An apple a day...

Yesterday we had the pleasure of walking along our bus in the Apple Blossom Festival Parade in the valley. Growing up in Nova Scotia I had always known about this parade, and had often seen highlights on TV, but had never actually gone to see it in person. I knew that it was a big parade, but I don't think I was really prepared for the experience that we had.

As our bus made its way along the parade route crowds of people would begin applauding and shouting out words of encouragement! Many yelled "Thank you!!! You girls are doing amazing work!". We saw onlookers, proudly telling us that they were survivors. The 'official platform' people (an Air Force rep, a Mountie, politicians, etc) even broke rank to applaud and thank us! Along the route we encountered an enthusiastic group of by-standers who had their house decked out in banners and decorations. Their huge crowd of supporters poured onto the on the side of the road as we approached, screaming, waving streamers and using noise-makers. Approaching them was exhilarating! I ran over and started smacking 'high fives' with everyone. There was so much going on in that exact moment that it was such a blur! It was absolutely amazing to feel the energy flowing out of them!

The whole event gave me a huge adrenaline high. It left us all feeling a renewed sense of purpose and pride in our work. It was great timing for the middle of the tour. We have two days off now, and will be ready to jump back into the second half of the tour with a fresh perspective.

Carpe Diem!

I've just realized that I've grown a bit lax with my blog writing. I apologize to my faithful followers! Last week we returned to Halifax for a seven day spread. That was a distinct landmark in the tour schedule. It was our first time home in two months. It was a treat to have some 'alone-time', and to socialize with other friends and family. As such my time at home was a whirlwind of social events and visiting. By the end of my time in Halifax I felt burnt out and overtired. We only had one day off in the city, and then worked another seven until today, which was another day off. After being back on the road for a few days, and a rejuvenating day off, I feel revived and ready to start up again.

I wish I could find the words and energy to share all of my stories from the road. It is terribly difficult to find the vocabulary to describe the tales that are revealed to us. Some are filled with such emotion that I feel as though I cannot do them justice.

How do you talk about something so deeply personal and life changing? It turns out that most survivors I have met have reassured me that dealing with this disease was not the most negative thing in their lives. Although they were all frightened in the beginning, and frustrated in the middle, they have all found peace and joy in the end. One group of woman declared that "it was the best thing that could have happened" to them. Surviving has given these women a new lease on life. Their general outlook and positive attitude has really inspired me to live each day to its fullest, and to always check in on my own happiness.

Today I did just that. I slept in this morning to 9am. When I awoke I laid in bed, watching tv and surfing the internet - just because I felt like it! I finally got out of bed around 10:30, dressed, and ate breakfast in my room. I decided that I wanted to run this morning. I felt that I had a stockpile of energy that needed to be released, and I was itching to feel free in the fresh spring air. I laced on my sneakers, turned up my iPod, and hit the pavement. I haven't gone running in about two years so I really wasn't sure how I would last. I amazed myself by enduring a 30 minute run, maintaining a generally steady rhythm of 3/1 (running three minutes, and walking one). It was hard - I am out of shape, but I loved every minute of it. I pushed myself more than I would have in the past. Instead of apathetically giving into the struggle I endeavored to beat it. I'm convinced that I can do better, and can't wait to try again!

Tomorrow I will be back to work and ready to tackle any new challenges. I never know what story I am going to hear next, and have to be ready to digest it and encourage the visitor to share. Story-telling is not only cathartic, it is an important teaching tool. We learn from the experience of others. I am fortunate enough to be a receiver and a giver. As I take in each story, I saved it in my mind. When I meet someone new and hear their story, I may be able to provide a bit of commiseration if I can let them know that I've heard of a similar situation. Solidarity is comfort.

The most pressing matter at the moment, however, is sleep. If I am going to do my job well, and if I am going to have the energy to run again, I should get a decent amount of sleep.

Until next time...