 4pm and then I would head back to bed.  But I got out of bed.

Everyday’s an adventure. 

·Name:  Matt Melde

·Age:  30

·Marital Status:  Widowed

·What has been your best and worst day? 
My best day since Elizabeth died was probably the first day that I met with Rachel and Wade to talk.  For the first time I actually felt like when I told them how I felt that they genuinely understood.  I remember feeling physically lighter after that night.  It was like a weight was taken off of me.  My worst day was my first wedding anniversary alone.  I still don’t like that day, but it’s starting to get easier.

·What is one thing that you’ve changed in your life that you might not have changed before? 
I try new things all the time.  I just stopped saying ‘no’.  I go on trips, learn new things and try new food.  I never used to do that.

·What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone experiencing a tough situation? (One thing that has helped you work through your grief other than friends and family) 
There isn’t a handbook for grief.  You really just have to do whatever makes you happy, even if it’s just a short-term fix.  Don’t let anyone tell you how far along you should be, or that doing something won’t help.  It’s really all about you, so do what you think is right.

·What is one thing that you wished people didn’t ask/say? 
“Did she smoke?”  That one drives me absolutely crazy.  When someone asks me that they don’t really realize that it implies that she was guilty of something.  People just sometimes don’t really know what to say, so that question pops up quite a bit.  

·How do you keep living? 
have to believe that I will see Elizabeth again someday.  When I do, I don’t want her to be angry that I didn’t take advantage of life when hers was cut short.  I remember this whenever I’m trying to decide whether or not to do something.  This way of thinking has given me countless incredible memories over the last two years. 

· Name: Wade B.

· Age: 35

· Marital Status: Widowed (Unfortunately, I don’t care to use this "title" because it instantly provokes emotions, and can sometimes direct a tone of the conversation by the person asking. I have adjusted to hearing the question, "Are you married", and can answer with a simple "no" as a response. It gets complicated when someone starts asking, "why not?" or "what's taking you so long?". No matter how difficult a question is to hear, I know it is always up to me how I react to it. This has helped me with so many things beyond questions like "Marital Status".

· What has been your best and worst day?
Reflecting back on nearly two years now, I can't find myself able to single out a specific "best" or "worst" day. What I can say is that Sundays in general can be a real struggle for me, and would fall under the "worst" category. Sundays are typically the day when life slows down, and you are getting ready for your next week ahead. This is the time when family or friends are no longer by your side, offering unsolicited and unknowing distraction from your own thoughts. I realize it has to happen, but never-the-less, it presents a struggle you have to have tools to overcome. I know I am not alone in this, as it is commonly shared by those who have experience the loss of a loved one. 

Fortunately, the "best" days continue to add up. Like I said previously, I can't think of a specific "best" day, but I can reflect on the "best days". Prior to Kati's passing, I don't think I ever realized how important the little things meant. It could be something as simple as a good conversation with loved ones or friends, or seeing a niece, nephew, goddaughter or any child for that matter belly laugh. Now the smallest things can make your entire day. I don't think I could have ever realized how wonderful these little things were without having gone through this experience. Kati was my teacher in this, and I am happy to say I was finally paying attention in class that day. I think what I had learned most of all is you are in complete control into how many "best days" you add up. Those days are not always going to fall into your lap. Some days you will have to create them yourself.

· What is one thing that you’ve changed in your life that you might not have changed before?
I would say I am much less likely to shy away from opportunities that come my way. Before, I would sometimes justify passing on invitations to do something new, or that might take a little more time and effort than I thought it would be worth. This may be something as simple as an invitation to a dinner, or something bigger like a trip or vacation. I now make an active effort to seize these opportunities for a couple or reasons. First, I now realize how short life can be, and unless you put yourself out there you are going to miss out on a lot of great things. Second, I have a chance to continue to "live" that Kati, my father, and all those who were taken from us too soon won't have again. You can bet I am going to try and make up some time for all of them! Lastly, it has just been darn fun! Granted, I don't get as much sleep as I use to, but I almost feel like I am making more memories than any person should be allowed to make! I have stepped outside my box, my comfort zone, my sense of security, and it has only been a good thing. The best part is being able to look ahead and be excited for the future. That makes it so much easier to wake up and put one foot in front of the other, even on the "bad" days. 

