Meanderings of a 3-Day Mom

What's YOUR Story?

2012-01-04T11:34:00.000-06:00

I haven't been here in awhile, and I apologize for that. But, well.... Not really.

I've been being a Mom -- and loving it. I was really sad to see the girls go back to school this morning -- and not just because I couldn't sleep in.

We had THE BEST time over Christmas break. Yes, they bickered from time to time. But we spent a LOT of time just BEING. As a family. It was great.

I've also been pouring a ton of effort into Team Tiara's new website -- Pinktober365.com

Our goal is to feature 365 Survivors and Pink Warriors in 2012. We want to show that you can make a difference in big ways and in small. That breast cancer needs our focus 365 days a year -- not just in October. That the roads traveled through this battle are just as diverse as those fighting it.

Please take some time to check out Pinktober365.com. If you subscribe to the "daily download," you'll wake up to an inspirational story each morning from a Pink Warrior. I promise you it will start your mornings off right and remind you every morning why you need to help make a difference.

Guess what? We need your help, too. Would you please send us your story along with a picture? And the link to YOUR fundraising page or blog or ways you help????

If you're a Survivor, it might be how you were diagnosed, what meant the most to you during your fight and advice you can pass along. If you're a walker, it might be what inspires you -- why you do this CRAZY thing. Your story might be about serving a friend or loved one who is fighting the battle -- driving to chemo treatments, preparing meals, shuttling kids. Maybe your story is about how you built a TEAM for the 3-Day or Race for the Cure or how you walk multiple walks. Or maybe it's about the gift of being a crew member or volunteer.

We need stories from Men and Women, Survivors and Supporters, from all 50 states. From all walks of life.

Please share! As of today, we "only" need 355 more stories! We have plenty of room for YOURS. Don't forget the link to your personal fundraising page or blog if you have one! We include that at the end of each post!!!

You can send those stories and questions to me at dlyn (at) teamtiara.net. And don't forget to check out Pinktober365.com. I guarantee you will be blessed.

Shelf Elf Snowball Fight!

2011-12-25T12:40:00.000-06:00

Our elves had the BEST time this Christmas! They were a bit crazy at times, as evidenced by this snowball fight!

And some crazy elf graffiti!!!

What Are YOU Doing for Christmas??

2011-12-12T14:00:00.000-06:00

'Tis the season when polite conversation includes the all-important "What are you doing for Christmas?" Every year you ask it. Every year you answer it. But I can promise you that I don't know of a year when I've answered that question with more excitement than this.

You see, our Abbie-girl has decided to accept Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and has chosen Christmas Day as HER day to be baptized.

And this Mom couldn't be happier or prouder or more in awe of this incredible child God has blessed us with.

She asked me a few weeks ago. It was one of THOSE days in the car -- you've all had them, and if you say you haven't you're not being honest with yourself. You know. One of those days when everyone is tired and cranky and the kids are being anything but nice to each other.

We were on our way home from pitching lessons, and I'd just finished lining her out about something -- I can't even remember what. And then, right out of the blue she asked when she could be baptized. And she blew me away. And I haven't stopped smiling since.

I had thought this decision might come this past summer when she spent two weeks at Camp Blue Haven, but she says she wasn't ready then. She is now.

Her Daddy will baptize her on Christmas Morning. And then we'll celebrate with a house full of friends and Christmas Dinner. I know that the timing of this means that many of the people we love won't be able to make it. You'll be in other places or at your own church services. You'll have your own families to hug and love on. But even if you can't be here, please take a moment to pray a prayer of praise for our Abbie and this precious heart God has given her.

You know, I have to share a huge Thank You with anyone who has been a part of this road for Abs. From the amazing young women who prayed over her when she was so tiny back in Austin, to the Sunday School teachers at Pitman Creek, then The Branch, Fairfield Baptist, West Houston and finally Cy-fair Christian. The teachers and staff at Custer Road Christian Day School. From all of her VBS teachers over the years to the staff at Camp Blue Haven -- you touched our girl's heart this summer.

It goes back so much farther than that. Abbie has such a wonderful Christian heritage and sees that in her grandparents. And you know her Granny would be Over the Moon about this right now.

For those of you who will be in town and would like to join us, our services start at 10:00 a.m. at Cy-Fair Christian Church. It's located at 17150 Spring Cypress -- where Spring Cypress and Skinner intersect. We'll also be there for the Christmas Eve service at 5:00 on the 24th. We'd love for you to join us! It's a new church, and we really are growing to love it and the people who worship there.

The Princess Guide: I DID Do That

2011-11-11T11:43:00.001-06:00

This shirt really should read, "I DID Do That!" Yes, folks, I DID do the 3-Day! ALL 60 miles!!! I can't tell you how jazzed that makes me! My feet, ankles and knees -- not so much. But the rest of me is over-the-moon excited.

I have so many things to tell, so much that touched my heart while on the Walk. BUT I need to have more than 10 minutes or so in a stretch to get it all down.

For now, I want to encourage you to join Team Tiara on our quest for a CURE.

Don't Click the "Back" Button! Hear me out for a second.

IF you register for the Breast Cancer 3-Day before December 1, and use the discount code CURE2012, you'll save $35 on your registration. Even more, you'll have ELEVEN months before the actual walk.

ELEVEN months to complete your fundraising -- the $2300 required to walk.

IF you want to Crew, the DFW Crews fill up FAST. Don't delay your registration. The good thing about Crew? You aren't required to do any fundraising. But if you do raise money, it's a Bonus and SAVES LIVES. Crew has SO many options -- there are so many servant roles that make the 3-Day work. I'm sure at least ONE of them would fit you.

This is what I know. A LOT can happen in ELEVEN months. Babies will be born. Weddings will take place. Loved ones could require our attention in ways we can't foresee right now.

WOMEN and MEN will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Too many will die.

But just for a second, what if you did register for the 3-Day? I'm not asking you to commit to walking at this point -- I'm asking you to commit to being a part of Team Tiara. If life happens and you can't walk, it happens. But along the way you will have raised $500 or $1000 or $2300 or $5000 for the CURE. Along the way, you will have SAVED LIVES.

And you know what? One in SIX women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in her lifetime. That could be you. That could happen in the next ELEVEN months.

And if it does happen? The life you save could very well be your own.

Please join Team Tiara. Please help us make a difference. Register at www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiara2012. Use that discount code CURE2012 to save $35 on your registration. If something happens to keep you from walking, we'll understand. But in the meantime, we need YOU to help US find a CURE.

The Princess Guide: This is Why I Walk

2011-11-02T22:06:00.000-05:00

MUCH more to follow in the next few days!!!!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

The Princess Guide: Reality Bites

2011-11-01T21:43:00.000-05:00

This LOVELY shirt that I'm wearing is my "Victory" shirt from the first year I did the 3-Day. It's significance today is two-fold. First, it's the perfect example of what happens if you're at the back of the pack on the 3-Day. Lisa and I didn't know what we were doing -- and I was one of the last walkers across the finish line. ALL they had left was a size small. Good thing I can wear it for you today!!!

The other reason this shirt is significant today is what it represents. This was my first year of the 3-Day. The year Mom was still alive. The year she watched our fundraising totals every single day. The year she sent pink roses for me to have at the Finish Line.

That was a year of hope and of promise. We had no idea that we would lose her a very short nine months later.

Reality hit here yesterday. For much of my 3-Day season, I'm full-steam ahead. It's not that I forget why I'm doing this -- that's not possible -- but I don't allow myself to become bogged down in the "why."

Until now, I've been about details, details, details -- getting 45 people pointed in the same direction.

But yesterday, I started working on the things that make my 3-Day experience unique. My friend Lori cut out the pink tiaras I pass out on the Walk. I just have to add Mom's picture and the verse for the back. I put together the collage of pictures that I'll leave for Mom in the Memory Tent when I write this year's letter to her. THAT was HARD. And I made the signs I'll wear on the Walk. One in Mom's memory. And one in support of my Uncle Don.

My emotions are at the top. Almost overflowing. But you know what? This time Thursday, I'll be surrounded by my 3-Day Family. And friends, that just brings a big, happy smile to my face!!!

The Princess Guide: Doing More than Ever Before

2011-10-31T12:46:00.001-05:00

I have to go up to school in awhile, and I'm thinking I might ought to wear a jacket over this one? Maybe??

Today is kinda a "Big Day." I shared with Team Tiara just this morning something that had been building in my heart for awhile. I think the seeds were planted long ago when I met Stephanie in L.A. -- and while she spoke of hope for a CURE, we all knew it wouldn't happen in time for her.

And then we lost Sonja -- so young and with two little girls just like mine.

And then Lora. And then Andrea.

And Susan is fighting so hard for her life. And Bridget. And there have been so many more along the way. And Team Tiara simply needs to "do more."

As God has done often in the past, He has recently shown me that Team Tiara is need of a little "tweaking." You see, awareness and pink and ribbons and mammograms only get us so far. The fact is, women do not die of cancer in the breast. They die when that cancer metastasizes, or spreads, to their liver, lungs, intestines, bones, brain and other areas. When that cancer wreaks havoc and causes those organs and systems to shut down.

Mets are not a warm, fuzzy subject. The pink ribbons of hope just don't really fit metastasized breast cancer. This is often seen as a death sentence, and that doesn't make for hopeful soundbites on the evening news.

In women who have breast cancer, some 30% will face mets. However, only 3% of the research dollars go to this.

This is where we can come in and make a difference. I have spent the last few weeks learning about metastasized breast cancer and which researchers are focusing on this directly. I've been helped by my dear friend and 8-time cancer survivor Lois.

Lois has helped me find three or four key researchers we could work with. We've also found a group called Metavivor.org.

This is all ground-floor stuff. We don't have all the details filled in yet -- and I'm hoping maybe the four of you can help me with some of that.

Here are a few key things I'm asking you to be thinking about.

1. With Aaron's help, we have acquired www.Pinktober365.com. We will launch that website on January 1 with the key message that breast cancer doesn't just happen in October. That it happens 365 days a year.

The idea is to profile 365 different people involved in this fight -- survivors, Tiaras, researchers, doctors, etc. It's a catchy name and it should get attention if we play our cards right. Do you know of someone who would be a good fit for one of our profiles???

2. Our goal is to raise at least $100,000 to offer in grants directly to researchers who are working with metastatic breast cancer. This will be in addition to other projects we have ongoing, i.e. The 3-Day, Survivor Support, etc.

3. We will continue our support of the 3-Day. Some of our team members will step into stronger leadership roles there. I had a talk with God, and He still won't give me more than 24 hours in a day. Man.

4. It's going to take a bit of a juggling act. To do this, we are really going to need to get corporate support wherever we can. MANY of you have networks we can tap into. It's time to utilize those! Do you know somebody who knows somebody? Do you have a college roommate we need to meet?

5. Some of our team members are going to need to come up for air after the Walk, and that's okay. But as a TEAM, we can't take three months off after the 3-Day this year. MANY companies make their giving decisions in January, and we need to be on their radar screens.

6. We also need to focus on upping the number of Team fundraisers both in Houston and Dallas -- and Austin if that growing group is ready to roll! Possibly adding a golf tourney in Dallas and maybe a few poker tourneys along the way. We can't let our 3-Day fundraising slide.

7. We would LOVE to partner with other 3-Day teams or other groups in this effort. Anyone want to come play in our sandbox with us???

8. We need Tiaras (past, present and future) to be thinking about your role.

You may be like me -- all in, let's whip this thing. GREAT! We need you! We need your help with corporate outreach and golf tourneys and helping us find new, creative ways to raise funds.

You may be all about the 3-Day, but that's all you have time for. That's GREAT! We need you! If that's you, please get registered soon for 2012. Among other things, we desperately need a training walk leader in Houston. Could that be you???

For some people, the 3-Day is a bucket list kind of thing. You're "one and done," and that's perfectly okay. BUT if that does suit you please consider supporting this new initiative -- even if you're not walking.

And you may not even be a 3-Day team member -- but instead someone who just has a heart for this and wants to help.

So that's the scoop. Please be thinking and praying about your role in all of this. If you would like to step into a leadership role, please let me know. Let me know where you see yourself in all of this.

If you are planning to walk or crew in 2012, please register ASAP. www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiara2012. The discount code CURE2012 will knock $35 off your registration. You will be able to register in camp as well.

I know that's been a lot to share, but I know too many of us have seen the heartbreak of metastasized cancers -- breast cancer and other varieties. We've seen the toll that they take. I continue to stand by my belief that if we can whip breast cancer all the rest will fall like dominos. As soon as I know more about the research we will be supporting, I'll let you know!

Please let me know what you're thinking!!!

The Princess Guide: Crew ROCKS!!!

2011-10-30T20:23:00.003-05:00

So.... I've never been on 3-Day Crew, although I think it would be an AMAZING experience. But I AM the proud owner of a Crew T-shirt that my friend Kait gave me when during our 3-Day Commercial-Filming Adventure in L.A. And every time I wear it I think what a great gift the 3-Day Crew is to walkers.

They really are. It's amazing how smoothly the 3-Day experience runs -- and all that's thanks to the Crew. These are the people who are hard at work before I even leave Houston for the walk. These are the people that meet us bright and smiling on Friday morning -- they help us park, they help us load our luggage into BIG trucks and they help us every step of the way after that.

They cook for us. They hand us towels. They cheer us on. They help us cross the street safely. They wrap our ankles and knees. They deal with sweaty, stinky feet all day long without a single complaint. The 3-Day crew is the epitome of service. They are Jesus with skin on -- all day long.

I can't say enough about how incredible they are -- and there's really no way to thank them for that generosity of spirit. But a simple "Thank You" will go a LONG way towards making them feel loved.

Please don't forget to do just that.

Now..... The carnage behind me is what a front yard looks like after NINE kids carve their pumpkins. (This after TEN girls carved pumpkins in our driveway last night.) I have already roasted 14 cups of pumpkin seeds. NUTZ. But it's been a fantastic weekend, and I'll leave you with a few more pictures.... (See, I'm not just about Pink, Pink, Pink.)

The Princess Guide: Safety First!

2011-10-29T21:59:00.002-05:00

This shirt is a Hoot. The pink ribbon is made up of all sorts of words for Boobies -- jugs, headlights, you name it.

And this is what I look like a LOT of the time. Cell phone to my ear! BUT on the walk that just won't work. Remember, no talking on your phones while talking. Step off the trail, make your call, and step back on. Or Michelle O. will give you a talking to!

Team Tiara still needs your support! Just go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and pick a name -- any name!

