Becky's Believers

book sale 2011 photos

2011-07-24T10:31:00.001-07:00

3rd annual book sale!

2011-07-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

Team Becky's Believers is at it again, it's time for the 3rd annual book sale!! This is how our team meets it's $ goals for Relay, and this year it is ENORMOUS - seriously. We've had more used book donations than anyone can count, well over 10,000. It all happens Saturday and Sunday at Redemption Lutheran Church in Bloomington. Will you be there?? Just look at the pictures, these are in my garage all boxed & sorted.. but this is a TINY portion of what we have already unloaded at the church. Saturday we packed up an entire estate library and it's incredible. We also have tons of kid's books, classroom books and new fiction, comics and records, movies, paperbacks, rare antiques... Come to the sale! Our fellow readers, collectors and book lovers of all ages are going to love this one!

Becky's remission party!

2011-06-07T12:17:00.000-07:00

Jamie planned a stupendous surprise party for her mom to celebrate the very happy news of complete remission!!! .. enjoy the photos, we had a ball!

register soon! plus book sale news...

2011-01-24T18:57:00.000-08:00

Becky's Believers team 1 is on the website, go ahead and get registered.. the sooner the better! just click here
Also, the book sale is July 15, mark your calendars! We've been selling comic books (remember those?) and the total is now at $240. Special thanks to Kathy and Jess! It's a head-start for team Becky's Believers!!

REMISSION!

2010-09-19T17:29:00.000-07:00

As many of you know Becky got fantastic news at the Doctor last week. You can read her CaringBridge for all the details, it's all good news!! She is in remission and remains cancer free and healthy, congratulations to Becky!

And Happy Birthday (Sept. 15) - that news had to be the best present ever! I know that she also had many well wishers, gifts and celebrations with you all. We went to the Burnsville Junk Market Saturday, here are Becky and Jamie and some of the treasures we found. Isn't it just great that she is fine, healthy and able to enjoy simple fun times with friends & family? What a blessing!

Relay For Life 2010 photos

2010-08-11T11:18:00.001-07:00

thank you

2010-08-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody! 2 more days til Relay. thank you all for being on the teams, and thank you Erica and Jamie for the hard work you do.

We'll try to set up a comfortable camp for you. It will be fun! I'll get pictures posted asap and request that you share yours too. Becky still has a flickr account here and the Relay flickr is here

see you soon

book sale!!

2010-07-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

Becky

You guys are so awesome, we made over $1900 for team Becky's Believers!! That's not including the Thrivent matching funds or comic book sales, which will be added to the team accounts as they come in. Each of you can see your progress on the ACS site, congratulations!!

Here a some pictures of the day, enjoy!

Becky is a Twins fan, help us with a Twins silent auction bag!

2010-07-06T10:23:00.001-07:00

Hello Becky's Believers! HEY- team 2 is full! Who's up for a team 3? We need a captain and a few more walkers, come on in!

So, as you may know, Becky and family are huge Twins fans. Our team is required to bring a silent auction item and we are putting together a Twins bag! Any donations from you all would help, this could be anything with a Twins logo (t-shirts, water bottles, toys etc) or maybe even tickets or signed souvenirs.. please contact one of us asap so we can get this done. Thanks!! Enjoy these photos thanks to Erica and Jamie!! And by the way, THANK YOU again to Erica for stepping up to the team 2 captain job!

Relay crashing

2010-06-19T11:08:00.001-07:00

last night Becky, Sharon, Jess and I attended the Apple Valley Relay. We went to support Melissa and the AV Relay teams, and get new ideas! Of course we're all jealous of the venue they have, the opening ceremony was very moving, the survivor lap was awesome and they had perfect weather!! Good job Apple Valley!

nearly 4000

2010-06-19T10:49:00.000-07:00

the book sale continues to expand, we are very near 4000 books now!!! can't wait to shop..

