Today is Wednesday, March 23, 2011. Just another day right? Well- not for me. Today was a day full of reflection, emotion, and gratitude. One year ago today I was given news that would forever change me. The words "You have cancer" will ring in my ears forever. I can remember it all so clear- standing in the kitchen preparing breakfast for my boys. They were so cheerfully playing with one another, and Cali Grandma was here to join. I was in a bit of pain from the biopsy the day before, but that pain seemed like nothing compared to the pain I felt when I heard those awful words. We had our day planned out. Errands to run, preschool drop off and pick up, shopping- and this phone call to the imaging place was just one more thing to mark off of the "to do" list. I was sure that I would call and they would tell me everything was fine, and that they would see me in a year. How wrong I was. The doctor who performed the biopsy also delivered the news to me. I remember thinking I felt like I was suddenly in an episode of Charlie Brown, because I couldn't understand a word she was saying. I quickly handed the phone to my Mom and just hoped that she could make sense of it all and possibly change the result. I fell to my knees and began sobbing in the hallway, as my kids quickly ran to me to see what was wrong. I couldn't hold it in, but I didn't want to tell them. I told them that Mommy had just heard some bad news, but assured them that everything would be alright. Mom was in the kitchen quickly writing notes as the doctor spoke. This is when the whirlwind began.
I called Brian at work and just asked for him to come home as quickly as possible. The shopping and the errands were quickly scratched off of the "to do" list. My world came crashing down at that instant. The phone calls then began. We called my favorite doc- Dr Semrad- to get guidance and figure out what step number one was. He was so amazing and got me in to see the most amazing general surgeon the next day. His schedule was booked for the next month, but Dr Semrad made magic happen! I began reading, googling, crying, googling, crying, reading. I was numb.
That day seemed like the absolute longest day of my life. And here I sit, one year later, with a smile on my face as I type this, thinking of all of the beautiful things that I have to be grateful for. I made it! We made it! I chose to fight and I won! I used to think that sounded kind of silly- but not now. I get it. I lived it. I am living it! We still have a couple of months to go before we celebrate the one year anniversary from surgery, but today was still a big day.
I noticed things today- things I don't think I paid attention to a year ago. I noticed the birds chirping, and the smell of freshly cut grass. I snuggled extra long with my boys- and felt so lucky to do so. I had a card waiting for me when I got up this morning from my amazing husband- and cried as I read it- paying attention to how meaningful his words are.
Life is good. Cancer brought me to a whole new place. I wouldn't change it. I have learned so much- and so much I want to share.
Thank you to everyone who has loved us through this most challenging year. We learned that family doesn't always necessarily mean blood, for we were carried through this by the love of our friends, and most importantly God. He has a plan for us and we are so excited to be open to that and on this journey with Him.
As I continue to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally, I promise to do so with a purpose. I am going to make a difference- somehow, someway. Walk this journey with me- we can all learn so much!
Much Love and Gratitude
Lindsay

Once again sorry for the long layoff but life seems to take up quite a bit of time. Yes our vacation before Christmas was wet but fantastic. I cannot believe how many people ride those little carts around, I hope most of the people actually are have something wrong with them. I have a feeling many of them may just be lazy.

Lindsay is doing well. She is back working part time and feeling good. The boys are running her ragged but what else is new, at least she is here on earth enjoying her time with her kids. I had mentioned that our friend Rhonda was about to go in for the same procedure that Lindsay underwent. We had many discussions before her surgery and I am very glad she chose to use Dr. Boll and Dr. Eden. They are such wonderful doctors, they are also great people. Rhonda is doing well, it is heartbreaking to think another person must endure the surgery and pain that Lindsay just went through. We are so happy to hear that her recovery is going well.

Unfortunately Lindsay just had another friend discover this week that she too has breast cancer. It is so hard to put into words what you feel and the thoughts that run through your mind the day you find out. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family and hope that she understands that there are people out here thinking about her progress daily. Cancer has become an epidemic, it is very disturbing how prevalent this disease is. There must be a way we can change how we live our lives to prevent further infection of this disease.

On a positive note Lindsay just received a note from Susan G. Komen. It stated how greatful they are to her and Team Boobweiser for the amount of money they raised for the 3 day. The total amount raised by her team was $46,500, that is amazing. I know Lindsay had a horrible year but there were some great things to come out of 2010. I truly feel that we are here now to help others by fundraising and by helping others with our knowledge of the process of beating breast cancer. I know we are not experts on this topic but if there are people out there with questions concerning friends, family members or yourself please do not hesitate to reach out to us we are here to help.

B

I guess the happiest place on earth is not that happy with 5 inches of rain. The employees did not seem like they wanted to be there. We braved the storm, arrived at the park at 9pm and stayed until 11:30. Our boys are serious troopers, they were soaked but we had a great time. We will try it again tomorrow, they are saying it is going to rain even harder. I guess that just means shorter lines for us. At least it seems a little like Christmas with some weather.

Once again sorry for the vacancy, it is amazing how life goes so fast with children. Just an update, Lindsay is doing well the walk was fantastic and inspiring. Thanks to all of Lindsay's team and any others that joined them on the trail. The holidays are here and for many reasons we are looking forward to 2011.

Yet another friend of ours has been diagnosed for the second time with breast cancer. She will be undergoing the same procedure Lindsay did in May. This just reaffirms the reason we need to continue any type of breast cancer research. Our prayers go out to her and her family.

Disneyland

We are heading to see Mickey soon. I have not been in about 25 years, I am sure it looks a little different. I know I have asked this question before but is Goofy a man or a woman? I would hate to have to check for myself when we get there.

