A spiritual gift

I've always been a spiritual person and I was born and raised Southern Baptist. My faith is what grounds me and the one stable source of strength which enables me to push through life's hardships. I am not one to brag or boast about it though. Everyone can think and believe what they want and I won't condemn them for their feelings. I expect the same in return.  My faith is very personal to me and as a result, I keep it pretty private.  However, you'll most likely see me wearing a cross around my neck at all times and a spinner ring on my thumb that reads, "Believe" on it.

My path crossed with a very special person about five years ago. She is a spirit medium and also a silversmith. In fact, my "Believe" ring was made by her and my dad's deceased father came to me during one of her sessions and pointed me toward this particular ring to purchase.

When I started working in Prince William County, my boss told me about a spirit medium that he went to and at first, I thought he had lost his mind. Isn't that what everyone thinks? I mean, come on, they can't possibly be able to converse with the dead, right? However, as my boss was telling me about his session I was intrigued. For my birthday present to myself that year, I scheduled a session with Barb and thought, what the hell? If nothing else, it would be entertaining I guessed.

I cannot begin to explain what an exciting, emotional and comforting experience! It was so incredible that I have since gifted myself a session with her every year as a birthday present to myself.  There is nothing better than being able to hear from a loved one who has passed on. I also have become more aware of my own abilities and even took a full-day psychic development class taught by Barb two years ago. I highly recommend a session with Barb and have friends who I have referred who

whole-heartedly agree. I'm happy to talk with any of you about my experiences. Just ask me!

Click the link below to go to Barb's website for more information:

http://www.barbmallon.com

Aside from being a spirit medium, Barb is a Certified Tarot Reader by the American Tarot Association and has completed and received certifications for completion in Mastering the Tarot Level 1 and Level II by Biddy Tarot.

Barb is such an extremely generous person in so many ways!

She didn't hesitate to show her support for Denny's Shotgun Riders!

As a result, one lucky bidder will receive a life guidance/tarot session with Barb! 

"The purpose of this reading is to give encouragement, inspiration and support from guides through Barb's intuitive ability and through the Tarot cards. Tarot is simply another way for guides and our higher self to work through us. They can be used to encourage, give hope, and identify options for future behavior. Barb will connect with your energy and those of guides regarding specific questions or life path suggestions. Nothing negative or scary will be given to Barb about you! Barb connects with your energy for the highest of all good for information to help you to live a more positive and productive life. She will help you to define your desired outcome, explore the current energies that surround you and understand the likely outcomes if you were to follow certain paths. Sessions will show energy helpers and energy blockages you may have at the time of the session and what may be the outcome if you don’t change the energy, but it's up to YOU to change that energy if needed."

This is not fortune telling but is information to support, encourage and help you move forward in your life in the most positive and productive way.

Barb is an easy-going, fun-loving, down-to-earth woman who is no different than the rest of us. She just happens to have a fabulous gift and has honed her skills over the years. She is also a huge animal lover - a mom of dogs, rats, and a sweet rabbit as her newest addition. This Paul McCartney fanatic is someone I think the absolute world of because her gift has given me such comfort and peace - a feeling that only she could provide.

I am thrilled that one of you will be able to meet her and experience the wonderful gift that she has been given and is willing to share with us!

You can also check out her Etsy shop by clicking here:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/barbmallonjewelry

A trip to the salon for you and your four-legged best friend!

What woman doesn't enjoy going to the hair salon? (Shoot, men enjoy it too!)

Wouldn't you enjoy it even more if it was free?  Wouldn't you enjoy it more if you felt like royalty every time you walked into the salon?

Well, you will have the chance to bid on an item from my favorite salon in the Washington DC area!

I met David in 1999 when he worked at Bubbles in Springfield Mall. A friend of mine was getting married and I was in the wedding. A coworker of hers introduced her to David and that's how it all started.......

About three years later, David opened his own salon, the Jon David Salon in Springfield off of Commerce Street in a building that used to be a bank.  After a horrible experience with a hairdresser in Alexandria, I remembered meeting David and found him again. The rest is hair and friendship history!

In 2012, David branched out and opened a shop in the Clarendon area of Arlington and then a year ago he opened up a third shop in Clifton. I couldn't be more proud of him! 

I can't imagine ever letting anyone else touch my hair! David and I have become fantastic friends and he never fails to make me look and feel beautiful.  His welcoming and fun-loving personality as well as his tall, dark and handsome looks sure don't hurt either!

As long as I've been trusting David with my hair, I have seen a variety of clients come in and out of his three shops - from kids, prom and wedding events, professionals, men, women, and even grandparents. It doesn't matter what you want or who you are, David and his staff will make it happen and won't let you leave until you are 100% satisfied!