· What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone experiencing a tough situation? (One thing that has helped you work through your grief other than friends and family)
I would recommend searching for an emotional outlet that works for you. I have had some very special people that have been there for me on those really tough days. They were there for me to get the words that were tied to the emotions out, but sometimes I felt the emotions themselves were still inside me. Talking was not always enough, and the reality is that someone is not always going to be there when your emotions start causing you trouble. One night, my emotions started to have a wrestling match inside my head. I truly needed to find a quick fix in order to regain my composure. Now, I have never been a runner, and unless physical activity was tied to one of my outdoor interest, rest assured I would not be doing it. But that night I felt compelled to try anything that would recenter me. I laced up an old pair of work shoes (because I didn't even own a pair of tennis shoes) and started to run (sounds like Forest Gump, I know....). Best part was, I was tired when I got done, and was able to sleep that night, and in fact slept the entire night (very rare thing for me at that point). The same thing happened the next night, and again, I went for a run, and bam!, I felt like I was on to something! Running has become my tool that I rely on to get my emotions out. I still need my incredibly supportive family and friends to get the words out, but now I can help myself when they are not around. So, I am not saying take up running, but find that emotional outlet that you can use as a tool to help get some of those inevitable emotional struggles under control. You will be so glad you did!

· What is one thing that you wished people didn’t ask/say?
I will tell you the truth. People say some pretty strange things when they learn about your situation! I completely understand it is all said with good intentions, but sometimes it is enough to make you laugh, and sometimes it can stir up some emotions you would have rather left alone. I would still rather have people make an effort to talk with you and say something that you may not like, then not have them say anything at all. Getting back to the question, my least favorite statement is "at least you didn't have kids." This one is hard to swallow because I believe the world would be a better place with a "mini Kati" in it. I know everything Kati has taught me, and can only imagine how wonderful it would be to have those traits passed on. 

· How do you keep living?
I keep living by never forgetting what both Kati and my Father have taught me. I use this to fuel my mind to keep moving forward each and every day. Some days, I run out of gas, but as long as I am not moving backwards, I will be facing the right direction for progress. I make sure I surround myself with positive people, because we can quickly take on the traits of those around us. My friends and family have been there during my roughest time, and I know, inevitably, we will need each other's help in the future. Continuing to strengthen those relationships will come with incredible rewards. Finally, I keep living because I know there is life to live for.

A few photos from the trip - Truly how we live.

First up - Wade's surfing adventure....

Up next - Matt on a boat.  Wishing we had pictures of us holding fish that we caught on the boat... (Sorry to bring this up Wade) But we didn't catch any fish.  The wind was just a little off :).

And really no words needed for my photo.  I feel it says everything it needs to...

Before signing off, I want to share a quote that I read a bit back from a man who lost his wife 1 year ago…

Just remember, "In the end, it will all be okay. If it's not okay, it's not yet the end."

I’m glad it’s not yet the end.

Love –
Rachel (Wade and Matt)

The date is here.  

The day Joe died.

The moment you wake up and feel like a train hit you from out of no-where.

The time you cry for no reason (well no reason at that moment other than the underlying sadness and longing that is there).

I can remember events of this day crystal clear.

But this year - I haven't been hit by a train yet ... I haven't cried (close - but not yet :))

I miss him everyday - I think of him everyday.

I wonder what he's doing and thinking.

There will always be a part of me missing - a part of all of us.  It's hard losing a best friend, but it's also hard to not live.

So today - I not only want to share an amazing photo from Joe's youth...

I also want to thank all of you for helping me live.  My family - my friends - strangers...Thank you!

And one last note for all who are trying to find their way without someone...Embrace the good days - know it's ok to smile - allow yourself to have sh*%y days - allow yourself to live.  There is no right or wrong way.  There is only your way.  I think I'm finding mine.

Cheers to a really amazing person!
143.
-Rach 

Summer - Summer - I LOVE Summer!  Just thought I would do a quick update on the blog here for a couple reasons...

1.  We did survive the Boundary Waters - and had an amazing time!  I just haven't received the pictures from the trip yet (cough...Mother :))  The part I love most about being in the woods for a week - the simplicity.  One afternoon we were out in the canoe fishing and just hanging out.  We saw some turtles on a log and decided to see how close we could get without them moving...  When in life do we allow ourselves to enjoy the simple things around us and make up challenges that are really ridiculous, but seem amazing when you are in the middle of no where.  
...
We were able to bump the log with the canoe and one brave turtle held it's ground for a stand off with us.  The turtle actually wanted to be our friend :) - it swam into our net and I was able to cuddle it briefly.  

