$2,055 for Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario

A great BIG thank you for your generous support of Sally and I in raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario.  We walked, cycled, ran played paintball and quilted in 2010 and raised a grand total of $2,055.  Wow! Thank you very, very much.  You can check out the total at our secure fund raising site, moralesBcause.

We are taking a break for now but are energized about 2011.  We'll have details of our fund raising later on in 2011 but rest assured that running, quilting and playing paintball will most likely be on the agenda.

THANK YOU!

The Quilting Girl on Paying it Forward

Sally presenting the Quilt for Heart to the winner, Cindy R.

Not everyone loves quilts. I myself was impartial to them until my friend Candice challenged me to make one. I was instantly hooked!

Despite the (sometimes) frustrations inherent in cutting, piecing and quilting, in the end you can hold your “Warm and Cosy”, the product of many hours of your persistence and labours, and know that it will give you or its recipient many years of warmth and comfort! Every quilt is personal.

We personally support Heart and Stroke because so many of our family members have been affected by this disease. This year’s quilt was made up of 12 stars representing all of the people in many of our lives who have been affected by heart disease and/or stroke: Mother/Father, Sister/Brother, Grandma/Grandpa, Aunt/Uncle, Niece/Nephew, and Friend/Neighbour.

Our raffle winner this year is Cindy R. from Wasaga Beach. When I delivered her quilt, she told me that she would be donating it to Simcoe Hospice where her Mom is a new resident. One of the comforts they offer residents is fresh quilts almost every day.

Again, to all who supported the quilt draw a heartfelt thank you. Heart disease, Stroke, Cancer….please remember to donate when and where you can; every bit counts.

Cindy… you have given me more than I gave you.

God Bless.

Sally
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guest blogger, Sally Pennock is a quilter who took it up earlier this year.  This was her 4th quilt.  If you would like to make a donation to support our fundraising for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, click here to access our secure online donation site, moralesBcause.  Thank you.

It's been a hell of a year! 7 things I learned.

It started with unbridled optimism.  Unrealistic at the time but you have to start somewhere.  After the year of managing downward in 2009, there was only one way to go and that was up.  A year later we're popping the champagne celebrating a 'year lived well '.  I share my learning from the painful - sometimes - experiences:

1. Never EVER give up.  There is no rationale for this, and no school teaches it.  The only sure way to learn this is to experience pain and work out of it. 
2. Focus on what is important.  My family is the most important and treasured thing to me.  I embraced this big time in 2010.
3. Plan for the future.  No you can't predict it but you are a dam sight closer to achieving what you want if you have a vision of what you want.
4. Change gears quickly when the S hits the fan.  I don't mean slow down, I mean change NOW!  The S doesn't get any cleaner or shallower the farther you slide in.
5. Ask for help.  Duh!  
6. Life is not good or bad...it just is! Stop trying to explain it or blame it.
7. Keep moving.  Running actually.  Without running I'd be dead.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

The Reggae Marathon rocks!

A fabulous time had by all at the Reggae Marathon last week in Negril. My second time in Negril and did the 1/2 marathon this year. And this year was even more special: I got to run with one of my sons, Courtney and he even let me keep up with him.

I'll never win the overall event but if I keep it up I will likely qualify for an age group medal in a few years. That will keep me moving.

Maybe I should have worn the the Lightening Bolts.

This is an article that appeared recently with details of the race. Green, Mondon rock Reggae Marathon
You can also check out the Reggae Marathon Blog for up-to-date stories and more pictures.

Thanks for your support.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon | Negril, Jamaica | Whatsonwhen

Two weeks away now from the Reggae Marathon. I'm still hobbled with an injury to my right foot but with a little rest, deep massage and a little 'medicine' I will press on.

Reggae Marathon | Negril, Jamaica | Whatsonwhen

Until next time...

that running guy

Usain Bolt test drives Ferraris on F1 team's track

Two of my favourite things: Running and Cars. Usain Bolt was suitably impressed with the acceleration of the Ferrari. That from the world's fastest man is something.