3712

2010-06-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

everybody! the book count is at 3712!!! AMAZING.. a special thanks to all who collected books, let's keep it goin!

committee garage sale is Friday

2010-05-16T12:49:00.000-07:00

Burnsville Relay For Life planning committee's garage sale fundraiser is this Friday, May 21 at 1501 Southcross Dr. W. We still need donations of your discards, household items etc. Volunteers are also needed, come and help! It will be fun, even if you can only stay for an hour or so... that's ok we need you!
AND please stop by to shop- we have a lot of good stuff already and it's sure to go fast! While you're there go in to Lily Wellness for Jan's open house! Read more here

books and upcoming events

2010-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Becky and Sharon at the senior expo

WOW Becky has over 1580 books in her garage, mostly from Trudy who has been doing an awesome job collecting. Books have come in from Iowa and from friends around here, we're off to a really great start! Keep it going!!
Next up for the Relay planning committee is the garage sale, May 21 - email if you want to hang out with me that day! We'll be passing out info & talking it up hoping to get more people to come to Relay, and the garage sale is a fundraiser for the event. Donations of your "junk" would be welcome too.

Thanks to everyone who has registered, team 2 has room for more! Hopefully we will need team 3 again this year- it's going to be so much fun!

bye for now,
Brenda

GO TEAM!

2010-04-21T13:50:00.001-07:00

Becky's Believers team 1 is full!! Team 2 is ready and waiting for YOU, register soon!

Relay Kickoff Party

2010-04-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hello team! You are all invited to attend the Burnsville Relay For Life kickoff party! This is a fun and informative event complete with birthday cake and prizes, you can pick up your packets and learn all about Relay 2010, contests and activities. Becky will be there, hope to see YOU there!!!

When: April 14, 6-8 pm
Where: Diamondhead Education Center, 200 W. Burnsville Pkwy upper level

Becky and Melissa bring it to City Hall

2010-03-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

I know you're all wondering how it went, it was awesome!! Last night, March 2nd, Becky and Melissa gave a presentation to the Burnsville City Council. They were both so eloquent and it was well received, with a comment from Mayor Kautz saying "I'll be there!!"

Becky is really gaining strength as a speaker and advocate, it's amazing to see her grow and as always I'm a fan! I hope this effort brings a higher level of support from the city, our Relay is bound to grow this year no matter what, but more involvement from the City of Burnsville would be a grand thing:)

team 2

2010-02-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

Hey! Team 2 is registered - special thanks to Erica for being team captain!! you can sign up here

BIG HUGE NEWS!!!!!!!!

2010-02-23T12:27:00.000-08:00

OK guys- Becky is speaking to the Burnsville City Council on Tuesday, March 2nd!!! The idea is to present Relay and get more support from the city of Burnsville. This is a huge deal, she will be speaking along with Melissa Marquis- our staff partner. We need you there!!!!!!!!!!! Put on your Relay shirt and join us- Burnsville City Hall at 6:30.

You can rsvp on the new Relay For Life of Burnsville facebook page- please join the group and let us know if you can make it!

books and more books, round table photos

2010-02-16T07:28:00.000-08:00

Good morning Becky's Believers! I just got an email from Becky with an update on the book sale. You all are doing such an awesome job- special congrats to Therese in Albert Lea who has already collected over 350 books! The stash in Becky's garage is well over 500 and it's only February!! This sale is going to be even better than last year, can't wait to shop!! Great job everyone!!

In January Becky and I attended the Relay Round Table at the ACS offices in Mendota Heights, here are some photos; Becky winning the coveted black & white bag, Jess at work, Becky mingling around being fab:) with the Jamaica Relay folks and Andy Rausch who is our Relay Advisory Team rep, and we finally got a picture of Melissa who is our ACS staff partner. Becky also talked to the Relay International coordinator- yes they talked about Paris! Very exciting!

Enjoy and have a great week!

New pics from Relay 09- Thanks to Jamie!

2010-01-25T15:20:00.000-08:00

2010-01-13T19:19:00.001-08:00

Relais Pour La Vie

2010-01-12T18:21:00.000-08:00

Relay in France! in FRANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Les anciens malades sont invités à ouvrir le Relais en effectuant un premier tour de piste. Ce Tour des survivants célèbre leur victoire sur la maladie. Ce moment rappelle aux personnes présentes la raison de leur participation au Relais pour la vie, constitue un point de départ émouvant et donne le ton à l’événement. Les « survivants » peuvent s’ils le souhaitent porter un tee-shirt dédié.