The Princess Guide: The 3-Day's "Other Education"

2011-10-28T15:44:00.000-05:00

Okay. Not sure why this shirt looks all gray in the bottom picture, but I did think it was important to show the back. The back of this shirt is what ti's all about. THIS is why we walk.

To find a CURE. THIS is what moves people to sign up to walk 60 miles in three days. To raise an unbelievable MINIMUM $2300 in fundraising. To do something that their friends and family are fairly certain they can't do. And they do it.

But there's this "other" side to the 3-Day. It's not at all why you sign up. It's like the icing on the cake. It's like the "other education" that Dr. Hesby told us about over and over while we were at A&M. And maybe, just maybe, it's the best part.

This "other" side is different for every walker. For me, the 3-Day introduced exercise into my life. After moving to Houston, it brought me a network of dear friends I absolutely love. After we lost my Mom, it gave me something positive to do -- every. day.

The 3-Day is every bit a life-changing experience. For some people, just stepping out and making that leap of faith is HUGE. Committing to something of this caliber is CRAZY. And while we know the money "always comes," waiting for it to arrive can be nerve-wracking.

But here's the deal. While you're doing this great big thing for breast cancer research, you're given this incredible gift in return. Just last night, I put out the word that a single mom on our team needed some serious fundraising help. Within an HOUR, she was almost to the minimum required to walk.

The generosity of spirit on this team amazes me. That's something Team Tiara is known for -- and I am so proud to be able to call these men and women Family. The very first year we walked, we helped two walkers from other teams meet their fundraising goals -- and that has continued to this day.

It always breaks my heart a little to hear of people who couldn't walk because they couldn't raise the funds -- especially when they have people on their team with HUGE totals who don't share the wealth. I am soooo glad we're not like that around here. I am SO glad to be surrounded by such strong, giving, loving people. Team Tiara -- You ROCK!

The Princess Guide: Today

2011-10-27T21:06:00.001-05:00

Today was a GREAT day! Today was Pink Shirt Day at Dresser, and Team Tiara treated the Dresser gang to some seriously yummy treats! It was so much fun to hear them exclaim over all the yumminess!!!

Today I also found out about a VERY special Tiara who needs YOUR help. In spades. Her name is Dani Hiehle, and you'll find her 3-Day fundraising page HERE. Dani is $2000 short of the minimum $2300 required to walk. She NEEDS this walk, and she NEEDS help. I don't want to share her story -- I haven't asked if I can, and it's not my story to tell. But needless to say, she's had a tough road.

I know there are only four of you who read this blog, but here's the deal. IF you aren't in a position to help Dani with her fundraising, would you please email 10 people you know and ask them if they can help??

You know I can't do math. But if all four of you could email 10 people who could donate $50 each, we could get Dani to the $2300 mark ASAP.

Can you help?

The Princess Guide: Tomorrow

2011-10-26T22:22:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is a BIG day around here! Tomorrow is Dresser's Pink Fire Drill and I can't wait!!! The fabulous chicks of Team Tiara have been hard at work baking all day today. My dining room table is covered with cupcakes and cookies and brownies and pumpkin bread. And tomorrow we will celebrate Thankful Thursday with our friends over at Dresser! Last year, this event raised over $5800 for our Quest for the Cure. I can't wait to see how we do tomorrow!

BUT....

We can't get to tomorrow yet because today isn't over. AND it's "You Knew Me When" Wednesday! And since most of the people we hung out with in Austin moved to Dallas after Grad school, I'm going to combine the two! Hang on to your hats!!!

If you knew me in the days of.... Birkenstocks, El Arroyo, Far West, Rudy's Creamed Corn, Married Students Network, pre-Abbie, the bald cat, Salt Lick, Kerbey Queso, The Omeletry, Book Club, being blessed by Abbie, playgroup, graduation, moving to Plano, Gymboree, Pitman Creek, Henry's Ice Cream, Braum's Ice Cream, being blessed by Kaitlyn, CRCDS, Homemade Gourmet, McKinney / Frisco, Ogle Elementary, Brookstone, the Groovy Girls, the Red Hots, Rosati's Pizza, The Branch....

If you knew in those days, you knew me in Austin or Dallas -- and TODAY is YOUR Day to donate to the Breast Cancer 3-Day! Just go to www.the3day.org/goto/imissmymom. Any amount will work!!!

Thank you!!!

The Princess Guide: Wanna Send me Mail?

2011-10-25T22:34:00.003-05:00

You know what?? I LIKE getting mail! Just the other day, I got this cute T-shirt in the mail from none other than THE Doyce -- as in college roommate Doyce. Just about the only person I know who isn't on Facebook!!!

Anyways, I LIKE getting mail -- and lucky for me, you can send me mail during the 3-Day!!! I know, the "deadline" for postmarks was "supposed" to be today. But I'm betting you can get by with sending something tomorrow or Thursday. REALLY!

My address is:

3-Day for the Cure Post Office
D'Lyn (Or D'Lupe) Biggs
PO Box 2939
McKinney, TX 75070

I'll be waiting!!!!

The Princess Guide: The Race is ON!

2011-10-24T19:31:00.000-05:00

It's a race to the finish around here, so I thought a Race for the Cure shirt would be appropriate today!!!

We leave for the 3-Day in just 10 days, and I'm no where near ready. It's not a big deal, really. It'll all work out.

I've spent my entire day cleaning ~~junk~~ treasures out of the girls' rooms, and I'm whupped. BUT not to whupped to put in a plug for donations.

We hit the $91K mark today -- just a little more than $8K and we'll be over the $100,000 mark for this year. Can you help? www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks. Amy Martin could sure use your help!

The Princess Guide: Your Task....

2011-10-23T18:37:00.002-05:00

That bottom picture is from three years ago, when the girls and I posed in the original "Tiara in Training" shirts. I miss that curly red hair of Abbie's. Like REALLY miss it.

So I have a task and a challenge for you. The thing is, it's been a LONG time since Team Tiara has raised less than $100,000 for the 3-Day. But this year we're still a ways short of that.

PLEASE help us reach the $100,000 mark by the time we leave for the Walk on November 3!!! You can just go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and make a donation under the name of any walker who has not reached the $2300 minimum REQUIRED to walk.

Thanks! You ROCK!

The Princess Guide: My Pink Parade Continues!!!

2011-10-22T09:13:00.001-05:00

Yep, bringing on the Sass again today! We're headed to the Rice game tonight, so this shirt will only get me through so far. (Rice Fight! Never Die!) But that's all right -- I'm sure I can spread its message a bit before we head to the game.

This is a BIG week for Team Tiara. We've got a lot going on. My favorite part? Thursday night is Team Tiara Houston's "Bling it On" night. Biggs' favorite part? We get AT&T Uverse on Friday. I have no idea what that means other than the fact that we won't be thinking "Comcast Sucks" nearly so often! As long as I get to watch Revenge on Wednesday nights and Big Bang on Thursday, I'm good.

I CAN tell you the Ragweed numbers are up today -- my Ragweed-ometer is off the charts!

It's crazy to think that two weeks from now I'll be walking in the 3-Day. This Walk has really become like Christmas to me. And I'm counting down anxiously!!!

The Princess Guide: Putting Some Sass in my Frass.

2011-10-21T11:57:00.000-05:00

I am SO not feeling Sassy today -- I've got a lot on my plate and on my heart and just really don't know what to think about it all. But.... Two weeks from today Team Tiara will be launching our 2011 3-Day experience -- and that means I've GOT to start getting some Sass in my Frass!

So.... Today, I pulled a particularly fun shirt out of the closet. AND I had a meeting up at school!!! So... I put on my brand-new D'Lupe jacket (you can't be too sassy at school) and headed up there.

I'm home now, jacket off, and working on putting our office back together. Sort-of.

This is going to be short, sweet and to the point. If Team Tiara could reach $100,000 on our fundraising thermometer by the 3-Day, I'll leap for joy. Can you help with that??? www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks -- just click on any name that hasn't reached the $2300 mark.

Thanks!

The Princess Guide: Thankful Thursday

2011-10-20T13:39:00.003-05:00

So.... Today is Thankful Thursday, and while I'm extremely thankful for my new hardwood floors (had to include them in today's picture), I'm also very thankful for our friends over at Mitsubishi Forklift of Houston.

Those guys ROCK.

For the last few years, they have come up with several different ways to promote breast cancer awareness -- especially in men. And it all started with an email that went something like, "We'd like to paint a forklift pink. Can you help us?" We did help, and the "Real Men Drive Pink" campaign was born!

Their support has continued, and their latest effort includes these way cool pink trash cans. Don't you need one? Or one of each of the THREE sizes they come in??

Kick Breast Cancer to the Curb

These pinkrolling trash carts serve two purposes. The first is that for each cart youpurchase, $5.00 will be donated to Team Tiara. $5 will also be donated to the American Cancer Society’s breast cancerawareness initiatives.

Second, Pink Carts make an unmistakably bold statement about their owner’spassion for ending breast cancer. These carts catch your eye, and they remindwomen to schedule regular exams so that they can find breast cancer early whenthey have the best chance of beating it through treatment. Pink Carts can helpraise awareness and save lives in our community.

Sizes and pricing are listed below:
35 Gallon: $50.00 + tax
64 Gallon: $60.00 + tax
96 Gallon: $80.00 + tax

ContactMitsubishi Forklift Trucks of Houston to purchase one today! 713-365-7600 orinfo@mitlifthouston.com

To learn more about this program you can visit

www.thepinkcart.com and to find out more about Cascade Cart Solutions andtheir universal carts you can visit their website at www.cascadecartsolutions.com.

See???

You need them.

Now.... With all the floor craziness around here yesterday, I forgot to do "You Knew Me When" Wednesday! So, without further adieu, here is "You Knew Me When" ~~Wednesday~~ Thursday.

"You Knew Me When" ~~Wednesday~~ Thursday... If you knew me in the days of SOAR, AFC, Sadie Hawkins, Denim & Diamonds, The Hall, Thread the Needle, Midnight Yell, BTHOB, Farmers Fight, Elephant Walk, Taco Cabana, Reveille, Gumby's Double Dammit, 12th Man, Double Dave's Pizza Rolls, Kleberg, Saddle & Sirloin, Dunking my Ring, ACT, AGJR, "I've got a story for ya, Ags," The Bench, Tuesday Night Devos, Neeley Knockouts, Weeklongs, Weekend Trips, 42, Spades, Camp Hensel, Wild West Tour, Cotton Bowls, BBQ Class, Big Hair, HLS&R, Texas 4-H Center, Aerials, Rockies, Ski Cooper, KC Ballroom, George Strait (Oh wait! That one's Timeless!), WHOOP! -- This is your day to make a donation to the Breast Cancer 3-Day! It means you knew me at A&M! If you knew me then, I ask you to go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and make a donation in the name of one of my teammates who has not reached the $2300 minimum required to walk. Thank you!!!!

The Princess Guide: Going "Postal"

2011-10-19T10:33:00.004-05:00

Dude... I have no idea whose fingerprint on the lens messed up this picture. But I do know that if you hear about a chick in the post office putting another customer in his place, that was me. And it's all true. I just get so darn frustrated when people don't respect those who are doing them a service -- particularly if they're government employees and not paid very well. Especially when it makes a scene and takes up MY time. Especially when I'm anxious to get home and see what my new floors are looking like.

Anyway, that's neither here nor there -- except that I may or may not have a raging case of PMS and today was NOT the day to throw a fit in the Post Office.

Anyways.... It's pleasantly cool here again today, and I'm sporting our Camo Sweatshirt from a couple of years ago. This is also one of my "faves" -- and I think it's the only time I've ever been threatened with a "lawyer letter" during this quest. Apparently our original version of the quote on the back didn't deviate enough from the original-original quote. BUT we fixed it and moved on.

Now.... I'm gonna get up on my soapbox for a minute. (The word sopapilla flashed through my head as I was typing that -- yummy!) Anyway, crazy things have been happening on this little blog and you need to know about it.

I usually run about 700 hits a month on my blog -- not a lot. But I guess that means all four of you come around pretty often. The crazy thing is that with the 38 days of Pinktober I'm going to hit about 4,000 hits in October. I know. NUTS.

Those 4,000 hits would be a TOTAL waste if you just looked at my "Pink shirt of the day" and went on your way. TOTAL waste.

I'm asking you to do more than enjoy the Pink. I'm asking you to help us make a difference.

I'm asking you to go to www.teamtiara.net and click on anything that will get you off the front page -- then make a donation via PayPal and our donation button.

Any amount helps. Your donation will go to survivor support, to providing mammograms for women who lack health insurance, to just about any need we can find that needs to be filled.

I'm asking you to go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and make a donation under the name of any team member who has not reached the $2300 mark. Kayren Babcock, Amy Martin and Krista Liller are three of the ones I'd choose. Not all of our team members are still planning to walk, but those three are -- and all have had extenuating circumstances this year that have made fundraising difficult. All three could use your help.

I'm asking you to make a difference. To think before you Pink. To remember that Pink is just a reminder to take ACTION. Action that will save lives. Pinktober will only get us so far.

The Princess Guide: Check out These Jeans!!!

2011-10-18T08:48:00.003-05:00

No, it's not that they're the best-ever jeans. It's that they're JEANS! And they're perfectly suited to this amazing weather that blew in overnight. It's downright cool outside this morning. I'm making chili for dinner tonight, the kiddos are running around in Polar Fleece, and the Mama is LOVING wearing her some JEANS!!!

Know what else I'm loving?? These Team Tiara T-shirts that came in yesterday!!! And guess what?? We have more if you just haven't ordered yours yet!! We have short sleeve and long sleeve in both styles. Random mix of sizes in Youth and Adult. More of the "Strong Beki" shirts than we do the Monkey shirts.

If you want one, or more!, please let me know ASAP! dlyn@teamtiara.net.

Speaking of Strong Beki, that girl needs your prayers! She's one of Team Tiara's greatest champions and is facing some big, fat, scary health issues. Please pray for our sweet Beki!

We're only 16 days from walking in the 3-Day, and I'm starting to feel a bit of a YIKES! feeling!!! I'm sure it's because I haven't really been able to train in a month, and the floor guys are coming today to create complete chaos in my house, and I'm picking up my new orthotics today and praying they will work perfectly from the start with no adjustments, and it's Pinktober. Really, the fact that it's Pinktober explains it all.

I've got all my socks, skirts, clothes, etc. And I've got the hair pretties and shoe pretties made. And I'm ordering my treats for our team today. Things are coming together.... Or at least they will in 16 more days!

