Friends Are A Gift From God!

Another update on my Washington, DC journey!

While I was training for the 3-day walk, I got to know Keith through the 3-day Facebook page.  Keith lives in Washington, DC and would encourage me on my training walks. He reminded me to not just walk, but to look for things during my walks.  He'd ask me what I saw, and at first I'd have to think back, but as my walks continued I would look for things - such as trumpeter vines blooming on a tree or puppies looking out a car window.  It did make the walks easier when I looked at God's creation instead of just walking!

As the walk got closer, we got to be better friends.  He called me and found out this was my first time to DC and that my sister was going with me and working on the crew.  He'd walked DC last year, and was on the crew in Boston this year, so gave my sister and I tips on what to take, and what the experience would be like for both of us.  He also gave us tips on what to see in Washington, and offered to be a tour guide of sorts when he could.  He had a group of friends he went to high school with that hung out each Wednesday doing karaoke, and they were walking together in the 3-day.  He invited us to join them - which we did - and we were welcomed and had a great time!  He found out we were coming to DC early, and said his landlady, Nina, had offered to let us stay at her place while we were there.  Since I'd never met Keith or Nina in person, I told him Pam and I would stay in our hotel at least the first few days, then decide after we'd met them and got to know them a little more.

Well - after we got to DC and met Keith, Pam and I decided to go ahead and take him up on his offer.  We stayed at the hotel in DC for four nights, then on Wednesday moved over to Nina's.  It turned out to be the best of both worlds!  The four nights we stayed in the hotel gave us freedom to move about in DC on our own time - the Metro (Washington DC's transportation system) had a stop right under our hotel, which made it easy to get around as we were sightseeing.  Pam and I were able to go where we wanted without having to depend on someone else.  We checked out of the hotel on Wednesday, and Keith took us to the karaoke party Wednesday night along with his girlfriend Lauren.  We had a great time!  Thursday morning we all went to the Air and Space Museum.  One of Keith's friends, Hugo, runs the McDonald's there and had procured Imax tickets for us - along with lunch!  We then dropped Pam off at Nationals Stadium for her crew training while we explored more DC memorials - Roosevelt, Martin Luther King, and the Jefferson Memorials.  After taking in a little of the National Harbor (and the Peeps Store!) we went back to Nina's.

Keith and Lauren at karaoke

Nina had a wonderful dinner of salad, pasta, green beans, and dessert ready for us!  This was the first time I really got to know Nina.  She has two dogs, Sneakers and Pip.  Sneakers immediately jumped in my lap when I sat down.  He's a great dog - has a lot of the personality of my beagle and is, like Retro, a lap dog.  Nothing's better than sitting down with a puppy in your lap.  Pip is an older dog and tended to shy away from strangers while keeping an eye on us!  There's also three cats, but hey, I'm a dog person and the cats, well, they're cats - what can I say.  They just laid around.  Since we had to get up very early to get to opening ceremonies on Friday morning, Nina made sure we had what we needed before we went off to an early bedtime. 

When we got home from the walk on Sunday - tired, more than a little sweaty, happy, and hungry, Nina greeted us with open arms.  She knew we had just had the experience of a lifetime, and wanted to hear all about it - after we had showers!  She had dinner ready for us, and listened along with her friend Cher (sorry if I spelled it wrong!) as we recounted our experiences.  We were really tired, though, and I went to bed at 8:30 - and slept through until 7:30 the next morning!  Nina asked us what we wanted to do on Monday (Keith had to work) and I don't think she was a bit surprised when we told her we just wanted to "hang out" and recover from the walk. 

Monday was such fun!  We did, indeed, "hang out" with Nina!  Pam and I shared our experiences and we talked like we were all three sisters!  We shared a lot of our lives - Nina is getting ready to move to Pennsylvania to be closer to her mother and was getting things in line for the move.  She asked our opinions on things just like we'd known each other for years.  It felt so comfortable being with her.  As a small token of our appreciation, we took Nina and Cher out to dinner Monday night.  When we asked her to suggest a place - she suggested Mount Vernon - only a  mile from her home.  Since we hadn't been there, and it was close, it sounded great.  It wasn't just great - it was fantastic!  The food was great (nothing like clam chowder in the east!) but the company couldn't be beat.  We closed the place down and had the best of times! 

Tuesday morning finally came, and we had to pack up and leave Nina's.  Pam and I were both anxious to get home, but really felt like we were leaving a part of ourselves behind.  After lots of hugs, Keith took us to the airport and we returned home to our families - but knew that we had left part of our hearts with Keith and Nina in Washington, DC.

Ka-C relaxing at Nina's

Nina does have a friend she visits in Overland Park - so I will hopefully get to see her again!  I can't wait - it was such a blessing to have met her.  When I started going through radiation treatments, I realized that God put friends on this earth for a reason - to be there for us when we needed each other.  Nina and Keith are true friends and I'm so blessed to have crossed paths with them on this earth.  Nina and Keith - if I haven't said it enough, thanks SO MUCH for your hospitality and support - and I'm so glad to have met you!

The 3-day Experience!!

Last week was an experience I almost can't describe.  My sister and I met in Washington, DC, on the 17th of September to get in some exploring, sightseeing, and some sister time before the 3-day walk.  The weather was beautiful and we saw lots of sights and had a lot of time together.  We met new friends and took lots of pictures!

Then came Friday morning, and the walk.  We gathered at 6 a.m. to start the walk.  There were the opening ceremonies, then we headed out.  Supported by my sister and countless others on the crew, we took off into Washington DC in a sea of pink.  That first day we walked all through Washington, past many of the sights we'd seen before - but this time just to walk past.  17+ miles later - raining all the way -  we arrived at a parking lot where school buses took us to camp.  My sister greeted me with open arms as I arrived at camp!  I checked mail call and I was surprised by several  birthday cards from friends - and a letter from my daughter that made me cry!!  Among a sea of pink pup tents (how in the heck do I find mine??) we tried to dry off, had showers and dinner and went to sleep. 

