6 More Sleeps Till We Leave For The Emerald Dream Ball

When my kids were little they had a hard time comprehending how long a week was. They couldn't understand waiting for Christmas or their Birthdays. So we devised a sleep plan. Everything was measured in how many sleeps till the big day. Often, even now they will refer to this measure of time. Well, now it's my turn to use the system. I am so excited about all that is to come. Yesterday I was surprised when I arrive home and found a huge box on my front steps. I was astonished to open it up and to see a wonderful coat. An Isis Couture coat. It fit me to a T. Along with that was a wonderful bag and inside the bag were 2 outfits (Lana Fuchs couture) "bum suits". I have to admit that I think I am a little too plump to do these outfits justice but they are both so different and beautiful. Such fun. I have been in touch with one of the other winners. I think our excitement is serving to fuel even more excitement within each other.

Count down to the Emeral Dream Ball Trip - 9 days till we leave

Well, it's a Monday in Boston. We are digging out from yet another snow storm. The living has not been easy here. Last week we had a horrible fire just a block away. We count our blessings every moment now. Life as we know it is so fragile. All that we know can change in a heart beat. Whether it is a diagnosis or a fire or an accident walking or riding through a snow storm.
So, today the sun is out. I count my blessing as I sit and wait for a few more tidbits regarding a wonderful trip to Vegas. Today was the day that I expected to receive more information -- maybe tomorrow. No matter - life is good.

Lucky 12

The information is starting to trickle in. We have received our airline itinerary. We have gotten the news of where we will be staying. We had to send in an additional picture of ourselves. Something about this picture being part of an additional surprise?? We have gotten the news that our partners will have to get their tux orders in to Vegas - the New Year's party town. Men's Warehouse was the way we went. They have stores here and just a 1/2 mile from the hotel in Vegas. I'm still on the edge of my seat waiting to get our agenda for the week.
Just heard from one of the other "lucky 12". How fun!! Can't wait to meet everyone that was chosen. If any of the 12 would like to set up some e-mail communication - please do so.

emerald dream - will I ever sleep again?

I am back from a little Thanksgiving vacation to my son and daughter-in-law's house. We had a wonderful time with them. While I was there I had my measurements taken and a photo taken. Both were sent on to the Emerald Dream Team. I still can not believe that I am actually going. During the day I can go about my business but at night my head begins to swirl with all that I have read about that is in store for us. I will update this blog as I get more information. I am excited to be able to share this experience with everyone.
Meanwhile I must concentrate on the business at hand. I received my packet from the IBC Research Foundation. Once I concentrate long enough to complete this packet it will allow me to become part of the bio bank. This is (as I understand it) a bank of information/ tissue samples/ lab results etc. that is accessible to researchers who wish to study IBC. I believe that participating in this is one way in which I can make a difference. I know it won't be a simple process but nothing worthwhile is simple. I would like to encourage anyone who is reading this to consider looking into this. It is not just for women with IBC. The researchers need comparison information also. As i understand it this is a one of a kind bank. By making this information readily available to researchers it encourages research. www.ibcresearch.org