The Princess Guide: Not Feeling all that Shiny.

2011-10-17T08:17:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!!!

I chose this shirt today to hopefully help me get my Shine on! It's not working yet. But hopefully it will!!!

It's not that it's foggy outside.... Although I am ready for that to dissipate.

You see, I kinda wrecked my bike a few weeks ago -- water bottles and bike basket flew everywhere. I got up and rode 16 miles. Then I walked 7 miles the next day. Then I realized I'm not 20 anymore.

Something happened with my back in that process, and it's just not the same. This is NOT the news you want to share 18 days before a 60-mile walk.

Frustrated does not even begin to share how I feel.

It was doing better. I still had a bit of soreness, but it was better. So much so that when I finally was able to see the chiropractor last week, we focused on how to make my back stronger and prevent future injury.

Sounded pretty good.

Until I got home and realized just that chiro visit had set it off again.

And then yesterday I was packing and moving china and crystal, so the floor guys could install hardwoods -- and I could unpack the china and crystal next weekend.

And this morning, getting this 40-year-old me out of bed was not the easiest.

So.... I'm trying to get my Shine on. And wearing the best shirt for it!

This is a "vintage" Tiara shirt, but if you're just dying to own a couple, we still have One Youth Medium and One Youth Small. They can be yours for $15 each. Just let me know! dlyn@teamtiara.net

The Princess Guide: I Would Have Missed This.

2011-10-16T23:11:00.001-05:00

Hi Peeps!

It's taken me awhile to get around to the computer today. Weekends are like that. Biggsy is home and tends to monopolize the computer and office. It's not as big an issue as it used to be -- thanks to my Crackberry and iPad. But it's still an issue.

I really did want to get this picture up for you, because this particular Pink shirt is so very meaningful to me. This is my "Trusting with Tracie" shirt, and the message it holds for me isn't the scripture printed on the back (although that's great) -- it's a different message.

You see, when Tracie Webb was diagnosed with breast cancer, I had no idea who she was. I think we'd been going to church at West Houston for six months or so -- and I wasn't in the loop. At all. I just heard that this girl named Tracie had been diagnosed. When some of her friends began selling shirts, I bought shirts for both Abbie and me.

The shirts are definitely a "Junior" fit -- and until now I really haven't been that comfortable wearing it. But it's stayed in my closet amid all the Pink -- waiting patiently.

Today was THE DAY to wear this shirt. We were helping West Houston serve lunch at the Impact Church of Christ downtown. We're not exactly attending West Houston right now (I guess I can say that since the cat pretty much appears to be out of the bag.) But we still are a part of our Small Group and wanted to join them this morning.

I needed to wear something casual (which fits perfectly where we HAVE been attending church.) And this shirt was perfect for today. You can't see that I'm wearing my $15 jeans from White House Black Market that are AMAZING. Let me just tell you -- I ROCK in these jeans. But that's neither here nor there. And it's probably not very important that I tell you that during church Biggsy leaned over to tell me I was dressed like a teenager. But you know what? At 40, I'll take that!

I know, I know.... Land the plane.

Okay. So, Komen has a campaign going lately where they're asking women to tell them what they would have missed if they hadn't been proactive about breast cancer. This campaign has driven me nuts.

Nuts, I tell you.

You see, in my "poor pity me" world, all I could think of was what I HAVE missed because breast cancer took my Mom. And believe me, it's a long list.

But today I realized that if Tracie hadn't been proactive, I would have missed knowing HER. You see, after two (?) years at West Houston, I didn't know many more people than I did when Tracie was diagnosed. So chances are I wouldn't have found her. I would have missed out on knowing a precious friend. But because Tracie WAS diagnosed, and she IS alive and beautiful, and we DID have that link, I've gotten to know her. She's absolutely precious. And she and her crew keep my truck (also known as the "Boobie Mobile") moving on down the road.

This shirt is just a reminder of all that!

The Princess Guide: I'm Not in Pain.

2011-10-15T21:35:00.002-05:00

Wow. Bad picture. I know it looks like I'm in pain, but I'm not. If it weren't already 9:30 p.m., and the kids weren't already headed to bed, I'd have my official photographer (Abbie) do a retake.

Here's a slightly better picture from early in the summer....

Under normal circumstances, I wouldn't be so concerned about getting today's picture right. However, I spent much of yesterday "designing" Team Tiara's World Headquarters.

You're probably wondering just what that involved. Mainly -- getting all the pink Tiara "stuff" moved out of our house and into our new office building.

Yep -- that's it! All it needs is a bit more pink, and maybe a few boas here and there.

Pretty exciting, isn't it??

Guess what?

It gets even better!

I've decided Team Tiara needs to have a Moving Sale! We have a very limited supply of "Love Pink" shirts (see photo above). These can be YOURS! They're $15 each, and I still have:

3 -- Adult Small
1 -- Adult Medium
4 -- Adult Large
4 -- Adult X-Large!

Just let me know if you want one!!!!

Email:
dlyn@teamtiara.net

The Princess Guide: No One Can Replace Your Mom

2011-10-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

I remember when Mom passed away and several people told us they'd fill her gap for us. We were "theirs." I can't tell you how comforting that was at the time. And really, I had no idea how much we'd need that.

The crazy thing is -- no one can ever really do that. No one can completely fill the void you have after losing your Mom. But you know what? While no ONE person has filled that void, several people who don't even know each other have combined forces to at least make sure it's not quite as big as it once was.

It didn't happen immediately. And some of it was trial and error. And some of what we need has changed over time. Four years ago I was a MESS. I needed to be held up and helped up and all sorts of things. As time has passed, I'm not such a MESS anymore. And some of my friendships have adjusted, I guess you'd say, to take that into account.

I can't possibly name everyone who has stepped in to fill that gap. Over time, Kayren has become the person I go to the most when I need to share -- good, bad, you name it. We talk about five - 10 times a day -- thank goodness for free long-distance!

Kayren has the amazing talent of listening, and offering insight -- but not offering instruction. You know I hate being told what to do.

My Aunt Dot is another one who has stepped in -- and I'm getting big, fat tears in my eyes just writing about that. She is AMAZING. She has been such a support to me and to Team Tiara -- everyone on Team Tiara. And that really cute shirt in today's picture? She sent that to me! When I put out the call for more Pink Shirts, I really didn't think anyone would help -- but she did! (A'Lise sent me one, too -- but I'm still about 5 lbs. away from being able to wear that one. As soon as I can, I'll share a picture!)

Aunt Dot shows in a hundred million ways how much I'm loved. She and Uncle Lane both build me up more than they'll ever know. And really, have you ever seen a cuter shirt????

I'm not someone that lives life with a lot of regrets. I don't sit on the couch eating bon-bons, and I never get bored. That's the beauty of being ADD. One of my great regrets, though, would be that I never knew my sweet friend Ruthie saw me as another daughter. She never told me because she didn't want me to think she was trying to replace my Mom.

But you know what? She was another one who helped fill that void -- and while I won't be able to see her again this side of Heaven, I'll sure tell her all about that when I get there someday. I think the highest compliment she ever gave me was when she told Kelly, "You know, D'Lyn is like a member of our family we just never get to see."

And while Ruthie's battle with cancer was scary and terrible and her loss weighed so heavy -- I praise God for letting us see each other so often through that process.

Ruthie's legacy to me was this "Daughter" charm, but I didn't get it until after she was gone. I'll be wearing it on the Walk this year as I walk for two of my "Moms."

I guess if there's a moral to this story, it's that if you know of someone who has lost their Mom -- particularly at a younger age -- they will have this incredibly huge void. Please don't hesitate to step in and fill that void. Those of you who do are just precious.

The Princess Guide: Whupped.

2011-10-13T21:13:00.002-05:00

Whew. I have run all-out today. I got Kait to school this morning, spread some Team Tiara Thankful Thursday cheer, took Abs to the Orthodontist (Braces in two weeks!), ran to the Gypsy Market, bought a few Christmas gifts, back to Fairfield for a Chiropractor appt. (Nothing's wrong -- thank goodness!), got the girls, finished making the shoe pretties for Team Tiara, Abbie to a hitting lesson, back home, floor installer-guy came to do an estimate, put together the "Chapter Books" Sock Hop Basket for Mrs. Deckard's class, and just sat down.

I've had no time to post today's picture -- one of my favorite shirts ever (does that sound familiar?) because last year we highlighted our FIFTH year to walk in the DFW 3-Day.

Beyond thinking of today as Thankful Thursday, I've also been thinking of it as $1000 Thursday. Can you PLEASE help me get two of my walker friends to the $1000 mark? Just go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and click on Julie Mullen or Amy Martin. Any amount will help!!

Thank you!!!

And now, a picture of the "Chapter Books" basket donated by Mrs. Deckard's 5th Grade Class. If you're at the Sock Hop tomorrow night, you're going to want this one! I added up the "List Price" of all the books and it came to over $400!!! These parents ROCK!!!!

The Princess Guide: "You Knew Me When" Wednesday

2011-10-12T08:43:00.000-05:00

Hey, Peeps!

It's "You Knew Me When" Wednesday!!!

If you knew me in the days of twirling, band, buses to football games, the BHS Basketball Tournament, concession stands, meatless burgers, eating at Furr's in Lubbock, parachute pants, feathered hair, big hair, stock shows, Electric Camp, George Strait (Oh wait! That one's Timeless!) -- This is your day to make a donation to the Breast Cancer 3-Day! It means you knew me in Jr. High or High School.

If you knew me then, I ask that you go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and make a donation in the name of any walker who hasn't reached the $2300 mark. Kayren Babcock and Krista Liller are two walkers who are very much on my heart these days. Both have had tough roads to follow the last few months and are very much in need of your fundraising help.

As for my shirt today?? This is a "Ringer Tee" from about 2007. The year we filmed the TV commercial in LA. And as my girls pointed out the crease down the middle, you can tell it's been a while since I've worn it. It's pretty fitted, and the 25 lbs. I've lost have definitely made it fit better!!!

The Princess Guide: Fight Like a Girl

2011-10-11T20:06:00.002-05:00

Can you tell Pinktober is getting absolutely crazy around here? My posts are getting shorter, so that should be a clue! Among other things, I spent today making Hair Pretties for Team Tiara. Those are all done, and I've moved on to the shoe pretties / pompoms.

This shirt is from my favorite shop in Lake Jackson. I have no idea what it's called, but they have a ton of cute jewelry and every style of Yellow Box flip-flops imaginable!!

The Princess Guide: It's All About the Clothes

2011-10-10T20:49:00.001-05:00

The first year Lisa and I walked the 3-Day, we learned three very important lessons.

1. It's all about the clothes.
.
2. Stop & Shop.

3. Leave no walker behind.

Those lessons are a part of me to this day! Today's shirt sports our well-used Tiara Bling. (The same bling was on the back of my shirt at the Tri.)

Tiara Bling Rocks.

Like KISS.

The Princess Guide: Moisture-Wicking Only Gets You So Far....

2011-10-09T18:18:00.001-05:00

Today is Biggsy's #39 Birthday, and in a very Bucket List-type move, we did the Team Tiara Charity Relay at the Fairfield Triathlon this morning! Our friend Nadine did the swim, I did the bike, and Biggsy did the run.

It was great! BUT it was WET! It threatened to rain right up to start time, but didn't really open up and do so until about Mile 7 of my bike ride. About the time I was passed by the 50th or so competitor.

That part really cracked me up. The first person to pass me was about 8 years old, and after that it was a steady stream. Being the Team Tiara Turtle, I'm used to being passed on the route. And it still brings a smile to my face when other participants give me an encouraging, "You're doing great." If only they knew I was just fine with being passed!!

This isn't the best picture ever, but you can see that my bike and I were completely decked out. I don't know if you can see my cute Tiara earrings (Turquoise to match my sparkle skirt.) And isn't the bra on my bike basket a nice touch???

I think the best part was having them write my number on my arms and my age on my right calf. People, this is as close as I'll ever get to having Tatts. I'm cool. Of course, I had them fix the 40 and make it 40:31. "Those who Hope in the Lord will renew their strength."

I know for many of you biking in a Tri Relay hardly sounds like an accomplishment. And I do think I'll be searching for new team members for next year -- I have a feeling Biggs and Nadine are going to move up to the "Real" event.

But if you knew me.... If you knew that four years ago I didn't even own a bike and had no idea what exercise looked like, you'd know this was an event that I am very proud to have accomplished!

Four years ago I had no idea what moisture-wicking was. Now, I wear it head to toe. Which leads me to some VERY sound advice for my fellow 3-Day walkers!

Moisture-wicking is your friend!!!

Make sure your socks, shirts, bras, bike shorts, etc. are of a moisture-wicking fabric. It will make ALL the difference in your experience. It really cuts down on the chafing. And I'll tell you what -- this is my SIXTH 3-Day walk. I've never had a blister. And I promise, wearing moisture-wicking socks are the reason!

Moisture-wicking will only take you so far. And in downpours like we've had for most of today you're still going to come out looking like a drowned rat. But dadgummit, we'll take the rain -- and more if God sees fit to send it. We have been praising God in this storm!

The Princess Guide: Save Second Base!

2011-10-08T16:00:00.000-05:00

Is this shirt a hoot, or what???

Saturdays in Biggsville are all about sports -- so I thought it only appropriate to show you a REALLY cute Saving 2nd Base shirt! This came from the Rue 21 shop up at the Outlet Mall, and I think it's just way too fun!!

As for Sports Saturday, Kait's team won their soccer game this morning against a team sporting LOTS of Kait's friends and former teammates.

Abbie's team didn't win their softball game today, but they still did great. Abbie's pitching is really coming along. AND she stole home! Great game for Abbie-girl!

The Ags play tech tonight. Now, I've hung in there with my Ags this season. And I've watched them Tank in the second half. I'm still hanging in there with them. But if that happtens tonight, we're going to have issues.

Beat the Hell Outta Texas Tech!

Biggsy's HS Reunion is tonight, so I've gotta go get gussied up for that.

By the way.... Tomorrow is Biggsy's birthday! Just wait till you see the shirt I'm modeling for HIM!

The Princess Guide: Pink It Out!!!

2011-10-07T16:56:00.001-05:00

Tonight is Waller Pink Out, and I am sooooooo jazzed!!!

If you're anywhere near Waller, Texas, I highly recommend you head over there tonight for a Pink Out Extravaganza!!!

I have to tell you, though, my Pink Heart is heavy today. Sweet Bridget of My Big Girl Pants posted some tough-to-swallow news today.

