Relay and Relaxation

Last weekend was the 24-hour Foothills Relay for Life, a fundraiser that benefits the American Cancer Society. In the early years, Relay was held the weekend before Prom Plus over at Crescenta Valley High School. Because of this, I was unable to take part in the annual event; typically I was up to my eyeballs in all things Prom Plus.

When the high school installed its new field, Relay was moved to Clark Magnet. At some point, the date for the weekend event was moved as well, giving me an opportunity to participate.

After all these years, I cannot remember exactly when I laced up my sneakers for the first time and walked the track at Clark. But once I took part, I was hooked. While it was encouraging to see so many of my friends and neighbors coming out to support this annual fundraiser, it was sad knowing that all had been touched by cancer in one way or another. As many of you know, my mom died of lung/brain cancer and my father-in-law was stolen by kidney cancer. And the list goes on.

This year I couldn’t help but notice that there were fewer participants on the field. I understand; making a commitment to be part of team that will walk for 24 hours is a big undertaking. But the whole reason behind the 24-hour event is a reminder that “cancer never sleeps.” And let’s face it: who among us has not been touched by cancer?

I’m excited to announce that Mary O’Keefe and I will be taking on the responsibilities of co-chairing the 2015 Foothills Relay for Life. Am I nervous? You bet. But I am also confident that next year’s event will be one to remember, that we’ll have double the number of cancer fighters taking to the field.

Mark your calendars now for April 11-12, 2015 (dates to be confirmed later). Plan to be one of the warriors who are willing to battle this insidious disease. I hope to see you on the track at Clark.

One last thing: donations are still being accepted for this year’s event. Visit www.foothillsrelayforlife.com and make a donation today.

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As exhausting as Relay was, visiting the 2014 Showcase House of Design was that exciting. I was fortunate to head over on opening day, Sunday, with Steve (after a much needed nap). (Warning: you probably shouldn’t attend Showcase unless you have a blank “honey-do” list; you’ll be inspired to re-do your house.)

When I attended the Empty House event several weeks ago, I had a chance to chat with many of the designers and discuss their plans for their part of the house. Returning on Sunday, I was anxious to see how true the execution was of their original concepts.

The redesign was, in a word, exquisite. The fabrics used, the palettes chosen – everything was pulled together in wonderful fashion. Inspiring and awesome.

To learn more about Showcase House (tickets are on sale now), read Isiah Reyes’ article on page 18 and check out the incredible photos by Dan Holm. In case you don’t get enough, visit us at www.cvweekly.com and click on Between Friends to see all the photos that Dan took.

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Maureen over at Once Upon A Time always has interesting guests. Tonight is no exception. Author Jenny Offill and illustrator Chris Appelhans, creators of the children’s book “Sparky!” are going to be at the bookstore from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. tonight to talk about the collaboration and to sign copies of the book. I’m planning on going.

Aside from an interesting story – the two worked on the project without ever actually meeting – I know Chris from my days at Art Center College of Design when he was a student there! I am so excited to see him after so many years.

I hope to see you tonight at Once Upon A Time, 2207 Honolulu Ave. in Montrose.

  robin goldsworthy