Survival of the Fittest...

and trust me, I was not one of them! The Relay For Life event was a blast and at times, I was moved by others who shared the same passion to find a cure for cancer. The "Relay" started out with an opening ceremony on Friday, followed by fabulous live entertainment. Folks walked all night long and into the morning on a pathway through the park lit by luminaries that people decorated in honor of someone that has suffered or is now suffering from cancer. I felt a sense of reverence as I read the names on the luminaries and thought about my sister, Sharlene, who is battling cancer. My heart aches for her and more than anything, I desire a cure now more than ever! Our team of 17 members + 5 [Norma (as pregnant as she was, was out there walking!), with her hubby Mike and their children, Mom, Quinn and Derek], was awesome and even when the thunderstorm came, Tiani, Tatyana and Nikita pressed forward, drenched and cold. Oh, did I mention how romantic the stroll could be at 3 in the morning? I wished Scott was there but he did walk earlier in the evening with me and our children.
Well, when Saturday morning rolled around and the event was winding down, there were only the four of us remaining, Melissa, Amber, Beth (my sis-in-law), and me. I found myself suffering from exhaustion and body aches. I had aches in parts I didn't even know could ache!!! I was all too eager to get home, so I skipped breakfast that was offered at the event and gathered the older kids and gave them their packing assignments. As they were busy, I was suppose to wake up Hinckley, who was sound asleep in the tent. My feeble attempt ended quickly as I dozed off next to him.
Anyway, I'm still a little sore, but I've recovered. I'm so grateful for those of you who participated. I'm looking forward to next year's event.

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My sister, Sharlene's, luminary...

She's one of the main reasons I am so involved with Relay For Life.
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The beginning of the "Survivor's March." "Amazing Grace" was played by the bagpipes. It was touching...

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We got there in the morning to set up camp. Man, I love having kids to help. It sure does make my life a little easier. lol ;)

Some of our teammates. We sold malasadas, wands, halos, bracelets and leis.==========

D-man and his aunty Beth! ==========

Assembly of the masses...

Jarom, the bald guy in black (pictured above), is amazing! He does marathons and he ran (and walked a few times) for over 12 hours non-stop. I wish I had his endurance.

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Our lovely team captain and her kiddies. Her daughter is a cancer survivor!

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The "Woolf" pack was out in full force that evening!

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My brother-in-law, Tavale's, luminary bag...

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The "HOPE" hill!

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This was my favorite part of the evening...

You're probably wondering... what's up with that rasta hat?

It was part of our "Evolution of the 80's" talent, which we performed at 2 in the morning. Our team captain below played Bob Marley. She was hilarious!

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Goodnight, my angel

Time to close your eyes...