Above the Clouds

Up....until the clouds envelope you inside of them
Catching your breathe, wiping the sweat, nearing the top..

A newness comes over you
Courage, strength redefined
Love grows by leaps and bounds

Yesterday you were high; today you're higher
So high you can reach up and touch the hand that gave you life

Find clarity
Find peace
Redefine it all

Turn and look down for a second and know..... what lies ahead is faith and hope in it all in the journey, the dream, the vision of one

"Together is ONE" is what creates victory, unity, love at the highest of Summits.

Stop for a second and breathe it all in

Cry because it's energizing
Own it.......

World Up!
The Regulars
A Trail Called Hope IV - Mt. Kilimanjaro

The Roof of Africa

The Roof of Africa

There comes a time in your life when really important decisions must be made. Some may be life altering or some may be at the moment; or some just may be life threatening. It is clear in my mind that the decision I made was all of the above. Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro has changed who I am, how I think and what I will do from now on. The day we landed in Africa I felt it. The day I stepped foot on the top of Kili I embraced it. My children are the most important to me and my decision on the “Roof” was made because of them. Just 200 feet from the highest point on the roof I had to turn back. I had reached the summit the day we landed in Africa. I knew I would do it. It ran through my body. I felt the feeling inside already. But 200 feet away from Uhuru and I couldn’t go on. My chest was on fire, I could hardly walk or talk, but I kept pushing myself in hopes I could ascend one more time. I was suffering from high altitude sickness. My fingernails were turning purple, my chest was pounding. Heck, goory details need not be discussed. I broke down in tears knowing I would not experience what my other teammates did. I had jobs to do on Uhuru. Da’ Coat for Judy, the bracelet I wore in memory of Bill, Ken’s tshirt from Focus on a Cure. I was letting all of them down. But a flash came before my eyes and it was that of my boys. I had reached my summit. For them I let go of all the feelings going on in my head of letting other’s down.

I cried so hard at this particular moment. I cried because I had done it. I cried because I missed my dear friend Bill. I cried because I didn’t want to leave my two teammates that held me up and kept me warm and encouraged me the entire climb. Jay said I inspired him. Luc thought I was brave and strong to have gone the distance. These two mean the world to me. We followed each others footsteps. We took breaks together. We encouraged one another. I can’t say enough about them. When I had to desend I asked them to do me some favors. One - place the coat on Uhuru; Two - place Ken’s tshirt on Uhuru; Three - leave Bill’s bracelet in his memory on Uhuru; Four - take pictures. In my pack was was the coat and the tshirt. They took my pack and Godsend, the guide who would lead Luc and Jay to Uhuru, took the bracelet off of my wrist. A moment in time that I will cherish. A moment that has changed me.

Luc filmed me at this particular moment. He looked out for me for five days. He was “Cardio” man. My nickname for him. He kept our heart rate in check. We had a good pace each day we climbed. He let me take off at times when my adrenalin kicked in and would be there when I would slow down. I never met Luc before Africa but the minute we shook hands and said hello for the first time an immediate connection was made. Little did I know then that he would be with me all the way. But destiny has its way and who am I to mess with that.

The day Jay told me I inspired him to come on this climb I was really honored by his words. He also told me I kept him focused as we climbed to the roof. A simple statement I made to him to use his pole then take two steps, concentrate on the pole, said got him to the top. How do you get to this point in your life when other’s look up to you? How do you become someone’s inspiration? How do you get someone to focus so they make it to the top of a mountain? I don’t know these answers. I still can’t seem to wrap my head around any of it. But it has changed me. Not the way I look, or dress, just the way I feel inside. I’m not sure it’s something I can explain or even if I did if it would make sense to other’s. All I know is that the journey to find cures has defined me and has driven me to make this a reality. I follow Enzo and my teammates as we seek to end these dreaded diseases. As we fight to be noticed and heard. As we pathe the way for the future to be clear for others. For my children, for everyone’s children. For they are our future.

I still have a lot of work to do for them and hope for a better future for them. They are every reason to keep moving ahead, to keep climbing up to the next summit, to keep seeking answers they have about why cures are not found yet. And for those in my life who fight this fight in any way shape or form everyday. There are more events to plan, more money to raise for all of you.

The Roof of Africa was beautiful. The feeling was surreal. I did it and nobody will take that from me. In everyone’s honor and everyone’s memory I did it. I kissed my mom and dad as I stood above the clouds. I waved to Bill because I just knew and felt his presence there. I said my good-bye’s to Luc and Jay and wished them luck and said that I would see them at camp. Good Luck, my guide, took my hand and we turned around and he led me back down.
A Trail Called Hope Iv - Mt. Kilimanjaro

Another One Down
World Up,
Strong Feather Eileen

And a special thank you to all of my teammates for making this possible for me as you all played a part in getting me to the top. Each one of you inspired me. I will never forget all the moments we shared in Africa. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Enzo Simone - Captain and visionary
Jennifer Yee - Producer of 10 Mountain 10 Years documentary
Jaymes Brevard
Luc Thoelen
Bill Glover
Nadyne Perlin
Lori Pulley Saviers
Eric Buzzetto
Tom Sabourin
Benny Aerts

From the Heart.......

I have a little down time right now. All the babies are sleeping and I felt the need to write. I have just 11 days before I leave for Africa. As you all know I belong to the Regulars and we are a group of altruistic individuals who have signed up with Enzo and his project, 10 mountains 10 years, to draw awareness and raise money to help eradicate Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. With that said.....this is from my heart.......

I have been deeply affected by so many individuals this past year as I have been preparing for Kili. One especially is my dearest and sweetest friend Mary "Cherokee" Rose. She fights the toughest battle I know and still smiles and encourages everyone.My soul sister, the one who pushes me and drives me the hardest. Our dear friend Bill Berndt who lost his battle this past March who will be remembered forever for his kindness and his every chance opportunity to make you laugh. Forever in my heart. Ken Glowienke, a true role model, friend, advocate, loving husband. The day we met Ken it changed my life. I hope you know that. My dearest friend in this fight, Jim Brenner. As I sat the other night at Black Belt Camp and listened to his inspiring speech about making a difference and the ever loving and kind words he spoke about me I want to say you are my reasons I began all of this. I have always said to you for you I climb this mountain and for you I will be the one carrying your spirit with me. That "indomitable" spirit we talk so much of in Tang Soo Do. He epitomizes this in our art. He encourages and inspires everyone he comes in contact with. I was blessed the day we met and for you I continue down any path I can to help you win this battle. Judy, what can I say, I have met another who encourages the heck out of me and has undying faith and confidence that we will win. In10City to the max. I know I could make a long list of people. You all mean the world to me and not a day goes by that I am not thinking of all of you, praying for all of you and pushing the envelope for all of you.