Bridget is fighting for her life -- at 28. In the world of Pink Warriors, she's one of the strongest women I know of.

I read Bridget's post while waiting to grab the Bigglets from school. And while I sat there reading, with big, fat tears in my eyes, all I could think was that I wish I'd walked in Boston this year. I wish I could have given her a huge hug. Man.

But I'm right there with her on the whole Pink thing -- you know I am. I love hearing how the boys on our middle school football team are wearing pink socks. I love hearing that the teachers at our school were Pinked Out yesterday. I love hearing about all of it.

The impact that Pink is making -- each and every day -- is HUGE. These kids are growing up with an awareness that we didn't have growing up. And awareness that will save lives on down the road. I am so glad to be a part of that. For my Mom, for myself, for my girls, for Bridget and for all four of you.

Update: Here we are with our big PINK check from tonight!!! Many, many thanks to the students, teachers, administrators and parents from Waller High School who work to help us fund the CURE!!

The Princess Guide: In Support of the 4-H Club Motto....

2011-10-06T08:55:00.002-05:00

... To make the Best Better....

When I looked at this picture, that's the absolute first thing that came to mind. What a hoot! How many times have I struck this same pose to make that pledge that's still so dear to my heart.

We haven't been able to get the girls involved in 4-H yet, but I still hold out hope that they will be someday. And I can't help but think my experiences in 4-H were just a few of the things that have made Team Tiara a possibility.

Do you know the pledge?

"In support of the 4-H Club motto, 'To Make the Best Better,' I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalties, my hands to larger service for my club, my community, my country and my world."

No, I don't get up every morning and say the pledge before I start my day (although the crowd I went to High School with probably thinks I do!) BUT I do try to live my life by those same tenets.

I think that's what the 3-Day community is all about -- making the best better. Looking beyond ourselves to a greater loyalty. Using our heads and hearts and hands to make a difference far beyond our own communities -- a difference that is impacting the world.

How cool is that???

I've had this shirt for about three years! I bought it at the New Balance outlet. I'm headed there again today to look for shorts to wear under my sparkle skirt on the 3-Day! Whoo-Hoo!

Ready for Pink Out at School Today!!

2011-10-06T08:42:00.000-05:00

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

The Princess Guide: Kindess ROCKS!

2011-10-05T10:20:00.001-05:00

Talk about the "deer in the headlights" look!!! YIPES! If I hadn't already sent my photographers to school, we might be doing retakes on this one. And no, I haven't had time to do a single thing to my hair. Don't panic, Khristy Carley -- I'll get to it in a bit!!

Or maybe not!

So... Today's "Kindness Rocks" shirt is one of my very favorite shirts from the 3-Day, and I have to say it's probably the most-complimented shirt in my closet! Every time I wear it, someone says something about it! I LOVE it!

And it's soooo appropriate for today! After last night's drama with my truck, so many people stopped to help. Biggsy went to Wal-Mart and got a new battery -- didn't work. So... this morning I called up some people who really personify "Kindness Rocks" and asked them for their help!

For those of you in Houston, Webb Automotive over on Mueschke is DA BOMB. They know how crazy life is -- especially my life! This morning they came and got my keys, arranged for my truck to be towed in, and are now in the process of replacing my starter (which is why the new battery didn't work!)

Tracie and Roy Webb are great supporters of Team Tiara -- they sponsored a hole at our Tee'd Off Golf Classic last month, and are just really incredible people. Tracie is a SURVIVOR and definitely has a heart for what we do!!!

In keeping with the "Kindness" route, I was trying to think of some of my favorite examples of kindness on the 3-Day. It's so hard, because to me that's just what the entire weekend is all about.

The med tent guy who humored me and taped up my feather last year would have to be at the top of the list.

The first year I walked, another walker's Mom was everywhere we went. I can't even remember her name, but she took care of us just like we were her own -- down to giving us band-aids.

A couple of years ago I lost my water bottle on Day 3. A family near White Rock Lake gave me a Gatorade bottle.

All the people who have let me pee in their bathrooms along the route.

Starbuck's Grande Chai Latte brought to me at camp.

Team members who have walked sloooooowly with me -- even though their paces are much faster!

The Tent Angels who set up our tents long before we get to camp.

Those are SUCH small examples and come nowhere near exhibiting the vast generosity you experience on the 3-Day!!! Kindness ROCKS!

The Princess Guide: Today Started with Such Promise....

2011-10-04T19:45:00.001-05:00

Today started off with soooo much promise!

I have to tell you, I've had a blast thinking about which shirt to wear each day. Today started off inspired -- I'd wear this cute top that I bought at HEB (of all places) and talk about how important it is to take care of your feet when you're trekking 60 miles in three days. If the shoe shirt fits, wear it -- right?

(As I type this, my children are having a food fight with hummus in the kitchen. Oh my stars.)

So.... I get up this morning with my brilliant plan for today and find that NONE of the khaki shorts in my closet fit anymore. They're all falling off me. Good problem to have. So..... I start digging around and find the shorts in this picture. These are pre-Abbie. Really. How cool is that??

I know they probably weren't in style back then, and they probably aren't now -- but who cares?? It's not like I'm a fashion maven or anything.

I got all the kiddos to school, then I was off to see my orthotics guru -- John Ross at OPA in Bellaire. John is God's gift to my feet. He keeps me walking. And off the carts at Wal-Mart. John Rocks.

He made some minor adjustments to my old pair of orthos and did the molds for a new set, and I was on my way....

To see Khristy Carley -- God's gift to my hair. I'd been looking like SUCH a hippie, and Khristy worked her kind of magic, and I'm not a hippie any more.

Promising day, still.

Came home, did a few things around the house, and after school my DI friends came over. Spent a LOVELY hour with them while they did their planning, then it was off to Kait's soccer practice.

Went well -- Read some of a new book, got ready to leave, and BAM!

There it went. My promising day.

As I type this, Biggsy is attempting to replace the battery in my truck, and I'm fairly certain we have a date with Webb Automotive tomorrow morning. Joy! Such Joy!

BUT..... I mustn't get totally distracted from my purpose! You've got to protect those feet!!!

Just a few tips.....

Bring moleskin in your fanny pack. I cut mine in little strips that are ready to roll. Or you can bring scissors. You can get moleskin at Wal-Mart with all that cool Dr. Scholl's stuff.

Use Body Glide. It's smoooooooth. You put it anywhere and everywhere you have friction. I mean ANYWHERE. Especially on your feet. Slap that stuff all over your feet before you put your socks on, and you'll be soooooo glad! I carry a little thing in my backpack and have big things (shaped like deoderant) in my luggage.

Bring a fresh pair of socks for lunchtime. Put them in a Ziploc in your fanny pack. When you swap, put the stinky pair in your Ziploc. It keeps all those PB&J Graham Cracker Sandwiches that you're not hoarding from getting stinky, too.

Listen to your feet. If you start to feel a hot spot coming on, break out the moleskin. Apply it. THEN Body Glide all over the top. Moleskin will not stick to Body Glide, so it goes on first.

DO NOT for any reason, get a full pedicure until after the 3-Day. You NEED those calluses on the bottoms of your feet -- they're as good as gold! Sure, go ahead and girlify your toes -- just keep the calluses.

New shoes MUST have 20 miles on them BEFORE the 3-Day. Only then will they begin to be broken in.

Don't just stretch your legs -- stretch your feet. Calf raises are great for this. You can pick up a bajillion stretches just by watching other walkers on the walk. Learn from them. Especially if they look like they've been doing this all their lives.

Okay. In my totally frazzed, "what is tomorrow going to look like?" state, those are all the tips I can think of!! If I come up with anything else, I'll let you know!!!

One note: I'm pretty sure I'm going to run out of pink shirts before I finish all 38 Pinktober posts. If you design/ sell/ shop for pink ribbon shirts, and you just happen to want to send one my way, I will not turn it down!!! With a big, fat smile on my face, I'll happily tell everyone just where I got it!!!

The Princess Guide: I've Got Talent!

2011-10-03T16:33:00.001-05:00

I couldn't get very far into my 38 days of Pinktober without wearing my Talent shirt. Yes, I know it's gray. But today has been anything but gray around here!

It's the most beautiful Fall day. Not too hot at all. Sunshine on my shoulders and all that jazz. I've spent the day decorating for Fall and watching two very able guys install my new dishwasher. It's so quiet you can't even tell it's on!! REALLY GREAT DAY!!!

So yes, I know this shirt is mainly gray -- but there isn't a more "PINK" shirt in my closet. This shirt represents one of the most incredible experiences in my life. An experience that continues to shape me. An experience that was 100% God-breathed. An experience like none-other.

In November 2007, four short months after we lost my Mom, just a week after I walked 60 miles in three days in her memory, I flew to LA for a fairy-tale experience. You can read more about it here:

http://tinyurl.com/4x6834e

You'll want to start with the post on October 31 and read forwards through the experience. It was incredible.

You can see the commercial here: (I'm the Crazy Beautiful Girl)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHcqDM4k7Hk&feature=player_embedded

THE Amy Stoker originated the "Crazy" quote -- she's a star!

I know some of the four of you are walking the 3-Day for the first time this year. And I know you're wondering what on earth you've gotten yourselves into. I don't know that you have a nation-wide advertising campaign in your future. But I do know that you have an amazing experience ahead of you.

The 3-Day is every bit what it's cracked up to be. It's 60 miles of ministry. A 60-mile buffet. Sixty miles of smiles and laughter and love and hugs and blisters and graham cracker sandwiches and feather boas and porta-potties and pink and sisters and friends and so much more.

It's the most powerful experience ever.

If you or someone you love has been touched by breast cancer, or even if you haven't, there is still time for you to join us! Go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and click on "join team. Or check out www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiara2012 to join us for next year.

You might just find out you have Talent!

The Princess Guide: Pinktober 3rd!!!

2011-10-02T13:21:00.000-05:00

Off to see Dolphin Tale with my DI team today!!!

HUGE cheers for Nadine Lefkof today!! She did her first 15-mile training walk yesterday! What did you do???

THIS Pink Shirt is the ONLY thing I own from Calvin Klein. My partner-in-crime Sherrie Webb and I bought these last October. It has sparkles. I like sparkles!

The Princess Guide: I LOVE This Shirt!!

2011-10-01T19:32:00.000-05:00

Pinktober 2 (Also known as October 1)

Bought this shirt at Rue 21 yesterday and LOVE it!!! One thing I didn't love -- while the salesguy was more than happy to tell me a percentage of the sale goes to "Breast Cancer," he had no idea who, where or how much.
Come on, people!!! I know it couldn't have been much on a $10 shirt, but I'd still like to know.

If you want to make a donation where you KNOW where your money goes, check out www.teamtiara.net. We are a 100% volunteer organization. NO ONE takes a salary. ALL of our proceeds are directed to breast cancer research, awareness and survivor support!

One note: I'm pretty sure I'm going to run out of pink shirts before I finish all 38 Pinktober posts. If you design/ sell/ shop for pink ribbon shirts, and you just happen to want to send one my way, I will not turn it down!!! With a big, fat smile on my face, I'll happily tell everyone just where I got it!!!

D'Lupe, Team Tiara, P.O. Box 2433, Cypress, Texas 77410-2433.

The Princess Guide: Don't Just Pink. Pink With a Purpose!!!

2011-09-30T17:45:00.000-05:00

Pinktober starts today, and in our house it runs through Nov. 6 -- the day we finish walking in the DFW Breast Cancer 3-Day.

Pinktober is By Far my favorite month of the year. Every day, you'll find me wearing pink. Today, I'm kicking it off with my Lora's Prayer Warriors shirt. If you'll remember, Lora's battle with breast cancer ended last spring -- leaving behind an adoring spouse and two precious children.

Let me be very clear -- There is nothing cute, fun or fuzzy about breast cancer. It sucks. It's not a disease to be wrapped up in a pink cotton candy package.

It's ugly and it's mean and the thought of it landing on people I love is like a fist in the gut.

There is nothing fluffy about losing your Mom at 61. Nothing cute about watching your kids grow up without their Granny.

BUT.... I have chosen to OWN Pinktober. I fully recognize that THIS is the month when I can accomplish more for this cause than in any other. THIS is the month when people EVERYWHERE open up their checkbooks and GIVE. THIS is the month when I can make the most difference in this fight.

When you see me in my pink this month, you should know I look forward to the day we find a CURE. THAT will be the day I happily shop for a new wardrobe without a spot of pink.

Until then, when you see me in pink, know that I'm going to ask you to open up your checkbook and make a difference -- especially if you're Pink, too. Let's be Pink with a Purpose and find a CURE once and for all!!!

To donate to the 3-Day for the Cure: www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks and click on the name of any team member (except mine).

To donate to Team Tiara: Go to www.teamtiara.net. Click on any button that will take you off the front page. Use the donate button to donate via PayPal.

Thank you for your support! Now, Get Pink!!
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Have You Ever Seen Anything This Cute???

2011-09-16T20:33:00.000-05:00

Seriously??

We're currently taking orders for our 2011 Tiara Wear, and I KNOW you want one of these shirts!!! If you'll shoot me an email to dlyn@teamtiara.net, I'll gladly send you an order form!!! We have another design that was inspired by my friend Beki. You don't want to miss these!!!

Now.... What I REALLY wish is that everyone I know would order the Monkey shirt to wear the first weekend in November!! It would be awesome to know you all were supporting us like that!!!

Orders are due Sept 30!! Don't miss out!!!!
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I LOVE Fall!!!!!

2011-09-16T14:11:00.001-05:00

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Yippee!!!

2011-09-16T14:11:00.000-05:00

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Fires

2011-09-08T09:53:00.001-05:00

This is the smoke from the fire nearest our neighborhood yesterday evening. Please pray for all involved!!!
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Together Again!!

2011-09-03T16:12:00.000-05:00

I LOVE seeing Kait with her "brother from another mother (and father!)" They are having a blast this weekend!!!

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Help Spread God's Love and Fight Breast Cancer -- At the Same Time!

2011-08-26T08:36:00.001-05:00

Want to help spread God's love and fight breast cancer at the same time?

Team Tiara is looking for Sign Sponsors for our "Tee'd Off at Breast Cancer" Golf tournament on Sept. 12, the Fairfield Triathlon on October 9 and the Breast Cancer 3-Day in November.

The signs will have your logo or "Sponsored By" on one side in large letters, and your favorite scripture on the other side. Underneath the scripture, it will read, "Sponsored by: (Insert Name Here).