2nd annual Book Sale!!!

2010-01-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

Good morning! Everyone staying warm??

The plans are underway for our second annual book sale! Remember the fun we had last year? And- the success! Our goals are the same this year, we want to meet the Relay For Life $100 commitment for each team member. So start saving books, tell your friends and family to save books. Becky has volunteered half of her garage this year for storage and sorting. We can start the collection process right now.

The sale will be in July, volunteers will be needed. Having an early start is sure to make a difference and if you know that you can help with the sale please send me an email.

I'll be updating the blog more often now so check in once in awhile, or better yet-- FOLLOW (see buttons on right:) and your comments are appreciated- add one!

Brenda

Relay website

2009-11-30T06:46:00.000-08:00

As you register please take a look around the new Burnsville Relay website- click here

REGISTER!

2009-11-29T09:47:00.000-08:00

Big news kids! Becky's Believers team 1 is registered, you can sign up here

We'll be needing 2 volunteers again this year for teams 2 & 3. You'll be team captains for registration, help with luminaria lighting and team intros- let me know asap if interested.

Leadership summit pictures & idea

2009-11-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

Hello Becky's Believers!

I thought you might want to see more photos of the Leadership Summit. Above - there was a trivia game for the audience - Becky has the remote clicker (that's how you answered the questions) and you can see the animated leader board. Also shown are the White Bear Lake cheerleaders, some of the awards & presentations, people we sat with, slides- it was just so good. There is still so much to pass on to you all.

One of the ideas we picked up for our Relay is the "Ritz". Here's how it works; the winner of the best campsite contest wins the Ritz treatment for next year, when they get help unloading their cars, setting up tents, tables, decorating etc... help with their fund raising table- extra announcements from the dj- all kinds of perks! In other words they just show up and enjoy the night! We'll need to find a Ritz treatment team to carry out the tasks, they could be scouts or a student organization, youth group or anything like that. I think Becky's Believers will have a pretty good chance of winning, any new theme ideas for our campsite? ???
Post it in the comment box!

More soon, keep checking in! We have our first committee meeting this week so things are happening! The 2010 Relay is going to be awesome!

Brenda

It's all about more birthdays!

2009-10-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

At the summit- Becky won the birthday box on our table, then we hit the Relay store.

Relay For Life Midwest Leadership Summit

2009-10-25T11:01:00.001-07:00

Hello Becky's Believers!! Becky and I attended the ACS Midwest Division Leadership Summit this weekend, it was FANTASTIC!!!!! We had a blast, learned a lot and got loads of new ideas. I have so much to tell you but I'll have to wait until I can get my thoughts together and sort photos, I hope I can read my notes (yes - I took notes!)!! So in the next week or so I will get as much posted as I can, check in often! We left feeling so pumped, the crowd was ready to Relay THAT NIGHT! There was so much energy in the room, just incredible.
More soon!!

Brenda

EEK!!!!!!!!

2009-10-18T17:33:00.001-07:00

BOOK CLUB!!!!!!!!!

Hope

2009-09-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

Jim and Pat's hope luminaria!

Happy Birthday to Becky!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

I know most of you read Becky's CaringBridge and the news there has been so good this week! She has beat it, Becky beat cancer! Her port is coming out today- best birthday present ever!

We have the photos from Pam now, I'm going to set up a Flickr for those but in the meantime- here's a preview, remember how cold it was?? Stormy and windy and horrid- I'm still dissappointed, can't help it! But it was fun while it lasted, and would have been a good night for sure- wait til next year:)
When we get the team portrait Becky & I will let you all know how to order. Enjoy this happy day everyone!

Brenda

Flickr

2009-08-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

As you see by the badge to the right, team Becky's Believers now has a Flickr!! Go check out the photos, and feel free to send me any pics you want to add (gobeckyb@yahoo.com) I know some of you took pictures the night of Relay so please share! Or if you have any of her other event photos that would be good too (nursing panel, stories of hope etc.) I also took this opportunity to share older photo sets with you all, like the all night party for the 2006 grads and the BSHS beautification committee.