When asked about something unique that he wanted clients to know about him, he replied, "I am always honest and straightforward about recommendations for your best look. Reinventing people's hair and the instant gratification that comes from the end result of my work is my favorite thing." How can you go wrong with that attitude?

click here to visit David's website.

http://jondavidsalon.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=featured&Itemid=521

Click here for a short video with David: http://jondavidsalon.net/

I cannot thank my dear David enough for his more than generous donations to support Denny's Shotgun Riders. I am overwhelmed at his graciousness and so thankful for his friendship.



Now, if we get to go to the salon as humans, shouldn't our dogs be able to get pampered as well?

That's when Dogtopia comes into play!



http://www.dogdaycarewoodbridge.com/

Dogtopia of Woodbridge has the full range of services, trained staff and equipment to manage the needs of any size or breed of dog.  You can choose to drop off your four-legged best friend for a manicure or a full wash, trim and style by the Dogtopia team or you can use their self-service dog wash area. They have high waist tubs and a range of shampoos and towels.  Dogtopia staff will give individualized attention to your baby so that they can get to know your dog and treat them with love and affection. It's all about making your dog comfortable, relaxed and beautiful!

I used to take my dog, Prowler, to Dogtopia, for daycare and he absolutely loved it! So on top of the spa services, Dogtopia also has boarding and incredible daycare for dogs!! Nothing like taking them for fun in the morning with their dog friends and then have them groomed in the afternoon! You'll have a very happy and sleepy baby when you pick your dog up!

Amber Sutton, owner of Dogtopia of Woodbridge, and her staff, value the happiness of both pet and family, and they strive to combine top-notch customer service with loving canine care!

I am so touched and appreciative to Amber for her donation to support Denny's Shotgun Riders!



So get ready to bid on salon services - for you, for your dog or for both of you!



One thing my fundraiser is going to be is an equal opportunity fundraiser!

I'm trying my best to make sure there is "something for everyone"!

Denise and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Quilt

Denise and I have been friends since the 6th grade. We were 11 years old when we met and 30 years later I can say she is still one of my best friends. Our friendship is not only one of my longest and dearest but Denise is family. We may not see each other as often as we'd like but our friendship is one that keeps us always connected.  My family and I are definitely blessed to have her in our lives.

When something goes wrong, she's the first one I call. When something goes right, she's the first one I call. When I told her about Dad's cancer coming back, she immediately jumped into action with me and we started deciphering all the test results and figuring out how to attack the nasty C-word again. Then she said something without even giving it a second thought. She wanted to make a quilt to be auctioned off at the fundraiser. I was ecstatic.

Not only is Denise one of the most loving, compassionate, intelligent and giving people I know but she's creative on top of it all! What I'd give for just an ounce of her creativeness.

About 15 years ago, Denise's mom bought her a sewing machine for Christmas. She took it out of the box and couldn't figure out how to thread it and immediately returned it to her mom.  A few years later, she became involved with Project Linus, an organization that meets quarterly to make quilts for critically-ill children.  Becoming part of Project Linus enabled her to build her sewing and quilting skills.

 

She made her first quilt in 2008 and has made close to 50 more since then for friends and family for different occasions.  She progressed from simple patchwork quilts into detailed designs and patterns.  Her favorite quilt is a log cabin quilt she made for her parents' wedding anniversary.   Last November, she invested in an embroidery machine and plans to learn how to do designs on the quilts after they are made.

I cannot begin to express how honored I am that she is making a quilt for the fundraiser to support Denny's Shotgun Riders in its fight against ending prostate cancer.  Whoever is fortunate enough to win this auction will not only be receiving a beautiful quilt but one that has been handmade with such marvelous compassion and talent!

About a month ago, Denise sent me a picture of the beginnings of the quilt. I am so excited about seeing the finished product!

 

Check out Denise's Etsy site for more of her incredible creations. She just recently started selling bucket bags and other handmade items and hopes to have some quilts up on the site soon.

 

 https://www.etsy.com/shop/RedOakQuiltsandMore?ref=search_shop_redirect

Thank you, my friend! You rock!



Update as of 2/19/15:
 

 

 

What your friends with cancer want you to know (but are afraid to say)

I came across this article a month or so ago and it resonated with me. My dear friend, Peggy, who valiantly fought breast cancer for two years and passed on February 5 thanked me for posting it to Facebook because it said everything she was feeling but didn't know how to say. Everyone should read this and let it sink in.

What your friends with cancer want you to know (but are afraid to say)
-Kim Helminski Keller (a Dallas-based mom, wife, teacher and journalist who is currently receiving treatment for thyroid cancer.)

People with cancer are supposed to be heroic.
We fight a disease that terrifies everyone.
We are strong because we endure treatments that can feel worse than the actual malignancies.
We are brave because our lab tests come back with news we don’t want to hear.