Merry Christmas to everyone, may all of your holiday dreams come true. Thanks for the year of support and unconditional love given to our family.

B

Wow!!!!!! The journey once again started yesterday. I was fortunate enough to be at the opening ceremonies of the 3 day walk. This was the culmination of Team Boobweiser's fundraising, training and love for the search for the cure. It is hard to put into words how emotional the ceremony was. My love for my wife continues to reach new peaks. To see a woman go through what she has been through in the last 6 months yet be so dedicated to do this is once again inspirational. I was able to watch thousands of people set out on a three day march which means something different to all of them.

The boys, my mom and I were met by some close friends at the first cheering station of the day. It was so amazing to finally see the team. The boys were unbelievably calm and understanding of the wait, and once they spotted their mom it was all worth the wait. The ladies walking for Team Boobweiser were energetic and ready to take on the world. We then met them at 4 other places throughout the day. The boys were troopers and hung in their the whole way.

I then realized these ladies were walking for my wife, but not just that. They were out there because their friend had gone through a hellish year and they were there to support her but there was more to it than just that. I soon found out a ton about these women. This was a commitment to Lindsay, a commitment to there bodies and a commitment to themselves. These ladies truly are walking for hope, love, pride, life and for the cure. What a beautiful way to honor a friend and themselves.

Today we met the crew at the first cheering station in Scottsdale. It was amazing to have friends and family show up, what an uplifting moment. The boys and I then went to meet the ladies at 6 other points on the walk route. The people in the walk really enjoyed seeing the boys in their pink shirts, Dylan swears he gave out a zillion high fives. They are awesome young men if I say so myself. My pride as a father to see those little guys cheer on so many people is overwhelming.

We have some other friends that were walking as well. They have been doing it for a few years to honor a friend of mine from college, Eileen. It was wonderful to see all of them on the path as well.

Every time we were able to see the team I reminded them how proud I was of each and every one of them. For some reason chokes me up every time. There were women on the team that had extreme blisters from yesterday yet they were still out there. My wife is battling some throat issues and foot blisters yet she is still out there. The ladies all had ailments I guess that is what I am so impressed by, none of them were complaining they just kept walking.

The ladies on the team wanted to let me know that some of them had used some of the shuttles to take them up a few miles but my wife refused to do so. There is no shame in taking one of the shuttles many of the walkers do it. Once again I am very proud of my wife she is an inspiration along with all of the other walkers.

Tomorrow will once again be a very emotional day. I am looking forward to it.

Well the time is finally here. Friday morning, Team Boobweiser will begin the journey of walking 60 miles to fight breast cancer. I can't believe this is all happening. Just 8 months ago I was hearing the words, "I am sorry to have to tell you this, but you have breast cancer." This weekend we will celebrate survival!!!!!!! I decided to fight and I have to say, winning feels pretty darn good! There are 15 members of Team Boobweiser that will be walking along with thousands of other men and women. I think we are all looking forward to this life changing experience. Thank you to each and everyone of you who has supported us along the way as we worked to reach fundraising goals, trained, and just listened as we shared our excitement. The route has been posted and below is a list of cheering stations. It would be amazing to see some of you out there along the way to keep us motivated and moving!

Cheering Stations
Public cheering stations are a great way to show your support along the route to encourage walkers and let them know that you are with them every step of the way. Seeing familiar faces cheering them on can provide that extra burst of energy that gets them to take that next step or go the next mile. Create banners, hold up signs, bring some music and make some noise - anything to make them smile, get energized and keep walking.
Please note that only registered participants with a valid event credential should be walking on the 3-Day route and utilizing the 3-Day pit stops. We ask that all supporters and spectators gather at cheering stations in order to show their support, and do not walk the route or drive along the route.
Friday, November 12
8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Safeway1060 E Ray Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85224

12:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Tempe Cinemas1825 E Elliot Rd.Tempe, AZ 85284

Saturday, November 13
10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Scottsdale Old TownMain Street between Scottsdale Rd. and Goldwater Blvd.Scottsdale, AZ 85281

11:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.Business ParkRoosevelt between Southern Rd. and BroadwayTempe, AZ 85282 Sunday, November 14

9:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Best Buy1949 E Camelback Rd.Phoenix, AZ 85016
11:15 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.Park Central3110 N Central Ave.Phoenix, AZ 85012

Hello,

We are 1 week away from the 3 day walk. Lindsay is doing well and ready to walk with her friends and many others that have been on similar journey's. I will try to post on here the various cheering stations. The boys and myself will be hitting many along the way all three days. We also plan on being at the finish which is at the State Fairgrounds, 19th ave and Grand. Thanks again to all of you that have donated, were a part of the golf tournament, my co-workers and all of those that made it possible for Team Boobweiser to be walking in this incredible event. By the way Team Boobweiser is looking to top the $40,000 mark, they are currently at $38,000. We were not a part of this weekend last year, I guess God works in many ways to help us help others. I cannot tell you how proud I am of my wife for being dedicated to this cause. Her friends/support group have been amazing, thank you for all you do.

Like I said I will try to post the cheering stations, I think you may be able to access it on the 3-day website as well. If you are cheering or want to be a part of the finish line please bring your signs to encourage the walkers. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. bmcmains@hensley.com


Politics

Well it looks like we have a case of gridlock in the House. There are now Republicans and Democrats that will have to make decisions on how to make things better. I think this is a good thing, lock them all in a room and make them work together you would think one or two of them would have some good ideas. My son just told me he needs to poop really bad so I need to go now. Thanks