Pam J photos will be up soon with the Becky's Believers team portrait and all the free, candid shots she took during the evening of Relay. I will let you know asap how to get those.

$5,300!!!

2009-08-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

Becky's Believers raised over $5,300! Can you believe it? :)

I should say some big thank yous to those who helped with the team. Team captains Jen and Nikki, you guys were just great. Tom and Jamie- you worked so hard and you were there early & stayed late, smiling no less! Jim & Pat- the HOPE luminaria was wonderful, especially after we lost the possibility of lighting luminaria bags, at least we could see yours. To all the people who helped set up and then hurry and take down, especially things like balloons & chairs & decorations - THANK YOU!! To Gail for her cheery attitude and willingness to come from Colorado, to book club sisters Bonnie, Denise and Patti- THANK YOU!! To our silent auction winner who had to run and get cash- (who knew?) THANK YOU!!! To Natalie for the kind words- THANK YOU! To Erica for your calm nature and help with the details- THANK YOU!

Honestly I'm still so disappointed that we had to end it that way, I'll never forget how surprised Teresa looked- she just said "WHAT?" which is how we all felt. It was chaotic, the entire day was chaotic. Some of us were up at 6 getting ready for everything, making trips, trying to set up in the wind & rain and it just felt like an uphill battle every minute. I had boxes of prizes that are unused, luminarias we didn't light, limbo poles, checkered flags for the car race (and an entire garage full of cardboard plus a half built cardboard school bus), signs made & never put up, play lists - oh it's a long list. Like I said earlier, we were going to have so much fun! You never got to see the magician, or buy a Hope Float, or just goof around at the campsite with all the fun stuff Marie sent. bummer

Anyway, I thank all of you for your positive outlook, you were great about it. We finished packing it up around 12:30 and the weather came in making me very glad that we sent everybody home. The last load out of there got wet for sure.. oh well.

I'll probably shut down the blog soon, I just want to post the photo information and such. Then it's on to other things for me.

Thanks again to all of you, your support of Becky is really something great!

Brenda

OH! one more thing, if you got a fan in your gift bag- save it for next year! Maybe it will be hot & humid like it's supposed to be in August!

stormy Relay

2009-08-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for being there, I know we all agree that Becky did an awesome job speaking!

If anyone got photos please email them to gobeckyb@yahoo.com so I can put them here or on Flickr to share. Pam J did our portrait and I'll post that info as soon as I have it, the deal is $10 for a 5x7 (includes shipping and card frame) that is a very good price! I hope many of you order from her, we need to support the people who gave generously of time and services. Pam is one of those people as she will be sharing the candid shots free of charge and waved all her usual fees for our event.

Of course the rest of the night was a big disappointment due to storms. We were going to have so much fun! I was looking forward to meeting you all and participating in the walk, the contests, the party at our campsite etc. It was heartbreaking to have to cancel all that. My family put so much into this and to see it end was just a bummer. I expected to have time later in the night to talk to each of you and thank you for being there, it just didn't happen so let me say it now- THANK YOU!
As you may have noticed, nothing went as planned- we were doing jobs at 4 that should have been done earlier. Those tasks were stopped due to wind and rain, and scrambling to get it all in place before 6 was a nightmare. I think next year we'll delegate Becky's Believers campsite set up to someone not involved in event set up- any takers? Something to think about.

For now I'll just say congratulations to Becky, and to all of you for the wonderful team you are! There are some big success stories coming out of this team- Becky's speech, the fund raising we did, and the opportunity for all of us to get together and do some good. Our party was ruined but that can't take away from the positive things that happened! You guys are the best!!

rain

2009-08-07T04:57:00.000-07:00

After all this preparation the forecast is lousy:( does anyone have a canopy to bring?

and but also

2009-08-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

maybe you'd better bring an umbrella..

FOOD

2009-08-05T14:08:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in recent emails and earlier posts, our food situation the night of Relay is looking a bit iffy:) What do you all think of our team doing a very informal, sort of mini potluck?? Just bring something to share if you feel like it- and like I said earlier, pack a sandwich or something- drinks too. THANKS to Erica for volunteering to bring ice and a cooler to share.