My boys, all of my family, Sandra, Denise, Mark, Ideliza, Kaz, Rob, Mary, Maggie, Sue, Barbara, Charley, Ann, Eileen, Sylvia, Sherry, my teammates. A special thanks to my committee members who have made my fundraiser a reality....Karen, Kathy, Kathryn, Hal, Karen and Glen. Please don't be offended if I didn't mention your name. Know you are all here with me and I will bring you all with me to Africa.

Enzo and Jen.....two of the most important people in my life. Without you my confidence, drive, passion may not have ever reached the heights it is reaching.

There is nothing in life we can not do if we put our minds to it, our sights on it, and our passion and drive into it. "Together is ONE"

Please send out all of your prayers to The Regulars as we head out June 28th to the roof of Africa on our Trail Called Hope IV - Mt. Kilimananjaro.

World Up,
Strong Feather Eileen

http://www.theRegulars.org

Testing Spot - Driving - Spot

Hey, check this out. I'm just testing this little teacking device called SPOT. We'll be using it on our climb of Kilimanjaro, so you can track where we are each day. The waypoints update themselves every 10 minutes, so you can follow us all the way to the top.

Now we really can do this together!

All we have to do now is hope there is enough Satellite reception & communication to find us while we're there. BTW I know this looks a little jagged but that's because while driving, in 10 minutes I've driven quite a distance. On the mountain it will look like a more fluid line given the fact that we're not covering as much distance each 10 minutes.

World up,
Enzo

Testing Spot - Driving - Spot

Shared via AddThis

In10City - Meeting Judy Good Hensley

In10City - Judy Good Hensley

I had the pleasure of meeting a wonderful woman and spending three days with her and her beautiful family. My son David and I flew to Tennessee to meet Judy Good Hensley. She has Young Onset Parkinson's Disease. She also has the infamous "Da' Coat". When we arrived in the airport she called me and said she was in the observatory deck. My son and I exited our plane and looked up at the deck and low and behold there was Judy waving to us. David at first didn’t see her until I said look for the coat. Oh yeah! When we strolled into the baggage, Judy jumped out literally to greet us and snap our picture. I like this girl. This would be the first of hundreds of pictures the two of us would take. I want to jump ahead here to Sunday night. Judy and I sat for many hours late Sunday sharing, reading each others stories, crying, learning about one another. Being with her for three days I observed this remarkable lady. Moving through her day with Parkinson’s. Never afraid to do anything. Plowing through it all. All the while doting on me and David. She always made us feel at home with her husband and daughter. Planning our days, getting us there. I was exhausted at the end of each day. But the one thing that stands out in my mind is the love she has for everyone and everything. Right down to the tiniest butterfly she tried to capture through the lens of her camera. Her beauty for life pours over into her beautiful daughter Carol, who at only sixteen years old, is well beyond her years. Her husband Bill with his loving support and endless stories that I enjoyed immensely of his faith, his beliefs, his cross country biking. What a wonderful package these three are. They each are the glue that holds each other together.

Judy shared her disease with me. From the day she was diagnosed to the progression, the medications, explaining the medications, the procedures, the adjustments, dyskenisia, tremors. Her faith, her taking care and worrying about her mother. Her darker moments but then her moments of awakening because of the strength she has. How can you not be inspired? She wanted to know about me, my reasons for joining the Regulars, my mom, my boys, karate, my writing. I shared with her the chapter about my mom. She cried. This by far is the chapter in my life that defines me. She learned a lot about me and who I am today based on this. She understood the meaning of my nickname “Strong Feather”.

Intensity: Extreme degree of strength, force, energy, or feeling.
Judy Hensley should be under this word.
In10City: Her “E” name as the newest member of The Regulars.

It fit’s the woman who leads by example, who pushes up mountains of challenges, who never stops believing in herself and most importantly others. She is truly an inspiration on so many levels. To have been given the opportunity to meet her and speak at one of her support meetings is something I will never forget. I met wonderful people who are part of her life on this trip. A special thanks to Mayor Jane Myron and to Peggy Willocks for the kind words they spoke about me at the meeting. For allowing me to speak and to say they are the ones who inspire and I am the one who wants all of there hopes and dreams of finding a cure to come true. It was very a very surreal moment to be the one honored. I applaud everyone who deals with Parkinson’s Disease on an hour by hour basis. Who pushes others to become involved. Who creates foundations, websites for support, teams, fundraisers. I bring home with me a better understanding, a profound drive to support more and to draw more awareness. And of course a new friend, Judy Good Hensley. We stand “Together as ONE”. Oh yeah! I now have “Da Coat” and to the roof of Africa it’s going……..

World Up,
Strong Feather Eileen

Angel & the Devil

Today is Tuesday June 9th. 2009.

My wife is upstairs watching the television, and I’m down stairs in my war room listening to J.S. Bach’s “Siciliano from Violin Sonata 1", and eating a bowl of baked beans and a piece of chicken sausage for dinner. The broccoli burned while we were arguing about our current financial situation, so needless to say dinner was a little sparse tonight. Now the house smells of blackened broccoli. Yummy! Ah the glamorous lifestyle of the un-rich & un-famous suits me doesn’t it? The light coming from behind me is dim. The light bulb doesn’t really cast much light across the room but I’m used to it now. Actually I’m sort of a vamp, and I’m more comfortable typing in a dark room with just the computer screen for light. It keeps me focused on what needs to be done. In the end I suppose it’s good having everything off but the computer, being as it saves us a little money in these positively evil economic times.

Earlier today I called in my Unemployment Insurance Claim. For as much as I completely appreciate a national system which has such a fall back position built into it for it’s people, I’ve never been a fan of being a recipient of it’s benefits. I’d much rather be working. My brother Dan and I are just starting to put an engineering and architecture firm of our own together, but paying jobs are still just beyond the horizon. The ship has it’s sails up, and we’re just trying to catch enough wind to blow us toward the rising sun and better days. As my team mate Bill Glover says, “From adversity, prosperity is born.” I believe it.

I’ve been out of work since December along with so many other Americans. I remember it was just about a week after a little office birthday celebration for me. There were no hard feelings though, in being let go. Drastic measures were needed to keep the firm afloat at a time like this, and we all knew our luck could run out on any given Friday if the economy didn’t improve.