Saturday morning brought cloudy skies but no rain!  After breakfast, we headed out from camp.  This time we walked through Bethesda and other residential areas.  I found a lady walking about my pace and we walked together all day.  She happened to be from Columbia, Missouri - and her son was involved in band at several schools so we had things in common.  My sister had given me two buttons - one that blinked - that said "Happy Birthday" so everyone knew it was my birthday and I was serenaded several times during the day.  There were a lot of people out encouraging the walkers.  It seemed like every time it got a little hard, there were people to pick you up!  At lunch, I decided that my knee was hurting too bad to chance walking the rest of the way and I rode back to camp on the SAG bus.  Sharon was having problems with her feet and joined me.  After being greeted by my sister again as I walked into camp, I went to medical where they iced my knee and wrapped it.  That and Motrin did the trick.  I was afraid of pushing it too much and not being able to finish on Sunday - which I really wanted to do.  After a shower and dinner, and some shopping, I headed to the pink tent for much-needed rest.

Pam and I at the end of the second day

Sunday morning brought a little drizzle which ended before we hit the trail.  We were bused to the starting point in Bethesda, Maryland.  We walked through Bethesda, Chevy Chase, and ended our journey at the Washington Monument - 16+ miles later.  The bear that Chris, Kaitlyn, and Amanda had made me at Build-A-Bear joined me for the walk on Sunday.  I thought it was appropriate that Ka-C join me after she'd been with me through every radiation treatment!  It also gave me the feeling my kids were with me on the walk.  I got a lot of comments on her which gave me a chance to tell my story.  The walkers seemed to be in a more somber mood - we just wanted to get to the end of the walk and the closing ceremonies!  As I walked into the finish area, my sister again was looking for me.  We walked across the finish line together holding onto Ka-C as we crossed.  The rain held off and just as closing ceremonies started, the sun came out. 

Closing ceremonies were very emotional.  The walkers and crew went into the ceremony area first - surrounded by lots and lots of cheering spectators.  Then the survivors went in.  Everyone was cheering us and yelling - it was a huge party!  Things got very emotional as they applauded the walkers, crew, and survivors.  Everyone shared laughs, smiles, tears, hugs, and friendship.  My special moment was when I looked up and all of the walkers were holding up one shoe in tribute to the survivors.  All of my aches and pains disappeared for a few moments as we completed closing ceremonies!

Day 3 - me with Ka-C and 12 miles to go (more or less - mostly more!)

All in all, it was an experience I'll never forget.  I'm not sure whether or not I'll do it again, but I am so glad to have done it.  The time with my sister, the experience of being surrounded by supporters and other survivors and just being able to say "I did it!" are all unforgettable.  I met lots of new friends, shared lots of hugs and stories, walked more in three days than I ever thought I could, and raised over $2600 for a cause I have to believe in.  The entire walk raised over $7 million dollars!

I have my supporters to thank - all of you that donated money, that kept me in your thoughts and prayers (they were felt!!), and that encouraged me with words and smiles.  I love you all - thanks for giving me the priviledge of having this experience!

Shoes raised in tribute - beautiful sight!

Steph Goddard



Almost there!!!

It's been awhile - I've been busy!  The band directors keep me on my toes - and I really love working with them.  However, I have more important news to share today....

I LEAVE FOR DC TOMORROW!!  I've been really happy all week - now I'm getting nervous!  I'm glad the kids have a football game tonight so I have something to keep my mind off of it for awhile.  I'm pretty much packed, except for the last minute things.  I had to look for clothes this morning - everything's packed!  I've printed out my credentials, have to remember to get them off the printer.  Last minute things are going in the backpack.  I'm taking my good camera, but I had to buy a new "little" camera.  My old one died - kind of a blessing in disguise!  It was big for a "little" camera.  The new one is nice.  I've played with it some, it should be good for the walk. 

I have a friend in DC that I met through the 3-day web site and he and his girlfriend are as excited that my sister and I are coming to DC as we are.  He did the 3-day walk last year and is walking again this year.  He also worked on the crew in Boston this year, so has been giving both my sister and I good hints and tips.  He lives in DC and can't wait to show his town off.  I can't wait to meet him!  It's good to have a friend already there!

My fundraising goal has been surpassed - I raised over $2600 for breast cancer.  YEA!  A small drop in the bucket, I know, but a lot of drops eventually fill the bucket.  My treatment alone (surgery and radiation treatments) were well over $10,000, of which insurance picked up almost all of the discounted amounts. I consider myself very lucky to have the coverage I have.  Others aren't, and they're why I'm raising funds - for that and for research.  Thanks to all.

Speaking of thanks, I have a LOT of thanks to give out.  To my former co-workers at Blue Cross, who stood by me and held me up throughout my treatments and on my walking journey - my most heartfelt thanks.  You made me realize why God gave us friends on this earth.  I am so blessed to have you on my side!  To my church friends - you have supported me through everything and I thank you.  To my medical staff - you not only healed me, you've supported me on my journey and that means a lot to me.  And last but certainly not least - my family.  You were the ones I cried with, laughed with, walked with, and just were with.  You have allowed me to take on this journey and supported me with no reservations.  I now leave you for several days - to spend some much-needed time with my sister and to walk almost 60 miles for something affecting all of us. 

I will come back with memories and LOTS of pictures.  I can't wait to get there and get started!

Thank you ALL for your thoughts, prayers, and support as I continue this journey, thankful that I am able to.

Steffy

Quilt Raffle

A lot has happened the last couple of weeks!  I got behind in training again thanks to a fairly mild case of bronchitis - but bronchitis nevertheless.  Then it got hot again (skycast is orange today and I think tomorrow, not walking outside with that!).  But I have been busy at school!  The marching band is sounding great!  Sometimes I walk around the track while they're practicing in the morning.  This weekend should be good for walking.