Can you believe it's only 2 nights away?? Can't wait!

Becky in the news

2009-08-04T10:16:00.000-07:00

Becky was interviewed recently for the Savage Pacer, you can read the article here (and please ignore the typo- we made $2,800 at the book sale not $28,000)

ALSO
about food-- Becky has suggested that we might all want to bring something to share, so feel free! bars or finger foods?? chips, snacks or whatever?? Does anyone want to volunteer to bring a cooler with ice that we could all share for our drinks?

location

2009-08-03T15:42:00.000-07:00

Just a quick, short reminder that we are not at the high school this year- our Relay is at Nicollet Jr High 400 E 134th St in Burnsville

When does Becky speak?

2009-08-01T17:27:00.000-07:00

So many people have asked me this, here's the schedule as it stands now- I won't list everything, just the highlights!

August 7, 2009- 6 days from now!!!

4pm check in begins

5pm rehearsals & sound checks- you can be decorating the campsite, setting up your chairs etc.

5:30 team photos - let's get there early

6pm silent auction starts
relay beauty school, magician, popcorn & hot dogs (many more activities)
luminaria sale & decorating if you still haven't done yours
displays open for CaringBridge, ACS etc.

7pm choir, emcee, color guard
Becky and Jess welcome committee remarks
speakers- Mayor Kautz, Christine Aquilla from Hope Lodge

7:30 survivor lap and team introductions

8pm frozen t-shirt contest

8:40 glow sticks are handed out- MAKE SURE YOU GET ONE!!

8:45 glow stick ceremony
introduction of honorary chair Joey Brunner

9pm music by Jill Blodgett
captains light luminaria

Becky speaks! This is it!!!

all team silent lap with bagpiper Jerry Brennan

After 10-- many, many activities and contests, cardboard car race, balloon toss, best cowboy hat contest along with all the others- the fun begins!

Just remember, it's all for a good cause!

2009-07-30T19:28:00.000-07:00

Ok - so are you all on board with this MAMMA MIA thing?? You need to dress up and the dj will play music from the movie plus some Abba/disco hits- it's a contest for best costume! This is one of Becky's favorites and we need to make it as silly and fun as possible, I can't wait to see what you all come up with! It will be later in the night, (1 in the morning actually) which should help wake us all up.. c'mon Dynamos! Bring a costume!!

lists and more lists

2009-07-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

9 days!! Relay is in 9 days!

I sent out the last of the team member packets today so watch for it in the mail. I apologize in advance for anyone who was missed, I'll post a lot of the same info here to make sure all are informed & on the same page!
Becky is super thrilled that we get to use her fire pit, not by our tent but in the seating area which will be great. We are going to make a list of things that maybe some of you could volunteer to bring. In the meantime please take another look at this;

RELAY CHECKLIST

Remember this is an all night event and you'll want a few things for comfort! Don't know what to bring? Here are some suggestions.......

flashlight
batteries
camera
lawn chair
sleeping bag or blanket, pillow
personal items such as sunscreen, toothbrush, hand sanitizer, lotion
sweatshirt or rain gear depending on forecast
walking shoes, extra socks
cell phone
pocket money for team fundraisers, hot dogs etc. ($1s are best)

We provide:
tent
band aids/first aid kit
trash bags for clean up

Things to remember:

Our tent area will be open and unguarded, please lock your purse or valuables in your car or trunk.
Please do not leave children unattended at any time for any reason. Children must be accompanied throughout the evening by their parents or responsible adult.
No alcohol or cigarettes.

cardboard cars and watermelon

2009-07-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

Now you all know that we can't have an event like Relay without some silly, ridiculous fun & games!! So get ready, make your list and pack some essentials.. here is a short, incomplete list of the planned contests and activities.

watermelon eating contest
Mamma Mia costume contest
best cowboy hat contest
cardboard car race
best campsite award
3 legged race
balloon toss
limbo
cha cha slide

Think about it- you might need some stuff, it's gonna be fun. no really. it is.

and we're back!