Your sign will be used at all three events and will offer a great deal of support to participants! Sign Sponsorships are $300 and a GREAT way to promote your business! You can also sponsor signs as individuals or groups, i.e. Book Clubs, Small Group Bible Studies, Softball Parents, etc.

Please contact dlyn@teamtiara.net for more details!!

These Are My People....

2011-08-22T10:15:00.001-05:00

One Last Bath

2011-08-20T19:45:00.000-05:00

For D'Lupe's Dash! School starts Monday!
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Prayers Needed!!!

2011-08-17T10:25:00.001-05:00

My precious friend Kayren, who I wrote about last night, is in the ER with appendicitis. Please pray for he, her husband Jeff, and their four kiddos!!!
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The Princess Guide: Thank You

2011-08-16T23:40:00.001-05:00

Thank you -- all four of you -- for allowing me to have a safe place where I can admit I'm not perfect.

A place where I can share that not everything in D'Lupe-ville is perfect.

I think I may have found my voice again.

And the timing is perfect -- Because, boy howdy, do I have something to share with you.

Four years ago when my Mom passed away, my precious friend Kayren rerouted a Southwest Airlines Flight (or maybe just changed her reservation) to fly back from Nashville to San Antonio through Lubbock (not exactly a direct flight.) If you've ever been to Lubbock, you know it's not a place you get to accidentally. You pretty much have to want to go there -- or at least plan to do so.

So much was going on -- Days of our Lives had nothing on me. We had all these people coming in. And friend-drama leftover from before we moved from Dallas. And we had Milton as a step-father and Dad was wherever Dad was and wading through all of that was just plain bizarre. And honestly, it's pretty much all a blur when I think back.

It all happened so fast. One day Mom was fine and talking about coming to see our house in Houston -- and how soon could I send pictures -- and what colors was I painting everything. And the next second, Mom had been diagnosed with this tumor growing down her spine. And was it breast cancer coming back or something or what??

And four weeks later she was gone. Gone.

And I'm telling you, it's all a blur.

I remember a few things -- there was already food at the house before we got home from Lubbock. And Anthony and Cheryl came in the day before the funeral to chauffeur us around. And Janice was in the bathroom of the multipurpose building. Just bits and pieces, really.

But there is this one memory that stands out more than any other.

After the funeral, after all the guests had filed out, it was just us.

And as I turned from that casket, I think I was so overcome with the finality of it all, and I finally lost it. I crashed. And Kayren, knowing me better than almost anyone, was RIGHT THERE. She caught me.

Timing is a strange thing.

My Mom had this plastic donkey that we bought at Gebo's one time. It sat on a divider between the kitchen and dining room. When things were tough and we needed to deliver a certain message to her, like would you PLEASE take your hormones?!?!, we would turn that donkey upside-down so his butt was in the air. It was our signal to her that she needed an attitude adjustment -- and it worked.

Almost since the day she could walk and talk, Abbie considered that donkey HERS. And after Mom passed away, Donkey came to live with us.

And travel with us.

He goes everywhere.

He went skiing in Park City.

He went to Camp Blue Haven.

And he has made a bajillion trips to the Creek.

Last weekend, he fell off a bunkbed at the Creek and one of his legs broke off. Kait came running. Horrified. It was an accident. No one's fault.

Donkey's leg was broken off.

The sound that came from Abbie at that news was the exact same sound that came from me right when I turned around from Mom's casket and Kayren caught me.

The very same.

Abbie sobbed and sobbed and sobbed and the grief that poured out of her broke my heart. Here was my precious girl who hadn't cried about the loss of her Granny in so very long -- Abbie doesn't cry often over anything -- GRIEVING. I had no idea she had all that bottled up in her.

(Please note: Just so you know, Donkey is fine. Being the SuperMom that I am, I made a quick trip to the Sargent Country Store for SuperGlue. You can hardly tell the leg was every injured -- and from now on Donkey will be guarding our house while we take a beautiful photo of him to the Creek.)

Timing really is a strange thing.

Fresh on the heals of Donkey's injury, and Abbie's outpouring of grief, Kayren wrote something beautiful today. She truly is a sister of my heart. I haven't even asked her permission, but I'm going to share it with you.

Be Blessed. I was.

Why Pink is my Passion

Mikol Kayren Babcock

As a child and until a few years ago when asked about my favorite color I had always responded with red. Several years ago, however, that changed... my new favorite is Pink. I never in a million years thought I would be on this journey, but after my best friend/sister from another mother lost her mother to Breast Cancer the same year that I gave birth to my first and only baby girl (after having 3 boys) PINK became my passion. I walked through the heartbreak with D'Lyn. I stood silently as she said her final farewell at the casket knowing that her girls wouldn't get the chance to show off their amazing accomplishments to their granny anymore. I was there to wrap my arms around her as she sobbed once she stepped away. I feel blessed to have that moment as part of our friendship as bad as it was because we had shared so many others together and it just brought us closer together. I mean our friendship had shared soo very much. We had been roomates as we found our way in the world after college, we had planned our weddings together, we even found out that we were pregnant with our first children around the same time and they happened to be due on the same date. But, I digress, I promised my precious friend that I would walk in the Breast Cancer 3Day with her that year. She had done it the year before and I was going to do it to honor her mom's memory. 3 months later, however, I had to back out of that promise because I found out I was pregnant, again, and couldn't imagine 60 miles of walking and puking. I gave birth in the spring to a beautiful but tiny baby girl. Zoe, was 7 weeks early and she was perfect! She had perfect tiny red lips and everything was where it should be and I was in heaven. As I was looking over her for the first time I started laughing, through my tears, at how perfectly shaped she was including her teeny tiny tatas! Her chest was only as long as my pinkie finger. Seriously one teeny tiny tata was at the tip and the other was at the base of my pinkie. I vowed then that I would do whatever it took to make sure that breast cancer would become a part of Zoe's history book (or the cure for it). I promised Zoe that if she ever heard a doctor tell her she had breast cancer, she would not be afraid becasue a cure would have been found. Zoe's great grandmother (my grandmother had had a radical masectomy in 1967.) I had a strong passion to go PINK! PINK for my daughter after years of blue in the house. More importantly PINK for her future and for the future of others. PINK to celebrate the life of D'Lyn's mom. PINK to celebrate the life of my aunt who passed away in Aug of 2010. PINK to honor the fight of my friend Janet and Traci who battled through breast cancer and are on this side of it to tell their stories. Oh I am passionate and would ask you to help me fulfill my passion to end the fight. If you would be willing to donate to this year's walk visit:

http://www.the3day.org/goto/kayrenbabcock

Go PINK!

I've already reached my fundraising goal for the Breast Cancer 3-Day. If this cause is on your heart, and you can open your wallet, will you please donate to Kayren?

Thanks!

Abbie's Minions

2011-08-15T17:52:00.000-05:00

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The Princess Guide: i don't want to do this anymore.

2011-08-15T14:14:00.001-05:00

I don't want to do this anymore.

I just said that in my smallest, whispery, whiney voice.

I've done this whole 3-Day thing for six years. That's an awful lot of asking people for donations. For help.

I've personally raised over $50,000 for breast cancer research in those six years.

I've begged. Cajoled. Motivated. Cried. Ranted. Raved. Begged. Hounded. Asked.

I've planned and planned and convinced a LOT of people to join me every step of the way.

I've taken on the responsibility of a huge team because I truly felt that was part of God's plan.

I don't want to do this anymore. I don't want to plan. I don't want to beg. I don't want to have to convince everyone I know that this quest is essential.

I don't want to hear that you're busy. That you've got too much on your plate. That the walk conflicts with the Opening Day of deer season.

I don't want to hear that your feet hurt or you don't want to sleep in a tent or you don't like peanut butter and jelly graham cracker sandwiches.

I don't want to hear that you have to work or you don't want to miss a soccer game.

I don't want to hear that you're nervous about raising $2300.

I don't want to do this anymore.

I'm tired of being the cheerleader. Always having to be "on" is exhausting.

To be honest, those are the thoughts that rattle through my head when I forget there is no "I" in TEAM.

We're a TEAM -- not just Team Tiara but anyone and everyone who plays any type of role in this quest to find a CURE.

And only as a giant team with thousands and thousands of people working together will we ever reach this goal.

A friend of mine was diagnosed with Stage 2 Ovarian Cancer last week. My first thought: I'm working on the wrong damn disease. (Yes, sometimes I cuss when I talk to myself.)

But you know what? I'm not working on the wrong disease. I truly believe that the CURE will first be found with breast cancer or leukemia and the rest will fall like dominos from there.

And even on my whiniest, stressed days, I KNOW that we can do it. I know it's okay to miss that soccer game, disrupt Opening Weekend, work harder for a few days, so you can take Friday off.

I know it's okay to just come up for Saturday and Sunday if you absolutely can't take Friday off.

I know if you only raise $500 instead of $2300 you're still saving lives.

If you can't walk, please help us raise funds. We need sponsors and golfers and bunko players. We need table hostesses for our dinner on Sept. 12.

We need cheerleaders and walker-stalkers. We need prayers and hugs and love notes sent to us on the event.

We need you in our army and on our side.

And those "I don't want to do this anymore" days? That's when we need you the most.

That's when we need you to give us a boost and assure us that we ARE making a difference!!!

That's when we need you to remind us that what we're doing, even at its most challenging moments, is way easier than chemo.
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Houston Children's Museum!!!!

2011-08-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

Introducing our campers to one of our favorite places!!!
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Trout the Lifeguard

2011-08-11T17:07:00.000-05:00

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Camp D'Lupe Wouldn't Be Camp D'Lupe Without...

2011-08-11T14:18:00.001-05:00

Shopping!!!!
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Just Picked Up Our "Senior Camper!"

2011-08-11T11:58:00.000-05:00

Mimi!!
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Team Tiara Needs Your Help!

2011-08-10T23:37:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

This afternoon it was 103 here in Houston, and walking 60 miles in three days to help find a cure for breast cancer was the LAST thing I wanted to think about.

But you know what? Breast cancer doesn't care how hot it is outside, or how dry, or what the stock market is doing. Breast cancer continues to invade lives.

I'm writing today to ask for your help. As most of you know, this is Team Tiara's sixth year to walk in the DFW Breast Cancer 3-Day. In six years, we have raised over $490,000 total.

As of September 1, 2010, we had raised over $70,000 for our fifth walk. This year, we are behind that mark -- having raised just over $42,000 for the 2011 walk.

Yet we continue to hear about more and more women and men who need our help. We hear about 1-2 diagnoses each week. This morning I learned about a 22-year-old woman who is anxiously waiting results. This on top of reports, both good and bad, from several of the survivors we've been able to directly support this year. Please help us us fight this beast.

We have three primary ways you can help. Please choose which way works best for you!

1. Our 2nd Annual "Tee'd Off at Breast Cancer" Golf & Bunco Classic is September 12 at Hearthstone Country Club in Houston. We need Sponsors and Golfers! If you'd like a copy of our event brochure, or our sponsorship levels, please send me an email to dlyn@team tiara.net. Or you can register online at www.teamtiara.net under the "Events" button.

Please note: Our Golf & Bunco Classic is running a "Back to School" sale. If you register by September 1, you can pay for one round of golf ($175 player) and a friend can play for FREE. If you already have a foursome arranged, you can register at 50% off. So instead of paying $650 for a foursome, you can pay just $325.

You don't want to miss this great event! The funds we raise through our Golf & Bunco Classic will directly impact the level of support we can offer to breast cancer survivors this year.

2. You can make a donation directly to Team Tiara. There's a space allotted for just that on our event brochure, or you can simply mail a check to Team Tiara, P.O. Box 2433, Cypress, Texas 77410-2433. Any amount will be appreciated -- and will impact the lives of those faced with breast cancer.

3. You can make a donation directly to the Komen 3-Day for the Cure at www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks. Please choose the name of any walker who has not reached the $2300 mark required to walk. Please do not donate in my name -- I'm already there, even though my tally does not reflect that. Your donation will be used for research into a CURE.

Some of you have walked with Team Tiara in the past. You are part of our legacy. We wouldn't be able to do what we do without the foundation you helped us set. We will always be grateful for that. But we haven't won the fight. Although women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer are living longer, we still haven't found a CURE. We still lose mothers and sisters, grandmothers and friends.

Thank you so much for your support. We appreciate everything you do to help us help those who are hurting.

Many Blessings,

D'Lyn

It Wouldn't be Camp D'Lupe Without....

2011-08-10T18:52:00.001-05:00

Menchie's!!!

BTW, the mascot is named D'Trout D'Traveling Chicken.

"D'Trout D'Traveling Chicken lived by the Creek
And frolicked in the pretty surf we love at Sargent Beach....

Kodie and Kamy loved that rascal Trout
Unlike the flying pig, he didn't have a snout."
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Introducing....

2011-08-10T15:36:00.001-05:00

The Camp D'Lupe Mascot....

Name to be determined!

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When Pigs Fly....

2011-08-10T15:23:00.000-05:00

I'll let Abbie pose with a t.u. sign....

Camp D'Lupe Rocks!!!!
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Whoopie Pies!!!

2011-08-10T12:40:00.000-05:00

On the way to pick up our Camp D'Lupe campers. Had to grab some Whoopie Pies!!!
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Not The Best Picture....

2011-08-07T21:25:00.000-05:00

I know. Not the best picture. I have TONS of pictures on my camera, but can't post them with my phone. ARGH.

The story behind THIS picture, though, is the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Our friends Miss Kristine and Hailey spent the day with us today. Hailey learned to ski. Kait learned to slalom on her ski Biggsy made yesterday. Abbie has spent the day perfecting the use of a cast net.

We lunched at Sting Rae's -- YUMMY crab cakes, but they ran out of pecan pie before I got mine.

I rode my bike. Jake and I rode the jet-ski. We dined on Mahi-Mahi for dinner, thanks to the guy next door.

The day is ending with lightening bugs in a jar, and a casting lesson on the pier. (Hence the picture.) Abbie is making S'Mores. What a lovely ending to a lovely day!!!
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Oops.

2011-08-07T08:26:00.001-05:00

I have NO WAY to edit my blog right now -- I can just post through email and the not-so-dependable signal at the Creek! Please excuse the multiple postings about Kait's ski!!!

Oh -- and I finally named my Jet-ski. D'Lupe's Dash. Because I am living my "dash" to the fullest!!!!
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Do You Know What This Is???

