I was asked to write an article for an on-line magazine for women www.wisewomenlife, a magazine about women in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. The purpose of the magazine is to inspire and uplift women in a positive way. It's aim is to stop us from tearing each other apart. My article called Finding my Voice and Finding Myself appeared in the November issue.  I had such a positive experience working with Kim Epp Frenette, the founder and publisher that I am now a regular contributor. My next piece about The Chaplain at the Allegheny County Jail will be in the December magazine out December 5. I hope everyone will read not only my articles, but the other features as well. This is a wonderful publication Full of inspiration and information...two things we can never get enough of. 

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and you are moving forward this holiday season no matter which religion guides your celebration or lack of one. It's been another year with all its bumps and bruises, tears and sorrow, but it's also been a year for miracles, countless joys and much needed laughter.

How will you remember 2011? 

I will be at Einstein's Bagels on Route 19 and Fort Couch Road Tuesday 10/25/11 for a book signing in conjunction with Sabike Jewelry's Komen Daisy Pendant sale. 50% of the sales price of the pendant will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Pittsburgh.

I hope to see everyone there.

Tomorrow 10/23/11 I will be in Penn Hills at a Zumbathon to raise money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Pittsburgh.  I will not be selling my book there, but I will be reunited with the four other women featured in my book. I'm very excited to support this wonderful cause. I will give you all the details on Monday. 

Just wanted to let everyone know that there will be articles about my book in The Almanac and The Pittsburgh Post Gazette.  I don't have the exact dates yet, but I will let you know.

Open House and Book Signing at Ultimate Dance Complex - Friday 9-30-11

You are invited to an Open House at Ultimate Dance Complex 395 Valley brook Road on Friday September 30, 2011 from 7:00-9:00 pm. Hosted by: Tracey Lewis and Corky Neff. Featured at the Open House will be Miche Purses, Sabika Jewelry,The Pampered Chef, Dove Chocolate, and I will be selling and signing copies of my book, Dancing in the Rain. Come see the dance studio and get an early start on your Christmas shopping! Remember 10% of my profits will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Pittsburgh.

Remember next month is Breast Cancer       awareness month. 

Welcome to my new blog that goes with my website. I want this to be a forum primarily for women or men with breast cancer and breast cancer survivors, but I would like to welcome anyone with cancer and anyone who has a friend or loved one with cancer.

I want this to be a place for discussion and venting if you need it.  I plan to share some  tips that helped me get through treatment, and I hope to learn some tips for living a healthy joyous life.

My first question to you is this: 

What is the most positive lesson you will take away from your breast cancer experience?  I look forward to reading your answers.

I used to agonize over every flaw or perceived shortcoming, I let people tear me down with just a look.  At times, I was no more than a door mat.  When I found out that I had cancer and I could die from it, I learned to stand up for myself because suddenly, every breath I took was precious, life was precious, I was precious.

Another thing I learned during my battle with breast cancer is that life goes on.  The busier I stayed and the more connected I was with the everyday world, the easier it was for me to keep my cancer in prospective.  To help you stay tuned in, I want to recommend a few businesses and blogs that I enjoy.  Please note that I'm receiving no compensation for these recommendations. These are places I enjoy and I hope you will too. Some are area specific, but these blogs can be enjoyed by anyone anywhere.

Zumba Fitness - I especially enjoy classes with my instructor, Debbie Colditz at the Westminster Church on Route 19 in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania.  Debbie teaches from 9:00 to 10:00 am every Tuesday and Thursday.  Walk-ins are welcome and the price is only $5.00 per class.

Big Guys Pizza 435 Bowerhill Road,  Bridgeville, Pa 412-257-2222.  Family owned and operated.  Fresh ingredients. Delivery or Take out.  On-line ordering available. Nutrition is super important, but we all love Pizza, so why not get one with fresh ingredients made to order.

Larissa Hill Designs - larissahill.blogspot.com This is a blog by my dear friend and fellow survivor Heather Hillier.  She specializes in making unique decorating pieces from used objects or inexpensive objects.  Heather shares her step by step process with you and she has some wonderful giveaways each week.

lolawashername - this blog is by Lara Hillier the daughter of my friend Heather.  Lara is an aspiring actress in New York.  She shares her unique view of the Big Apple and her exquisite sense of style.  I feel glamorous just reading it!  Lara also has some fantastic giveaways each week so please check her out.

I look forward to reading your answers and any questions you might have that are relevant to the discussion.