UCAAN Change a Life Road Trip - Day #11 - Sunday June 26th, 2016

Part 2 - New York City 

So prior to us leaving Michigan and heading to Rochester, we heard about the severe weather that hit the east coast. This also included one of our stops, which seemed to receive the worst of it. We planned on heading to West Virginia to visit the Gesundheit Institute in Hillsboro, West Virginia. But due to the storms and hurricanes, we are unable to. Doryn and I are so disappointed because we had hoped to visit with the staff there, help on the land and get a tour of it. But as of right now, it’s not safe to head that way and we have to do what’s best for us to keep safe! 

Now onto today, we had an eventful day to say the least. It was our day to spend with Auntie, since she’d be busy most of the days we’re in NYC.  For breakfast, Doryn and picked up some bagels and coffee and we enjoyed them with goat cheese we got in Winsconsin, delish!!! After breakfast, auntie and I went through some things that she thought would help us raise more funds for UCAAN – great items for gift baskets for silent auctions and more! So, we went through what she had, packed them up and got them ready to ship to my office in California. The three of us walked with 2 of those small basket carts full of our medium boxes and walked them up the street and around the corner to FedEx. Once we shipped them Auntie was so relieved to have that done, as was I. Time for the fun to begin! The walk to Central park was several blocks and being as how I’ve been having some knee issues over the past month or so, Auntie suggested that we take the bus to Central park, while she walked with the dogs. We agreed! So Doryn and I get on the M69 bus and head to the park, talking with the passengers on the bus on the way and beating auntie to the entrance. 

We walked around central park for about 3 hours, taking breaks, enjoying the scenery, people watching, checking out the artists and vendors selling their handmade and printed items. People doing caricatures were lined throughout the park. Auntie asked me if I would want to get one with Doryn, I actually thought it was a good idea so I walked around to see who’s artwork I liked best. I went to one man and he was passed out sleeping, couldn’t wake him up and went to another and he didn’t speak English. Lol. They all seemed a little pricy too, so I opted out this time, plus we had more to walk. Auntie took us to her favorite spots, past the Balto statue, the Friends Waterfall fountain, surrounded by people, the boat house and the small boat pond. Auntie told us that from 9pm to 9am, dog owners are allowed to let their dogs off their leashes, the spot that’s most popular is the “Friends” waterfall fountain because the big dogs love to play in it. Sounds like a wild dog time! ;) So, we walked around the waterfall fountain and saw the large boat area, which was filled with people in paddle boats, enjoying the area. We walked past the boat house, which you’ve guessed it, houses these paddle boat rentals for people to enjoy, the line was pretty long so we didn’t do it this time. Perhaps next time.

We continued to walk, stopping occasionally and just people watching. I think we enjoyed watching people near the small boat pond. Here, people could rent a pretty nice sized toy sail boat for $10/hr with a $20 deposit and sail their boats in a large pond. We saw all sorts of people, even people with larger boats and very small speed boats (which generally are not allowed, because they mess up the other boats). We stayed here probably for the longest and then headed out to take the bus back to the house. 

So I wanted to mention, I haven’t walked this much in forever, mainly because of the different problems and side effects I have from treatments including the herniated disc, degenerative disc disease and now the knee problems. L Because of these things I have learned my limits and tend not to over do it at the risk of injuring myself worse. Now this goes along with most of us who have fought cancer or currently have cancer, we tend to push and push ourselves, even when it’s not good for us. So remember, if you feel the pain, sit down and take a break. Just take it easy! 

Once we got home we relaxed a little and then went out to dinner to one of my favorite spots – Café Luka, which is owned by two brothers, I met 5 years ago – Marc & Johnny. It was wonderful catching up with them and they even spent some time with us while we were there. We talked about UCAAN and what was new, we talked about our frozen dessert and our hopes to utilize it to raise funds for UCAAN; we talked about it all! We enjoyed burgers and just spent a wonderful time together. The guys were so excited when they heard about my frozen dessert they told me they wanted to try it and asked if I could make some for them while I’m in town. I actually took them up on the challenge. So after dinner we all walked to a local health food market and I bought some of the supplies I needed. When we got back to my aunts place I went right to work, creating one of my favorites: Peach Apricot Basil. I didn’t have all the right tools so I improvised with ice cube trays… by the next day they were ready and soooo delicious! Talk about a wonderful day!! Next up… Part 3 – Fancy Food Show Adventures and more.

UCAAN Change a Life Road Trip - Day 10 – Saturday June 25th, 2016

As I sit and think about the past few days of experiences, I find myself reminiscing about where I was this time, several years ago. The last time I went for a UCAAN Trip, was with my friend Sara in 2011. We had just been on a phenomenal trip. Exploring the country, the wonderful hospitals that provided so much support and information to their patients they served. I was only 3 years our since my transplant, three years since I was cancer free and going through all the health issues caused by my life saving treatments. I was and still am excited to be alive, every moment that I have, every experience…. I enjoy it all no matter what happens. 