2011-08-06T19:41:00.000-05:00

If you've been around the Biggs Bunch at all, you know Kait wants to do EVERYTHING Abs does!! Well, this is Abbie's second year to slalom, and Kait has been wanting to as well.

BUT Kait's itty-bitty feet were just to small for Abbie's skis.

So Biggs, being The Greatest Dad in the World, just made Kait a slalom ski out of one of her little skis. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!!!
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Sea Center Texas

2011-08-06T14:00:00.001-05:00

We needed a bit of a break from my pier today. So I got up and rode my bike through a couple of "neighborhoods" while Abbie learned to wakeboard and Kait gave her lots of advice.

Then Biggs slalomed -- like a wild man. It was something to see!!

We came into town for lunch and a visit to Sea Center Texas. If you're ever in Lake Jackson, this is a GREAT place to bring your kids. They have a touch tank and beautiful aquariums. They have a tremendous fish hatchery tour.

Sea Center Texas is a partnership effort between Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Coastal Conservation Association and a host of others. It's staffed by volunteers who have a great passion about what they're doing. It's a great way to spend some off-pier time!!
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That's My Chair

2011-08-06T11:54:00.001-05:00

But it's still too hot out there in the sun.

Took the girls to Sargent Beach this morning. Hurricane Ike stole the beach three years ago, but it's back. And the girls had a blast.

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My View After My Nap

2011-08-04T17:28:00.001-05:00

No. I'm not in the exact same spot I was in yesterday morning. And I HAVE spent some off-pier time with errands to the store for ice cream, the one-room local library and the boat launch to put the jet-ski in.

And Kait and I took the kayak out. And we spent the majority of our day today with Captain Gene out on Matagorda Bay.

But I'm back in my chair and re-reading The Help in preparation for the movie release next week. I don't often re-read books, but this one is even better the second time around.

If you haven't read The Help, I strongly suggest you get up off your hiney and do so before you see the movie next week. I have a feeling the movie is going to be like going to visit old friends. And I can't wait!!!
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My View at Breakfast this Morning

2011-08-03T08:58:00.000-05:00

Jealous??

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The BEST Week!

2011-08-01T11:01:00.001-05:00

We had THE BEST Week last week! For one thing, Biggsy came home from two weeks at Camp GE. Whoo-Hoo!

The Owen family came to town, and we spent a great afternoon/ evening with them at Lake Conroe. I set a new standard for Banquet Attire when I wore my swimsuit cover-up with Abbie's flip-flops to dinner. YIKES.

Apparently, all the dove that AREN"T in West Texas yet are in our front yard. There's at least a limit or two....

I painted our bedroom -- nothing says Peace like a coat of fresh paint and new bedding!

AND I painted this little nook between our living room and our bedroom. Fancy!!!

The Princess Guide: If You Need Inspiration

2011-07-29T21:01:00.001-05:00

This time of year, I start to get a few emails from people who aren't going to walk after all -- for whatever reason. I think that's because there's this huge lag time between when you register in the spring and when we do the actual walk.

Life happens. Things get crazy.

And we kind of forget why we registered in the first place.

When you first sign up, you think you've got al the time in the world to raise $2300.

Then August and September come around and you begin to get nervous.

And we kind of forget why we registered in the first place.

This crazy chick who calls herself D'Lupe keeps sending you emails about fundraising and all that jazz. But it's 106 degrees in the shade -- and standing in line at the post office to buy stamps sounds anything but fun.

And we kind of forget why we registered in the first place.

Well....

Most of you didn't know my Mom. You don't walk because Sue Stephens passed away four years ago last Thursday. You don't walk because my girls have to grow up without their Granny. You don't walk because I can't call my Mom and tell her that Abbie started learning the change-up at her pitching lesson today, or that Kait had her first pitching lesson and LOVED it.

No, YOU have your own reason that you registered to walk in the first place.

It's still there.

If you need a bit of inspiration, if you need to be reminded of the absolute unfairness of this horrible disease, spend some time at http://toddlerplanet.wordpress.com

You'll remember why you signed up to walk in the first place.

Big Hugs,
D'Lupe

Adventures in D'Lupe-Land

2011-07-27T19:57:00.001-05:00

We've had a lot of fun the last couple of weeks. The girls and I took a quick trip to Round Rock / Austin for Carey Cox's wedding. We checked out the condo where we lived when Abs was born....

... And we had Round Rock Donuts for breakfast.

Kait went to soccer camp in Aggieland.

We've been fishing with Pa. I caught a shark.

Abs had the catch of the day!

I Have a Blog, But I'm Afraid to Use It.

2011-07-26T16:33:00.001-05:00

Seriously.

In the past year, a well-meaning but off-base acquaintance has "trumped" my blogging a few times. Off-hand comments such as:

Please don't blog about that.

You can't blog about that.

Don't write about that.

Take that off your blog.

If you don't take that off your blog, I'm going to call Obama and invite him for lunch at your house.

Okay. Maybe it wasn't that bad. BUT even a few off-hand comments stack up.

Now, I feel censored. Watched. And for goodness' sake if there's one thing I don't relish in life it's knowing someone doesn't approve of something I'm doing.

ARGH.

Here's the thing..... Blogging allows me to write. And I LOVE it. I love sharing with all four of you. I love being real. I love the good, the bad and the ugly. And believe it or not I do censor myself to some extent. I haven't even told you about.... (See??)

I have to create. It's part of what makes me me. It's kinda like breathing. I have to be doing something with my hands and brain and all that together or I'm just stifled. And stifled is a great word for how I've felt since this person started getting all up in my business.

I've tried to be real with you -- and this road we've walked together has been UGLY at times. BUT I've been real. You know it all.

But knowing that I've been "watched" or "mothered" or whatever you want to call it has just completely taken the wind out of my sails.

Yes, it might have been a mistake to blog about certain things that have happened in the last year. But if I'm stupid enough to blog about them, I'm the one who has to deal with it. RIGHT?

So here's my question.... How do you deal with this? What are your boundaries when it comes to blogging? And how do you deal with people who get all up in your business?

I can do so much good with my blog -- but not if I'm afraid to use it.

18 Months & 60,000 Stitches Later....

2011-07-06T09:12:00.001-05:00

My Ruthie"Quilt is finished!!! It's a queen-sized, machine-pieced, hand-quilted beauty. It took 18 months to make and includes over 60,000 hand-stitches.

I'm beyond happy that it's done!

I used three different designs to quilt the blocks. Can you tell?

This is the back.

It'll be Kait's someday -- when she's much, much older. She has a few stitches of her own in this quilt and really shows and interest in all things quilting!

2011-06-27T18:02:00.001-05:00

We're at Sandlot--our home away from home! The girls have a speed and agility class tonight. Kait's gearing up for soccer season.

2011-06-25T10:26:00.001-05:00

This is too funny. When I'm running around with the Bigglets, I often text myself reminders. No idea they show up on my blog!!

2011-06-19T12:52:00.001-05:00

You look wonderful tonight song

2011-06-19T09:55:00.001-05:00

You Tube: the book of Acts in 3 minutes

2011-06-16T10:36:00.000-05:00

Outside pitch deeper into your body

2011-06-16T10:08:00.000-05:00

Shagging balls for prize. W on grnd. 2 in air.

2011-06-15T13:43:00.000-05:00

Mizuno Wave Rally 2

2011-06-14T14:13:00.001-05:00

Adidas Barricade for Abbie -- Tennis

Cute Shirts, Aren't They??

2011-05-27T09:37:00.002-05:00

Well, not as cute as the models, but cute all the same!!!

Team Tiara is selling another round of the "Love Pink" shirts, and I KNOW you want one!!! The shirts are $15 each, or $20 with personalization (see below.)

Shoot me an email to dlyn@teamtiara.net if you'd like an order form!!!

- d.

We're at War

2011-05-19T12:11:00.003-05:00

Hi Ya'll,

I want to share with you an email I sent to Team Tiara last night -- and then follow it up with something new. I'll tweak it all a bit as I go along to provide the latest information, but you'll get my drift.

In short, we're at War.

Last night's Email:

My precious Tiara Friends,

While I began doing the 3-Day because of my Mom's fight with Breast Cancer, I soon realized my passion would be helping young women realize this isn't their Grandmother's disease. That this is a disease without boundaries -- one that cares nothing about your age or economic status or where you live or even what gender you are.

Today my heart is heavy with three stories that need your prayers. In the interest of privacy, I'm not going to share names with you. God knows the names of these three brave women.

** The first is 38 years old. She has three kids. Last week she went in for her annual exam and the doctor found four large lumps in her breast. On Friday, she had three biopsied with one needle aspiration biopsy (NAB). Yesterday the tests came back that the lumps were malignant.

Today a full-body PET scan revealed that she has Stage IV cancer, and it's spread to several major organs. It's in her kidneys, liver, sternum, right arm and both thighs. All three markers are positive, which is a great sign -- and this family is claiming Psalm 118:17 as their faith verse.

** The second is 40 years old. (And yes, that's still young!!!) She has struggled with a cyst for several months and returned to her surgeon this week for a follow-up. Her biopsy is scheduled for June 3.

** The third message came to me tonight, simply labeled "My Sister." I've taken the names out / changed them to protect their privacy. But I thought this email was too beautiful to keep from sharing.

"I just thought I would let you know that I originally signed up for the walk at (Friend's Name) request. My mom had done it last year, and I saw what fun she had and thought it would be a great challenge. I really didn't have a connection to the cause...

Last Monday, May 9, my sister, was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has class/grade 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, but she has not been given a Stage at this point. Last week was filled with blood tests and meetings with doctors. This Monday, she had an MRI to size the tumor - which is small because they caught it early. She has elected to have a double mastectomy on June 6, after which we will know whether she will need to do chemo or radiation. Next week she will see her oncologist.

You now know most of the medical stuff that I know. :-)

I am so very thankful that I have this group of amazing people to support my sister and my family as we go through this. My sister is a beautiful, 33-year old wife and mother to my 9-year old nephew. This has definitely kicked up my 3-Day challenge a notch or two. :-)

We are in very good spirits. I think that a huge part of healing comes from a positive attitude and a positive mind. We are in a good place, and completely foced on her health and wellness. We are focused on living, laughing and loving. I know that in a year - maybe less - this will be a bump in the road.

I just wanted you to know.

Thanks!"

Friends, this is why we walk. And these stories -- all three of them -- illustrate the much-needed message that breast cancer is very much a young woman's disease, too. It's a disease that steals Mommies and daughters and sisters and friends. Every dollar we raise, each step we take.... It's a step to finding a CURE.

Thank you for walking. Now, go check your boobies and write your fundraising letters. We're at war.

Love you,
d.

Now, In my Inbox this Morning:

So.... my dear friend. We now have another thing in common. My mother was told yesterday that she has a malignancy in her breast. Because of her religiousness in having mammos and sonos done, it was caught very early and is quite small. We meet with the doctor on Wednesday to discuss specifics, including treatment options. Her doctor mentioned a lumpectomy, checking lymph nodes and possible radiation. We need prayers. And I would appreciate it if you could send me some top websites and resources. I've always been a reader and I want to devour information to be prepared for Wednesday and beyond. And I'm going to call to schedule my mammo right now!

******************************

Friends, we're at War. Really. We are. And because we realize the cost of this battle against breast cancer, we have got to attack -- just as you do in any other war.

How can you help?

Go to www.the3day.org/goto/teamtiararocks.

Choose one of two options:
1. Donate. Just choose a name and choose what you can afford to donate. Your donation is tax-deductible and it WILL save lives. Any amount, no matter how large or small, will help.

2. Register to walk. Just click on "Join Team." We'll help you with the rest. But just like our girls in a softball game, if you don't swing your bat, you can't get a hit. We need a homerun here. Out of the park. But we can't do it if you don't take that first step and register.

I've spent my morning packaging bracelets and other means of support to mail to nine survivors in six states. This disease is rampant. The youngest of these women is in her 20's. The oldest is a Grandma.

Help us fight this War. We can't do it without you.

Love and hugs,
d.

Kait's Turn

2011-05-18T20:34:00.004-05:00

Ya'll don't laugh.

I promise I haven't been bit by the YouTube bug. But I thought it would only be fair if I posted a bit of video from Kait's game tonight.

Well.... I had no idea.

I had my Flip camera along for what was most certainly the Rice Owls' most exciting game so far. (Yes, we won!)

To give you a bit of background....

We have a very young team this year. A very young team. Wins have been few and far between, but our girls have hung in there with a great attitude all season.

They've had fun.

So imagine our excitement when the game included a few of these highlights.... (And yes, they're heavy on the Kaitlyn.) Hint: Click on the title to see the video!

Kaitlyn Batting

Great Defense by Kait and Brooke

Kait to Brooke for Another Out

Kait Teaming up with Logan for Another Out

Fantastic Out in the Outfield by Livi!!!!

Brooke's Triple Brings in Kait & Logan

Lots of Fun in the Dugout

Kait to Logan for Another Out!

Great Hit by Kait!

Kait Sneaks in for a Run!

My Girl Rocks.

2011-05-17T20:21:00.002-05:00

Hey Peeps!

It took the better part of the evening, but I FINALLY have video of Abbie's pitching for you to see!!! She ROCKED the first inning tonight!

(Not so much the second inning, but we'll work on that!)

Enjoy!!!

Batter #1:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnmlV63cp14

Batter #2:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_o4VA0t06Y

Batter #3:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yGuDzOrZ5c

So... If you're not into softball, and you don't realize why this is such a big deal, consider this....

Until February, Abbie had no interest in pitching. None at all. It wasn't until our first practice, when we realized we hadn't drafted a pitcher, that we really started thinking about this.

She's only 10.

And she pitches about 40 mph.

My Girl Rocks.

Sitting Duck

2011-05-15T21:16:00.004-05:00

That's me.

Sitting on a bucket catching Abbie's pitches.

Except for the one I didn't catch on Thursday. The one that apparently bounced off the tip of my glove and the right side of my upper lip -- and then slammed into my right cheekbone.

There's nothing soft about a 40 mph softball. (Yes, Mrs. McCathern, I just started a sentence with "There's." I apologize.)

Since I immediately iced my face and came home to put Arnica gel on it right away, I don't have much fun color to take a picture of. Just a bit of bruising on my lip.

Hardly enough to make people wonder if I "fell down the stairs."

So really, I don't have pictures of that to show you.

I do have GREAT video of Abbie pitching on Saturday. Her best game ever. She pitched so well her Mama had tears in her eyes. It made my big, fat, purple lip worth it. All those hours at the batting cage / tunnels. A sitting duck on a bucket letting her aim at me.

