The Writing on the Wall

I participated in my first Pancreatic Cancer Walk called Purple Stride today with friends and family. It was nice to see all the people come out to support a desperately under-funded Cancer Research and Awareness benefit. The first ever walk in DFW had an initial goal of raising $80,000. We blew past that quickly, so they raised their goal to $150K. Final total of the monies raised was more than $183,000. We placed a picture of my Mom on the Memory wall and wrote a short note to the world. With more than 800 registered walkers/runners, it was overwhelming to see so many people that have been affected by this nasty disease. Overwhelming and Sad at the same time. But, it also felt good to write on the wall. It felt good to see my family and friends support this effort. It felt good to know that our parents would be very proud. Last November, my Dad wanted to do a benefit himself but it wasn't meant to be. He had a heart attack and open heart surgery instead. This year, we walked for both of them. For my Mom, who fought a gallant fight. And, my Dad, who wanted to raise money for research in memory of the woman he loved.

"We Love You, Mom. In Memory of Nancy Turner"

;o/

Randomness

I've been working a lot as a substitute teacher lately. One day I work with first graders and the next I will be at the high school. It is interesting to see the the differences in grades at school and also helping me with deciding which grade I want to teach. I had, without a doubt, decided that I do not want to teach below 3rd grade. There is just too much crying. Them and me!

I have also decided to do some work at home. I am starting a new project Nov. 16th. Should be interesting and I love the idea of working at home. I seem to "Not work well with others". I really suck at sharing my crayons. Actually, I have a problem with co-workers that don't do shit. I really do. I have a really good work ethic and I think the person siting next to me, getting paid the same, so do the same amount of work. Corporate America does not seem to think so. Most managers will resist conflict as long at I (and others) pick up of the slack. I don't agree with that philosophy, so I removed myself from "the office".

The holiday are looming. I say this with a big sigh...My first year without the parents. Not really looking forward to this time of the year. I wish to fast forward to January. I doubt I will get this wish. So, I try to figure it all out. And, I expect I will fail. But, alas, I don't expect me to get it right the first time anyway. So, I will try to do the best I can given the circumstances.

Lastly, we really need to stop killing each other. That sucks ass! Put your guns down people!

;o)