Lucky for my wife and I that at least one person in the family is bringing in a paycheck to help us get by. Economic recessions like this don’t come around very often. In the past, the architecture firms I’ve worked for have been specialized in the design of high-end homes, and the clients which normally make up this demographic could bat their lashes at hard times. You’ve got to admire them though. Their houses are absolutely beautiful, and it’s easy to see why from our perspective, they work really hard for these luxuries. In times of economic uncertainty it seemed as though they had built up an insulation to loss. Every other Joe in the country might be feeling the squeeze imposed by the times, but I always felt as if they were never quite caught up in that grip. One day if would be nice to feel a certain sense of economic security of our own. Our clients had always seemed to steam roll right over the bumps in the road which threw the rest of us for a loop or into a tail spin. Essentially what I mean to say is that in the past, even in bad times, if I was designing high-end homes in a well known and respected architecture firm, then I was always pretty secure in at least maintaining a job, but this recession was different. Everyone top to bottom, rich and poor seemed to have stopped on a dime, then were all forced to jump on it to see who would get it first.

Things are hard now, and I’d have to say that on the inside I feel a bit torn. Questions, feelings, uncertainties, they’re all different bends, and turns on this roller coaster of life.

I’m only human, and I don’t always know the “best” thing to do in times like these. Although, in the spirit of that humanity I do usually have a gut feeling about what is the “right” thing to do from a much larger perspective. My eyes were always better at seeing issues from a global perspective. But more often than not, what I feel is the “right” thing to do clashes dramatically with (just about) all the friends and family looking in at my situation. Although they all have different opinions about my life, their technique in dealing with me seems pretty consistent. They tend to have more of a slash, burn, or break his will until he can’t carry on attitude toward my charity passions. Doing something good is only good if it has no risk involved. Many have no problem in letting me know how selfish I am, and that the longer I persist in my efforts to raise awareness through my 10 Mountains - 10 Years project, the farther I would slide from favor in their eyes.

So be it. Let me slide.

Yes, I know it’s sort of sad. You’d think that the ones closest to me, who could see first hand the devastation of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease would be my strongest supporters, but most are not. Maybe they’re too close to me as the subject. Maybe I’m too much like them to make a difference. Maybe they don’t feel they could make an impression on the world, so why would I be able to do it. Maybe they’re honestly trying to save me from myself, or maybe they’re just trying to stop me from do anything they don’t have the confidence in doing themselves? I don’t’ have the answers, I can only guess.

So I reflect on the situation my wife and I are in, and together (though in parallel) we think about how we can cut down on spending so that we can ride this recession out to better days. It could be said that my wife’s philosophy is more in league with my family and friends when it comes to supporting my causes and passions. So in the process of wondering how we could begin cutting expenses, my wheels might be spinning but she’s already at the finish line holding a “Wanted Dead or Alive” poster with a Double-X and a Heart on it.
But in all seriousness, how can I blame her? I’m haven’t had a job or a real income other than unemployment checks for 6 months.

I smell the smoke, and I know the fire is in there somewhere, but my guess is it’s not just the broccoli burning in the kitchen. I know what she’s thinking. The 10 Mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure) project has got to go. The world can take care of it’s own problems for a while. I should just sit tight, take care of my own, and be content to make a simple small donation to the Alzheimer’s Association and the Michael J. Fox Foundation this year. In everyone’s mind but my own I should be raising the white flag of surrender, handing over my sword and calling it an end to my once great charity epic.

One of the things which I think is so special about our expeditions is the same thing which is making it so hard on us now. All our climbs are run out of our own pockets at our own expense. It’s quite a lesson for us all to know that nothing good in life comes for free, and this is a perfect example of it. When a person wants to join “the Regulars” it’s done with the understanding that they need to pay their own way for everything, and never to expect help or hand outs from anyone to accomplish the goals of the team. We all pay our own way so that 100% of all donations coming in from contributors can go directly to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease research. The charities call for our most sincere and altruistic efforts and that’s exactly what they get. Being one of “the Regulars” is a pretty big sacrifice to ask of people during prosperous times, but in a recession it’s a monumental sacrifice, and I extend my gratitude to all my team mates for standing along side me to try their best no matter how hard it gets.

So now imagine this. I know it’s a little Animal House-esque, but the visual helps.
I turn to the left and the devil on one shoulder says, “Just quit it, and think about yourself. Stay home. Relax. Watch TV. Sip some wine. Smell the roses. Go have a beer and grow yourself a nice gut and don’t let these things bother you. You’re not a martyr. Get your head on straight and be serious for a change. You’re no one special. You’re just a regular guy. No one would care about you if you were the one with Alzheimer’s Disease or Parkinson’s Disease.”

I stop to think, maybe this little devil’s right. Maybe no one would give a damn about me if I was the one with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s Disease. Maybe someday I am destined to become a shell of what I am now and not a soul would care.

Then I turn to the right and the angel on the other shoulder says: “How could you ever quit this project??? No matter how hard it is, you don’t quit anything...ever! You might be a Simone, but never quitting runs back in your Chadwick bloodline for more than a 1,400 years. Get your game face on you’ve got things to do rough boy.”

“Remember when you were six years old and you wanted to become a musician, then low and behold one day you grew up to hear your own music on the radio? You wanted it and you did it.”

“Remember when you were in kindergarten and loved to collect stones and wanted to become a geologist, and then you went to work for the US Geological Survey. You wanted it and you did it.”

“Remember when you were an elementary school student and you wanted to become an architect? Then, you went on to college and graduated with a degree in architecture. Well, ...it seems to me” the angel whispered, “although your curse may be that all things worthy of pursuit may feel as though they take you a thousand years to accomplish, you have done everything you said you would do...granted you were passionate to do them.”

“Which brings me to my final point”, said this little angel.
“Remember when you were young, and anything is possible? Well I shouldn’t have to remind you that the secret to life is that everything has always been possible. Sometimes people stand in your way, and other times you stand in your own way, but you always get around these obstacles. We both know that you’ll never give up on this 10 mountain epic until you’re done, until you’re dead or until the cures have been found. This is what you were born to do.”

It all brings me back to now. Sitting in a dark room with the smell of burnt broccoli in the air, with no money, no job, and running out of options on how to keep this charity project alive.

Today, tomorrow, this year, the next 7 years. How do I navigate through an ocean of time which stands as still as the Sargasso Sea? I suppose at least part of the answer is in the lessons a climber would learn in the over world.

No one will ever carry you up a mountain.

Those without the will, will never find the way.

Patience is not only a virtue it’s a necessity.

Keep moving and don’t stop.

Never look at the whole mountain, it may overwhelm and turn you to stone.

And lastly, all mountains real or metaphorical, great or small, simple or complex can only be climbed one way. One step at a time.

The lessons learned on the mountains will guide me without a doubt. I need to roll with the punches when they land on me. I need to stay waxed, so that the off color comments of those around me who don’t support my efforts will roll off like water. I need to be focused and true to my cause, and I can never give up.