The reality of life with cancer is very different from the image we try to portray. Our fight is simply a willingness to go through treatment because, frankly, the alternative sucks. Strength? We endure pain and sickness for the chance to feel normal down the road.  Brave? We build up an emotional tolerance and acceptance of things we can’t change. Faith kicks in to take care of the rest.
The truth is that if someone you love has cancer, they probably won’t be completely open about what they’re going through because they’re trying so hard to be strong. For you.

However, if they could be truly honest and vulnerable, they would tell you:

1. Don’t wait on me to call you if I need anything.  Please call me every once in a while and set up a date and time to come over. I know you told me to call if I ever needed anything, but it’s weird asking others to spend time with me or help me with stuff I used to be able to do on my own. It makes me feel weak and needy, and I’m also afraid you’ll say “no.”

2. Let me experience real emotions. Even though cancer and its treatments can sometimes influence my outlook, I still have normal moods and feelings in response to life events. If I’m angry or upset, accept that something made me mad and don’t write it off as the disease. I need to experience and express real emotions and not have them minimized or brushed off.

 

3. Ask me “what’s up” rather than “how do you feel.” Let’s talk about life and what’s been happening rather than focusing on my illness.

 

4. Forgive me.  There will be times when the illness and its treatment make me “not myself.” I may be forgetful, abrupt or hurtful. None of this is deliberate. Please don’t take it personally, and please forgive me.

 

5. Just listen. I’m doing my very best to be brave and strong, but I have moments when I need to fall apart. Just listen and don’t offer solutions. A good cry releases a lot of stress and pressure for me.

 

6. Take pictures of us. I may fuss about a photo, but a snapshot of us can help get me through tough times.  A photo is a reminder that someone thinks I’m important and worth remembering. Don’t let me say “I don’t want you to remember me like this” when treatment leaves me bald or scarred.  This is me, who I am RIGHT NOW. Embrace the now with me.

 

7. I need a little time alone.  A few points ago I was talking about how much I need to spend time with you, and now I’m telling you to go away.  I love you, but sometimes I need a little solitude. It gives me the chance to take off the brave face I’ve been wearing too long, and the silence can be soothing.

 

8. My family needs friends. Parenting is hard enough when your body is healthy; it becomes even more challenging when you’re managing a cancer diagnosis with the day-to-day needs of your family. My children, who aren’t mature enough to understand what I’m going through, still need to go to school, do homework, play sports, and hang out with friends. Car-pooling and play dates are sanity-savers for me. Take my kids. Please. My spouse could also benefit from a little time with friends. Grab lunch or play a round of golf together. I take comfort in knowing you care about the people I love.

 

9. I want you to reduce your cancer risk. I don’t want you to go through this. While some cancers strike out of the blue, many can be prevented with just a few lifestyle changes – stop smoking, lose extra weight, protect your skin from sun damage, and watch what you eat. Please go see a doctor for regular check-ups and demand follow-up whenever pain, bleeding or unusual lumps show up. Many people can live long and fulfilling lives if this disease is discovered in its early stages. I want you to have a long and fulfilling life.

 

10. Take nothing for granted. Enjoy the life you have right now. Take time to jump in puddles, hug the kids, and feel the wind on your face. Marvel at this amazing world God created, and thank Him for bringing us together.

 

While we may not be thankful for my cancer, we need to be grateful for the physicians and treatments that give me the chance to fight this thing. And if there ever comes a time when the treatments no longer work, please know that I will always be grateful for having lived my life with you in it. I hope you feel the same about me.

 

Praise you in this storm

Many years ago, I took my parents to the Patriot Center in Fairfax to see the Christian band, Casting Crowns, in concert. I can't even begin to put the experience into words. "Powerful" would be close but still does not do it justice. Below are lyrics of  Dad's and my favorite Casting Crowns song.

 I find it's only appropriate to share these lyrics and this incredible song at this time in our journey.  We may not understand why things happen the way they do but we never give up hope and we always keep the faith! It isn't up to us to understand. It is up to us to just simply trust and believe.

Praise You in this Storm - Casting Crowns

I was sure by now
God, You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen" and it's still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm.

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to you
And you raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You
But as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm.

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth

And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ype1xE0wzsg

How do I get my ticket for the fundraiser?

Many of you have asked me how you can get your "ticket" for the fundraiser. Well, all you need to know to pay ahead of time is right here in this post.

So you've marked your calendar for April 30. You are excited about seeing everyone and even bidding on some amazing items. But wait, you don't want to stand in line when you get there and you know there will be a lot of people in attendance. I'll make it easy for you. All you have to do is pay ahead of time and you can bypass the gatekeeper that Thursday night!