Usain Bolt test drives Ferraris on F1 team's track - Story - 3 Sport - 3 News

Until next time...
that running guy

You know you are a Runner when...Top 10 list

There are lots of ways to determine if you are a runner as opposed to a 'jogger'.  Nothing cranks me up more that being asked, "Are you going jogging?"  That of course prompted me to blog about it.  Here is the post I put up on the Reggae Marathon blog this morning with the Top 10 things that prove you are a runner:  Top 10 Reasons to indicate you are a Runner 

 Sally, Court and I are back in Negril in a couple of weeks to run the Reggae Marathon again.  That's me from last year well before hitting the wall.

Until next time...
that running guy

Jamaica's 10th Reggae Marathon Attracts Participation By Team Lipstick USA, December 4, 2010 (Jamaica)

It's tough staying calm about the Reggae Marathon. I've run, swam, and biked in numerous 10 K's, 1/2 marathon's and triathlons over the years but the Reggae Marathon in Negril pumps me up. Maybe its my Jamaican heritage or the fact that I love beaches...whatever the reason, I am totally jacked about it.

Sally and I made it down last year and made a number of friends. We're back again this year bringing Court with us. He and I are running the 1/2 marathon Saturday morning...that's going to be truly memorable.

As you know I've been blogging for the Reggae Marathon since September. It's been great to see the media coverage extending out now from all the blogging, tweeting and facebooking. Hey, that stuff really works! Team Lipstick from New York will be in Negril this year to train and run. They just like to run hard, play hard and have fun...all the really important values in life. Check out their story in the article below:

Jamaica's 10th Reggae Marathon Attracts Participation By Team Lipstick USA, December 4, 2010 (Jamaica)

Until next time...
that running guy

Blogging and running and running and blogging...where did the fall go?

I don't know about you, but "where did September and October go?".  It seems that just moments ago we were sitting outside on the deck enjoying the warm weather and a few adult beverages and now I have to put socks on! 

If you've been following the storyline, you may recall that a couple of months ago I became the official blogger for the Reggae Marathon.  And yes, blogging for them and a couple of other clients has kept me away from personal blogging.  I apologize for that.

I have always been a storyteller.  I loved hearing the adults tell stories at family functions as a kid.  I can still vividly recall Dad and his cronies 'talking politics' around the bar at home in Jamaica. 

I got into the storytelling business myself late one night when I heard 'The Hobbit' on CBC radio.  I was at the University of Waterloo at the time and was blown away by the vividness of the images that the broadcast conjured up. The very next morning I applied for an announcing job at the university radio station and within months had successfully entered the broadcasting program at Conestoga College.  Talk about a change.  The conversation with Mom and Dad about that career change was 'interesting'. But I was passionate about and they were very supportive.

I have never regretted the decision.  It led to a career in marketing and advertising that I am still passionate about and still enjoy.  And it led to blogging.  I've managed to combine running and blogging with storytelling and making a living.  I guess that passion thing really works. 

I'm looking forward to finishing up the fall of 2010 with the Reggae Marathon run in Negril on December 4.  Sally is coming of course (couldn't do it without her) and this year Court is joining us.  He and I will be running the 1/2 marathon and I hope to cross the finish line with him. I can't think of a bigger thrill.

Until next time...
thatrunningguy

Large field expected for Dec 4 10th anniversary Reggae Marathon

The 10th annual Reggae Marathon is going to be a blast. Sally, Court and I will be there this year. Court and I will be running the 1/2 marathon this year...Sally will be our excellent as usual support system.

Check out this story from one of the Reggae Marathon sponsors, the Jamaica Observer this morning:

Large field expected for Dec 4 Reggae Marathon - Jamaica Sports & Athletics: Football, Track, Cricket, Netball & More - JamaicaObserver.com

Until next time...

that running guy

Endurance Traveler Takes Viewers onTour of Bob Marley Museum and run the Reggae Marathon

The last mile of the Reggae Marathon is called "Bob's Mile" in honour of Bob Marley. Motivational sayings are etched in paint along the road. I've been there...they work.