The financial times are hard and although we may not share the same ideas for what is the right way or best way to get through this, together with my wife I’m sure we’ll find a way.
As for support from most of my family and friends, I can always hope for it. But until that ship comes in I’ll count on motivating myself.

People may ask, will I give up on the 10 Mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure) project?
It’s no doubt, that the answer to this always in constant battle between my heart and my mind, but the last time I looked the flag of “the Regulars” had a heart on it. There was a time before I was born when my very existence could have been in question, but in my mothers mind, even though I still had not taken my first breath and I had no name to speak of, there was never any doubt that she would “never” give up on me. Why would I give up on her?

So the people may ask again, and again, and again, will I give up on this epic?
I may be broke, and I may be hanging by my last thread, but I’m not done, there is still no cure, and I’m still breathing.

World up,
Enzo

Well now isn't this turning out to be a strange yet cool day on the internet. Here's another quick 2 links for you.

"The Regulars" 10 mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure) project is also in the brand new Team Fox Magazine right next to Ryan Reynolds. And as it that wasn't enough excitement in one magaxine...our new Team Tom Saborin is quoted in there too from his days as a marathon runner for Team Fox. (You can find Tom right here on my Facebook Friends list). Stop by & say hi to him.

Here's the link to the magazine in PDF format:
http://www.teamfox.org/atf/cf/%7Ba34b4a45-7f40-418e-b2f2-a4fb38e4f769%7D/MJ_FOX_MAG_HI_RES_WEB.PDF

Also, here's a link to the Team Fox video with "the Regs":
http://www.teamfox.org/site/c.nrLXJ0PFKuG/b.4815173/k.9341/Team_Fox_Video.htm


Team Fox is absolutley for anyone and everyone who wants to do whatever they can to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's Disease research. Contact them and form your own Team Fox Team Event.

World up,
Enzo

Leeza's Place

Hey there everyone,

As you all know this years team is working to help the Alzheimer's Association, Michael J. Fox Foundation (Team Fox), Leeza Gibbon's Memory Foundation & Focus on a Cure to raise awareness to conquer Alzheimer's Disease & Parkinson's Disease.

We're all certainly doing our part to shed light on these diseases, and we're all doing it in different & unique ways.

Leeza's Place has been very kind to become a part of the 10 Mountains - 10 Years story. And Leeza is even going to be filming the introduction to the 10 Mountains 10 Years film. We're all so excited to finally see the first chapter of this epic out in theaters with you all.

Anyway this is just a quick note to say check out Leeza's website and her page for "the Regulars"!

Here's the link:
http://leezasplace.org/climbers.html


World up,
Enzo

Team Fox...Together is ONE

To all my fellow Team Fox members, I have an idea for you.

What a tangled but beautiful web we seem to weave. We never know where we will eventually meet our comrades in arms (so to speak), or who will stick together in this web we call life.

With that being said, I’d like to talk about raising awareness and funds to find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease, but not as individuals. I’d like to talk about looking at ourselves not as islands alone in the world, but as continents of people united by a common cause to conquer Parkinson’s Disease. Together we can do this, but the key word is “Together”.

Team Fox team mates don’t always have to stand alone in their efforts to conquer Parkinson’s Disease. Now, maybe it’s just the way I’ve been brought up having a Sicilian family background which is hugely based on solidarity, but I’ve always felt that there is more strength in numbers than there is in being alone.
As some of you might know, ever since I first started my little effort called “10 Mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure)” in 2006, our team motto has always been “Together is ONE”.

I honestly believe that through time people have come to understand exactly what my team means when we say “Together is ONE”. They’ve been attracted to the light of comradery and altruistically becoming part of a collective team like Team Fox or part of my team the Regulars. Above and beyond all else, the goal is finding a cure, and if our efforts will be more successful by working together with others in our areas who have common goals, then we should find those people, form our teams, and conquer Parkinson's Disease together.

The idea I’d like to propose to all my fellow Team Fox members:

Look around you, find the other people in your own areas (maybe the same city, same county, or a tri-county area).

Design a big event as a team - which would normally be hard to orchestrate while acting individually.

There’s magic in the effort. There’s strength in the unity of people. There’s energy in exchanging ideas and turning them into reality. I honestly believe you’ll grow, learn, bond and find massive success in working together under our common cause. It’s also a great feeling to know that there is someone out there trying just like you, and it’s even nicer when you’re both trying together.

“Together is ONE”

I’ve been pretty lucky to have great people, real grass roots advocates just like you and I (just like “us”), look into my project and say maybe I can give you a hand with that. I can always use help. I would never consider myself a master at anything but knowing how to see through the eyes of a student. In all truth, my eyes are always wide open to the fantastically kind hearted enlightening people around me. These are my fellow expedition team mates in “the Regulars”, and they are also the fellow Team Fox team mates who freely exchange thoughts and ideas with me. These are the people around me who constantly show me that there are ways to improve on any idea I might have in ways I never considered. They have always shed light on a path which I once thought lead to something good and instead joined me on a journey down a road to something greater.

When I designed my project to span a decade I did so with just that in mind. I knew that if I designed a project as a one day, one shot, one time, one mountain effort I simply wouldn’t have the opportunity to attract like minded people to help with our battle against Parkinson’s Disease. So, the solution for me was to create a bigger, higher, harder, longer project. I would eventually draw the project out to become a decade long instead of a one time effort. Creating an annual event gave me the opportunity to learn from mistakes I would make, and would give me the time to learn and improve upon my effort through each coming year. As it turned out, the year following my first event people remembered my project, and were more willing to help me with it the second year round, and so on through time.

In the case of “the Regulars” and our 10 Mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure) project, we’ve crossed paths with and attracted other Team Fox members through time. I believe you can do the same with the Team Fox members around you!

Team Fox is all around you.

I met Ken Glowienke (Focus on a Cure) on Myspace then officially met in person at a Team Fox MVP dinner in NY. Knowing how much effort Ken puts into his projects and reading about him on line made the meeting with him at the Team Fox dinner feel like meeting a rock star, because he was already larger than life in my eyes. Even though Ken lives in Illinois, we always supported each other’s efforts in any way we could across the miles via internet. Interestingly, now Ken has become a part of the 10 Mountains - 10 Years story through the feature film documentary by Back Light Productions. Ken very kindly volunteered to have his entire Deep Brain Stimulation surgery filmed as a portion of the movie. This includes his entire process before, during, and after the operation. He like "the Regulars" want to show people that they could and should be proactive about raising awareness for this cause and further they can be proactive in finding better treatments for themselves.