First off I want to thank everyone who believes in UCAAN, our wonderful volunteers included, our mission and all that we do, without your support we wouldn’t be growing and doing what we are doing! I want to thank our donors for supporting us over the years and for supporting us throughout this trip. Even if we help 100 patients, that’s 100 more that will share what we do with others, that’s remarkable. 

From all of us at UCAAN, Thank you!

Part 1

On Saturday morning I woke up in a beautiful little town nestled in the trees of Connecticut, the streets were filled with life, even at 8:30am. A Farmer’s market was across the street and we were steps away from where I would be speaking about UCAAN, our Preventative Dental Information and sharing stories with patients and survivors in the community, one of which included Audrey Treymon, who Doryn and I had just spent dinner with the night before at the Fife and Drum with her hubby Dolph (who started it all in 1973).

Doryn and I woke up and got ready enjoying some delicious homemade bagels from the bakery across the street. I paired it with goat cheese and fruit as well. Our hosts Elissa and George suggested to get the best exposure in the small community that we should park the car in front of the restaurant, we agreed. We knew that the UCAAN Change a Life Road Trip photo would for sure attract some attention! As I walked into the restaurant, I saw 3 people sitting around a round table in a special room of the place. I walked up and greeted them, they were all either going through cancer or had completed treatments, each of them with a different diagnosis.

As I talked about cancer and it changing my life, we had other point join the room, all listening to the information I was giving. I shared about how our Preventative Dental Program UCAAN CARE (Caries & Restorative Education) came about, how the road trip in 2011 was only a tiny step in starting that and spoke about the different ways to add health into their lives. They were attentive and really liked the speech I gave. Even with a room of 8, I knew that my speech had made an impact, especially on those still going through treatments! The longest living survivor was in remission for 40 years, WOW!

When I was done talking I asked to see who wanted to share a piece of their story and what their biggest financial assistance needs were. 3 of them volunteered for our nationwide video, which was amazing. Each attendee received samples of our sponsor Zatik Beauty’s organic and all natural soaps, one of our handmade mini bags, an informational brochure (printed by our friend Nancy Haberman of OakCreek Printworks), a UCAAN glow silicon bracelet and much more goodies!

I was thankful to be able to speak to the group and to make some new friends and great connections!

Once I finished the talk, Doryn and I had to get on the road, but Elissa & George invited us to stay for lunch. We couldn’t say no, but choose to pack our stuff at the house first. The food at the Fife is always good, lots of flavor and several options. We spent some more time with Elissa & George (our wonderful hosts) and talked. It was wonderful seeing them and spending so much time after all these years had passed. Before we left, we all took a photo and I told them I’d be back before they knew it. Elissa who coordinated my speech in Kent, offered to help make the next one even bigger…. I Agreed. Audrey was there too and before we left she said “Come back sooner than 20 years next time!!” We were beyond blessed to stay in the red barn, near the Fife & Drum Inn and Restaurant, next to the old Yellow Victorian, all of these have been in this town since the 1800’s! Still just as beautiful!

Doryn and I were well on our way, to NYC, with a stop at Walmart in New Milford. After we stopped, we continued on our journey to New York city. We once again split the driving, I drove first and Doryn drove the remainder of the way to my aunts place. We hit some traffic, but luckily with some tips from George & Elissa, we avoided the high tolls into New York and made it in a pretty good amount of time.

We had arrived in New York, the big apple, surrounded by the trees, the sky scrapers, the loud bustling of the city streets and the life! So much life! So many people!! We got a special deal for the same place we parked last year and were close to where we needed to be – we had ARRIVED!

That night, we enjoyed some time with my fabulous aunt and went out to a fabulous Chinese restaurant called Pig Heaven. The place was perfectly themed with piggy banks across the room, pig plaques with messages on the walls, pigs in the bathroom, pink walls and just fun décor around us. This was a unique and fancier version of the other local spots and BOY! Was it ever delicious!! We each got our own meal, but shared. Doryn and I enjoyed the wonton soup, aunt Jaymie enjoyed the cold sesame noodles (a HUGE favorite of our families’ and my mom’s!!) Aunt Jaymie got the Chicken in Garlic sauce, I got the Chicken and Asparagus with mushrooms and Doryn got a chicken something delicious with crispy noodles. Everything was delicious! The company at our table was the best!! Our days in New York have only just begun, but for this blog, I’m ending it with…. Sleep dreams…. Tomorrow is part 2.

UCAAN Change a Life Road Trip - Day #9 - Friday June 24th, 2016

Day #9 - Rochester, NY to Kent, CT - "Experiencing Life"

"Experiencing Life is about taking time out to enjoy the little things, the simple things in life that in most cases cost nothing. When dealing with cancer it's hard not to stress.... but take a moment out of every day to enjoy something that makes you happy" ~ Rachel Shur

 

 

As I sit in this huge house that started off as a barn probably a century ago, I reminisce about the days travels. Today, despite the long day, was a simple drive. Uncomplicated with the craziness we tend to get caught up in. We have now mastered our constant packing and unpacking of our car, we have practically worked it to a science of the best ways to get in and out of hotels and today was the first time that we arrived in a town with ample town to really experience it.

