So much fun, I did it twice!

That's right - this past Saturday, I finally plunged into the Potomac River to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia.

I raised $1,000 for Area 26, which covers the northern Virginia area, including Fairfax and Arlington Counties, and the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, and Alexandria.

Don't believe me? Check out my picture in the paper! I'm the one in the pink bathing cap!

Not much on the brain

Obviously, since I haven't posted in a while, there's not much on my mind. That's actually not true, and I've really just been crazy busy since the holidays.

I spent the weekend after New Years on The Rock Boat. Aside from hurricane force winds, rain, and twenty foot waves, a good time was had by all. Returning favorites included Gaelic Storm, Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers, and GRO. New discoveries were Evan McHugh and Augustana.

The day after returning home, I started my new job in my old department. I actually look forward to go to work everyday! I did love working for my supervisor over the last six months, but was bored out of my mind by the work.

I've also been busy with Special Olympics. This is the last week of bowling, followed by Winter Championships and an FAS fundraiser. I'm looking forward to February and March - two months off before the Spring season begins!

It's *holiday* time in the city

That's right - no Christmas here. Just the holiday season.

One thing I like about working in a historic downtown is the decorations. Most people who own the houses down here are really interested in historic preservation, and as such, the decorations are like something out of Williamsburg.

December also means holiday parties. I'm on the department holiday party committee. In two weeks (exactly) we are planning a party for approximately 100 people. Who wants to plan ahead? Last minute plans are always the way to go!

es! Thanksgiving is finally here - or, it will be in three days. Of course, this has prompted me to take a look at what I am thankful for. Since there is so much, I will only mention of few of my thanks.

First off, I am thankful for my beautiful niece, who turned 1 year old this past Saturday. After her party, as I was getting ready to leave, I knelt down and opened my arms toward her. A huge grin spread across her face and she ran into my arms and gave me a hug. It's amazing how much we know at 1 year!

I am thankful for my job. Early on in the year, I was informed that my position was being cut on July 1 due to budget constraints. On July 2, I received a call from HR letting my know that they found a placement for me. No matter how many long and frustrating days I have had in the months since, I am thankful that I still have a job.

I am thankful for my new-found Special Olympics family. I finally took the initiative to get involved with Special Olympics again, after several years away. I have taken on the bowling coordinator role, and even though it can be busy and hectic, I love it - and I can barely remember how I spent my Sundays before I started!

If a 1 year old can donate...

This morning I received an e-mail notification that I received a pledge for my Polar Plunge. When I opened my account, I found that my 1 year old niece had pledged! Such a smart girl - she's already generous with her (parent's) money!

Freezin' for a Reason

In and amongst my edits and page changes, you may have noticed a fundraising widget. On February 27, I will be participating in my first Polar Plunge to help raise money for Special Olympics Virginia. I may be crazy, but crazy is relative - especially when it's for a good cause!

This will be the 7th Annual Polar Plunge at Tim's Rivershore in Prince William County. This is an effort of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Virginia programs.

Consider making a pledge to make a difference in the life of individuals with intellectual disabilities. I do realize that this past year has been a tough one, and a lot of people don't have much money to give. Please know that every little bit helps - donations as small as $5 can have a great impact and are greatly appreciated. It's not nearly as crazy as jumping into freezing cold water in the middle of winter!

Under Construction

Pardon the odd page appearance. I'm playing around with templates and such to make the blog purty. Apparently in the process, I lost some of my personalized touches and links.