A Change of Plans.

Every year for the last one hundred or so, there has been a football game between two rival colleges in bordering states. The game so famous that for many years was known as the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party." (For some reason political correctness overtook some people a few years back, but for the masses it still retains its moniker.)

For the past two years (now that we're been back in the States and I no longer have a breast feeding infant), I have made a cross-country trek to join my girlfriends and attend said cocktail party.

From R to L (Carla, Peaches & Larry)

But this year, this year, there's been a change of plans. It was Carla's idea. Rather than go to Georgia v. Florida in Jacksonville, she has convinced the five college roommates and a dear friend to donate our time, money and energy in support of a wonderful cause. We decided to participate in the "In Their Shoes" a breast cancer walk to supporting families of breast cancer victims. Our roommate Cristy lost her mother to breast cancer shortly after we graduated. We decided to do the walk in honor of her mother, Cynthia Ray Burnett. Additionally, my girlfriend Larry (not her given name) has donated her frequent flyer miles toward getting me home to attend the event.

So far it has been very challenging. Each member of the team is charged with raising $900 in order to participate in the event. Initially, I didn't think it would be that hard, but I'm finding out that everyone has a cause that's near and dear to their hearts and also that it's difficult to raise money in this economy. Nevertheless, I won't be dismayed. On Friday, I was $100 from meeting my goal. I had hoped to blow the doors off my goal, but right now I'd settle for meeting it.

I've also been training for the 13 mile walk. Ok, probably not as much as I should. I did go on an 8 mile walk on Saturday and didn't actually die.

I can't tell you how excited I am to be back with my girlfriends. The five of us are usually only able to get together once a year when I'm home in the summer. What a bonus that we'll get to see each other again in a little over two weeks! (Phew! That reminds me, I need to get back to the treadmill.)

From R to L: J.D., Carla, Peaches, Larry and Cristy. Four girls I'd gladly walk 13 miles with.

***If you are interested in making a donation to the "In Their Shoes" charity event, you can visit http://www.intheirshoesathens.org/ they are accepting online donations until Friday, October 9th. In order for me to get credit, please include my Walker Number 42 and Team Name: Walking Down Mammary Lane.