I'll make it easy for you! If you're local and I see you quite often, you can pay me in cash or you can write me a check. Unfortunately, I won't be able to accept credit cards. If you want to mail me a check that is fine as well. Just email me at valamoore@yahoo.com and I'll be happy to give you a mailing address.

If you pay your $26 ahead of time, I'll add you to the "paid" list so there won't be any problem when you arrive at the door on April 30. Yep, $26 - that's all!! This fee includes tax as well as tip for the incredible staff at Winestyles who will be taking great care of us that evening.  You'll also receive your choice of one glass of wine or a beer along with scrumptious heavy hors d'oeuvres. 

Not only will it save you time but it will also help us out if you pay ahead of time. It would be great if I could give Arthur a guesstimate on a head count of who will be attending. So while paying ahead isn't required it definitely is highly recommended and appreciated!


Thanks again and can't wait to see you at the fundraiser!

 

The Fundraiser Wine Trail

The following wineries will be represented at my fundraiser and I cannot thank them enough for their generosity!
Keep checking back on this post as more wineries are added.....

 

 

Chateau O'Brien
See the first spotlight post of this blog for more information on Howard and his fabulous winery!! Thanks again, Howard!
http://chateauobrien.com/


Otium Cellars
http://otiumcellars.com/

Want a beautiful view, lovely staff and delicious unique wines?
Otium is the place!



I have been to Otium four times and it is one of my absolute favorite Virginia wineries. I spent my birthday last year in Purcellville with my parents and one of my best friends. We went to Otium and  then to Magnolia's for lunch. It was a fantastic afternoon.

Home to several German varietals, Otium is a step above the rest in the Loudoun County wine world. Its name alone is almost enough - meaning "peace and tranquility".





Barrel Oak Winery
http://www.barreloak.com/
Barrel Oak Winery, BOW, is known for being extremely dog friendly. In fact, I don't know if any other winery aside from Chateau Morrisette in Floyd, VA is more dog friendly!  BOW is big and beautiful and has a ton of wines for you to try - you're bound to find something that you like!  The first time I ever went to BOW I fell in love with their barrel-fermented Chardonnay. Oh and then there are the firepits - that's always a draw! I am extremely grateful to the owners, Brian and Sharon, for being so generous with their donation for the silent auction.



Ingleside Vineyards
http://www.inglesidevineyards.com/

Ingleside Plantation Winery in Oak Grove is one Virginia's oldest and largest wineries. It happens to be about 12 miles from my family's summer home in Colonial Beach and we just visited Ingleside for the first time last summer. What a beautiful place! I was honored to hear from Kerri Beroza (who lost her grandfather to prostate cancer a few years ago). Many thanks to Kerri for her generous donation for the fundraiser. This place is such a hidden gem!















Pearmund Cellars
http://pearmundcellars.com/

Pearmund Cellars in Broad Run is always worth the trip. If you're lucky, Chris Pearmund will be there and make your visit even more special. No matter what vintage it is, I always fall in love with his Old Vine Chardonnay.  Whether you like sweet wines or dry wines, I promise you'll find something you enjoy at this winery.  The most recent visit I favored the Petit Verdot (which I never like unless it's part of a blend) and the Ameritage Reserve.

Paradise Springs
http://paradisespringswinery.com/

I remember going to Paradise Springs in Clifton when they first opened.  The tasting room was in a small log cabin-like house and it was so quaint. Not many years later, they built a huge tasting room/production facility and it is quite the sight. Three years ago when I was hospitalized with a glandular virus, I "lost" my taste for wine for six months. Whether it was white or red wine it all tasted the same - like gasoline and acid.  White wine eventually "came back" and then my taste for red wine came back when I was with two friends at Paradise Springs! It was quite an afternoon when I realized that wine tasted like wine again! Paradise also has a really good port-style wine with a fabulous name, Swagger.  Many thanks to Victoria for her donation to the fundraiser!


Potomac Point
http://www.potomacpointwinery.com/

I have been to Potomac Point quite a few times but definitely not enough. It is in North Stafford and a short 20 minutes away and I always wonder why I don't go there more often because I love it when I'm there! Along with their wine tasting is an olive oil tasting and a wonderful gift shop. The landscape and tasting room is beautiful and the cellar and grounds are perfect for weddings and special events. No matter what vintage it is, I always seem to love their Chardonnay! Potomac Point is dog-friendly and the resident aussie shepherd, Chianti, will happily greet you. Spring and Fall are perfect times to visit and enjoy the rooftop terrace or courtyard while dining on delicious snacks from their on-site bistro! Many thanks to Cindi for her gracious donation in support of Denny's Shotgun Riders!

Many thanks to my good and longtime friend, Russ, for personally donating wines from the three establishments listed below.