Ah, the quilt raffle.  The beautiful quilt that my friends Christi and Tama made for me was raffled off - Christi and I did the drawing today.  And the winner is........(drum roll please).......Victoria Becker.  Victoria works at Blue Cross, and from what I understand is having her own battle with breast cancer.  Victoria - wrap the quilt around you and feel the love from the hands that made the quilt and the friends that supported me!  I'll most certainly be walking for you also.  Victoria works in the building across the street from the main building, and happened to be in the support area and just happened to have money with her to buy a raffle ticket for the quilt.  She was supposed to win it!  I'm so glad she did.

I have a friend, Keith Flanders, who lives in DC and participated in the walk last year. He's walking again, and has also worked on the crew for the Boston walk.  We've been talking, and are looking forward to meeting each other.  He's "adopting" my sister and I for our stay in DC - it'll be nice to have a friend who knows the area!  He really has a heart for the 3-day walk and I get energized just talking with him.  He's someone else God has put in my corner! 

I leave in three short weeks.  I need to start my packing list!  I'm getting very excited.  The last year has been so awesome, and I have lots of people to thank for it - but most of all, I thank God I'm able to undertake this task.  God bless all!!

steffy

Komen Race for the Cure

Where to start??  This morning was fantastic in all respects.  The weather was gorgeous.  I walked with old friends and new.  I was part of the survivor's walk.  So AWESOME!  And this is small compared to what I will be doing in September - is that next month already??

This morning I participated in the Susan G. Komen Kansas City Race for the Cure.  It's the first event I've done since becoming a survivor.  It was so beautiful.  There were live bands cheering us on at almost every corner.  Pink balloons everywhere.  As I neared the finish line, I was handed a pink rose.  My friends took lots of pictures - I FORGOT my camera.  I was going to take my small one, but alas, forgot.  Oh, well - that's what friends are for.  I'll post pictures when I get them from them.  We were all happy just to be together and see each other again.  The drumline from one of the Shawnee Mission schools (sorry, forgot which one) led the survivor's walk - it was so awesome!

Yesterday I completed a 17-mile walk in two phases.  Did a 9-mile walk, came home, rested, ate lunch, then headed back out for an 8-mile walk.  The 8-mile was a little tough, I ran out of water and didn't plan my route as well as usual.  I went to a pizza place (which shall remain nameless but I'll never go there again!)  and asked for ice water.  They didn't have ice, which I said was OK, but then he tried to give me a story about the health department and not being able to give me water out of the faucet since if it's contaminated I could get sick.  HUH?????  OK, one, isn't any place of business required to have drinking water available and not for purchase?  Two - since when could the water out of the faucet, which I'm assuming since they're in the city is actually city water, be contaminated to the point that it would make me sick?  He finally relented and filled up my water bottle about halfway with tepid water (which was better than nothing!).  I then was able to continue and make it to one of my favorite gas stations - they gladly let me have a bottle of ice water.

I was getting tired, knee was acting up, but I kept putting one foot in front of the other.  As I was nearing home, I saw a kid riding a skateboard.  He was crossing the street.  He was dressed in a black pair of pants and a tank top, and had a Sonic hat on - and was coming from the direction of Sonic.  He was also smoking a cigarette.  Now - I have a not-so-good attitude about smokers, especially young ones.  But as he passed me, he gave me a big smile and asked how I was doing - to which I replied that I was hot, tired, almost home, but good.  He asked me how far I'd walked and I told him I was finishing up 17 miles.  He then asked me what I was walking for and I told him (I was wearing the white Komen run shirt so he suspected something along that line!).  He then stuck his hand out and told me to keep going, he admired me.  I took his hand and said thanks - and remembered that I really try not to judge kids no matter how they look or what they do.  His encouragement got me back home when I was almost ready to give up!  I now remember why I like working with kids so much.  I used to work with the kids in our church youth group - and now work with the kids in the marching band.  I love them so much!  He really made up for the pizza guy who didn't want to give me any water!

Songs - they play with you sometimes!  I usually walk alone, which I don't mind.  I don't have to worry about keeping up with someone or someone keeping up with me.  I don't carry an IPod or anything else - it's just me and my thoughts.  But there's usually a song running through my head.  On yesterday morning's walk, it was Brandon Heath's "Give Me Your Eyes".  I think that was trying to prepare me for the afternoon.  Then in the afternoon, for some reason the National Anthem started going through my head.   I didn't want to listen to it for 8 miles, so forced it out.  Then "Sing, Sing, Sing" started up and I walked with that the rest of the way.  Kaitlyn's marching band is doing that song as their opener in their marching show this year so I was hearing their version, drum line and all.  It was great!

Dear God, thanks for the blessings of cooler weather!  Thanks for the friends you've placed in my life.  Thanks for the ability to try and make a difference.  Help me to do your will even if it conflicts with mine.  Guide me to the right path for my life.  Amen!

And Amen!
steffy

One more day.....then COOLER!

It's supposed to be 100 degrees today also.  This weekend is a "back-down" weekend, 8 miles on Saturday and 6 on Sunday.  I chose to do cross-training on Saturday (swimming) and probably will today also.  Now for the good news - cooler all week, although rainy.  I don't mind the rain - it's better than the heat!  I'm planning on putting my miles in on Monday and Tuesday this week.  Next weekend is a long one - 17 miles on Saturday and 13 on Sunday.  I'm ready!  Right now weather forecast looks good - high of 87 on both days.  But that's a week away, we all know how weather forecasts can change!  But it does look like cooler weather is on the way.

I've been having a wonderful time working with the band directors at Kaitlyn's school.  We just finished up two weeks of band camp - this year's halftime show is going to be great!  It's called "The Jazz Effect" and the numbers are Sing, Sing, Sing followed by Caravan.  The last song is When A Man Loves A Woman (otherwise known as WAMLAW).  It's really gonna be a good show.

Kaitlyn's wisdom teeth did well - no problems with dry sockets or anything.  She's back to normal!

Remember all my buddies walking in Chicago today.  There's walks going on pretty much every weekend now.  I can't wait for mine!

Walkin' on!!

steffy

IT'S STILL HOT!!!