   

Our drive was the standard kind, we drove some freeways through areas of upstate New York which were gorgeously green, lined with trees and lush landscapes. We made a few pit stops at a few travel stations and noticed some interesting signs on the road ways for "Parking Stops" without restrooms. The sign accompanied with these signs said TEXT Stop. You've guessed it, these stops were meant for people to park and text, discouraging people from using their phones while driving - way to go NY! At one of the pit stops, we saw something that looked like a farmer's market, as we approached there were 2 Amish girls; one younger and one older. The older one was in charge of the booth, selling their delicious fruits, vegetables and honey. The zucchini was unlike any I had ever seen in California, they were huge!! And talk about a steal... $1 for one or $2 for 3 of them. I couldn't help it and bought 2 for us and one to give to the family hosting us in Kent. I also bought some green pea pods, strawberries, green onions and honey.

When we reached Route 22, which was like a mystical path into what felt like another world. Within minutes of driving down Route 22, we were off the beaten path driving through a forest of trees that curved and created archways down the road. The beauty was breathtaking, serene and so different from the busy hustle and bustle of our town of Thousand Oaks. The road continued to curve through trees and then small towns with huge homes on even bigger pieces of land, it felt like a calming place with little shops and signs for school buses and people living a simple life.

Eventually we saw the sign for Kent, we had arrived! We drove down one street that we ended up at a small one lane road that drove through a very small bridge, on the other side with more of KENT - like I said it seemed like we were going to another place, a mystical place. The streets are lined with small businesses, people running shops out of their homes, a little cafe and a huge library book sale in front of the library. As you drive down the roan Main Street, you come across even more quaintness in this town of only 3,500. You find yourself feeling at home, looking at the shops, the local Kent Dentist, the small jewelry shop with hand written signs, the bowls of water in front of stores to encourage the locals and the visitors to bring their dogs out for walks in town. Through the town, right near where we are staying are train tracks. Past that is home of the Fife and Drum, a restaurant & Inn established in 1973 by Dolph Traymon and his wife Audrey. (Find out more here: http://www.fifendrum.com/)

My family has been friends with Dolph & Audrey Traymon for over 50 years and I remember coming here as a child, staying at the large yellow Victorian home behind the inn, where Audrey & Dolph call home. Behind the house is a large barn, that has been turned into a remarkable home for Audrey & Dolph's Daughter and son in law Elissa & George, While we are not immediate family, we feel like it here. This home is amazing and so much love and creation has gone into it. You will see from the photos.

When we arrived here today, Doryn and I went exploring... venturing out into the town of Kent to experience life in a small town. We walked past the numerous art galleries and shops, stopped by the local library outdoor book sale, walked past little shops and locals. Families walked down the road, enjoying local restaurants and sights. We found ourselves stopping by a local coffee shop, filled with tea, coffee and sweet treats, we were just looking for a healthy nibble, so we went 2 doors down to see what a local sandwich shop had in store for us. Doryn and I shared a Turkey BLT, delicious and enough to share!! We enjoyed our snack and then walked back to the barn. We walked past some local sculptures and posed with them, taking photos and enjoying the other local art work sculptures on the street including the bush like sculpture in front of the Fife n' Drum - except they were metal letters swirled together, very cool indeed!! From what Audrey told me the town is filled with sculptures like this one (the Alphabet one) throughout the town!

When we returned to the Barn house, we took some time to relax before heading to dinner with Dolph & Audrey. The last time I saw them was when I was 16, that's 20 years ago. It was so wonderful to see them. Now this is a couple that met 66 years ago, when Audrey was 19 and Dolph was 29, within 6 months of meeting they were married! Amazing how things have changed over the years huh!? 66 years folks.... and they still look at one another like it was yesterday I'm sure. The love in their eyes.... beautiful.

So tonight we enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Fife n' Drum with Dolph & Audrey and a wonderful singer named Kendra (i believe) who sings often at the Fife and brings her own crowd. Boy was it hopping for this little town of Kent!!

 

 

 

I forgot to mention. When we first arrived in Kent and met up with George and Elissa, we went to the Fife, my first time in 20 years and on the door was a sign - it was all about me coming to town to speak to cancer patients in the area!! VERY COOL! Elissa told me that she had been informing people in the community about my talk and people were very excited! I am looking forward to it, no matter how many people show up; as Information is Information whether it's 50 or 5 people! The information will spread like wildfire.

So, I'm still sitting here... writing about today like a wonderful story. I hope that you one day decide to come and visit Kent, CT to experience all that Doryn & I have. I hope you have a bite at the Fife and stay at the Inn. Visit and enjoy the shops and feel the energy of this small but strong community!

 

Oh! I forgot to mention, the house here rattles as the train passes by. But at first when you hear it, it sounds much like a helicopter about to land... then you feel the rumbling followed by the train horn. It's a surreal experience, but it kept Doryn and I listening for what was next.

Here's to a wonderfully magical day and a good night's rest!