Thanks to Russ, these wineries which are not far from his home in the Henrico, VA area will also be represented!

 

Cooper Vineyards

http://www.coopervineyards.com/

Named Virginia's favorite tasting room for 2013 by Wine Lovers Magazine, Cooper Vineyards is in Louisa County. In 2011, Cooper announced the opening of its new "green" tasting room and event facility which includes a spacious tasting room with custom concrete bar, a large covered deck with wonderful views of the existing vineyards and pond, outdoor bar, a private tasting room and deck for parties of up to 20 guests! Cooper Vineyards is nestled amongst rolling hills in a traditional farming community. The goal of the winery founders and current owners, Jeff Cooper and Jacque Hogge, was to create small lots of unique wines that expressed varietal character and would be recognized as quality wines. Graham Bell, the winemaker since 2002 is known as "a true artist of wine". He handcrafts all of the wines from 100% VA grapes and has been able to create a number of distinctive wines that appeal to varying tastes. Fortunate for us, and thanks to Russ, we will have access to Cooper's nationally-acclaimed Noche, their almost-cult-status chocolate infused red dessert wine!


James River Cellars Winery
http://jamesrivercellars.com/

James River Cellars is a family-owned and operated winery offering a blend of urban convenience and quaint rural appeal. James River Cellars is conveniently accessible to major highways and while I haven't been there, every time I travel to the Outer Banks I see the signs for it and want to take a quick detour!  James River Cellars is known for the grape on which the winery was founded - Gewurztraminer (which I fondly refer to as "girls-are-meaner") and its top seller at the tasting room, Chambourcin. Thanks to Russ, a lucky winner at the fundraiser will be going home with one of these wines!



Barboursville Vineyards
https://www.bbvwine.com/

I have always wanted to go to Barboursville Vineyards and haven't made it yet. I want to bask in the glory of their Octagon wine (their most famous and the only one I've tried to date!) while dining at their Palladio Restaurant. I know I'm excited about these wines that Russ has donated for the fundraiser.Won't ya'll join me and make this a friendly competition all for the sake of acquiring good wine and raising money for prostate cancer awareness!!?

Prepared to kick cancer's ass....... again!

My parents and I have been overwhelmed (in a good way) with all of the support that we have received over the last month or so. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't feel the love and friendship and true generosity from someone. Sometimes it's from someone we know and sometimes it's from a stranger but it's very special regardless.

 

I received an email from the head of fundraising for the ZERO walk last week asking if I needed any help and to tell me how impressed she was with all of my success so far with the fundraiser. She informed me that she was passing my blog along to her marketing team so that they are aware of my "tireless efforts". I thanked her and honestly was shocked but humbled by her kind words.  Another member of the ZERO team called me today to check on Dad and to thank me for all my efforts. I have been welcomed into this ZERO family so quickly and so sincerely and it's an honor. I told both Julie and Justin that I don't do this for the accolades though. I don't want the thanks. I do this because it's therapy for me. I enjoy doing it and have organized and held fundraisers before. I can't take away Dad's cancer. I can't take his treatment for him. I can; however, bring awareness to prostate cancer and focus my energies and efforts on this fundraiser and the race  I need to be productive and feel like I am helping in some way.  So, thanks to all of you who have donated and who are coming to the fundraiser. Thanks for being there for me and my parents. It means more than you know.

 

With that being said, we need your time, your donations and your prayers now more than ever.

 

Please don't think that I am ignoring you or that I don't care if I don't personally respond to your texts, emails, phone calls or messages.  It is emotionally exhausting to talk about our battle right now and this blog can serve as an avenue to reach out to everyone at once. It may sound selfish and I sure don't mean it that way but I have to focus my energies on my parents at this time.

They are my first priority as I'm sure you understand.

 

Now for the latest.....

 

A week ago, we found out that Dad's prostate cancer has metastasized to the bone. That has always been a fear of mine because that's where prostate cancer is known to spread.  As a result, his bones are weak and he has two fractured ribs. He received an injection last Friday which he will get once a month as a bone strengthener which should help any further fractures from occurring. His original tumor in the bladder area has grown, there is a mass on his L3 vertebrae and some other bony metastases. While all of this may sound terrifying, I can assure you that aside from feeling pretty "lousy" every so often and having back pain and a headache, Dad is doing pretty good.  Right now we have three things we need to focus on: 1) strengthening his bones to stop any other fractures; 2) pain management which is happening with steroids and narcotics as needed; and 3) cancer treatment.

 

Next Thursday, February 19, Dad will start chemo. He will receive it once every three weeks and it will last about 2-3 hours. He'll have a cocktail of other drugs as part of the therapy but I won't bore you with all of that stuff!

 

What you need to know...

 

Dad is ok.