Not a lot to report except - it's STILL HOT!  I did get a 12-mile walk in at the Great Mall yesterday (BORING!!) and will try to put some miles in a little later.  Got a strange red rash on my leg - had a rash yesterday after walking the mall, then after working the Royals it became a bright red.  Hmmm...been putting cortisone ointment on it, may involve a trip to the dr!  I have been keeping up with cross-training and getting outside to walk when I can but it hasn't been easy.  The Boston 3-day was this weekend - the first day was cancelled and the second day was cut short due to the heat there.  I have a friend who is helping out with the crew in the Boston 3-day - Keith Flanders.  He's walking in the DC 3-day and we've been corresponding.  He lives in the DC area and walked the DC 3-day last year - I can't wait to meet him when we go to DC!  If anyone would like to see his website and donate a little to his cause - it's  www.the3day.org/goto/keith​ if you'd like to support him.  His slogan is he "Fights Like a Girl"! 

Speaking of fundraising - drumroll please - with HUGE thanks to Christi Koelzer and Tama Putthoff for making the most amazing t-shirt quilt - I've reached my $2300 donations needed to walk in the walk!  I've been selling raffle tickets for the quilt pictured in my last update - and have enough now to send in and meet my goal.  The money now raised will help pay travel expenses, then after that's done (and my sis and I are well on our way to having them taken care of!) the money will go to my fundraising account at Komen!  I am SO EXCITED to be able to share this news!  If you'd like to buy a raffle ticket for the quilt let me know!

Family updates - Kaitlyn had her wisdom teeth pulled out last Tuesday.  She was hurting for a couple of days but is doing well.  She's been able to eat McDonald's hamburgers but not the fries so far.  She's begged off playing her saxophone - I think I'll let her get away with it for another day or two...!

Well - time to clean the kitchen (I couldn't talk Retro into doing it for me...) and off for a walk. 

Later friends!!

Steffy

IT'S HOT!!!!

It's been awhile again, I don't mean to not update, there's just a lot going on. 

And there has been a lot going on since my last post.  Kaitlyn went to Guatemala on her youth group mission trip with 24 other 11th and 12th graders and 6 sponsors.  They had a fantastic time - she wants to go back!  They worked on a couple of rebuilding projects, did a vacation bible school for some of the kids, and played with other kids.  According to her pictures, the kids (the little and the big kids!) had a blast.  Lots of smiles all around. 

While Kaitlyn was in Guatemala, her grandfather (Rob's dad) came home from the hospital under hospice care.  While she was on her way back, he passed away.  While it was not unexpected, it's still a loss.  Also - the Wednesday before that, Rob's brother-in-law Steve (his sister Melanie's husband) suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home.  Fortunately, Melanie is a nurse and was right by his side when it happened.  She started CPR and called 911 right away, paramedics had to administer 5 shocks to get him going again but were successful.  He spent a few days in ICU undergoing hyperthermal (I think) therapy - they cooled him down to about 90 degrees to let him rest and heal.  He did just fine and after surgery to implant an internal defibrillator, he's now home resting.  Really scary! 

And yes, it's been HOT here!  Last Wednesday I woke up to a cooler morning and instead of going to the gym to do my water aerobics, I decided I had to head out for a walk and put in a 7-1/2 mile walk!  This weekend I'm really busy with activities up at school - the band is sponsoring a DCI (Drum Corps International) show on Monday so we're wrapped up getting everything in place.  Bryan Busby is directing the national anthem before the show with kids playing from all four Olathe high schools.  Should be great!  It will also be hot, but I'm working in the VIP area - where it's air conditioned!  I will also be taking pictures from up in the skybox - should be a fun time!  The kids are really looking forward to it and watching the DCI shows.  There are nine DCI corps performing - should be a fantastic evening!  But I digress - since it will be hard to get walking in this weekend, I need to get a couple of long walks in next week.  It'll probably be Wednesday (Kaitlyn gets her wisdom teeth out on Tuesday, fun times!) and I'll have to get up EARLY and head out to get a walk in.  Plenty of water/gatorade and not be in a hurry and I should be fine. 

Saw "Guys and Dolls" out at Starlight last night.  It was hot, but I've been out there when it's been worse.  There was a bit of a breeze occasionally, but the a/c in the car felt good on the way home!  The show was great - I really like going out to Starlight.  They're announcing next year's lineup and so far all three shows they've announced are new ones - haven't even heard of two of them.  I hope a couple of the others are oldies but goodies!

Fund raising - drum roll please - I only have $260 to go to meet my $2300 fundraising goal!  It's so exciting to have the support of friends and family!  Some fantastic friends of mine, Christi and Tama, have made a t-shirt quilt made up of t-shirts from the Race for the Cure for the last 9 years.  It's a beautiful quilt, these ladies are wonderful.  We are raffling off the quilt for $5 a ticket, 6 for $25.  If you happen to be interested in buying a ticket, let me know!  I owe these ladies so much and can't thank them enough for the work they've put into it.  The quilt is pictured above - it's so beautiful.  I'll be selling tickets through August - drawing is on August 31st.  After I hit my fundraising goal, proceeds will go to my travel fund.  My sister and I are going out to DC a few days early to do some sightseeing since neither of us have been to DC before.  We'll also have fun spending some quality time together - something we haven't done for awhile.  We've both been working to raise money for the fundraising and travel funds - we're looking forward to some good memories!

That's enough for today - stay cool!!

steffy

New Shoes!!

Lots has happened lately!  I'll see if I can remember it all to put it in here.

I bought two new pairs of shoes yesterday.  My other two pairs are beginning to break down.  I knew I'd need new ones before the walk.  Found them on sale yesterday - the f irst time I've seen them on sale, even on the internet.  They had one pair in my size and ordered the other.  Got another pink pair (of course!) and a black pair.  Now I just need to go to the Walking store and get two more sets of orthotics and I'll be set!