I found out yesterday that Bob Marley's son, Rohan Marley will be in Jamaica to run the Reggae Marathon this year. He'll be in Negril with Dean Warhaft of Endurance Traveler. Cool. You know I've been completely captivated by the Reggae Marathon for the past couple of years (Sally would say obsessed...who am I to argue) so to think that a Marley will be running the same Reggae Marathon course is really cool. If you're interested, check out the announcement here: Endurance Traveler Takes Viewers on Exclusive Tour of Bob Marley Museum

Until next time...

that running guy

PS: 44 days to the Reggae Marathon

Overcoming adversity: Another Marathon and another lesson

I love this story.

You see, I didn't make it to the start line of the Goodlife Toronto Marathon last Sunday. I injured my foot with over training for the Reggae Marathon. Planter injury in my right foot.  I've been struggling with not running...if I miss a couple of days, I get stressed even though I know that rest is the only way to recover.

Then I read this article on finishing the Goodlife marathon and though I'm still frustrated, I came away renewed with this story of perseverance. Enjoy the read: YorkRegion Blog: Another Marathon and another lesson

And see you at the Reggae Marathon, December 4 in Negril, Jamaica

Until next time...
that running guy

There was running involved at Paint Attack...$700 raised for Heart & Stroke

Thank you CMO, AMO, Sully, Fitz, Johnnie, Derek, Matt T, Michael P, CP, Alex!  What a perfect day Saturday at Wasaga Beach Paintball for the 2nd Annual Paintball fundraiser, Paint Attack, for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario.  We raised over $700...and you got to shoot me!

We got together on October 16 for Paint Attack, the name our sons came up with for our paintball fundraising event.  They got a number of their friends to head up to Wasaga Beach for an afternoon of paintball and fundraising.  And of course, I played with them.

After the safety video, we all got suited up and had our paintmarkers issued.  We proceeded outside under near perfect conditions to the staging area where we met our referee.  With masks down, and a final safety briefing, we headed out to the playing fields, first stop, Western Town.  Even though it was friendly competition, it soon became clear that the 'game was on'.

Attack and defend, elimination, rescue the pilot...we lost track of the game scenarios.  And with so many outdoor playing fields, each game provided new opportunities to shoot...I meant mark...our opponent.  CMO, I love you dearly but I got you good in Blackhawk Town! 

And yes, they loved 'lighting up their Dad' in return.

Claiming that I had to go help Sally set up for the after party that featured a catered shrimp, chicken and steak BBQ by Goodies back at Saga Resort in Wasaga Beach, I begged off early.  True confession:  I was exhausted!  Running to stay out of your sights was my major objective all afternoon.

Thanks everybody.  We couldn't have done it without you.  100% of the proceeds went to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario.  And Sally, thanks for making all the Paint Attack arrangements:  the hotel reservations at Saga Resort, the fantastic dinner from Goodies and of course taking the pictures.

Looking forward to Paint Attack III in 2011.

Until next year...
that running guy with a ton of help from all of you!

PS:  click here to make a donation directly to moralesBcause on our secure donation page

"I too hear the drums" book launch draws a crowd

Diane Ellis, a good friend and associate from Jamaica is justifiably proud of her niece Peta-Gaye Nash who successfully launched her book, "I too hear the drums".
The stories that she writes about deal with issues that every Jamaican of mixed heritage faces: not being seen to be 'Jamaican enough'. After nearly 40 years of living, working and raising a family in Canada, I still get asked that question. Her book is a must read. For more information, you can find more information in this article from the Mississauga News: Mississauga Article: Book launch draws a crowd

Until next time...
that running guy

Better Mus' Come to All Jamaica - Jamaica Entertainment: Fashion, Music & TV News - JamaicaObserver.com

How long has this line been uttered? My family left Jamaica in the early 70s because of the violence and total breakdown of decent society. Time to stop talking and start doing

Better Mus' Come to All Jamaica - Jamaica Entertainment: Fashion, Music & TV News - JamaicaObserver.com

Until next time...

that running guy

Training hard for the 10th anniversary of the Reggae Marathon

59 days to go...

If you've been up in Wasaga Beach recently along Shorelane Road, you've seen a man running backward. That was me. Yes it looked silly but I was working on form and speed. Running backward helps with both. If you see me, take a picture.

