The 3 Day 2009

OK, so after reading every one's suggestions on what and what not to bring, checking the weather a million times and cramming everything needed into Space Bags (to keep everything dry) I was finally packed. All of my belongings, including my sleeping bag and pillows, had to fit into my ONE duffel bag. Thank goodness for Space Bags.

It was the morning of the event at 3:30 am. I'm up and getting ready to leave. I have to admit, I had butterflies in my stomach. I had never done anything like this before. Fund raising over $2500, training and heading off to an event where I didn't know a soul to spend 3 days walking. What the heck was I thinking??? Anyway, Kent was willing to drive me into Daly City where the walk began. We had to leave the house at 4:45 am to arrive by 6:00 am. So off went.

As we were driving up to the Cow Palace I started to get excited. There was pink everywhere!!! Women and men directing traffic with bra's over their clothes. I was looking for the truck that I was supposed to leave my (remember, one) bag. I know, I like to brag about my "one-time" packing success. Anyway, once we found the truck, I jumped out and gave Kent a kiss and headed up the ramp into the event.

I did feel pretty overwhelmed. Everywhere I looked were seasoned walkers, survivors, husbands, dads, daughters, mothers, sisters, friends and first timers like me. Everyone was smiling and very friendly. I immediately felt comfortable and loved. So, once I kinda figured out where I was supposed to go, I called Andie, a lady that I met online who was walking for the first time as well. We signed up to be "Tentmates." I had never seen her before, so I didn't know who to look for. But, that didn't stop me from asking a few people if they were "Andie" and at last, I found her. She was walking with her friends who hugged me immediately.


Just about then, it was time for Opening Ceremonies. I quickly headed to the wall where you can write down some words of inspiration or the reason you are doing the walk.

The ceremony was amazing! Once the gates are open, the first people walking with the flags led us on our 3-Day journey. That wasn't even the coolest part! Following the flags were the San Jose Police Officers who volunteered to ride bikes and escort us the entire 60 miles. Amazing!

I didn't realize that as I began to walk the steps that I was taking were going to change me, all the way down to my soul.


Follow me through Daly City as I continue to share my experiences with you!