Went to the oncologist for a checkup on Tuesday.  It was all good news!  She took me off of the medication I'd been on to help with the complications from the radiation.  She said I've lost 10 pounds in the last three months (YEA!) and the follow-up mammogram done two weeks ago looked great!  I left that office very happy.  Have a checkup with the surgeon today then I'm good for awhile.

Had some problems with what I think is tendonitis in my knee.  Went to the store where I got Kaitlyn her ankle brace for soccer - they fitted me with a knee strap and what a difference it makes!  I did a 10-mile walk last week and while I did feel twinges in the knee still, I made it through the walk with no problems.  It's amazing what a little strap will do.  There's still some swelling in the knee, I ice it sometimes.  I also have some stuff called BioFreeze that also helps a lot. 

And yea, I completed a 10-mile walk last Saturday!  I started after the storms left the area, it took awhile.  Went through three bottles of water, but it was good.  Pretty warm when I finished.  An 11-mile walk is this weekend.  I think I'll do it on Friday since I have to pick up my mom at the airport on Saturday.  And since there's an excessive heat advisory, I think I'll go out to the Great Mall and walk.  Could be just as interesting!  On my walk last weekend, saw a tree about 20-25 feeet high with a trumpeter vine growing all the way up the tree.  The vine was blooming and it was really beautiful! 

Fund raising - it's going well!  I have about $650 to go.  I had a garage sale that I got about $160 from, that's going to my travel fund.  Speaking of travel, airline tickets for me and my sister have been purchased, and hotel reservations are made.  Whew!  I've been getting some pretty good tips from working at the Royals, and those go to the travel fund.  If anyone should want to make a donation, see my Facebook page for instructions!  It really feels good to have the support of friends and family on this journey.

I've also been busy keeping up with Kaitlyn - or at least trying to!  She was at band camp last week and had a fantastic time - met a lot of new friends and learned a lot.  She's home this week and in the wee hours of Sunday morning I have to have her at the airport to leave with her youth group on a mission trip to Guatemala!  She's also been working at Houlihan's and working with the band leadership team.  I've also been working with the band diectors - we're having such a good time and getting lots done!

Well, whether or not I've remembered everything, I think this post is long enough. 

take care friends!!!!!
steffy

I'm halfway there!!

When I retired, I received several monetary gifts.  I decided to put those gifts into my 3-day account since I had $2300 to raise just to go on the walk.  I'M WELL OVER HALFWAY THERE!  I only have $805 more to raise - and a lot more people to ask!  I'm so excited....AND.....plane and hotel reservations are made!  Kind of brings it all into reality now.  My sister and I are flying to Washington DC on the 17th of September - we're going to spend a few days sightseeing and taking a little vacation time before the walk.  We'll come back home on Tuesday the 27th - gives us a couple of days to rest up after the walk.  I'm having a garage sale this weekend in conjunction with the neighborhood sale.  That money will go towards my travel fund.  My mom has graciously given my sister and I some money to go towards our travel fund.  My sister is doing some babysitting this summer for a friend and is putting that money towards our travel fund.  I have a jar that we drop change into - and also my tips from working at the Royals and Sprint.  Kaitlyn and I took it to the bank the other day and there was over $200 in bills - and $233 in change!  That plus what mom gave us more than pays for our plane tickets, now we just have to work on our hotel stay.  I think we'll be fine and be able to have an enjoyable time.

Walking is going okay.  Had a slight setback with the ole' knee, but a couple of days of rest, an ice pack, and a brace has helped.  I did get six miles in during the Relay for Life, and another two on Saturday. Rested Sunday - that's when it swelled up big time!  Rested Monday but was able to walk three miles today.  Will do water aerobics tomorrow then see how it does on Thursday.  This weekend will be strange - need to get one 10-mile walk in and an 8-mile walk, but the garage sale is Saturday.  Might swap and do the shorter one on Saturday evening, then the 10-mile on Sunday.  That might even be easier on the knee.
Kaitlyn leaves Friday morning for a week in Muncie, Indiana at a Leadership weekend and Jazz camp.  She's going up with her band director and the drum majors from her school.  I hope she likes it - she was originally signed up for drum major camp, but didn't make drum major (her band director had other ideas for her!), so instead of her not going at all we changed it so she could do the jazz track.  I think it will be good - their marching show this year is "The Jazz Effect" so it should help.  She may even end up with a solo - who knows!

Off to bed so I can get up and do aerobics tomorrow.  Still can't sleep much past 6:30 in the morning, oh, well.  Some mornings it's better to go ahead and get up and get my walking done before it gets real hot outside!
Take care ---- and thanks for being there for me!
steffy

Wonderful Weeks!

And Life Goes On!
Didn't realize I hadn't posted since I left work.  As some of the retired say,  I've been busy!  I worked most of the last Royals home stand (it was a LONG home stand!) and have also been working with Mrs. Bussard, the band director at Olathe Northwest.  We've had a good time.  She has a software package for band directors and I'm trying to get it all updated for this year's bands.  New kids coming in, alumni moving out - all that stuff!  And of course walking.  I've gone to the water aerobics class a few times and like it - it's a good workout, perfect for my cross-training. 
This morning I slept in untl 7 - that's an accomplishment!  Of course, Friday night didn't get to bed until almost midnight and last night we were at Starlight and didn't get home until 11:30.  Might have something to do with it...!
Which brings me to Friday night - it was the Relay for Life out at the District Activities Center.  It was great - at least until the storms hit.  The survivor's walk and dinner, then walking around the track.  I got 6 miles in before the rain.  The luminaries were lit just before the storm hit - it was wonderful.  I saw a lot of people I know out there, both supporters and survivors.  It was a great experience!
Saturday night was Starlight - The King and I - one of my favorite musicals.  I actually saw Yul Brynner in one of his last performances as the King before he passed away.  It was fantastic!  Although Lou Diamond Phillips did a respectable job.  It was a wonderful night for being out at Starlight - actually got a little chilly!  We went out for dinner beforehand as is our custom.  Love Starlight date nights!
This week gotta get ready for the garage sale on Saturday and Kaitlyn leaves for her band camp on Friday morning.  She'll be doing a 2-day leadership camp, then a week of jazz band camp.  Should be interesting!  Their marching show this year is about Jazz - should be a good show!
Well - off to church.  I'll try not to be so slow at updating!
Love you all - take care of yourselves now!