Next week at the Goodlife Toronto Marathon, I'll find out if all this training paid off.   Forefoot running, faster turnover, arms, breathing...whew, hope I remember it all. No matter the result, I'll have lots to share after.  I has kept the training and running interesting and fun.

This is part of the build up to the main event, the Reggae Marathon on Dec 4 in Negril, Jamaica. 2010 is a special year, the 10th anniversary. It promises to be bigger and better than ever.  Race director, Alfred Francis and his team are jamming now to have everything ready.  We can hardly wait.  For the interview with Alfred, click here:  Interview with Reggae Marathon Race Director, Alfred Francis - Celebrating 10 years (Jamaica)

Until next time...
that running guy

Invitation to Peta Gay Nash's book launch

This is a special post from my friend, fellow runner and associate Diane Ellis.  Her niece is launching her first book at an event in Streetsville, October 3 from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Her book is titled, 'I too hear the drums'.  It is a collection of short storeys exploring the tensions of personal relations and racial identity set in dual, conflicting worlds of North America and the Caribbean.  Something I have personally dealt with.

The location is the Masonic Lodge in Streetsville.  Admission is free.  Contact inourwords@bell.net or 905 486 0059 for more info and to RSVP.

Until next time...
that running guy 

Who is the new guy on the Reggae Marathon blog?

That picture was taken around the 12 mile mark of the Reggae Marathon last December.  I was still gloriously naive about what was ahead.  Thankfully with the help and advice from Sally, the Wasaga Beach Road Runners and the Jamdammers of Jamaica, I made it through in relatively good shape.

Sally and I are looking forward to our trip to Negril this December.  She knows what to expect for the weather and the driving!  I'm looking forward to the marathon event and have been training hard:  lots of hill and speed work to build up strength.  And again this year, I'm running in the Toronto Goodlife marathon  in October.  The only thing missing will be the heat.

Look out for blog posts from the Reggae Marathon blog (true confession:  I'm the 'new guy', the official Reggae Marathon blogger) and visit the 'new and improved' Reggae Marathon web site.  See you in Negril this December.

Until next time...
that running guy

Reggae Marathon and other running news

We have a lot of running news to share;  its been a busy couple of months running, training and getting ready for the Reggae Marathon in Negril, December 4.

First of all, if you are in the Greater Toronto Area September 24 or 25, stop by the Reggae Marathon booth at the Scotiabank Toronto Marathon Expo.  We'll be there flying the Jamaican colours.  And not just casually, but as the official Blogger for the Reggae Marathon blog.  Look out for news later this week ... and blog posts about the fantastic Negril experience in store for you this December!

That leads to the next big news:  the all new and improved Reggae Marathon web site and blog launches this week.  I'll be blogging and sharing pictures from the Scotiabank Marathon Expo on the weekend and posting stories each week.  I look forward to your comments.

And finally, Sally and I are now booked for our trip to Negril in December!  We can't wait to get back to Negril.  We hope to see you there.

Until next time...
that running guy

Why Social Media Is a Game-Changer for Causes

The results of utilizing social media for your cause can be significant.

Why Social Media Is a Game-Changer for Causes

How we spent Terry Fox Sunday

We had a great day today.  We got up early to help out at the Terry Fox Run in Wasaga Beach and followed that up with the celebration of the completion of Sally's 'Quilt for Heart'.  Feels good!

Here are some pictures.

The start of the event...a perfect day on Wasaga Beach

That's the way to run...just have fun!

Our better halves...or the ladies who put up with our early morning runs and our aches & pains

And to top it off, here is Sally's completed 'Quilt for Heart'.  Finished and looking great.

Why do I run?

I get a lot of questions from friends and strangers asking me why I run.

It started with the motivation to loose weight and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and the other 'bad' illnesses bedevilled my family.  Over the years I have raced in multiple running events and triathlons. I have run in every city I have travelled in.  That by itself doesn't explain why.

To try and do that I have given long, rambling answers.  And yes I have seen the polite response.  My wife Sally has learned to give me "the look".