Dad is plain tired of hurting and ready to get the ball rolling.

Dad is prepared to kick cancer's ass again.

 

 

How you can help....

 

Pray for him (because we know prayer works)

 

Be positive (because we are)

 

Don't focus on the fact that he has cancer. (We aren't).

Dad has cancer. Cancer does not define who he is.

 

Call him. Send him emails. Send him cards.

Let him know that you care and he's not alone.

Sure, he knows that but don't we all love to hear that every once in a while?

It's amazing what a difference that can make.

 

Dad is prepared to kick cancer's ass again.

Mom and I are ready to be right by his side every step of the way and make sure it happens.

Won't you join us?

 

In case you can't find it, here's the link to my page where you can donate on behalf of Denny's Shotgun Riders and even join our team and walk with us on Father's Day.

 

http://www.zeroprostatecancerrun.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1127720&lis=0&kntae1127720=25D190FAEF574273BC5605C3B5E93CA1&supid=417434731

 

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the April 30 fundraiser too.

I'll be posting something soon about how to sign up and pay ahead of time.

Stay tuned for more spotlight on business posts too.

 

As always, thank you so much for your support.
 

Your friendship and love means the world to me and my parents.

 

 

 

 

 

Restaurants, cafes, bakeries... oh my!

I am thankful, overwhelmed by the generosity, and humbled by the support of various restaurants, cafes and bakeries for donating items/services to help raise money for Denny's Shotgun Riders.

Check out their websites below and I'll keep adding to this post as more come in.....

Bittersweet Catering, Cafe and Bakery
http://www.bittersweetcatering.com/home

When I worked in Alexandria for the City Manager's Office, I was in charge of ordering food for City Council-related meetings and events. Bittersweet Catering was our caterer of choice and Jeffrey, the catering manager, and I became very good friends over many years. Our work relationship turned into a wonderful friendship that still endures today. My friend, Kilo and I would walk up King Street to see Jeffrey to often have lunch at Bittersweet. We ended up being given the nicknames of "Snicker" and "Doodle" because we would devour their incredible snickerdoodle cookies. To this day, even though I haven't worked in Alexandria for almost five years, I still haven't found a better snickerdoodle or a lovelier café.  Their hot bar, their sandwiches and their desserts are absolutely second-to-none.

While I have known Jeffrey the longest, Jody Manor is the owner of Bittersweet and has become a delight to be around and a friend of mine over the last few years. You rock, Jody!!  Thanks for donating and being such a outstanding pillar in the Alexandria community.

Brock's Riverside Grill
http://www.brocksgrill.com/

Brock's is in downtown Fredericksburg and I hear it's a fantastic place. My friend, Anthony Campbell, was gracious enough to point me in this direction and Dan Morris at Brock's was one of the first people to donate! Thank you!

The All American Steak House and Sports Theater
http://theallamericansteakhouse.com/#
The "steakhouse" as we affectionately call it at work, is one of my go-to places for lunch during the work week. The roasted chicken salad is scrumptious, the California Burger is great comfort food and the Filet with bacon potatoes au gratin is absolutely to-die-for! Hey, and don't forget the unbelievable yeast rolls, which always come home with me for breakfast the next day!
 

Confections Cupcakery
http://www.confectionsonline.com/

Confections is my guilty pleasure when I've had a really rough week at work. I am famous for getting a 4-pack and making it last an entire week - teaches me patience and will power! My favorites are Triple Chocolate and German Chocolate.. I also love Orange Creamcicle, Hummingbird, Coconut and Lemon. Don't worry there are enough delicious flavors for everyone - even you Red Velvet and Rocky Road fans! The owner/baker lost her dad to prostate cancer a few years ago so she was more than willing to help out with the fundraiser. Thank you, Laura!

Famous Dave's
http://www.famousdaves.com/home

A year ago, I was at Famous Dave's of Woodbridge for lunch with my boss.  To my surprise and absolute delight, my girlfriend from high school, Juliet, greeted me because she was a manager there!! I hadn't seen her in many years and we picked up right where we left off. It did my heart such good to be reunited with her. As a result, she will be joining the team and while she no longer works at the Woodbridge location, she's still a "big wig" at Famous Dave's and was gracious enough to donate a gift card for the fundraiser!

 

 

Okra's Louisiana Bistro

http://www.okras.com/

 

Okra's is my go-to place in Old Town Manassas. It's where I had my first sazerac, fried okra and ratatouille. It never fails that I keep going back for more. It's such a welcoming place and who doesn't love a bar that serves snap peas instead of oyster crackers!!  Thanks to Justin for a phone call that warmed my heart and for his generous spirit.