steffy

Memorial Day 2011

It's Memorial Day 2011.  A lot has happened in the last few months!  As I sit here reflecting on how things have changed, I realize how blessed I am.  I just finished sending an email to Kaitlyn's soccer team.  She's decided not to play club soccer this year.  I'll miss those people - some I've known for several years.  Tomorrow I go into work for the last day - I'll miss those people - some I've known for almost 30 years!  I'm meeting new friends.  I'm walking a lot -  put in 21 miles over the last week.  I'll start cross-training by swimming two days a week now that I have the time.  I'll be working with the band director at Olathe Northwest - looking forward to doing new things and meeting new people there.  And I'll be working out at the Royals and Sprint more - I like doing that also.  So life is changing - I don't think it's slowing down, just changing!  I don't have to get up at 5 a.m. anymore - now if I could just sleep past 6:00 a.m. 

Training is going well.  Despite a nasty-looking bruise on my right leg, I got my miles in this week.  Tuesday took a 3-mile walk in the evening.  Thursday was my reception -I rode the bus to work and came home with my family so my car was at the park-and-ride.  I walked over and picked it up.  Saturday morning I got in a 7 mile walk before the rain, then Sunday evening headed out for a 6 mile walk.  It all felt good.  I've ordered a waist pack to keep things in like phone, chapstick, inhaler, sunscreen, and a snack for the longer walks.  It will come in handy - I don't have as many pockets in the summer as I did in the winter!  I have to admit, I'm NOT looking forward to the longer walks in the heat -  but I will do them.  I've got routes mapped out where I can walk to places to fill up my water bottle.  And I always have my cell phone with me just in case.  And I always let Rob know what my route is.  So I think we're good there.  As the walks get longer, I'll have Rob or Kaitlyn meet me halfway to re-supply me with water and/or have lunch with me.  Plans are coming together!

Retirement - is looking even better.  My friend Judy, who is also retiring after 35 years, and I took our team and a few others out to lunch on Tuesday - we had a fun time!  Then Thursday was a joint retirement reception for myself, Judy, and another friend - David - who has 32 years in.  Between the three of us, we have 96 years of service.  That's a lot of experience walking out the door tomorrow!  Our reception was very nice - my friend Christi did a fantastic job of it all.  She made boards for each of us with pictures of us through our years at Blue Cross.  There were a lot of friends that came in - and I made it thought it all without a tear.  I saw a lot of friends - the lady that hired me, Judy Bond, made it in to say hi.  There were a lot of others, some I was pleasantly surprised to see.  All in all, it was a fantastic way to end 29 years.

Now it's off to the rest of my life - which begins with working at the Royals today.  Go Royals!

Steffy

Retirement!

It' close.  I'm excited, and nervous.  I have plenty to do - I'll be working with the band director at Kaitlyn's school.  She's the sweetest lady and really cares about the kids.  But she's totally computer illiterate - her words - so I told her she could teach music and I'd take care of the computer for her.  There's a lot going on at the school this summer, they have a DCI (Drum Corps International) show coming to the district stadium in July, there's a lot of work to prepare for that.  Then getting ready for band camp starting in July.  And they're taking a trip next year in March, destination to be announced.  She needs a trip manager and I'm it.  I've run enough ski trips and helped with junior high mission trips, I think I can handle it.  I'm looking forward to it. 
But retirement - that's another story.  I guess if you say it's not working anymore, then I'm not ready for it.  So I'll fill my time with working at Kaitlyn's school and working out at the Royals.  And walking - a lot!  NOT looking forward to walking in the heat and humidity, but it's gotta get done.  I am looking forward to the long walks though.  And I can get them done in the morning, when it's cooler.  I like mornings - and I'll have lots of peaceful morning walks.  Also looking forward to having time to do cross-training like I should.  My gym has a great pool (2 indoor and 1 outdoor in fact) and I'm looking forward to some water aerobics and swimming on cross-training days.
So yes - "retirement" here I come, ready or not!

My retirement party at Blue Cross is Thursday the 26th from noon to 2 - come on down if you like!  It'll be a big party, there's three of us retiring at the same time!

Later ----
steffy

Walkin' On!

I'm back on track and feelin' good!  I put in six miles yesterday with no problem, and another four miles today.  And I've been working on donations - I have over 25% of the $2300 I need, and it sure is encouraging.  Some of them are surprising - like a donation from a high school friend I haven't seen since high school.  SO -- if any of you are inclined to help me out, please do so.  You can give on the website or print out a form and send it in with your donation if you don't like to do it online.  It's www.the3day.org, click on "Donate to a Participant" on the right side, then enter my name, Stephanie Goddard.  From there you can either donate directly or print out a form.  Thanks....any amount, big or small, helps me out and is very encouraging for me!
And yes, I am retiring as of the end of this month.  I can work more on my training, and I will also be the trip manager for Kaitlyn's high school band trip next year.  No word on where they're going yet, but I'll be getting them there!  I'm really looking forward to it - I've run lots of ski trips and helped run junior high mission trips.  I love working with kids so this should be really fun.  I'll also be working at the Royals games more since I don't have to get up at 5 in the morning!  So I'll be staying busy, just with different work.  And I'm ready for a change.  My son and his fiance will be here for my retirement reception, and they'll stay over Memorial Day so I'll get to spend some time with them.  I'm looking forward to my reception.  There are three of us retiring and having a joint receeption so we should see a lot of people come in.  That will be the hard part - there are a lot of people I've worked with over the last 29 years.  Someone better have the Kleenex box handy!
And then there's the crazy weather....had the a/c guy come in yesterday and do the beginning-of-season tune-up on the a/c - then I turned around and kicked on the furnace last night.  Sheesh!  But I have to admit it's made walking easier.  Had to dig out my winter hat to keep my ears warm!  Took Retro (my beagle mix) with me today on the four-mile walk.  He loves to go walking but it takes longer when you take along a beagle-nose.  He has to sniff at EVERYTHING! 
Well, will sign off for now.  Take care, everyone!

steffy

He's not finished with me, yet!