I stumbled across this video recently and it gives the best answer:  running gives me the opportunity to do my absolute best for a cause.  Check out the video for the rest of the story:




Until next time...
that running guy

Natural Stride Sports: Strategies for Dealing With Chronic Injury

I have been intrigued about barefoot running recently and came accross fellow blogger, George Columbo who writes a cool blog dedicated to the subject. This article also caught my eye, especially cross-training: Natural Stride Sports: Strategies for Dealing With Chronic Injury

Good luck with the triathlons George. I did them for a couple of years and thoroughly enjoyed both the training and the events.

Top 10 list of questions to ponder while running

The best thinking time happens while running. That of course from a dedicated runner.

Here are the top 10 questions I ponder (please share if you have any of your own by leaving a comment):

#10: Why can't grownups have a nap in the afternoon?

#9:  Who made up the rule that you can't wear white after Labour Day?

#8:  Why do drivers keep their fog lights on in the daytime?

#7:  What is an Android Smartphone?

#6:  If we all have Blackberries and iPhones, when does the work day end?

#5:  What's all the fuss about barefoot running?

#4: Why do we make these lists?

#3:  How I would spend $50 million?

#2:  Are Facebook friends really friends if you have never met them?

#1:  Who says I have to grow up?

Until next time...
"That Running Guy"

The Reggae Marathon medal that we run 26.2 miles to get

At last year's event in Negril I was so thrilled to have finally made it that I completely forgot to accept my medal.  Thanks to Sally who hung out for the entire morning near the finish line and grabbed it for me.  I won't make that oversight this year.

Plan to travel to Negril on Wednesday, December 1 so that you can get in a couple of fine days of vacation on the beach before the race.  Oh, and a couple of pre race runs to get used to the sun.

See you in December in Negril for the Reggae Marathon.

Hot weather running tips...especially for the Reggae Marathon

A lot of people who live in non-tropical climates have asked me recently how to train for the Reggae Marathon.  The reality is that with the race in December, it is tough to duplicate the conditions and condition yourself for the event.  The best advice is to get to Negril a couple of days early so you can get in a couple of runs prior to the race.  That way you will get some sense of the heat and humidity.

The second best advice is to pay attention to hydration.  I can't stress that enough.

Finally, slow down!  You are running in Negril.  Along one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.  There is reggae music at every mile.  Smile.  Enjoy the run.

For some additional tips, I found this video helpful.  Enjoy the run.  See you in Negril!

I am Jamaican

Check out the Jamaican Diaspora song:

I AM JAMAICA - The Jamaican Diaspora Theme Song

- Watch more Music Videos at Vodpod.

Bagged water at every mile gets you through the Reggae Marathon

When you get the freshly opened coconut at the end of the Reggae Marathon, it is all worth it.  See you in December 2010 in Negril.

Official 2009 Reggae Marathon video

I even made it on the video! You have to look closely though.



2010 is going to be even more fun

News from the Reggae Marathon

 