 

 

 

Bella Vita Italian Restaurant

http://bellavitaonline.com/

Bella Vita translates to "the good life" and when you eat here you definitely feel like you're part of the good life!! I am so grateful to my boss for introducing me to quaint little place off of Liberia Road in Manassas a few years ago. Our favorite waitress and the manager treat us like royalty every time we walk through the door! We've had many office parties/luncheons there and the customer service is impeccable not to mention the delicious house pasta, chicken flat bread, bruschetta and garlic parmesan rolls!

 

Check out my link below to the post I wrote in my wine and food blog about this restaurant last year:

http://winefoodie.blogspot.com/2014/01/bella-vita-italian-restaurant-good-life.html

 

 



Nandos Peri-Peri

http://www.nandosperiperi.com/



  

Who doesn't love flame-grilled chicken? Marinate it overnight with a unique and legendary spice and it doesn't get much better! From half a bone-in chicken to a grilled boneless breast, to salads and sandwiches, Nandos has something for everyone. Inexpensive delicious good-for-you food that you'll try once and say, "what took me so long to find this place?"

 

Thanks to team member Jason Crawford's Crossfit connection to the Regional Manager of this fantastic restaurant, Nandos will be represented at the fundraiser! I can't thank Alison Dyer enough for meeting with me, sharing her experiences and a delicious lunch at Nandos Peri-Peri of Woodbridge and most importantly for her partnership and generous support!

 

 

 Thanks to Sean Gallagher for obtaining donations from the following four eateries in the

Del Ray area of Alexandria!

 

Caboose Café and Bakery

http://caboose-cafe.com/

Caboose Café is the epitome of all that is Del Ray in Alexandria. Delicious pastries and breakfast foods, yummy sandwiches, salads and quiches, Ethiopian specialties after 5pm and scrumptious breads and desserts! On the corner of "the Avenue" and E. Uhler in Del Ray, you'll find a quaint café where your four-legged best friend can even accompany you on the adorable outdoor patio!

Evening Star Cafe

http://eveningstarcafe.net/

Located in the heart of the Del Ray area of Alexandria, Evening Star is known for its friendly neighborhood vibe and modern take on classic Southern cooking. Combine that with entertainment in its upstairs lounge (where I have found some incredible local talent over the years) and a wine shop next door and you have a perfect night out! Whether you choose to sit outside on the patio, enjoy the swanky ambiance of the dining room or have a few cocktails after work in the Majestic Lounge, you're bound to fall in love with this restaurant!
 

Pork Barrel BBQ
http://porkbarrelbbq.com/

Pork Barrel BBQ smokes its meat low and slow over a combination of oak and hickory hardwoods in its in-house smoker. Walk on up to the butcher's station and have a seat at the bar or take your delicious BBQ home with you! Locally owned and operated in Del Ray since 2011, Pork Barrel believes BBQ is American cuisine and strives to remind customers of the unique regions of barbecue as they enjoy the Carolina pulled pork, Texas sausage, Memphis ribs and Kansas City brisket.  All of the meats are seasoned with their national award winning Pork Barrel BBQ All-American Spice Rub and there are plenty of national award winning BBQ sauces to try out as well.

Holy Cow
http://holycowdelray.com/

Owned by the same person as Pork Barrel, now you can have your burger fix in Del Ray, too! If you love burgers, you will definitely want to try this place!! Gourmet burgers at their best with all the fixins! From beef to chicken to turkey to veggie to tuna, this place has it all!! With 11 cheeses to choose from and eight different types of buns, you are able to build your own and get exactly what you like!

 

It was 1996.... his story through my eyes

It was 1996 and I didn't have a "real" job yet. I had graduated college with a BS in Public Administration and I was applying to all of the local governments just to get my foot in the door. I was ready for a change - a change of scenery, for sure. My friend, Amy, and I were seriously thinking of moving to the panhandle of Florida.  She always wanted to go to Florida. I always loved the beach. It was a perfect opportunity to just get away from home for the first time in my life and take a chance on something new somewhere new!!

It was 1996 and my father went in for a routine hernia operation. Dr. Halmi didn't like something he saw in the blood work results and called Dr. Lou, Dad's urologist. Dad was 47 years old and his PSA was extremely high. At that time, men weren't supposed to even think about getting their PSA done until they were 50. Thankfully, Dad had two proactive doctors or he wouldn't be here right now.

Ok, wait a minute though. Isn't prostate cancer a disease of old men? Isn't that something that just happens when you are a man and you live to be over 85? After all, my dad's grandfather had prostate cancer and that was a long time ago and he was old, right? 
Wrong.