Walking is going well - did 8 miles over the weekend and 3 miles today.  Knee feels great.  But I also have some more interesting news.  I turned in retirement papers today and will officially retire on May 31 - of this year!  Our financial advisor said we could do it - so here we go.  Rob's been "retired" since last September. He quit his job because it got so stressful.  I have to say he's  been much better since he quit.  My company has a great pension plan.  I can continue my family health coverage for a reasonable amount, and they even carry life insurance for me for several more years.  I've been there for 29 years.  I kind of wanted to make it to 30 years, but the numbers were too good right now to pass up.  I can spend the summer training for my walk in September. 
I've been thinking about what to do in my retirement.  I'm definitely not ready to sit down!  When Rob and I were both working, we had money to give to whatever causes we determined needed it.  Now that we're both retired, we may not have as much money, but we do have the time.  I've been thinking it's time to give some of that time back.  I'm certain that God will let me know what He wants me to do in His time.  And like one of my favorite songs goes - He's not finished with me yet!
It'll be an interesting change.  And it's scary and exciting at the same time.  Now I'll have the time to do things I've always wanted to do.  I can work on taking and editing pictures more.  I'll have time to volunteer not only at church, but at Kaitlyn's school - I'd love to help the band program out.  I'll continue to work at Sprint, the Royals, and Chiefs - I like doing that, and it helps pay for all of Kaitlyn's activities.  So I'm not going to sit still for long!
And of course - keep on walkin'!  September will be here before we know it.

Thanks for listening and being there....
Steffy

WHEW! Safe for now!

Saw the knee dr. this morning.  Not all bad news.  I do have a lot of arthritis in the left knee - it'll be due for a knee replacement sometime in the future.  He said because of that, a scope wouldn't do much.  But he did give me a cortisone shot in the knee (minor ouch!) and gave me encouragement to keep walking.  He said if the shot didn't work or it gets worse over the summer he can do "liquid cartilege" injections which would probably do the trick until the walk is over.  He said since I'd been walking with no problems, I should be good to go. 
SO IT'S OFF TO THE SIDEWALKS!

And along with that - I need to start my fundraising!  Nothing like seeing that fund go up to give me some encouragement!  SO..if you're so inclined - go to www.the3day.org, click on "Donate to a Participant", and enter Stephanie Goddard in the name fields.  You'll see my name at the bottom of the page - you can donate directly there by clicking on "donate now" or click on my name to go to my page and print out a donation form (at the bottom of the page). 

I have a jar here at home - it's collecting spare change, tip money from working at the Royals and Sprint Center, and various other assorted money I run into.  It's my travel fund - I'm planning on going several days early and enjoying the fall DC weather before the walk, and take in a few sights.  So since I have this jar going, everything you give will go directly to the Komen foundation for their fight against cancer.

The exciting part is that my sister will be in DC with me - she will be a part of the support crew.  I am SO looking forward to celebrating my birtday in the middle of the walk! 

Thanks for going with me!!!!!

One step forward, three steps back......ouch!

I jokingly say that knees are not one of God's better inventions.  For real. 
Last Saturday I walked three miles in the wind and sun - felt good when I turned around and the wind was at my back!  I did disappoint Retro, though.  He was crying when I left for my walk without him - beagle cries are awful!
My "official" training schedule started on Monday - which was a rest day.  Tuesday I walked three miles on my lunch break at work - walked from Crown Center to Sprint Center and wound my way back for three.  Wednesday was supposed to be a rest day, but I decided to walk to church for choir practice - only a  mile so no big deal.  Again, Retro was howling since I didn't take him with me (how does that dog always know when I'm going for a walk without him??).  Got to church, got a drink, went to the choir room and sat down in a chair.  OUCH!  Left knee screamed in pain.  I tried to straighten it out - no dice.  I found I could walk on it without pain as long as I didn't straighten it out. 
Well - this has kind of happened before - knee would lock.  So, got home and applied heat.  Again - no dice.  Still can't straighten it.  Take some Motrin, go to bed.  Several times during the night, woke up in pain when I turned and tried to stretch the leg.  Go to urgent care, probable torn cartilege.  They braced it and gave me prescription-strength Aleve with instructions to take twice a day.  And call the ortho.  Ouch.
So it's a little better now, but still can't straighten it all the way.  I have an appointment with my friendly orthopedic doctor, Dan, for Thursday.  Urgent care said it's probably a tear, and has probably been there for awhile, I've probably just torn it more. 
So much for training schedule.  I'm still determined.  When I see the doctor, I'm gonna push to have it fixed.  I can't afford to have this happen a week before the walk!  Hopefully it's an easy scope and I can get back to the training schedule.  Fortunately, I was up to where I could do a six-mile walk no problem so I should be able to get back to the schedule fairly quickly.  I gotta look at it that way!!!!!
In other news - Kaitlyn has a job and likes it.  She's a hostess at Houlihan's on 119th St.  We were supposed to go to K-State for an open house today, but decided last night not to go.  We're going there on Monday anyway for Junior Day - and she has to work tonight and tomorrow morning.  Makes life easier on all - and saves a tank of gas!
And the Royals are doing well!  I worked the game last night (I think the cold air helped my knee!) and they won 6-2.  Heard the fireworks as I was walking to my car.
Have a great week, all!  And prayers for my knee would be appreciated.  They are NOT one of God's better inventions!

Love to all,
Steffy

Gettin' Ready Now!