2.  I wanted to share some upcoming opportunities...

3.  And... I know I only said a couple - maybe I meant a few.  I wanted to share some photos from the past month.

For some time, after Joe died, I didn't enjoy taking pictures.  I am not sure if it was the feeling of something always missing or just lack of interest...I am falling in love with the camera on my phone and have been back in the picture taking mode.  Some people, who receive pictures from me often, may secretly wish my phone would malfunction and not be able to document things :).

Living life...

Different opportunities cross my path.  Here are a couple that were in my inbox this past month.  Maybe they would interest you...

...It's the little things.

-Rach

I am proud to announce we were able to raise $75,000 this season (January 2014 - June 2014).  Thank you to all who helped make this happen.  Without the support of all of you - Team Vogel would not be.

One of my favorite parts, post Team Vogel Season, is getting the pictures from Keelie.  The day is busy and often there isn't enough time to take in all the happenings.  She has a way of capturing the event and the hearts of all.

We still have a few 2014 Team Vogel shirts remaining.  If you are interested in purchasing one, here's the details...

Sizes Available - M - L and XL

Cost - $15

If you are looking for something fun to do this summer with a group of friends - your family - or yourself, you should definitely check out the Where Is That 2014 Contest...

...Here are a couple examples of the things you have to find :)...

Before signing off for a bit - I want to share two of my favorite things from this week...

Gearing up to head up north with the Gals for a week.  I am sure adventures are in my near future.

Enjoy the simple things and stay tuned for BWCA follow-up.
-Rach

As I sit here at Team Vogel Headquarters (my old office at school), reflecting on the weekend...  All I can say is THANK YOU!  

Thank you to everyone who shared their time and talents.  This past weekend would not have happened without the army of support that helped carry us through.  From flipping pancakes - to starting the national anthem - to helping pick up garbage - to laughing with others... THANK YOU!

Often I find myself wondering what would Joe say - what would Joe think...(We have a lot of catching up to do.  He thought I talked alot before....)  This is definitely one of those times.  

His dream has become a spirit in many of us.  Thank you for embracing the "Pay it Forward" way.

As we continue to wrap up loose ends - we will do our best to have an event follow-up blog up by Sunday (June 29) including tournament results, race results, and many pictures.

Team - We did it!

The Loggers Event snuck up on this year...but I am hopeful many of you are free on Thursday, June 26 and up for a fun night at the ball field.  We will not be gathering the Team prior to the game for the annual bus trip (this year), but hope many of you will venture to the game in support of Strike Out Colon Cancer.  

Details are listed below.  You are able to purchase tickets at the gate.  And a guaranteed good time (and cold beverage) waits for you inside.

In celebration of the 5th year - we had special shirts available at the event on Saturday.  If you are interested in a Believe shirt, please contact:
         [email protected]
               **by Friday, June 27**

Believe Shirts are $20 - You can send your payment to ...
Team Vogel
PO Box 30063
Winona, MN 55987

Walking out of the trailer on Saturday, I noticed a note on the back of one of the family posters.  A note to Joe.  A young man wrote a note to his Uncle Joe, rolled it  up, and attached balloons to it so it would make it to Heaven...

Signing off for the week -
Rach

I will take a stack please!!!!  
New this year - we will be offering a pancake breakfast.

When: 8am until gone - (Saturday, June 21)
Where:  Jaycee Pavilion (Team Vogel Headquarters for the Day)
Cost: $5
-3 Cakes and 2 Sausage-

Grab some breakfast after the race - grab some breakfast while you watch others race...

If would like to pick up your race packet or shirt order - prior to Saturday....

Race Packet and Shirt Pick-up
When:  Thursday, June 19 - 2014
Where:  Central Elementary
(317 Market St. - please use the Market St. Doors)
Time:  6pm - 8pm


If you are unable to make this pick up time, your packet and / or shirt will be at the Jaycee Pavilion for you on 
Saturday, June 21 - 2014.

Please email Amanda with any questions - [email protected]

The Silent Auction Items are really coming together.  Featured Items...
-Notre Dame Home Opener Tickets
-Twins Tickets
-Hunting Basket
-Kid's Baskets
-1/2 a Hog and Processing
-Harley Jacket
-Fogarty Prints
-Autographed Items
...AND MUCH MUCH MORE!