2009-07-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

Good morning Becky's Believers!
Time for a quick wrap up of the book sale. First of all, our team made over $2800!!!!!!! It's all been applied to your fundraising goal on the ACS website, so congratulations to all of you! Thank you to everyone who worked the sale, you were fantastic and amazing and worked so hard!! It was really a fun day, I just wish more of you had taken home books at 3 o'clock:)
I gave the leftovers to the Courage Center, they came Monday morning and took every single box! Tom has his garage back...

Now it's on to the Relay! I'll be posting lots on that later today, keep checking in so you know what's happening.
Again thank you all for your contributions to a very successful book sale!

BOOK SALE!

2009-07-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

baking's done, books are gone, we're almost ready..

2009-07-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

The books are out of my garage! Special thanks to all the great people who showed up to help! We started at 6 and were back home by 7- incredible, it happened FAST!!! I'll see some of you tomorrow night and hopefully many more Saturday. It's going to be a fun day, the cakes by Jamie are fabulous so hit her table early!

still sorting books!

2009-07-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

Sorting books continues- I am very happy to tell you all that we have over 3600 books now, counted and boxed and ready to transport to the church tomorrow night. That 3600 only includes what is here at my house, so imagine what our final total will be! We've heard from MANY MANY people that will be dropping off Friday night!

I hope to see you all there!

Becky's Believers blue

2009-07-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Becky and Jamie have chosen a slogan for our team "Becky's Believers have Blue Spirit!" This theme illustrates the dedication Becky has to raising awareness for colon cancer. Remember this is her choice, her words!
You'll be decorating the campsite all blue- and we need stuff! All team members are invited to bring items to decorate with- balloons, streamers etc. all blue! Get as creative as you like- have an idea? Run with it. This is something we do as a team, it can be silly........ the message won't get lost.

Guess what else - we have over 3000 books now!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait to get this book sale started! Saturday is going to be a blast, see you there!

Jamie bakes cakes

2009-07-09T20:26:00.000-07:00

Check this out -- Jamie is an awesome baker, and self taught! This is the beginning of a business for her and I know it's going places. Just look at the beautiful 50th anniversary cake for her Grandma & Grandpa!! That's special and they must have absolutely loved it, so sweet. She's taking orders people!!! jamiejprescott@gmail.com
Don't forget to visit her tables at the book sale, she's having cupcakes and a lot of other baked goods so get yours before they disappear:)

Book sale schedule

2009-07-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Becky's Believers!

Just think, a week from tonight all these books will be out of my garage! (husband very happy about this). There are over 2500 here in boxes, sorted and counted. As you may have heard we expect a lot of books to be dropped off Friday night at set-up. There are still some deliveries expected at my house as well so I think our goal of 4000 books is a reality! Thank you to all who have donated and helped out.

I've heard from a lot of you about volunteering hours and I will get a schedule posted soon, but for now here's a look at the week ahead;

Friday July 10- deadline for registration! if you register after that you may not get a t-shirt so please get registered!!! (I did hear that Jean isn't ordering t-shirts until Monday but I'm not sure about that so why risk it?) register now:)

Thursday July 16 6pm- truck loading at my house, unloading at church
Friday July 17 7-9pm- set up at church
Saturday July 18 9-3 BOOK SALE!!!!!!
we arrive at 8am and stay until clean up is done

You should see what Jamie is doing, she is the queen of cakes! Her baking skills are phenomenal and I'll do a blog post on that soon, I would recommend buying your goodies from her early that day - they are sure to sell out!

More later my friends!

big news, long post, many thanks........

2009-06-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

You guys I have to share this.. Marie Johnson is a friend and book club sister (above with Becky). She can't be with us for Relay but man is she a volunteer. Here's what she's been up to;

Handcrafting beaded bookmarks for the book sale
Collecting books
Getting others involved with collecting books, including Starbucks
Donating $$ online
Luminaria donations
Help with decorations & miscellany:)
Contacting Pepsi for free bottled water
best of all she asks "what can I do to help?" AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!