OK - I've not been too good at updating so far, have I?  Well, it's about time I did.  Next week starts my "official" training schedule, so I better get with it.  I've still been walking, and can still do a 6-mile walk, but now HAVE to get my feet in gear!  It's gonna be fun trying to get everything in, but with a lot of support and help, I'll get it done!  It's nice having Rob home now - he keeps things going on the home front while I walk and work and work.  I still plan on doing as much of the Royals and Sprint as I can - for two reasons.  One, I like doing it, it's fun for me.  Two, it's a great way to make money for Kaitlyn's band trip, mission trip, and all that other stuff she does.  The people I work with are great and we have a lot of fun.
SO - it's off to walk I go.  Since I'm working at Sprint tonight, I'll do a 3-mile walk today.  Gotta head out, it's gonna get warm today!  THAT I don't look forward to - walking in the heat and humidity.  Oh, well - drink plenty of water, take it easy, and I'll be ok!!
OH - and since my "official" training plan starts next week, my fund-raising will kick into higher gear.  I have $2300 to raise between now and the walk.  Please consider helping me out!  Go to www.the3day.org, click on "Donate to a Participant", enter Stephanie Goddard and you'll be able to help me out!  I also have to raise my travel funds, that's being done by spare change and my tip money from Sprint and Royals (another reason to work!).  Thanks for being there for me...!!!!

February - ugh!

Well, February has not been nice to me.  It got bitter cold, and played tricks with my asthma - so I got lazy.  I took a couple of walks, but not what I should have.  And it's sleeting/raining/whatever now.  Blech.  I will be so glad when the weather straightens out and I can get back on track. 
That being said, a couple of walkers in other 3-day walks have contacted me looking for walking partners.  And I plan to take them up on the offer!  One of them, Amy, is the daughter of a former co-worker.  What a small world - it will be good to take some walks with her and catch up on her family.  I also worked with her uncle.  I don't mind walking by myself, but also enjoy the company - and that could be even more true for the longer walks coming up.  Amy walked last year and is trying to do two walks this year.  I'm looking forward to walking with her.
My sister, Pam, and my niece, Sarah, came for a visit last weekend (another excuse for not walking - but a good one!).  We had a fantastic time and packed a lot of memories into three and a half days!  My son Chris came home but couldn't bring his fiance, Amanda, because she had a rehearsal she had to attend.  So - we went to Pittsburg for the concert on Sunday and had a fantastic time.  We were also accompanied by a friend of mine, Kristine, who I've known for about 25 years, and also graduated from Pitt State.  She needed the break - and also had a van that we could all ride in together.  The concert was good and we all had dinner together afterwards.  It was so much fun.  Thanks again, Kristine!
Pam, Sarah, mom, and I visited the old Harris House in Westport - we lived there when Pam and I were kids.  They've restored the house - it was built in 1855.  It wasn't open, but we still had some great memories just looking around the outside. 
The whole family had dinner at Haru japanese steak house on Friday night - that's always a lot of fun.  They always pick on Chris to catch the shrimp - and he didn't do too bad! 
So all in all we had a great weekend visiting and having fun.  We also visited gravesites of my stepdad and Pam's husband's dad and step-mom.  Sarah may be going overseas with her hubby for three years, so she wanted to do this. 
OK - I'll post this now, and get to work.  Weather is crappy again, so I'll use it as an excuse and get to work next week.  Promise.  60 miles - I CAN do that!

steffy

Snow - and Group Power!!

Now don't get me wrong - I really do like winter and snow better than summer and humidity.  But I sure wish the sidewalks would clear themselves.  I do like walking in the cold - put on my hat, gloves, and jacket and I did a 6-mile walk a couple of weeks ago when the outside temp was 18.  The best part of it was walking in the front door and smelling the coffee Rob had just made!  I've been walking on the treadmills at the fitness center, but it's just not the same.  I can't wait unti the snow melts and I can walk outside again!
I've also found a good cross-training activity.  My friend Deb introduced me to Group Power at the fitness center we both go to.  I tried it out tonight - I may be pretty sore in the morning, but it was a good workout and I'm going to try and do it twice a week.  Good for large muscle groups and core. After the workout I had choir practice so got a protein smoothie - that was good!
I have business cards made up with information on them on how to donate to my walk - and have started handing them out.  We'll see how much activity I get.  I have awhile, but it's never too early to start and I do have $2300 to raise!
It's late - and I'm tired after the workout!  Off to bed for me. 

Walk On in 2011!

I haven't been too good about updating.  The holidays got to me!  They were good - Thanksgiving brought Rob's family over to the house for dinner, and Christmas we went to his sister's.  New Year's brough Chris and Amanda home for a few days which made me feel very good.  New Years' Day I was up and did a long walk.  January 2 brought the Chiefs game, which Chris and Amanda went to and I worked.  It was a good day even though the Chiefs lost!  Chris, Amanda, and her dad and little brother, John and Austin, all went to the game and had a great time.  They sought autographs after the game and John scored on getting Marty Schottenheimer's autograph which made his whole trip worth it!  They all stayed over Sunday night, John and Austin headed home, then we went to see Rob's dad and took the kids out to dinner before they headed back to Pittsburg.  A great time!
I now have two good pairs of shoes and two sets of orthotics so I'm switching between them each day.  I also have socks from the Walking Store and they are GREAT!  I'll have to go and get more! 
Earlier in the week I got an email from the Komen walk people - they have a place where you can go and look for walkers in your area.  I found a name from Olathe and sent her an email.  Turns out she is my age, and also walking in her first walk.  Haven't met her yet, but so looking forward to it.  She's walking in Dallas in November, so I'll be doing my walk first - but we can train together and that will be fun!
My sister, Pam, who lives in San Antonio, had a scare and they thought she might have the same thing I fought - DCIS.  Her biopsies came back negative, though, and we breathed a sigh of relief.  However, she did decide she wanted to do more than just cheer me on from Texas so she's sigining up to be a  volunteer for the walk in DC!  I'm SO looking forward to having her there, it means the world!
Had a 6 mile walk this morning in the cold - about 18 degrees - but it was a good walk.  I have to step up my weekday walks now - depending on the dog (Retro) to do this. 
I'll try and update a little more often now that it's 2011 - thanks for all the support!!

Steffy