It’s also funny to note that Thomas Sabourin (T-Run) was at the same Team Fox Dinner during which I met Ken Glowienke although we didn’t meet that night. I came across Tom (who lives in Wisconsin) officially on MySpace and saw that he was involved in Team Fox. I could see from photos that he was in great condition and that he had a background in mountaineering also, so I asked him if he would like to join up with the Regulars. Flash forward a year or so to now and he’s getting ready to fly to Africa to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with us. I still haven't met him personally but he got a chance to meet my team mate Eric Buzzetto (Gladiator) at the Team Fox MVP dinner this year, and another team mate named Eileen Colon at the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in Central Park.

Nadyne Perlin who is from New Jersey (we call her Giant) ran in the New York City Marathon for Team Fox in 2007 found “the Regulars” on MySpace. She wrote me to say her dad struggles with Parkinson’s and she wants to continue her efforts with Team Fox by climbing Kilimanjaro with “the Regulars”.

Then I believe there is an outer circle to the advocates and volunteers for Team Fox which we seldom hear about but I see them out there in action all the time. These are the people who quite privately and out of the spotlight do everything possible to help and support those who are officially are Team Fox members. This describes New Jersey’s own Eileen (Strong Feather) Colon. She was a MySpace friend of Ken Glowienke and was extremely moved and inspired by his efforts to conquer Parkinson’s Disease. Through Ken she was introduced to me and we officially met at one of the Parkinson’s Unity Walks in NYC. To make her very dynamic and long story short Eileen has become really well known on both MySpace and Facebook as a person with lots of ideas, support, love and deep compassion for those struggling with Parkinson’s Disease. Eileen has even gone so far as to drive in one long shot epic to the exact middle of the United States (Kansas) from her home in New Jersey (a 26 hour trip each way) just to spend 2 hours visiting her friend Mary who suffers with Parkinsons' Disease. Also, this past May, she also traveled to speak in front of a Parkinson’s Disease caregivers meeting in Tennessee. Eileen is 52 years old, and even in the face of prior medical concerns about her heart she joined "the Regulars" to climb Mount Hood in 2008 and is now back for more with us to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in July 2009. Coincidentally, she has now officially become a Team Fox member.

Then there are the chance meetings which bring people together. Last year on Mount Hood while we were there climbing our third mountain in the series of ten charity mountain climbs. Our team was shattered and demoralized by bad weather on a first attempt on the mountain. In fact they closed the mountains down entirely due to positively evil weather and lightning storms. We had evacuated and gone back to Portland to wait it out, but tucked away high up on Mount Hood was Lori Saviers (from Ohio). She and a friend had found a spot to ride out the weather unnoticed by the park officials and unharmed by the weather. A few days later out of my team of 10 people, 3 went back to try climbing in a second attempt, and 2 made it to the summit of Mount Hood with our team flag, one of which was Troy Parker who personally suffers with Parkinson’s Disease. Troy and my team mate Brett were trying to take photos of themselves on the summit when across the narrow ridge walked Lori Saviers to help them. She grabbed their camera and snapped a few photos then listened to Troy describe how he had Parkinson’s Disease and had become part of “the Regulars” to help raise awareness for this disease. She was so taken by having seen Troy earlier struggling on the slopes below, then finding them on the summit only to hear that Troy climbed all that way with battling with Parkinson’s and was immediately inspired to join “the Regulars” on our next effort. Although Troy is not on the Kilimanjaro 2009 Team Lori Saviers (Premonition) has vowed take the message to the top of Kilimanjaro.

So, in a nut shell I thought it would be nice to let my fellow Team Fox team mates know that we have all been out there doing what we can on our own, but this year look around you and get to know the other Team Fox members living in your areas. Join forces and create big, beautiful, fantastic and inspiring events together. The world is your oyster, the ideas are endless. You don't have to climb mountains in order to take your message to the people, you just need to connect with them. In this army of change our battle is to conquer Parkinson's. Your weapons of choice just may be ideas & inspiration. Aim for the heart and let your arrows fly.

We can do this together. Believe in yourself. Believe in "us" and try.
The success in your results could be larger than life.

World up,
Enzo Simone
www.theRegulars.org
10 Mountains - 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure).


The key Team Fox members in the above (some pages may be out of date):

Vincent Roland Simone (aka Enzo)
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=nrLXJ0PFKuG&b=4815191&sid=ahJPJ0NGJhJMJXNzGmE

Ken Glowienke
http://www.focusonacure.org/

Thomas Sabourin:
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=nrLXJ0PFKuG&b=4815191&sid=dtIOL3OPLgJPI8MQLsH

Eileen Colon:
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=nrLXJ0PFKuG&b=4815191&sid=ivL0LhPYKlKVLeN3LxG

Lori Saviers:
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=nrLXJ0PFKuG&b=4815191&sid=bfLPJUMxHgKFISOwElG

Nadyne Perlin:
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=nrLXJ0PFKuG&b=4815191&sid=gsJTJ1NEKcJTK8NJKpG

and
Eric Buzzetto

Here's a link to one of my quick home video music clips, to show you just how big our army of change can be if we all fight for these cures together.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAzIsMElpnQ

Representing

There are things in life you can control and then there are things in life you cannot control. The one thing I believe though is never to give up trying to solve what you cannot control. The one thing about an advocate is that is the mindset. You keep pushing to make things happen. You become the warrior in battle. You accept no defeat. You are the voice, the drive, the push to make things happen. I have been part of the Regular’s for three years. The day I was asked by Enzo was the day I committed myself to his project and to the meaning behind it. The physical part of the project is tough and raising awareness and money can be even tougher. I’ve placed myself amongst a group of extraordinary individuals in the Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s community. I began listening to all of there stories. Becoming very close with many of them. Just one year ago I met Jen, our producer of the documentary 10 mountains 10 years, which is based on The Regular’s. We instantly connected. Two like minds. Closest of friends. From the very beginning we were unsure of the impact the project would make on our lives. We would often say how hard it was to wrap our heads around it all. It still continues to be that way because it is something that is forever changing. New people come into our lives. New connections with others that support our team. New reasons to push the envelope in drawing more awareness and more funds.