Welcome to the Reggae Marathon newsletter   Dear Reggae Runners and Walkers, Through this medium, we'll be keeping you updated on the 2010 Reggae Marathon event. Come and celebrate the event's 10th anniversary this year! Reggae Marathon has become the Caribbean's, and one of the world's, best marathon events.   Favorites such as the "the World's Best Pasta Party", and the sounds of invigorating reggae music continue to add unique flavor,.  A special feature of  our 2010 celebrations will be the Victory "Beach" Party, to be held during the race event in Negril, Jamaica, on Saturday, December 4 at Long Bay Beach Park, home of the Race Start and Finish. Register Early For Reggae Marathon! Remember to register early for the Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K event.   Emile Leiba, president of the Jamdammers Running Club, organizers of the event, is reminding all prospective participants that the fee structure for Reggae Marathon changes, as per usual, come August 1. After August 1, 2010, each participant for the marathon and half marathon will pay US$ 95 (US$ 85 up to July 31) while each 10K entrant will pay US$ 70 (US$ 60 up to July 31).   You can register here. Fare Discounts From AA Available Now! American Airlines and Reggae Marathon are pleased to offer,a special discount on fares for the event. To receive this discount, please call American Airlines Meeting Services Desk at 1-800-433-1790 from anywhere in the United States or Canada or go to www.AA.com and refer to the Promotion Code listed on the homepage of our website. The promotion is only valid for travel between November 27 - December 10, 2010 for travel to Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica. Did You Know...? Memorabilia from the Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K event is currently on display at the AIMS Marathon Museum of Running located in the Berlin Olympic Park, Berlin. The AIMS Marathon Museum of Running  continuously receives objects relating to running from around the world and acts as a magnet for many marathon experts. About 15,000 historical objects (jerseys, running shoes, placards, medals, certificates, prizes, advertising and organizational materials, etc.) have been collected so far. It now fills about 120 running metres of shelving. The photograph collection also contains about 1.5 million images. To view, arrangements can be made ahead of time (by phone or email) and visits are possible on Sundays and Wednesdays. More information here. July 2010 - Issue: 1 Support Our Young Runners Many children who participate in Reggae Marathon's Grand Prix Road Race Series need good running shoes.  Instead of throwing out those good used running shoes, bring them to Reggae Marathon in Negril and drop them in a specially marked box at Registration. We will distribute those shoes to the children taking part in the 2011 Road Race Series. Download Our:   Fact Sheet   International Entry Form   Local Entry Form

Forward email This email was sent to chris.morales@sympatico.ca by racedirector@reggaemarathon.com. Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy. Email Marketing by Reggae Marathon Ltd. | 87-89 Tower Street | Kingston | Jamaica

This is why I love auto racing

Driver leading the race. Sets up for a left hander. Makes his move to clip the apex. Gets penalized for 'Blocking'. You decide.

Brand New Machine in Kingston...Steve's home

My cuz got back to the island in one piece after an around the world tour with Sean Paul:

Page 2, the Observer

Now THAT is living...

Hot! Hot! Hot!!...now lets get quilting

From Guest Blogger Sally, the latest update on the quilt that she is making for our Heart & Stroke Foundation fundraising this year.


                                                  
 -------------------------------------------

Hi:

Ok, it's so hot here, EVERYONE has gone to the malls! Really cold A/C (during peak hours)!

I was good: stayed home, went to the (very cool) basement to sew.

Since I finished Michael's birthday quilt, wanted to start working on the "donation" quilt.  Not sure about one of the fabrics though. It looked good at the time, but it seems a little dull now...I may have to reconsider/replace it.  Oh well...

Also, I think I need a higher table, at least counter height.  This bending over while cutting is v. hard on the back.  Sounds like I have some shopping in MY future!  New fabric, higher table.  LOL.

Talk later.  xoxoxo

 Sally 

Interview with Alfred Francis about the Reggae Marathon

10th anniversary of the Reggae Marathon  in 2010.  Won't miss it this year.  Here is an interview with Alfred Francis, CEO of the Reggae Marathon with some details of some special events.

Interview with Alfred Francis (CEO of ReggaeMarathon.com)

Breakfast Television in Wasaga Beach

If you feel like an early run on Friday, join us at Beach#1 some of us Wasaga Beach Road Runners will be trying to get some face time with the Breakfast Television show. Jen Valentine and Frank Ferragini will be here ... and there will be free breakfasts available from local restaurants promoting 100 mile produce.

Recent hot, hazy days of summer make HYDRATION even more important ... this is an easy "from your fridge" solution.
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-301--13200-0,00.html?cm_mmc=nutrition-_-2010_07_08-_-nutrition-_-HYDRATION%3a%20Open%20your%20Fridge

Cheers, Mike

(Guest Blogger, Mike McCluskey, Founder of the Wasaga Beach Road Runners)

How men are different from women...the Nothing Box

Brilliant description of the difference between the brain of a man and a woman.

Male_and_Female_Brains.wmv

Plus an explanation of the 'Nothing Box' inside men's minds.

Now I truly understand...