Now for Nancy Huddleston, editor of the Savage Pacer and longtime friend/partner in crime and one of the best gals ever... (also above with Becky). Nancy has been so great about helping get the word out- telling her neighbors about the book sale after the River Hills Days garage sales:) and donating luminaria $$, and she is putting out press releases for south of the river publications- watch for it! This is help we can't say enough about, so thank you to Nancy!! You're the best!!

Another special thank you to Laura at Curves of Savage, she has set up a table in the middle of the room and let us put a preview of the book sale there! I've got flyers displayed and a few books for early sale thanks to her! Hopefully all those ladies will come and shop with us the 18th- Curves of Savage has the nicest group of women, I really like it.

When you add up all the great people who are pitching in, along with all of you on the team it's kind of overwhelming. Becky is blessed with awesome, energetic, giving and creative friends! Her team is going to shine along with all the others at Relay- I can't wait to see it all pulled together. Speaking of that, here are some new details;

1. We have a photographer!! Her name is Pam and she is awesome. Here's where you can see some of her work http://pamjphotos.blogspot.com/
Pam will be taking candid photos of the event to share and team or family photos for purchase, she's just the right person for this- so fun! It's going to be perfect.
2. Team fundraisers are happening that night- hope floats, awareness bracelets, cereal from the Blazettes just to name a few. This will be going on all night so bring $$ - most items will be $1 but prices will vary. The bottom line is THERE WILL BE SHOPPING!!!!!!!!!! (and snacks)
3. We're working out the details for contests- you all need to be aware & prepared! Best Mamma Mia costume, best cowboy hat, best campsite, best cardboard car (just wait)..

Ok I'm out of news! More to come, things are rolling now so keep checking in!

Brenda

Luminaria

2009-06-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for collecting luminaria, it is truly overwhelming. Your tributes and memorials are meaningful, filled with purpose and strength. Becky and I talked this weekend about the progress the team is making and we are blown away- you guys rock!
Any luminarias turned in early are appreciated, the Hardgroves are putting them out in alphabetical order (first name) so they are working on it as they come in. You can give yours to Becky or Jess or myself, and you can bring them to the book sale- you can also get more at the book sale if you've run out. Becky's mom will be there with markers & supplies for those who want to decorate that day- thank you Pat! Each and every luminaria represents someone special who has been affected by cancer, remember the people in your lives with cancer "in honor of" or "in memory of". Get as creative as you like, we've seen many with punched designs, old photos, drawings by children- anything goes! Remember that the top inch will be folded down and the design should be focused on the front of the bag where the Relay logo is.

Brenda

Full moon for Relay

2009-06-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

photo: Jess Irwin

Here's a little fun for our relay, Jess has ordered a full moon for us :)

Sunset - 8:31pm

Civil Twilight ends - 9:03pm

Moon phase - Waning gibbous, 97% illuminated

Moonrise - 8:44pm

We are working on an idea to bring telescopes and do some stargazing in the early morning hours- more on that later!

Congratulations Becky

2009-06-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hooray for Becky, she's done with chemo!! I share with all of you the sense of relief and hope for the future.... and the word for today is REMISSION!!!

Only 52 days to go until our Relay For Life. Are you all ready? Let's celebrate with Becky that night, it's an all night party after all! I am sending out team member packets soon so watch your mailboxes.

A big thanks to Marie Johnson who is making bookmarks to sell July 18! Also- we still need books for the sale! Remember anything goes! DVDs & CDs, audio books, cookbooks, hobbies & crafts, magazines, computer and xbox type games, board games, all fiction & non fiction books. We are kind of short on kid books, cookbooks, sci-fi and crafts. Let your neighbors know, it's garage sale time and maybe people having sales would donate their unsold books to us.

More later, have a great week!

More books

2009-06-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh the books just keep coming! I went to Iowa this weekend to see family and brought home over 300. Earlier this week book club gave well over 100, and a neighbor of mine just gave me 2 boxes which haven't been counted. I'm guessing we are close to 2500 now! Great job Becky's Believers!!!

book sale update

2009-06-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Oh the book sale, it's snowballing! Over 1600 books donated so far and more are on the way. We will easily reach the goal of 4000 books for sale on July 18 and all you readers are going love the shopping, we really have a good variety. Don't forget Jamie is selling baked goods as well! Can't wait!! Volunteers are still needed for transportation and set up- help me get these books out of my garage!!!!!

