Just put on a little lipstick...

I guess it doesn't matter how old you are, sometimes you still bow to peer pressure. Last week was our first official week at our new location at work so we celebrated with the " week of fun ".  There were days of smoothies, scavenger hunts, fruit bouquets, a jousting ring and yes...even Sumo wrestling. I headed down to watch a few of my coworkers battle it out and lend my support and praise. I had no intention of participating, but before I knew it I was wearing a Sumo suit and taking on Carmen in the ring! I guess that's one more thing I can mark off my bucket list and not have to do again!

This is not an original idea, I took it from my new blog friend Shelly . Shelly was the originator of the International City Swap , but is currently busy opening her B&B and restaurant in Longbranch , WA. She has graciously agreed to allow me to be the hostess this year. What is the International City Swap? What we do is we swap cities/towns. You put together a package that you think best represents the place where you live, and what you love about it. Or, if you think where you live is ridiculous, you can put in the silliest things you can find. It’s up to your own creativity. In the past there have been some really lovely packages circulating: from Detroit to Alaska, NYC to Rome, Jordan, NY to Turin, Italy, San Jose, CA to Australia, and Atlanta, Georgia to Rome and many going state to state here in the USA. You do not have to have a blog to participate, just an email address and the willingness to put together and mail a package. HERE ARE THE DETAILS: What:...

"I need someone to create a mirror that leaves out some of the details." ~ Story People

Today, as I write this, my friend Denise is having her breast removed. Denise was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks ago and has been on the whirlwind of doctors appointments, MRIs , blood work and decisions, decisions, decisions. I've met with her several times since she found out and we've talked a lot by phone and text while she tried to make sense of what is happening. My last text from her late last night was: "What to wear home from the hospital? Pjs ? Jeans? Evening gown with heels?" I told her if she wore an evening gown with heels I would personally make sure there was paparazzi there to document it. I'm glad she is keeping her sense of humor, because in the absurdity of it all - you have to start laughing, because crying begins to dehydrate you after a while. Denise - you are in my thoughts and prayers today! BREAKING NEWS: Denise came through surgery well and has clear nodes! Yay-God!

If you have read some of my other posts, you probably know I believe that sometimes God, the universe or mother nature sends us signs. I think signs are little reminders that come in the way of gut feelings, strange happenings, unexpected encounters and repetitive events. We don't always recognize these because we are all going at warp speed in this crazy world. Of course, I tell God all the time that I need my signs to be neon flashing and billboard size. When I slow down, or I am forced to slow down, I realize oh, THIS is what you've been trying to tell me . I was reading Amy Willett's blog last night and it gave me shivers. She actually did get a big sign, in the form of a rainbow! Congratulations Amy on finishing your treatments! You are a survivor!

We celebrated Dad's 75th birthday at Cozyumels in Cool Springs on the 15th. Happy Birthday Dad! Dad and Sherry left for a month long journey in Russia the next day. Please keep them in your prayers.

Benign - I love that word. I got a call from my dermatologist office today. All three spots they removed were benign !