Jamaican Recipes: JAMAICAN ESCOVEITCH FISH RECIPE

Sitting on the back deck on a hot, humid Saturday afternoon. Had a craving for something "Jamaican" to eat. Decided on an impulse to cook up some escoveitch fish. Here is the recipe: Jamaican Recipes: JAMAICAN ESCOVEITCH FISH RECIPE

All we need now is a Red Stripe...

Email from Sally about her Quilt for Heart

Sally has started working on the quilt that she is making to raise money for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario.  Below is her email.  Hey, she is now an official guest blogger...leave her a comment.

 

----------------------------------------------------------

Hi,

I was at C&C Fabrics in Elmvale today;  I bought fabric for the Heart & Stroke donation quilt! I decided on a pattern called  "Friendship Star".  I liked this one  because it would remind people of all their Loved Ones they have who have suffered, or have been lost to Heart and Stroke disease.

The quilt will have 12 stars in it to represent:

Mother/Father

Sister/Brother

Son/Daughter

Aunt /Uncle

Niece/Nephew

Neighbour

FRIEND

 

Each star is a different colour to show that the disease is widespread; not restricted to gender, race, culture or class.

 

I will start cutting fabrics soon.  Hope you like it!

S.

Rabobank Announces Tour de France Roster - News | Giant Bicycles | Canada

Rabobank Announces Tour de France Roster - News | Giant Bicycles | Canada

We're going quilting...well, Sally is!

Sally tried walking.  And liked it.  But not enough to go hard-core.  She leaves that up to me.

What she loves is quilting.  She took it up recently and has already completed her first, is working on her second and has planned her third.  Who knew!

With these successes, she has decided to make a special quilt and raffle it off to raise money for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario, our cause in 2010.

For those of you who have never quilted, this  is a major deal.  I can't count the hours she has spent so far cutting, sewing, researching and visiting her new favourite store, the quilt shop in Cookstown.  I work out a lot, but her effort, hours and concentration dwarf mine.

We are still working on the final details but plan to offer a limited number of tickets for our quilt raffle...your odds of winning will be good.  Plus, 100% of each ticket cost will go directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario via our secure donation site, moralesBcause.

Win, win, win!

Your donation gives you a chance to win a hand-made-from-the-heart quilt, you make a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation that helps research and education about heart disease and stroke.

We'll be blogging about this and posting photos and articles of the "Making of the Quilt" story over the upcoming months.  Yes, you will get to see how Sally puts this special quilt together.

Stay tuned...

Overcame the conditions in the Becel Ride for Heart today!

 

"Got er dun!"

 

At the start of the Becel Ride for Heart Sunday morning it was hard not to be emotional.  Here were 13,000 other people braving the cold, rain and wind to ride for someone they cared about who had been struck down by heart disease or stroke. 

 

While we are coming up on two years since my Dad passed away and time does dull the feelings, that moment before heading off brought it all back.  I'm do this because I miss him terribly.  His sense of humour, story telling and love of life.  Damm!

 

The email below came a few hours after the ride.  You are welcome.  Thank you for the opportunity to help save lives.

 

You can still donate.  Just click this link to go to our secure, on-line donation site:  http://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=269328&lis=0&kntae269328=1E7A35E360FD449FB50EE14576EF2901&supId=281071959

 

Thank you for your support.

 

Chris

We want you to know just how much you are appreciated! More than 13,000 riders took part in this year's Becel Heart&Stroke Ride for Heart. Wow! We hope you enjoyed the incredible atmosphere as we all rode together to save lives and honour our loved ones. The good news is, your commitment paid off and we are almost at our fundraising target of $3.2 million. We are incredibly hopeful that with your help we will make our goal. You still have until June 14th to continue fundraising – so don't forget to enter your offline pledges and gather any last minute donations. Many companies have a donation matching program – does yours? Ask your HR department if they will match your fundraising dollars – and enter the pledge amount at your online fundraising page.   Fill out our EVENT SURVEY and you could win a Sony PSP 3000 OR a Canon PowerShot TX1! Be proud to know that by riding and fundraising, you have made a much needed contribution towards the survival of thousands of heart disease and stroke victims every year. You have given the gift of a heart-healthy future for millions of Canadians. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

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2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1300 PO Box 2414 Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4