Where do I begin?

First, let me assure you that we will not be appearing on the back of a milk carton. We have not disappeared, been kidnapped, or joined a rock band. We're home and loving the warmth of our cozy livingroom and sleeping in our own bed.

Now, let me tell you of my experiences in San Francisco. Rick and I arrived in town on Wednesday which gave us time to enjoy the city before all the excitement started. We met up with Kim Mains and old family friend. She took us up to the top of the Mark Hopkins Intercontinental Hotel to see the city in all its beauty. And, it is a beautiful city! Afterwards, we walked to a neat little restaurant in Union Square where we had a wonderful dinner. Kim made our first night in San Fran a joy. We are very thankful to have spent the time with her. I've attached a photo of us at dinner.

On Thursday I got to meet "Breath Away From the Cure, Bonnie", her husband Tony and their children. They are amazing people who will make a difference in the world of lung cancer. As a matter of fact...they already have. When we met, it was as if I had known her all my life. I intend to keep her in my life as long as she'll have me. :) I already miss her.

On Thursday night Rick and I got all pretty and headed over to City Hall. It was a magnicifient building. Everyone there had been touched by lung cancer in one way or another. We were surrounded by amazing doctors, survivors and children of lung cancer patients (Bonnie's children and their spouses were kind enough to share their table with Rick and I for the event). There were over 600 people giving to the cause (in very large amounts I might add). From the video, to the dinner, to the amazing people we met...the night couldn't have been better (except that Rick got very sick and we had to leave around 11:00) He is feeling better... but it was a rough 4 days. Next year ~ this is going to be a family affair. I want my kids to experience this special event and be assured that lung cancer can be beat.

I was able to meet Bonnie for coffee on Friday morning before she set off to celebrate her husband's birthday. Besides lung cancer, we share many other things. From stories of our incredible children, to the way we talk and laugh, to our thoughts about life and love. Reason number 10,786 that I'll live for a very long time...I have a new friend that I need to get to know better. (Bonnie's assistant Shelia - who I really wanted get to know better - was busier than ever making the night a success - Which she did! . She has agreed to be my assistant too, as soon as I know what I need assistance with.)

About a month ago while we were planning our trip to San Francisco Rick suggested that we drive over to Reno/Tahoe area. Infact, he was keeping a little secret from me because when we arrived in town (with him still sick as ever) our friends Dave & Val & Bob & Dy were waiting for us. We had a great time visiting, sightseeing, and enjoying each other's company. I was very surprised. (I thought he might be up to something, but I Bob and Dy had something planned in Spokane so I was sure it wasn't them...joke's on me) We had a rough airplane flight home...but we made it - High winds at take off are not recommended for a smooth flight. Try to avoid them if at all possible.

I'm getting ready to get in bed because I've been battling a sore throat and cough all day. I can't let this get me down...I've got way too many things to do... Where do I begin?

Love you more than all the trolley cars in San Francisco.

Dream Big,
Doreen

P.S. I'll post more photos of the event as soon as I download them.