It becomes apparent how important the role has become. I am sitting in a plane right now, with my son David to my left, heading to Tennessee to represent the Regular’s at a meeting with a Parkinson’s support group and a representative from the Alzheimer’s Association to meet me and to speak on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association. When first approached the initial reaction was shock. Why me? But, why not me? The wonderful woman who invited me, Judy Hensley, wanted me to come and tell my story. I love to write and I would hope to believe one day I will publish my memoir’s of this experience with the Regular’s. But reality has hit and I journey out for the first time in my life to tell “my story”. I couldn’t be more honored to be doing this. I guess I shouldn’t speak too soon. I’m not even there yet and maybe I will forget everything and Judy will have to get up to sing and dance. But I honestly feel I have finally found my voice. I do want to tell my story and try to inspire others to help. If we all join together as one it is possible now to take control of those things in our life we feel we have no control over. I can begin or end this but one thing remains strong, “Together is One” and Enzo, our captain, penned it, believes it, and everyday works towards it. So I am Tennessee bound to represent. I keep my son David close, allowing him to see his mom in action and to go back and tell his brother’s and his dad about the experience. Others may think it’s brave of me to be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro this July but my brave side has to come out in Tennessee so I can stand and represent this group of altruistic individuals in a way that will touch many people’s hearts and lives. I may be telling my story but without the Regular’s there would be no story for me.

I want to take this time to thank Judy and her family for having my son and I in there home and for the Parkinson’s Support group and the Alzheimer’s Association for giving me this opportunity to speak on the behalf of the Regular’s. I would also like to thank Jane Byron, the mayor of there town, for taking the time to come out and speak and meet with me. And of course Enzo Simone, the captain of the Regular’s, the man behind the 10 mountains 10 years project, for believing in me. And to all of my teammates who I will be venturing out with on June 28th with to the roof of Africa. And to all of my family and friends who support and stand by me and understand the importance of what I am doing.

World Up,
Strong Feather aka Eileen

Hey Tennessee: If you happen to be in the neighborhood...

The Northeast TN Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

invites you to a special PD support group meeting

to hear and meet..


Eileen “Strong Feather” Colon

of Hamilton, New Jersey,


who will climb Mount Kilimanjaro in July 2009

as a member of ‘The Regulars’

--a group of regular people committed to climbing a mountain a year to bring awareness to

Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases


Saturday, May 23 6:00-7:30 pm

MSHA Health Resources Annex Classroom,

Johnson City Mall


Eileen will discuss her involvement in a special group making a difference for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases by climbing mountains on a journey called ‘10 Mountains in 10 Years- A Quest for the Cure‘.

The Regulars (www.theRegulars.org) are an inspiring group of people with a mission of bringing together regular people to make a difference toward a cure for Parkinson‘s and Alzheimer‘s diseases!


Eileen Colon (nicknamed “Strong Feather” by her climbing mates) is a 51 year old wife and mother who has been involved in numerous charity awareness activities such as the MS walk and the Susan G. Koman 3 day Cancer walk. She is a second degree black belt in Teakwondo and climbed Mt. Hood and Mt. Washington last year in her first climbs with The Regulars. She blogs about her mission with the Regulars at www.10mountains10years.blogspot.com. She will climb with team leader Enzo Simone and 9 others up Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa in early July 2009.


Come hear this inspiring woman tell how people like me and you can make a difference! For more information call Judy Hensley 423-773-2244 or the Health Resources Center 423-915-5200.

The Coat to Go International and Up A Mountain

This note is from Judy Good Hensley who will be handing me off Da' Coat when I go to visit here this month as I represent The Regulars in Tennessee. You can read more about Judy and her friend Sherri Woodbridge on www.parkinsonsjourney.com
Truly amazing!!!

Eileen




The Coat to Go International and Up A Mountain

Recently, I was reading about an incredible group of people called the Regulars http://theregulars.org/ who are climbing a mountain a year for 10 year to help raise awareness and funds for cures for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. I contacted one of the people on facebook who will be participating this year as the group climbs Mt. Kilimangaro in Africa in early July. And it didn’t take me long to ask my new mountain climbing facebook friend, Strong Feather (Eileen Colon) if she would do me the favor of carrying a piece of the coat along with an orange string and a Parkinson’s symbol pin with her up the mountain and take a picture with these items on the mountain with her. Upon hearing about ‘da coat, she asked how much it weighed and then told me to my great surprise that she wanted to take the coat with her if possible!!! So ‘da coat is going international. I mean, since I’ve been diagnosed with PD, I’ve been to several new places but none international (not yet, anyway) and ‘da coat is getting some travel time. It is my hope that ‘da coat is a symbol of how life with a chronic illness can still be a life that provides nuggets of happiness, in many different times, places, things, and people!

Judy Good Hensley

Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Ticket Sale Information

Tickets are now available to purchase for "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" Event that I will be hosting June 18th at the new Hamilton Manor in Hamilton, NJ. Click on the button to direct you to the desired charity to purchase a ticket. 100% of ticket proceeds will go to said charity. Thank you for your support of "The Regulars".

World Up,
Strong Feather aka Eileen




The Alzheimer's Association

Online event registration

Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's

Online event registration

Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Fundraising Event for The Regulars

Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Fundraising Event for The Regulars

Hosted by:
Strong Feather - A Trail Called Hope IV

When:
Thursday, Jun 18, 2009 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT

Description
Come out and meet "The Regulars" and help us raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer's Association and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's while enjoying live entertainment and a D.J. Take a chance on our Chinese Auction items along with our Silent Auction. Raffle tickets will also be sold and pulled every hour. There will be appetizers and one glass of wine with your admission price.


For ticket information and price please contact Kathryn Hartz at 609-570-0342.


We promise you an enjoyable evening as we all ban together to make a difference in the hundreds of lives affected by these two diseases. "Together is One" is our motto.


Visit us on the web at:

www.theRegulars.org

Also visit the Manor at

www.thehamiltonmanor.com



RSVP Guests:
How many?



The Hamilton Manor

30 Route 156
Trenton, NJ 08691

Loretta Hagen

http://www.strausnews.com/west_milford_messenger/

Above is a link to the West Milford Messenger, hometown of Loretta Hagen. Her song "Sundown till Dawn" will be featured in our documentary "10 mountains 10 years". Check it out. She has a beautiful, powerful voice.

Eileen

Summing it Up

What is it to advocate? It is a lot of dedication, time, belief in yourself, and an effort on your part to get the word out. Is it like a job? In some respect it is but without pay. However, we do reap benefits. The lives we touch, the respect we earn, the feeling we have inside when we know we are making a difference. It humbles you when you are in this position. You begin to look at a lot of things differently. For one, the future of my children, my grandsons, my nephews and nieces, weigh the heaviest as my reasons to be a part of what I am doing. But I advocate for everyone that I have had the pleasure of being in contact with because they are the ones that need the answers now, the cures now. Sometimes when we are asked to step out of our comfort zone we either become frightened or we make excuses. Our excuses may be valid and then again they may not be. But if there is just one thing I find to be important amongst the over all scheme of things is to help others and to get others to help.

