Passionate.

Last year was my first year getting involved with Relay for Life. And I tell you, it was life changing. I have never felt so much love and passion in one place before. There were so many people all coming together for one cause – to fight that hard battle against cancer. I was a mess: I cried, I laughed, I hugged.... and on top of that I raised money for a great cause.

Everyone's reason to Relay is as unique as their own personal story. At Relay, you can find healing, comfort, and support from others who have faced cancer or who have lost a loved one to the disease. You have a chance to meet people in the community who are equally as passionate about finding an end to cancer.

No matter why you take part in Relay, however, one thing is clear: with every step you take, you are helping the American Cancer Society save lives. With your help, we aren't just fighting one type of cancer – we're fighting for everyone threatened by every cancer in every community. Each person who shares the Relay experience can take pride in knowing that they are working to create a world where this disease will no longer threaten the lives of our loved ones or claim another year of anyone’s life.

I am ready and pumped to get this year's Relay started! I am organizing Entertainment and Activities for the event. To get the ball rolling, I have added some links (see below) so that those of you who want to help, can! And if you have any ideas of games, music, etc that I should include this year, let me know! Any idea is welcome!

If you are in the Ashland or Southern Jackson County area - You can donate or register a team at the following link: Register or Donate Here!

If you are outside that area, please use this link to find a Relay near you!

And if you are just feeling generous... Please donate to the wonderful cause here!

My favorite part of Relay - The Luminaria Ceremony

And So It Begins...

Professional, eh?

The thrilling life of a college student... Accepting any job you can because "it's money". Or maybe, the exciting beginning to a wonderful career ahead of me. I do want to be involved with this industry after all. Let me back up a bit...

Last night was my first official catering gig with A'viands Food Service. We catered the President's dinner celebration of Southern Oregon University's 140th Anniversary. It was a dinner to celebrate alums, donors, faculty, etc. I got to have a first hand experience with everythingggg: set up, service, busing, take down, dishes, food prep/cooking, etc. I even felt all official (and slightly masculine...) in my uniform. *On a side note, I learned why guys hate ties so much... That thing was brutal!
Did I mention that I was assigned to serve the President, herself? Her and all the "really important" guests. YIKES. Talk about pressure! I am thankful to say, however, that I survived.

President Mary Cullinan in January.

And at the end of the night, while yes my back and feet were KILLING me, I felt like I walked away with good experience under my belt and I am glad that I have this job on my resume. It certainly will come in handy down the road when I am trying to make a name for myself in the hospitality industry!

Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To all you women out there... While you should already be doing this on a semi-regular basis, please take the time this month to check yourself. For info on how to check yourself, you can go here.