Happy Monday, everyone!
I hope all of you had a fantastic week and are continuing to enjoy the last days of Summer…because as you all know…Summer is still in season for about another week!
And yes…you would be correct in the fact that I have not enjoyed a PSL yet. I’m waiting until the actual Fall season to do so. Go ahead…judge me if you will.
This week’s post will be short and sweet. The main purpose is to give thanks to all of the amazing people in my life who helped make my 1K For 10K Picnic that occurred yesterday a big success.
I started envisioning this 1K For 10K project more than a year ago and the fact that it has come to such an incredible fruition in the past 9 months is absolutely mind boggling to me.
I never would’ve guessed in a million years that I would be writing a blog post on the 16th of September re-iterating the fact that I met the original goal of 10,000 in month 7 and working toward a brand NEW goal of adding an additional $6,000 to that amount.
The amount of support and love I have been shown and given on this journey is indescribable. It is not even something that I can truly convey in words because it just means the world to me. My heart has been filled to the brim and overflowing with gratitude on many occasions this year and it is the best feeling in the world.
While August was a tough month with fundraising and one that brought my momentum to a little slower pace, it was one that did not falter my determination. If anything, it increased my motivation to be more creative in these final four months of fundraising.
The 1K For 10K picnic was an idea brought to me by my very good friend, Marissa. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon that we enjoyed some light food and drinks on the porch of Griddle and Grind while we discussed ideas, venues, and other details about putting this picnic together. I will admit that we had our fair share of stress trying to come up with a final plan and that it was a little rough getting started; however, once we got into our groove, we were on fire. I can’t begin to thank her enough for bringing up the idea and forcing me to sit down, talk about it, and figure out a plan. I’m so incredibly lucky to have her in my life.
There are so many people to thank that were instrumental in making the day a success–so much love, passion, and energy was put into so many details of the day.
To Chef Larry and Chef Greg for donating all the main food for the afternoon–the slider sandwiches, the potato salad, and the fruit salad. Without you guys, our guests would’ve starved. Thank you, thank you, thank YOU times a million.
To my friend Elyse for baking SO MANY delicious Rice Krispie treats and brownies and for helping set-up prior to guests arriving. Your bakery culinary skills are superb and I’m so thankful that you were willing to share them!
To my friend Missy for donating some tasty sugar cookies (literally my favorite) and also helping to set-up prior to guests arriving, especially sweeping the tables. You are just the best…hands down.
To my friend Steph for using her beautiful artistry and calligraphy skills to make signs for our use at no cost. They added such a special touch and were absolutely beautiful!
To everyone who donated raffle prizes for the event–Keith, Jenn, Leidra, Sue, Sharon, Marissa, Holly, Dosie Dough, Triple AAA, Weis, Giant, Mindy, Will, Divine Consign, and also Adrienne who helped secure SO many donations for the entire day. With these raffle prizes, we were able to raise even more money for the kids!
To Jenn for sharing her love of OULA and bringing out the dancing energy in some of us as we powered through some exciting moves and music!
To my incredible, loving, and supportive parents. I can’t even begin to thank you for all that you did behind the scenes in making this event happen. For all of the purchases you made of food, supplies, and also just being there to support and love me through it all. You have taught me so much in how to fight for what I believe in and I love being able to share that passion and mantra with those around me in life.
Finally, I must thank everyone who came out to the event and enjoyed an afternoon of just being together, having fun, and raising funds for the kids. I’m forever grateful and thankful that I have the best line-up of family and friends to count on with love, support, and friendship. Words in a blog post can never really convey the feeling of gratitude that I have for each of you in my heart. Thank you for believing in this cause and for joining me in the fight to find a cure.
A beautiful afternoon of being surrounded by the people I love. I couldn’t ask for anything more. And together, we were able to raise another $535.00 for the kids in the fight against pediatric cancer! That now puts my official total at $11,000, which is insane! We have just another $5,000 to raise before our second goal is hit!
If you are still interested in donating and were not able to attend yesterday’s event, please check out 1Kfor10K.com to make a donation and keep your eyes peeled for other events coming up in the next couple of months.
Until the next time our paths cross, remember to share kindness and love to all.
Sprinkle sunshine always,
JP!
Mr. Sunshine Smiles 