I have come across skepticism, ridicule, harshness, cruelty, non-acceptance of what I am doing. I have cried over this, become stagnant over this, stopped my training over this, all because I have doubted myself. I have never doubted why. I have had to bite my tongue to allow for an outer shell to grow so I can block it all out and remain on task. Why am I telling you this? Because support from others is second to what I do. A kind word, a recognition of what I am doing, and even a hand in helping me. But I know not everyone wants to become involved. But I believe the important thing is to accept the person trying. To support there efforts to make a difference in the lives of others. The old saying goes “If you have nothing nice to say then don’t say anything at all”. Do I want others to turn a blind eye? No. I want others to educate themselves, to look inside of themselves and see that if more of us would step up to the plate then more money would be raised, more awareness would be drawn to these diseases. Our motto: “Together is One” holds truth with everyone’s project, everyone’s foundation, everyone’s advocacy work.

Altruism: a concern or regard for the needs of others, entirely without ulterior motive.
We are a group of altruistic individuals committed to a plan to help rid Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease from existence. We train, we fundraise, we climb. But mostly, we believe in the power of people and that with combined efforts from everyone we can make this a reality. If you haven’t already stopped by our website please do so at this time. Get to know what our captain, Enzo Simone, has dedicated his life to. What he believes when he says “Regular” people can make the difference. Click on the links. Get to know the team, read there stories, become part of our fundraising efforts, or just donate. We do this for all of you.

http://www.theRegulars.org

Also on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=71441937789&ref=mf

World Up!
Strong Feather Eileen

Shimmer

Ciao guys,

Music is strange. For me it’s a lot like blood. It fuels me, then runs out, then fuels me again. I love it and I probably always will.

A lot like music another strange thing is life. Sometimes there are a thousand words to describe it, and sometimes it feels as though I had never learned to speak and I’m struck dumb. Today I can find only two words that have any real meaning to me.
Bitter Sweet.

There is a song you might know called “Shimmer” and ironically it’s from a band called “Fuel”. I've always loved the lyrics in this song even though a lot of it probably doesn’t mean much at all. It reminds me of a lot of things, my grand mothers house in England, my mother, me, and a thousand insignificant moments which one day came back to hit me like a ton of lead making making me fall in love with them like no other moment has ever compared.
The music in "Shimmer" rides with the lyrics along the same roller coaster we all do sometimes. Lite hearted and strolling, reflective, powerful, moody, a little up, a little down, a little sad, and yet somehow a little content in at least knowing something beautiful and light existed once but may not be so for long.

Anyway, for one reason or another I’m more sentimental and a little more emotional than usual today for reason’s it’s not time to explain to people. Today some of the lyrics and music in "Shimmer" connected with me and clipped my wings a bit in a strangely complicated way. It feels a lot like falling, but I'm still flying.

While I believe we each make much of our own destiny...
Destiny is - well - still destiny.


World

Here is a link to the video if you'd like to listen to it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0QMfK9hzgA

The Unexpected

I am continually learning as I go along that so many unexpected things continue to happen. So many good things and so many inspiring things. I have faith in everyone because I have come so far in the last three years and it is in thanks to the strong group of family and friends that I have. Enzo has penned "Together Is One" and it has become one of the strongest statements made. The more people I meet along the way, the more people that are inspired by the group, allows for "Together Is One" to resonate.

We have been linked to many groups. We all share one common bond and that is to find cures.

http://parkinsonsjourney.com/we-need-to-get-behind-this-effortthe-regulars

I add this link to direct you over to a website that has placed us there to draw awareness to what we are doing. I have also had the pleasure of becoming friends with Judy Hensley who has asked me to do something for her while I climb up Kilimanjaro. Her words to me were so kind and so humbling. I never view myself as the one making anything happening here. I view myself as being handed a huge opportunity to help make a difference. And collectively with the group "The Regulars" I am able to do that.

Judy has a multicolored coat she purchased that she references to being like the ever changing progression of her Parkinson's Disease. It is viewed as different as she feels Parkinson's patients are when in the public eye. The coat has traveled to many events and has been worn by many an individual to display its uniqueness. Now she wants me to wear it at the top of Kili. With honor I will do this and with pride for the community of individuals I fight for. We will autograph the coat for her too and when I return home I will send it back to her. She is giving me a piece of the coat also that I will pin either on my hat or my pack so I have a remembrance of her coat.

I am forever blinking my eyes, shaking my head, and thanking God for it all. I could never have come this far without all of you. And you all know who you are. I never underestimate anyone or anything. Instead I look ahead and not back because I know good things are on the horizon for every one of us.

World Up!
Strong Feather aka Eileen

www.theRegulars.org


Currently reading:
Making the Climb: What a Novice Climber Learned About Life on Mount Kilimanjaro
By John C. Bowling

Insight into Mt. Kilimanjaro

* As I continue my writings of this journey I am on, my one true committment is to find cures*


I must learn before I can teach. (Strong Feather)

Destiny will not take you anywhere you do not want to be led. Only you can make that call. (Strong Feather)

Preparing for my climb up Mt. Kilimanjaro is becoming a reality on many levels. One being the physical aspect and of course preparing one's mind. I question myself on all levels. Am I cut from the right cloth to be attempting this? Am I headed for disaster? Will I disappoint? Nobody can answer these questions for me. I am the only one who can and will make it happen. I am physically training. Focusing on my cardio, strethening my legs. All clear with every doctor I can think of. Series of tests taken, all good. One doctor stated "Your results are enviable". "Excellent, I'm rendered speechless". We chuckled about that because he is never rendered speechless. He was just trying to calm me down from what I was afraid to hear. I always question myself. Walking into the cardiologists for a Stress Echo was no exception. But he cleared me. Sent me out the door and wished me luck.

Now my journey begins as I continue to clear all obstacles from my path and continue to search inside beyond the physical. Mt. Hood taught me many lessons. Mt. Washington has given me confidence. Mt. Kilimanjaro will define me.

There is much to do. Time must be used wisely and decisions must be made with honesty and not with haste. Many talks with my boys. Promises not to be broken. Pursuing it all one foot in front of the other. Long walks by myself, isolating myself in the gym, closing my eyes during the day to think. Becoming quiet is more a state of mind now rather then talk about everything too much.

I am not alone with myself. I am surrounded by the beauty it all holds. The lessons and defining moments I will learn so I can pass it all on. Some will continue to roll there eyes and some will become inspired by me. But the greatest lesson I have already learned is to believe in myself and be ready for whatever life will hand me.

Following is an excerpt from a book I am reading.....
Making the Climb by John C. Bowling

"Every journey begins wih one step and the real challenge of attaining any goal is to begin.....begin with the end in mind. I am glad to be on my way. As I sit quietly, I think only of standing on the summit, stepping onto the roof of Africa, looking out across a continent. What will it be like to journey by foot above the clouds."

