Life as we go it

I just wanted to share with everyone that the West Bend Relay For Life event alone raised $103,326.71. Wow, hey? Proof that even a small event in a small town has the ability to do great things. The $103,000 is going directly to the American Cancer Society for cancer research and support for those dealing with cancer right now.

Our team (our family) raised $2,125. My mom raised the most on our team, coming in at $545. Great job Mom :)

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who supported our team this year. Some of you donated items to our rummage sale. Some of you bought items at our rummage sale. Some of you donated money online or via check.  Others visited us at the Relay event. You know who you all are, and we're sincerely thankful for your help.

I know my dad was smiling down on all of us that night. I felt his presence when Matt, Caroline, Liam and I were sitting in front of the music stage listening to an amazing 14-year old girl sing the most beautiful songs. The stars were out, a cool breeze was blowing and I was surrounded by people that I love most. In that moment I felt proud to be involved in an event that remembers those who have died from cancer (such as my dad), acknowledges those who are fighting the fight right now, and also celebrates those who have won the fight (my brother's fiancé).

I was so busy at the event, talking to everyone & watching our kids & running around, that I barely took any photos. So here are the very few taken on my iPhone:

We were late to the event. We got stuck in a crazy hailstorm.

My niece Isabella selling her do-dads for a donation.

Quite the little entrepreneur she is.

Decorating the campsite. This year's theme was 'celebrate more birthdays.'

Hanging out.

I personalized a little shirt for Chloe.

A couple of the luminary bags I dedicated to my dad:

The bag that my niece Caroline made in memory of my dad. Melts my heart :)

And a link to my blog post from last year's Relay For Life: Relaying