Walking For Those Who Need Help!

Despite the rain and dampness my spirits were high and positive as we approached the starting line for BIST 5KM Run, Walk, Roll 2013 in support of those living with a brain injury. Dolce and Gabbana "agreed" to accompany me so I could use their stroller for support.

At the 1km point things didn't look too promising. I thought out loud "only 1km!!" as we closed in on 2km I was ready to take a clear short cut ~ but didn't. By 2.5km I was thinking of the headlines that would read "woman needed to be brought in on stretcher - as she collapses during charity walk". I said a little prayer for help ... and next thing I realized we were at the 4km mark ~ the volunteer side-line cheerleaders with their encouraging smiles and praise for reaching this point helped to ease a bit of the pain that had taken over my right ankle, lower back and right buttock.

Finally crossing the finishing line along with other wonderful walkers who gave everything they had. We all shared a silent knowledge that no matter what aches and pains we already felt and the pains and aches that are yet to surface ~ there are others who cannot walk - so we walk for them, because even being slow - we can.

At the finish line with the BIST Run medal all participants receive. Feeling exhausted, hurting, wet, but proud that I DID IT!!!

Thank you Mr. G. for walking along beside me and encouraging me to take rests; not to give up and for not taking that short cut. 

 The enthusiasm for this event brought out just over 400 participants from children and adults to furbabies.

An amazing unexpected surprise.... 

as we were getting ready to leave the park, I heard my name called followed by congratulations for having raised the most donations by an individual. I could not have achieved this without the support of family, friends and wonderful caring people I'm blessed to have in my life. Thank you for your belief in me and encouragement.

I would like to give a shout out and heartfelt thank you to these wonderful citizens of BlogLand who were among all the extremely generous people who donated to BIST (Brain Injury Society of Toronto) by supporting me in my walk.

Susan of Ava Grace's Closet ; Mariette of Mariette's Back to Basics and Nathalie of Dolce Dreams.

To learn more about all the fabulous work BIST (Brain Injury Society of Toronto) does for people living with brain injury visit BIST website. 

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Week-end Inspiration ~ Welcome Autumn

Ahhhh.... autumn with all it's brilliance of color, definitely my favorite season! 

In today's world of instant everything ~ there are still some things (thankfully) that one can look forward to and enjoy the feeling of anticipation.

 As you start your week-end - consider making a list of things to do, that you can only do when fall arrives. If you don't do them - you will need to wait through another winter, spring and summer. 

1.

Gather family, friends and visit an apple orchard. After picking the apples host an apple pie baking afternoon. Think of the memories you are creating.

2.

Prepare a meal using squash as a key ingredient. This is an opportunity to learn a new healthy recipe and perhaps discover a new tasty dish to look forward to next year when this autumn slips into winter.

3.

Take a drive in the country and capture all the color of the leaves - both using a camera and your mind's photographic memory. You will not see this beauty again until next fall.

4.

Searching for the perfect pumpkin for creating that perfect jack-o-lantern or just enjoying a arm autumn afternoon in the country at a pumpkin patch. Think of all the delicious goodies you can make with pumpkins. 

5.
It's always a great time for a walk - but only in autumn will you have the crunching of leaves beneath your feet and the wonderful colorful canvas only mother nature can create.

6.
Enjoy and savor ALL things pumpkin from lattes to soup and everything in between, before you know it autumn goodies will difficult to get and the magic of anticipation will start again.

7.
No matter what you do this autumn - be sure to enjoy and savor each beautiful moment.

What do you look forward to each autumn?

Wishing you a High Heeled life week-end.


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AUTUMN 2013 ~ The Classic Trench

The crisp mornings, warm days, cooler evenings and shorter days have me dreaming of sweaters, jeans and boots. Autumn is definitely my favourite season!

images google search

As I take seasonal inventory of my wardrobe an item that has long been on my wish list is a trench coat. The trench easily transcends seasons and can finish off both a casual and elegant outfit. It is definitely a wardrobe basic that has also stood the test of time.

Collage HHL ~ original images google search

Today trench coats are available in an array of trendy colours and styles and are available for all budgets.

Collage HHL - original images from brand sites

When I decided to add a trench coat to my wardrobe I also decided that it was going to be a classic investment piece - one that would stand the test of time and the elements. Refusing to be tempted by the pretty trendy colours that have popped up over 2-3 spring and autumn seasons ~ I was determined to not give in and save for my investment piece. This autumn I am almost there and have narrowed my choice to two classic styles from Burberry's Brit collection.

collage HHL -  original images Burberry.com

One is a short hooded trench with detachable hood and the other is a detachable warmer cotton trench. Both are a classic neutral that will fit perfectly with my wardrobe.

AND THEN....

This little number in RED from Coach caught my eye! Now I'm tempted to go and give it a try ... What would you do my friends - stick with the neutral classic or be daring and pick the red one?

Here is a great video to get you thinking about the colours of autumn 2013:

PANTONE Fashion Color Report Fall 2013: Women's Color Palette

Is the trench coat part of your basic wardrobe pieces? 
Would love to hear if yours is a neutral or your have gone with a colour choice.


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