"It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves
- Hans Meyer

"You always pass failure on the way to success"
- Mickey Rooney

"E Pluribus Unum"

Depart for Africa - June 28th.
Arrive home - July 12th

All is good!!

Together is One
World Up!
Strong Feather Eileen

Please visit us on the web.....join us.....donate...become part of the cures.

www.theRegulars.org

The Regulars........Video

My son David created this for us all.........

Eileen

Say hi to our friend Anne Akiko Meyers

I know what you're thinking. Where's Enzo been?

In a nut shell busy as usual. I also went up to Mount Washington in November with the Regulars to do a little training. In December I was let go from the architecture firm where I worked along with another person, so it seems I’m out of work with the rest of the world at the moment. The economy is really squeezing us all isn't it? At the end of December I drove out to Kansas with Eileen and Jen from the Regulars to visit Mary (who you can find on my top friends list). It was an epic drive to say the least. We stopped by Anne's parents house along the way to Mary's and they had us in for coffee which felt great after having driven so long on the highway's out to the middle of America. It was a 24 hour drive out there, where we spent about 2-1/2 hours with Mary in Junction City Kansas. Then it was a 26 hour drive home. It's all been a great experience to help grow from. But this is not why I wanted to post a blog tonight.

I really wanted to turn you all on to a great friend and one of the worlds greatest solo violinists of all time. Her name is Anne Akiko Meyers.

Anne has inspired me with her drive, her passion, her inner light, and she has re-reminded me that great accomplishments can be made by people who are deeply committed and passionate about what they wish to achieve in this life. To me the best word to use in describing hearing her play is the word - picturesque.

I have always since I was young listened to music in a slightly different way than most. When the music is as fantastic as Anne's, and the performer so in tune with what a piece of music is all about. Music is far more than just music. It's a language that whispers and shouts to you. It moves you from this place and pulls you into a world of it's own. Music literally creates imagery, it paints portraits, it becomes architecture and lets us run through it's streets driven on the emotions it pulls from you.

Just how much music means to me ... I can't even begin to describe. Actually on our website - in the history section - I tried to make a small attempt at describing how it has influenced me through life.http://www.theregulars.org/

In addition to being a giant among musicians, Anne's very passionate about her causes and cares about the people around her. I was really happy and honored to see that she had even mentioned my team - the Regulars - and our quest to conquer Alzheimer's and Parkinson's among her favorite causes.
You can check out her web site and causes at...http://www.anneakikomeyers.com/

So, I was hoping that you might be just as inspired as I was to fall into Anne's MySpace page. You can find her on my MySpace Top Friends List. Stop by and add her to your friends list. She has a new CD coming out this February which is called - Smile. As it turns out she’ll be in Manhattan playing a really intimate show for her CD release. I’ll be there on February 3rd. at 7pm with a few friends and if you know you’ll be in the area come out to meet up with me it’s going to be a great time!

The club is called Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleeker Street, New York City, 212-505-FISH or http://lepoissonrouge.inticketing.com/evinfo.php?eventid=30497

I'm sure if you can find a bunch of great videos of her performing if you google Anne Akiko Meyers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqXqC80px0M

I hope you're all having a great 2009 and if you ever see me slipping and not coming by your page to say hi every once and a while... give me a kick and say Hey where've you been???!!! All the best and World up!

Love,
Enzo

Friendships

Somewhere along the way friendships are formed. The initial meet and greet was very exciting. "Hi, how are you?" "It's so great to finally meet you". An then conversation begins. And friendships grow. Friendships that will never be broken, or tested, or disrespected. The mind sets and the passions that we all share are unified. The age differences range from 12 to 50 years old. It doesn't matter. There is no gap here. We are all on the same page. When we throw on our packs and acclimate ourselves, we are all one.

Knowing when to encourage. Knowing when to stop. Knowing when to let one another go ahead. We all come from different backgrounds. We all have different life experiences. Some of us are from another part of the world. But there is nothing as surreal as putting this group of "friends" together for a common cause, and seeing the camaraderie evolve. There is goodness here; kindness and love. There is a bond between us. I feel it. The person in front of me feels it, and the one in front of them. The feeling of trust amongst one another is prevalent.Whenever we stop to breathe and help one another adjust our packs. Or grab there water for them because it's just easier to reach into there pack rather then have them take the whole pack off. It doesn't matter who, you just lean down and help with there crampons so they are on right. You adjust there goggles, brush snow or dirt off of there boot. You don't discriminate. This is unconditional love at it's finest. Who cares what you look like after days of having a hat press your hair down.

The look in the eyes of one of your friends when you get a chance to sit by the camp and sip tea or water or eat dehydrated food (ok, personally I don't like this). There eyes are the windows to there souls. A beautiful quote and so true in this case. You don't look passed this. When you peer into your teammates eyes and talk about what you are doing and why you are doing it, makes every step you are taking towards the common goal all more worth it. The conversations range from non-sensical to how do you save one's life. You laugh so hard that your side hurts and you cry when you think of all the one's you've lost and all the ones still affected. And it is never judged why or when this may occur.

Lack of sleep, exhaustion from climbing, frustration from not being able to pull more out of yourself wrecks havoc on your mind and your body. But somehow you look over and there is someone reaching for your hand and helping you back up. They are encouraging you to keep moving. They let you set the pace. You lead the group, slowly, but with peace of mind, because you know the ones behind you are all alright with it.

This isn't a race to the top. This is a race for a beginning. A beginning to bring a group of altruistic individuals together to raise money, to draw awareness. Always with each others safety in mind. We hold deep the stories we share, the passion we share, and of course, the friendships we share. Nobody can give this to you. You have to want it, to own it. It flows in all of us.

Think about it for a day. Think about it for a week. This is how things get done. This is how things happen. Just a simple meet and greet to strapping on a pack and becoming part of the team. Or you can just advocate, raise money and become part of the dream. Just as rewarding if the physical challenge of climbing is too much for you.If you become part of this project in any capacity, the hope of cures being found and money to help fund projects, becomes more of a reality. Think of those you love and how you inspire them. They too will join forces to help. If we all come together it can be done. Believe in the cause and then become part of the cause. "Together is One"

World Up!
StrongFeather

www.theRegulars.org

www.10mountains10years.blogspot.com

www.cafepress.com/theregulars

www.myspace.com/10mountains10years

www.myspace.com/tsdmom

Save the date: March 7th, 2009
Ain't No Mountain High Enough
Fundraiser for The Regulars
Hamilton, NJ
More info to follow.......