I love this girl.

And like I said -- I have great video.

But I can't figure out how to put it on mute. And you really don't want to hear me hollering for her. So until I figure out how to manage that, I hope you enjoy these pictures!

By the way, Kait's team, the Rice Owls, won their game!!!

GREAT hit!

... And on her way to 3rd!

I Love These Peeps!

2011-05-11T10:27:00.004-05:00

Mother's Day was REALLY difficult for me this year. I spent much of the weekend on the verge of tears. I hvae no idea why this year of all years was so difficult. It just was.

BUT... Spending Mother's Day with my peeps made it MUCH better! AND they took me to Red Onion Seafood y Mas -- one of the best places around!

Easter Weekend.....

2011-05-10T10:23:00.006-05:00

Just got my camera back from the Creek, so these are a "bit" late....

We have this GREAT tradition of spending Easter weekend at the Creek. Usually it's way too cold for the kids to ski or anything, but with Easter being late this year it was a PERFECT time to bring friends for a weekend on the water!

Of course, we had our annual Easter Egg hunt. This year we did it DI-style and let the kids hide their own eggs. They had a blast!

And of course, we spent LOTS of time on the water. This is the only picture I have of Grant. Isn't that sad??

Grant and Kait kind of got paired up on the Waverunner -- a great combination. She was anxious to learn to Wake-Board, and Grant is the MASTER. He was able to give her lots of help!

And 'tis the season for Softball.... We've been playing LOTS of ball! Abs' pitching is getting much better. Still doesn't throw a huge number of strikes, but she doesn't throw many rainbows either!

25/21: I Haven't Given Up On You......

2011-04-20T09:01:00.007-05:00

... Just been more than a bit busy. I'm so ready for school to be out -- I just can't stand it. In the meantime, though, we're running here and there with softball and school and church and everything in between.

Even though my blog postings took a bit of a bit of a break, I know your weight-loss didn't. AND since we only have 41 days till school's out, we better be rockin'. So.... let's see where we all stand!

Name -- Lost this Week -- Total for the Challenge
Aimee D. --
Amber B. -- Lost 1.4; Total Lost 7.8
Amy B. --
Amy S. --
Ann C. --
Annette T. --
Cindi C. --
Cissa N. --
Crystal V. --
Cyndi S. --
Cyndy G --
D'Lupe -- Lost 1; Total Lost 6
Jennifer M. -- Lost 2
Jimmie Sue L. --
Jolanda W. --
Julie N. --
Kara V. -- Lost 1.5; Total 9.5
Katie R. --
Kay R. --
Kayren B. --
Kelley B. --
Kristine F. -- Lost 1.5; Total 16.3
Laura Kay R. --
Laurie Y. --
Leanne J. --
Liz E. --
Lori A. --
Lori P --
Melanie H. --
Melissa H. --
Molly C. -- Holding Steady.....
Nadine L. -- Total Lost 7
Rachel R. --
Rebecca B. --
Sally P. --
Sarah A. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 10
Sharon V. --
Sherrie W. -- Lost 1.5
Suzi B. --
Tammy H. -- Lost 1.5; Total Lost 9
Taunda J. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 5
Vicki T. --

Help for West Texas

2011-04-16T10:42:00.005-05:00

... And I have no idea why my posts have started formatting like this. But... Remember how everyone in Fairfield jumped in to help the Longs when their house burned down? I know you've all seen the footage on TV, and the terrible losses that families in West and North Texas are facing. Three years ago we lost 2 miles of fence on our home place to one of these fires. In comparison, we know of a family near Post that ranches on a section of land. That's one square mile. Earlier this week, they lost everything except their house. Barns, tack, feed... Fences. Everything. If you'd like to help the families devastated by the fires, the Biggs family is collecting gift cards to send up there. I'll be sending the first batch on Thursday. I'll let you know where they go and who you're helping. The love and support from complete strangers has brought great hope to our family and friends who are battling the fires. As fire trucks from as far away as Flower Mound, Wylie, Austin and Rockwall have rolled through town, they have been welcomed with open arms. If this is something you can help with, gift cards to Lowe's, Home Depot, Gebo's and Wal-Mart are great. (Think Building Supply and Small Towns.) If helping with gift cards isn't something you can do, please be praying for rain and light winds. The winds were supposed to give them a bit of a break this weekend, but they're bracing for high winds again on Monday. Thank you for your help and support!!! - D'Lyn Biggs p.s. These pictures were taken a few weeks after our fire. The pastures had started to green up again. While they don't fully convey what the damage looked like, they will give you a glimpse. And remember, this was just a drop in the bucket in comparison to what so many people are facing right now!

This shows just how close the fire got to our house.

The Princess Guide: I've had about all I can stand...

2011-04-08T22:42:00.005-05:00

... of hibernating.... Hi Ya'll, I've been head over heels in finishing the Yearbook for my girls' school, so I haven't been able to start focusing in on this year's 3-Day for the Cure fundraising. BUT Yearbook is due Monday, so ya'll hang onto your hats! I'm about to come out of hibernation in a BIG way! In the meantime, I wanted to share with you the very real stories of four women fighting breast cancer. Four YOUNG women. Four women in different stages of this battle. First, an update on Cheri. This is what Dione sent today: "She is home now- I talked to her today and I can tell she is struggling. Here is what Jeff posted on his page today. We saw the oncologist yesterday. Cheri will c the cardiologist today to have an echo done to c if her heart is strong enough for chemo. If it is then she will start back on chemo on tues w/a diff chemo drug that attacks cells instead of masses. It is n the same family of chemo drugs that she was on, so the side effects should b the same as before. Keep praying!" Second, an update from my friend Andrea. Andrea lives in Virginia, and her husband Matt is an old friend. Andrea is the reason I'm walking in DC this year -- in addition to DFW. I'll let you read Andrea's story on Caring Bridge. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. The reality of their situation really hits home with me. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/andrealohr Third, we have an update, also on Caring Bridge, for Cyndi Ritchie. Cyndi was Kaitlyn's preschool teacher at The Met's Lamb School when we first moved to Houston. She lives in Montana now. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/montana2010 Finally, the Caring Bridge link for Teri Colwell. Teri lives in Coles Crossing and goes to church at West Houston. Her boys are 6 and almost 9. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tericolwell/en I wanted to share all these stories with you for a couple of reasons. For one, much of my personal focus is on helping women understand that breast cancer isn't a Grandmother's diease. It knows no age, ethnic, gender, economic or religious boundaries. All four of these women are young. Teri and Andrea both have very young children. I also wanted you to know that part of the funds we raise for Team Tiara Foundation, above and beyond the dollars we raise for the Breast Cancer 3-Day, go to support women who are fighting this battle right now. Women like Cheri, Andrea, Cyndi and Teri. We have already sent Andrea an Isaiah 40:31 bracelet. We have given away all the bracelets that walked the walk in November, and I ordered 20 more today. Teri, Cheri and Cyndi will all be receiving a bracelet. We are looking into other means of support as well. In the next week or so, as I finish Yearbook and get ready to focus on Team Tiara's fundraising for 2011, you're going to start hearing more and more from me. We have plans beginning for a few major fundraisers, and I'll also let you know about individual fundraising. Corporate Sponsorships will be a major focus this year. I'll be in Dallas April 30-May 1 to help with event planning there, and we'll have a meeting in Houston in the very near future. As we kick all of this off, and you see a bigger passion than ever before, you'll understand what's driving me. This isn't your Grandmother's disease. This could be Your disease. And it could be MY disease. Let's stop it before that happens. Love to you all! - D'Lupe

We Built Hope on the Hill

2011-04-08T07:51:00.002-05:00

Check it out This is a wonderful example of what can happen when an entire community comes together to do something amazing. We need to find a spot for Hope Field 2. Need a softball field for your league??

Bear With Me....

2011-04-05T08:09:00.002-05:00

... We've been a bit busy.

We Are the Champions!

2011-03-09T07:07:00.014-06:00

Yesterday was 4th Grade Field Day, so I've put together a little photo story for your viewing pleasure!

Yep, Abbie's Team won the Tire Pull!!! I am SO proud of my girl! You know, she won't be the tallest girl in her grade for forever. Sooner or later her genes are going to catch up with her. But the confidence that she has gained from being the "Big Kid" -- whether on the soccer field or in the Tire Pull won't go away.

Her class has won the overall Field Day every year we've been here. Way to go, Spears Squid Squad!!!

25/21: Come On, Sun!

2011-02-10T09:55:00.004-06:00

Wow. Far too many of us are being plagued by the weather. While we never got a lick of snow last week, our temperatures have been cold and colder all week. This is seriously getting in the way of my plan!!!!!

And I can tell I'm not the only one! By the time everyone's numbers came in last week, we had lost a total of 24.3 lbs. Not too shabby. BUT then the Superbowl hit -- this week may be a bit frightful! We'll see when all the numbers finally roll in!

Name -- Lost this Week -- Total for the Challenge
Aimee D. -- Lost 2; Total Lost 5.6
Amber B. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 1.4
Amy B. -- I think she was kidnapped by Aliens. Or Kindergarteners??
Amy S. -- Lost .5; Total Lost 4
Ann C. -- Total Lost 1 -- Must have been kidnapped by farmers.
Annette T. -- Total Lost 5
Cindi C. -- Total Lost 6
Cissa N. -- Buried in a Snow Drift??
Crystal V. -- Lost 2; Total Lost 5
Cyndi S. -- Total Lost 1.2
Cyndy G --
D'Lupe -- Total Lost 2.3
Jimmie Sue L. -- Total Lost 3
Jolanda W. -- Lost 2; Total Lost 7
Julie N. -- Total Lost .1 -- Have you been kidnapped by a snowman?
Kara V. -- Holding Steady; Total 3
Katie R. -- Total Lost 2 -- Are you out there?
Kay R. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 2
Kayren B. -- Total Lost 4.5
Kelley B. -- What's up?
Kristine F. -- Lost 3.1; Total Lost 7.7 -- GREAT Success Story!
Laura Kay R. -- Total Lost 2
Laurie Y. -- Holding Steady; Total 1.5
Leanne J. -- Lost 5.4; Total Lost 7.6 -- That Virus was a $%^&!
Liz E. -- Total Lost 1 -- Have you been kidnapped by nerds?
Lori A. -- Total Lost 2.5 -- Are you busy building Snowmen?
Lori P -- Lost 1.5; Total Lost 4.5
Melanie H. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 2
Melissa H. -- Total Lost 2
Molly C. -- Total Lost 3
Nadine L. -- Total Lost 1.5
Rachel R. -- Total Lost 4.8
Rebecca B. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 4
Sally P. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 1.5
Sarah A. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 7
Sharon V. -- Total Lost 3
Sherrie W. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 8.5 -- WOWZERS!
Suzi B. -- Today is a new day!!!
Tammy H. -- Lost .9; Total 5.4
Taunda J. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 4
Vicki T. -- Total Lost 4.2

25/21: Bring on the Snow!

2011-02-03T08:46:00.004-06:00

For those of you north of the Red River, I'm sure those of us down here in Houston are making for some great comic relief these days.

Sure, our temps have dropped into the 20's, and we're giddy with anticipation for the 1-2" of promised snow/ slush / ice / sleet/ rain combination that's supposed to arrive in the next 24 hours.

You're watching the coverage of the Superbowl festivities with a gleam of amusement as you take breaks from shoveling the 24" of snow in your driveway. You're thinking we should all "Man Up."

That is, if one of my four faithful readers lives north of the Red River -- I really have no idea.

BUT what I do know is that I can't WAIT. I can't wait to go sliding around the driveway. I can't wait to see if one of the boxes I've been saving will make a good sled for the ditch behind our house. I can't wait to put the girls in their ski gear, send them outside for an hour, and make sure they stay warm enough for our trip to Park City next month.

I'm ready. I've got Cream of Wheat and hot cocoa in the pantry, 15-bean soup in the Crock Pot and Secretariat on the schedule. My cute boots are on my feet, and I'm thinking Outside Fun will make for a GREAT exercise plan.

And I lost 1.3 pounds this week. That's right -- 1.3! Not at all what I expected!

Really.

This weigh-in week started off with such promise. Once I finally started listening to Leanne, and started writing down everything I was eating, things were going great. By Friday I'd lost 1.1 lbs. I rode 18 miles on my bike both Thursday and Friday. Worked with hand weights while watching Days of our Lives. (BTW.... How many times is Stephano going to get away with that whole people-switch thing???) Life was good.

And then we hit the weekend. Friday night, we went to Redfish Grill -- by far my favorite restaurant out here in the Boonies. I didn't go off the reservation. Skipped the appetizer and had a bit of Biggy's gumbo. Grilled Mahi-Mahi. Veggies. Not too bad, right???

Saturday night it was beef shish-kabobs, sweet potato, venison sausage and bread. (Argh! Bread!) Sunday evening small group brought incredible soups, more bread, cheesecake and cookies... UGH. Monday morning I was up 1.6 pounds.

Crazy things are going on around here. Biggs is in the middle of "remodeling" our kitchen, and I have no access to the stove. My microwave is in the middle of the bar (plugged in), my old oven is in the dining room, and my new double oven is in the middle of the kitchen floor. Praise God for my Crock Pot. It's the only thing keeping me away from Chick Fil A. That and the fact that it's 24 degrees outside.

So you can imagine, stepping on the Wii and finding out I'm down 1.8 since Monday morning is HUGE for me. I've not exercised, I'm drinking hot cocoa, and I have no idea how it happened. I can only assume it was the proverbial "water weight" plaguing me Monday morning.

So... That's where things stand with me. Only about half of our happy little troupe has reported in, so I'm not sure where things stand with all ya'll. Hellloooooo..... Is anyone out there???