The silent auction will open on Saturday - June 21, 2014 following the race (around 9 am).  Stop down to the Jaycee Pavilion and check out all the amazing baskets.  The auction will close at 4 pm.

Next to the Silent Auction the Bucket Raffle will open at the conclusion of the race on Saturday too (around 9ish).  The bucket raffle is a fun way to take a chance ($1 per chance) and try to win an amazing prize.  Here are some of the prizes we have lined up....

...An AMANZING quilt (people have already purchased tickets for this one, a Kindle Fire, Box Seat Tickets for the Lynx, Twins Tickets, and MORE.  The bucket raffle will end at 5 pm on Saturday.

Team Vogel is a Team.  A Team of People all sharing an amazing spirit.  A spirit to "Pay it Forward".  Here's a glimpse of what the Team has pulled off in the past few weeks...

The next two images will be at the event on Saturday...One will be on the Bucket Raffle and the other on the Silent Auction.  Two local artists took their talents to these boards and made some pretty outstanding Cornhole Boards.  (I am thinking these may be better hung on the wall.)  Thank you Jody and Rachel for making these.  They are above and beyond what I was expecting...

...And the spirit in the parade.  Thank you to all the Fire Crew, Y staff, and Y kids who joined Team Vogel in the parade.

As I sign off tonight my thoughts are simple...Embrace each day, for some people do not have the opportunity to do so.  Hug the ones you love often and tell them too.  Do something kind for someone you don't know.  Live each day to the fullest - and if you struggle to do this one day...you can always try harder tomorrow.

Hope to see you on Saturday!
-Rach

So sometimes you just have to call it like it is...Last week was not my finest week for blog posts and mass emails.  I apologize for the corrections that were needed.  I am hoping that this week goes a little smoother.  So here goes nothing...

Events and Contacts:
For more information on an event - please click the highlighted link.

•Men’s Softball Tournament (Saturday and Sunday)[email protected]
  *This will be a 16 team tournament with guaranteed three games.

•Women’s Softball Tournament (Sunday Only)......... [email protected]
  *This will be an 8 team double elimination tournament.

•Cornhole Tournament (Saturday Only)......... [email protected]
   *This will be a 32 team, open tournament.

•5K / 1 mile Run / Walk  (8 a.m. Saturday)........amandaweifenbach @live.com
   *Pre-registration deadline is June 13th 

•Silent Auction  ............................................  [email protected]

•Home Run Derby (Saturday Evening)  .................. [email protected]

•Food & Beverages(Pavilion & ball fields).......... [email protected]

•Bucket Raffle.......................................... amandaweifenbach @live.com

•Bake Sale..................................... [email protected]

And just a note for all who love a good silent auction...  The process of collecting all items for the auction has started and there are some pretty amazing items...

-1/2 a Hog (including the processing)
-2 Tickets to Notre Dame's Home Opener vs. Rice
-MN Gophers Tickets
-Twins Tickets
-Handmade Quilt
-Baby Baskets
-Movie Baskets
...and sooooo much more!

If you are interested in a 2014 Team Vogel T-Shirt, here's how to order....

Option#1 - Pre-register for the 5K / 1 mile run walk.  Eyeerone who pre-registers for the race will receive a t-shirt with their race packet.  The pre-registration deadline is Friday, June 13th.  CLICK HERE to register for the race.

Option #2 - If you would just like to order a shirt(s)...
1.  Email Amanda at [email protected]
2.  Please include the shirt size(s) you would like.  (YS, YM, YL, S, M, L, ...)

Shirts are $15.

Thank you to everyone who made it out on Friday to the Hot Dog and Brat Stand.  It was another amazing turnout!  And the one place I could sport this amazing outfit with pride.  Thank you Midtown for welcoming us each year.

And for those who did not see my post last night...

I am honored to post this (again) - MATT ACCOMPLISHED HIS GOAL.  It was amazing seeing him cross the finish line...  What a way to celebrate 5 years!

AMOUNT RAISED - $2185 + pledges to match

To read all of Matt's Story / Goal - click HERE.

I've started and restarted this "...and a Note from Rach." section 4 times now.  That's my sign it is time to go home for the night.  So my note is simple.

THANK YOU!

Hugs - Rach