earthquake!

So Friday April 18, 2008 the Midwest was rocked with an earthquake. Yes IL had one and we felt it in South Bend, Indiana. I went through my very first earthquake. Granted, it was way minor but my bed was shaking. So here is my story....My alarm went off at 5:30 am. I hit the snooze. Not really asleep but wishing I was. Alarm goes off again, I hit snooze then my bed starts shaking. Yes, my bed was shaking. And I think to myself, why is my bed shaking? Am I imaging this? Are we having an earthquake? No we don't have those here but I guess this is what it would feel like. My grandma said that they had one once when my mom was little. A small one. I then realize that my bed has stopped shaking. So I get up and get around for for work. I enter the living room and my mom asks, "Did you feel the earthquake?" Jaw drop. What? Yes breaking news, Indiana had an earthquake and that was the big news of the day. This is probably the most exciting this that has happened in ages around here. I later find out the epicenter was not far from where my friend in Illinois lives and that she had slept through the first one. And missed the second one altogether--distracted by a cat. Her words to me: "I feel jipped! Illinois has an earthquake and I miss them both." But we can both now check off 'earthquake' on our things in life to experience.

Restlessness....

I am once again restless and ready to go somewhere....anywhere..... While I am traveling this weekend for a long overdue visit to OH, I fear it will not be satisfying to my restless soul. Some days I am so okay with Indiana but other days I just want to leave this and go somewhere, a place where no one knows my name. I am reading the book Into the Wild and Chris McCandless did just that. He left home and went west. He assumed a new name and choose to lose his identity as Chris. He spent time traveling up and down the west coast before going to Alaska. But he just went and didn't look back. I know this is extreme thinking and an extreme thing to do but wow what risk and passion! What devotion to live life fully. So here is what I have decide to do. I am staying in Indiana for now. At least through September. However, if my current situation continues to chisel away slowly at my soul, I have to leave before it dies completely. There are a lot of exciting things happening here with my family and friends. Even work is pretty exciting (most days) but I am not convinced I am to be here. I am not convinced that I am living up to my fullest potential. And I know the adventure is not over. It's like I am stuck in slow traffic on the interstate. Maybe I am to be here but as of now, I dream of something more.

The 3 Day Walk Against Breast Cancer

On August 8th, 2008, thousands of women and men will unite in Chicago, IL and walk 60 miles in 3 days through the streets of the Windy City, with one goal in mind: to help END breast cancer. The Breast Cancer 3-Day is a weekend of hope, as we honor lives lost, celebrate survivors, promote breast cancer research and help bring breast cancer care to those who so desperately need it.

I am walking. My best friend and I are walking together. We will join women from all over the Midwest who are also commiting to this adventure and challenge.

As part of our commitment we have agreed to raise a minimum of $2,200 each, to help fight breast cancer. Net proceeds from the Breast Cancer 3-Day event benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure to fund breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment programs, as well as the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund, to provide an endowment for breast cancer initiatives.

Why am I walking? Breast Cancer effects thousands of women (and men) each year. When I was 17 my Grammie died from the disease. She was an amazing women who worked hard and loved life. She still had many years left to live but they were tragically cut short. I am walking in memory of her. I am walking so other women can enjoy their lives to the fullest. I am walking to find a cure.

If you would like more information about the Breast Cancer 3-Day, it can be found at http://07.the3day.org/ or by calling 800.996.3DAY.

Unfortunately, breast cancer has become an all too common occurrence among women and men throughout the world. Now is the time to take action to help end this disease. The more funds that we can raise, the sooner we can end this fight. To donate, please go to http://www.the3day.org/ webpage, click on ‘donate’ and type in my full name.

Thank you for taking the time to support me as I boldly walk 60 miles with the hope of giving all women a chance at a full, long life.

Road Trip

The much anticipated road trip to NJ and NY came and went. Good times! Lacey, Heather and I left at 3:45 am and drove to Ben's place. Got there and Mark was there, then Ben and Jon came! Our only connection? Ireland. Amazing how 3 years ago, we didnt really know each other nor ourselves. Now, quality friends! Yes the craic was mighty! lol We went to the St. Patty's parade, explored New York City twice, climbed rocks and hills in state parks, ate at Red Lobster where Ben works and surprised him, made good friends with Jackson, drank beer, talked much, played games and just enjoyed the company. Good times! Can't wait for another trip! Yes, I say it again, the craic was mighty!

PS Most random moment, when Jackson at the parade said "Aaarrgg!" Only Lacey, Heather and I know the meaning! haha Vegas!!!