Name -- Lost this Week -- Total for the Challenge
Aimee D. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 3.6
Amber B. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 1.4
Amy B. -- Have you been kidnapped by Aliens? Or Kindergarteners??
Amy S. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 3.5
Ann C. -- Total Lost 1 -- Have you been kidnapped by farmers??
Annette T. -- Lost 2; Total Lost 5
Cindi C. -- Total Lost 6
Cissa N. -- Buried in a Snow Drift??
Crystal V. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 3
Cyndi S. -- Total Lost 3.1
Cyndy G --
D'Lupe -- Lost 1.3; Total Lost 2.3
Jimmie Sue L. -- Lost .5; Total Lost 3
Julie N. -- Total Lost .1 -- Have you been kidnapped by a snowman?
Kara V. -- Lost 2; Total 3
Katie R. -- Total Lost 2 -- Are you out there?
Kay R. -- Total Lost 2 -- But that Gumbo was worth it!
Kayren B. -- Lost 2.5; Total Lost 4.5
Kelley B. -- What's up?
Kristine F. -- Lost 1.5; Total Lost 4.6
Laura Kay R. -- Total Lost 2
Laurie Y. -- Holding Steady; Total 1.5
Leanne J. -- Lost .2; Total Lost 2.2
Liz E. -- Total Lost 1 -- Have you been kidnapped by nerds?
Lori A. -- Total Lost 2.5 -- Are you busy building Snowmen?
Lori P --
Melanie H. -- Total Lost 1
Melissa H. -- Lost 3; Total Lost 4
Molly C. -- Total Lost 3
Nadine L. -- Total Lost 1.5
Rachel R. -- Total Lost 4.8
Rebecca B. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 3
Sally P. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 1.5
Sarah A. -- Total Lost 7
Sharon V. -- Total Lost 3
Sherrie W. -- Lost 1.5; Total Lost 7.5
Suzi B. -- Today is a new day!!!
Tammy H. -- Total 4.5
Taunda J. -- Total Lost 3
Vicki T. -- Lost 1.8; Total Lost 4.2

25/21: I'm a Slow Girl, But I Mean Well.....

2011-01-28T12:55:00.007-06:00

Before I say anything else, I've got to tell ya'll thank you for the Phenomenal support you've given me after my post the other day. I think that sometimes people like me who go and do and share and help and all that jazz tend to have these grande expectations that other people will react the same when we need someone to stand in the gap for us. Or react at all. And when our friends or family don't live up to our "lofty expectations," it's anything but cool. At the same time, I hate to think of the bajillions of times I've let people down in much the same way because I have simply run out of steam.

I'm just thankful today for what God has given me, where it's been given. I'm blessed.

So.... Now that we've covered all that craziness, let me tell you I've come to a BIG realization. This week our little group lost 17.1 lbs. -- compared to 35.1 last week. I think part of that is probably because those "easy" pounds that drop right off as soon as you stop drinking your Daily Dr. Pepper have dropped off by now. I also think that the initial excitement and enthusiasm have maybe been replaced by the REALITY that this is a "Challenge" for a reason.

But never fear, D'Lupe is here!

For the last few weeks, I've absorbed your suggestions... I've listened to what's working for you and what isn't -- all while eating about 2 dozen cookies, continuing to drink my hot cocoa, and yes, there's the entire bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Chips....

BUT.... I have learned a few things. Or rather, I've reinforced several things I already knew.

For one, exercise alone won't cut it. You've got to have some kind of portion control/dessert control/willpower control element in there.

At the same time, diet alone won't cut it either. You've got to exercise to build in that calorie-burning, muscle-building component.

Finally, checking in with you every week just doesn't do it for me. I love you, but I need more. I need Daily Accountability. It is so easy for me to coast through the week, eat a salad on Tuesday night, and pout when my Wii Me tells me I'm fat on Wednesday morning.

I woke up Wednesday and realized it was time I stopped piddle-farting around. The rubber needed to meet the road. I needed to pull up my knee socks, stop whining and put my big girl panties on. That's right. I threw every Grannie Nelva-ism at myself that I could think of. And added a few D'Lupe-isms for good measure.

And guess what? Dear friends, this applies to you, too. (You know I know your numbers.)

So... I followed Leanne's advice that she's ONLY shared with me every week since we started, and started a log in my calendar. I'm writing down everything I eat. How much I exercise and how much weight I've lost that day. Every day. It's the only way I can do this thing. It's the exact same thing I did with Weight Watchers years ago (only then I used their online tool), and it worked for me then. This time, though, I'm going the free route and using my paper calendar. I'm not tallying points or calories or fat grams or any of that. I'm just writing down what I eat. And it's working.

Really, it is. Or I wouldn't share.

In a completely different aspect of this whole "plan," I played in the kitchen a bit on Wednesday. I've really been trying to work my way through the pantry and use up some of our groceries. I came up with this BRILLIANT idea of making a sweet potato soup. Sweet potatoes are GREAT for you -- lots of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, etc.

I LOVE baked potato soup, so why wouldn't I love sweet potato soup??

So here's what I did. I took the two cans of Sugary Sam sweet potatoes left over from Christmas. Big cans. I drained them and rinsed them in hopes of getting some of the Sugary part of the Sugary Sam off of them. I cooked that with some chicken broth and smushed them up when they were hot. I tasted it. Not quite there.

So.... I added a large can of pumpkin left over from Thanksgiving. (Are you seeing a pattern here?) Once it was all heated and cooked, I added some cream (needed to get it out of the refrigerator.)

Tasted again. Still not quite there. In went about 1/4 cup of brown sugar and a healthy measure of cinnamon. A few chopped-up roasted pecans made for garnish.

Now... I know you're thinking Cream and Brown Sugar are hardly part of a weight-loss diet. BUT you're wrong. They are absolutely necessary for making this otherwise-healthy concoction palatable. If you can't stand to eat it, what good does it do you to have all those antioxidants sitting around???

Now.... Some of you have been around here long enough to discern that I'm a few crayons short of a full box. And that's okay. BUT what you don't realize is that I'm a Genius in Hiding (not evidenced by the fact that I just made a HUGE mess in my kitchen with an Advocare shake and my Cuisinart Smart Stick.)

But here's the deal. I got Abs and Kait to eat my "Pumpkin Potato Soup" concoction. Yep. I'm Da Bomb. Since they screw up their cute little noses and complain whenever I make soup, I told them it was a new sauce for their tortellinis. AND so they wouldn't balk at the idea of something new, I covered myself by heating up a jar of red sauce. AND do you know what??? When offered the same thing as leftovers last night, their FIRST PICK was the pumpkin sauce!!! Yee-Haw!!

I had it again last night as well. I have to confess, it wasn't much different last night than the night before. BUT the fact that it isn't the tastiest thing ever helped me keep my portion size down. AND it's incredibly filling as well -- really, you can't eat all that much of it. So.... I'm thinking it's a win-win.

And now you know the rest of the story.....

Disclaimer: I've never met Sugary Sam, and while my Momma would just have a COW if she knew I used canned sweet potatoes, she'd just have to deal with it. This Christmas was NOT a time to stand on ceremony. Short-cuts saved my life.

The Cutest Thing Ever.....

2011-01-28T08:20:00.001-06:00

I Love it When People Come Together....

2011-01-26T20:48:00.005-06:00

This is a tale of two stories. Each is painful in its own accord. But each story has a completely different outcome. One makes me smile. A lot.

Some of you know what has been going on around here the last few months, but most of you don't know the gory details. Yes, you know that Dresser is being bought by GE -- which will impact our lives. AND you know that The Mimi has been sick. But you don't know all the details of either event.

I can't share those details here. Of the four of you who read this blog, at least one or two is too close to one or both of the situations at hand. I can't tell you how these situtations are affecting me. You know the parties involved. And even I have limits as to what I'll share in this forum.

Recently I was given an opportunity to share with a group of friends from the past. Each of these women knew me well at one time -- as well as anyone did. We had shared some pretty cool experiences a few years back.

So I shared. I laid it all out there. No holds barred. Probably more openly than I have with anyone else.

No one in this group lives here, runs in my circles, "visits" at PTO functions. No one in this group knows the inner workings of my life now. It was the perfect group to share with. I thought.

I guess I was wrong.

Time and distance have stretched those relationships. Dude.

My heart has been breaking over what's going on -- and not one of those women replied. No concern. No empathy. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zip. Zero. Not a single reply. Not an "I'll be praying for you." Not an "I'm sorry." Or "That Sucks." Nothing.

Are you Kidding Me???

On the other hand, Susan over at Toddler Planet posted about the Absolutely Crappy stuff she had to deal with on Friday. Stuff that no young mother should ever have to deal with. Just as she always does, Susan laid it all out there -- she doesn't mince words. She tells it like it is. Cancer isn't pretty. And the experiences it brings into your life are nothing you'd wish for ANYONE.

I'm guessing Susan has never even met half the people who read her blog. She's never met them for coffee or gelato or whatever. And while she's open and honest and very, very real -- she can't even begin to visualize the people who read what she writes -- often in tears.

But here's the cool part... Where I reached out to people I KNOW and it fell on deaf ears, Susan shared with complete strangers who have now become this Army of Warrior Princesses who have her back. Susan already had an Army of Support. It just has a name now. And how cool is that??

So here's the scoop. God has given me an incredible gift. Pruning is part of life. Healthy life. Right?

He's also given Susan an incredible gift. An Army of Warrior Princesses. Check out her blog to see how you can join in.

25/21: Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes....

2011-01-26T16:04:00.016-06:00

Well. I feel like I'm hosting a party, and I forgot to attend. Have you ever had that feeling?? I mean, seriously. This 25/21 challenge is ROCKING. And I'm not exactly ROCKING. Sure, I'm back where I was two weeks ago. But the goal is to be back where I was July 2008 -- and that's going to take more than a little effort.

You know??

Really, it's not like I'm flying blind on this one. I'm just not doing what I know I need to do. I'm a bit envious of those people who can quit drinking sodas, or drop fast food, or whatever and lose 10 pounds right off the bat.

For me, it's a slightly different story. I don't drink sodas. I don't eat fast food. My list of "don'ts" is fairly long.

BUT... I do love sweets and lately I do have a problem with portion size.

So.... Much as my friend Sally said last week, I'm not letting this get me down. I am focusing on the fact that I HAVE lost 8 pounds since school started -- and I HAVE kept those off. I've got a plan, I'm pressing forward, and I have confidence it's gonna work.

At some point.

Now.... We're three weeks down, and you can tell from the numbers below that we have some Peeps in this challenge who are really Rockin' it out. Holy Cow. AND we have some people like me who are stuck in one spot and not making a lot of headway.

I'm making some changes this week -- if they work, I'll let you know next week. BUT I'm going to keep my cards a bit close to the vest until I know for sure.

Forever Yours,
D'Lupe

Name -- Lost this Week -- Total for the Challenge
Aimee D. -- Lost 1; Total 3.6
Amber B. -- Total Lost 1.4
Amy B.
Amy S. -- Total Lost 2.5
Ann C. -- Total Lost 1
Annette T. -- Total Lost 3
Cindi C. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 6
Cissa N. -- Gonna Keep Truckin'!
Crystal V. -- Total Lost 2
Cyndi S. -- Lost 3.1; Total Lost 3.1
D'Lupe -- Lost .7; Total Lost 1
Jimmie Sue L. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 2.5
Julie N. -- Total Lost .1
Kara V. -- Holding Steady; Total 1
Katie R. -- Total Lost 2
Kay R. -- Lost 1; Total 3
Kayren B. -- Lost 1.5; Total Lost 2
Kelley B.
Kristine F. -- Lost 2.9; Total Lost 3.1
Laura Kay R. -- Total Lost 2
Laurie Y. -- Lost .5; Total 1.5
Leanne J. -- Lost 1.2; Total 2
Liz E. -- Total Lost 1
Lori A. -- Lost 1; Total Lost 2.5
Melanie H. -- Total Lost 1
Melissa H. -- Total Lost 1
Melody H.
Molly C. -- Total Lost 3
Nadine L. -- Total Lost 2
Rachel R. -- Total Lost 4.8
Rebecca B. -- Lost 2; Total Lost 2
Sally P. -- Total Lost .5
Sarah A. -- Lost 3; Total Lost 7
Sharon V. -- Lost 3; Total Lost 3
Sherrie W. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 6
Suzi B. -- Today is a new day!!!
Tammy H. -- Lost 2.4; Total 4.5
Taunda J. -- Holding Steady; Total Lost 5
Vicki T. -- Lost 2.4; Total Lost 3.5

25/21: You Are What You Wear...

2011-01-25T10:14:00.003-06:00

How's it going???

Are ya'll ready to weigh in tomorrow morning??? I have to admit, I've done more than a couple of weigh-ins this week. Every time I get on the Wii, my Wii-Me has to tell me what she thinks. As of right now, I'm exactly where I was last week. No more, no less. BUT.... we have the annual Rice Baseball Dinner tonight. Be praying I can abstain from the goodies!!! Yikes!!!

Don't forget to weigh in tomorrow morning. I'm anxious to hear what kind of a week you've all had!!

In the meantime, I thought I'd share a couple of links with you. If you've ever walked the 3-Day with me, you know I'm all about tennis and running skirts. I just think they serve a very important purpose -- they make you feel pretty!!!

The first year I wore a tennis skirt on the 3-Day, there were maybe one or two others. Now, they're everywhere! I think that makes me a trendsetter, right??

One of my favorite places is to order them is SmashGal. This is a company based in The Woodlands. I have a couple of skirts from there -- my Zebra skirt with the built-in shorts is my all-time fave. I've gotten tons of compliments on it!!!

My other favorite is Team Sparkle. Their running skirts are a bit different. None of them have built-in shorts. These are the skirts we're going to be using on the 3-Day this year. We're wearing Turquoise, which has proven to be a GREAT signature color for Team Tiara. It's easy to spot our team members in the sea of pink. In fact, this year we had a team member who joined the team at the very last minute. After the walk, she sent an email saying she never found us. My first thought was "How'd she miss us???" (I had been wondering where she was all weekend -- never could find her.)

But really, Turquoise does stand out -- and makes us easy to spot whether on the trails, at a pit stop or at lunch. So sticking with Turquoise throughout the weekend will Rock.

Now..... I'm off to the gym. It's just a bit too windy and cold for me to be on my bike today. I have to tell you, I HATE the gym. It's so stagnant. You know? Yesterday, I uploaded a couple of movies to watch on my IPod. I thought that would make the time go by faster, right? Well... The first one I uploaded had a ton of great reviews. I didn't have time to read it all that closely, but I gathered it was a great comedy everyone liked. Until I got on the bike and started watching, I had no idea it was a movie about two lesbians. Who kissed in the opening scene. Not exactly my cup of tea. So.... that's $14.99 wasted, and now I'm down to one movie to watch.

Better get going, though. The really gung-ho work-out Peeps should be gone by now. It's my turn.

Disclaimer: I've never starred in a movie, although I was in a TV commercial for the 3-Day. I do not work for either SmashGal or Team Sparkle. Neither company has ever sent me a free running or tennis skirt, so I'd talk about them on my blog. I've personally paid for every tennis skirt in my closet -- including the ones that don't fit. BUT they will. Soon.