It was 1996 and I learned a lot in a short period of time... about prostate cancer.  The prostate-specific antigen, PSA, test measures the blood level of a protein that is produced by the prostate gland. The higher a man's PSA, the more likely he has prostate cancer. For all intents and purposes, it SHOULD be 0 or a negative number. However, there are other reasons for having a high PSA and some men who have prostate cancer don't even have an elevated PSA.  Still, the PSA test has been widely used to screen men for prostate cancer and used as a monitor for men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer to see if their cancer has come back after initial treatment or to determine their response to therapy. Fortunately, for Dad, his PSA saved his life and it has always been an exceptionally accurate indicator for him.

It was 1996 and my life came to a crashing halt without a second thought. I forgot all about Florida. There was no way I was going anywhere. Dad's life flashed before his eyes. Mom was devastated because the love of her life had cancer. We were in shock because of the "C word".  Thankfully, the cancer was contained to the prostate and the prostate would be removed.

We were blessed.

 

It was 1996 and my dad had a prostatectomy; surgery to remove his prostate.
Dr. Lou didn't want to take any chances.
Dad was young and the cancer hadn't spread so let's get rid of this damn thing!
No messing around!

 

It was 1996.

Dad was cancer free and we were good to go, right?

Wrong.

 

Between the prostatectomy and 2015, Dad's cancer has recurred five times. Each recurrence was indicated by a rising PSA. Hormone therapy lasted a very long time and was accompanied by negative PSAs.  He got over the body hair loss and the emotional outbursts that came along with it because the hormones did the trick and got rid of the cancer. 

Then many years later, the hormone therapy stopped working and the cancer returned.

 

Radiating the tumor was next. The PSA dropped again and the cancer was gone. Radiation worked.

But then the cancer returned again.

 

Next was a med called Xtandi which caused horrible nausea but drinking ginger tea helped.

PSA dropped again. Getting a year and a half of use out of Xtandi was longer than most people had experienced.

 

But then his PSA started doubling again and he could "feel" the cancer coming back at the site of the tumor. The human body is an amazing thing when we listen to it. A ct scan revealed the tumor was back and this time it was in the same place but on the inside of the bladder. A biopsy revealed that it was indeed prostate cancer and not bladder cancer. Once again, we were relieved because we knew the demon we were dealing with instead of bringing a new one into the mix. 

 

Next up was a med called Zytiga and it's paired with prednisone.

For the first time in 19 years, Dad is uncomfortable and experiencing pain after a month of being on Zytiga. We agreed to give Zytiga time to work because we all knew it was the last possible treatment before resorting to chemotherapy.  Dad has a high pain tolerance but this time was different.

Back pain, hip pain, walking with a cane, anti-inflammatories, narcotics. However, he's strong and not complaining. Come on now, he's a Vietnam Vet. Cancer's not gonna kick his ass.

 

I'm not an idiot by any means. I also have delved head first into Dad's disease and treatment since the beginning. I like to arm myself with knowledge. I also learned enough from my miserable

ex-husband (who should have been a doctor) to be dangerous. When prostate cancer spreads it typically goes one of two places -  the bone being one of them. Our saving grace with each recurrence has always been a clean bone scan. My ultimate fear with this recurrence was the results of the bone scan because I knew this time was different.

Sometimes I hate when I'm right.

This is one of those times.

 

It was 1996 and things were devastating but so much different then.

It's not 1996 anymore.

 

But there are three things that haven't changed:

 our sense of hope

 our strong faith

our positive attitude

 

 We have kicked cancer's ass before and we'll do it again....

just like it was 1996.

 

 

 

 

Two tickets to a show in Old Town Alexandria!

The Little Theater of Alexandria (LTA) is the oldest award-winning theater in the Washington Metropolitan area and is located at 600 Wolfe Street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. It is one of the few community theaters in the entire country with its own building and a seven-show season.

 

It landed in its current and permanent home in the 1950s and its first production was in November 1961.  The space was rented for $1 a year from the City of Alexandria until the 1970s when it was formally purchased. The LTA has come a long way since it was founded in 1934 as a small play-reading group.

 

I am fortunate enough to have a friend who volunteers in the carpenter's shop at LTA. He graciously donated two excellent tickets (third row center!) for a Saturday evening show in May for my April 30 fundraiser!

The Odd Couple - The Female Version, written by Neil Simon and directed by Joanna Henry, is a comedy classic with a twist!  According to LTA, "Unger and Madison are at it again -- Florence Unger and Olive Madison, that is -- in Neil Simon’s hilarious contemporary comic classic. Come watch this time-honored comedy reinvented from a different perspective as the ladies take over the juicy roles of the famously mismatched couple to give this well-known play a whole new life. Watch and laugh as this “odd couple” learn that friendship may have its ups and downs but in the end it overpowers all."

Who doesn't love live theater? Who doesn't love Old Town Alexandria?

Put them together with dinner reservations and I see a fantastic date night (or girls night) in store!

 

 

 http://www.thelittletheatre.com/