Relay history

2009-05-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

Relay For Life started as the City of Destiny Classic 24-Hour Run Against Cancer in Tacoma, Washington. In May of 1985 Dr. Gordy Klatt, started this event to raise money for his local American Cancer Society office. This first event raised over $27,000.
Relay For Life events are now hosted in big cities and small towns across America. Communities, schools, and businesses now actively participate in their local Relay For Life.
( from the South Carolina Cancer Society)

Read more about it here http://www.cancer.sc/content,the-history-of-relay-for-life/

Team Becky

2009-05-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning! As you may already know Becky's Believers team 1 is full! We've started team 2 and will probably need team 3!!!! This is fantastic, what a party it's going to be. We'll be walking for Relay and celebrating with Becky! I hope you're thinking of campsite decor, activities & munchies. Everyone on the team is welcome to pitch in and make the night special. Commenting on this blog would be a great way to share ideas & get the ball rolling! Comments are useful because you can all see them, give it a try!

Becky news

2009-05-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

As you all know (if you read Becky's CaringBridge site) she's had quite the week. She got good news on the brain scan, did a fabulous job speaking at Century College, and worked her heart out for the Burnsville relay. Seriously..... she rocks. I want to remind you all that she is speaking Monday night at JoJo's, I hope some of you can go and be her cheerleaders!

The book sale fundraiser is progressing and THANK YOU to all who have donated books!! It's going to be awesome, we had a donation this week of leftovers from another book sale, plus about 200 more books from friends and relatives. We will easily have over 4000 books! I can't wait, and Jamie is working on the bake sale which will be SWEET!!!!!! We still need volunteers, please email me if interested.

Relay planning continues to be good, the mayor will be speaking and so will Becky! We need to plan out our campsite- I'll be sending emails about that soon. We need to win that "best camp site" award! Ideas???????? check out the above pics randomly borrowed from cyberspace

Talk soon!
Brenda

Stories of Hope- YOU'RE INVITED

2009-05-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day!!! I have news! Becky will be sharing her story at an event hosted by Sandy Thibault and Paula Becker of InnerLight Healing Center!

Stories of Hope
Monday, May 18 at 7pm
JoJo's Rise and Wine
12501 Nicollet Avenue
Burnsville

You are all invited! There is no registration or charge, so please go and support Becky as she shares her hope & eternal optimism "it's all good"......

book sale ** new idea

2009-05-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hello again!

I was asked this week if we would accept Xbox games or board games for the book sale. I'm thinking "why not?" and I hope you all agree. So let's add that to the list of items we'll take, any computer games, xbox, playstation etc.... plus board games & card games, as long as they are in good condition.
Another friend asked about scrapbooks & supplies- again I'm thinking "why not?" so I'll work on that idea a bit and post more later.

The books are pouring in, it's going to be so good!!!

2009-04-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

Hello team members!! We are having a book sale/bake sale as our primary fund raiser!!!

When: Saturday July 18, 9am-3pm
Where: Redemption Lutheran Church
927 E. Old Shakopee Rd
Bloomington, MN 55420
Set up: Friday July 17, 7-9pm

We need books and anything goes- non fiction, kids, romance, mystery, suspense, western, biography, travel, best sellers, spy thrillers, horror, sci fi & fantasy , cookbooks & "how to" books, poetry, crafting, humor, old & rare & collectible ... ANYTHING! Paperbacks or hardcovers, we'll even take magazines & comic books or graphic novels. DVDs & music CDs or audiobooks would be great. Email so we can pick up your items, the earlier the better as we want to organize into categories.

Baked goods are also welcome if anyone is interested- check out the Relay cupcakes at Bakerella.blogspot.com (April 14 post) Jamie is in charge of the bake sale so let's pitch in!

The goal with this sale is to help each member of Becky's team reach that $100 goal for the Relay. I think we can do that and more! New ideas are welcome so let me know, and please consider helping with the sale- we need you! REALLY! It's going to be a blast! We'll be selling luminaria that day as well as getting the word out about the Burnsville Relay.

Remember all proceeds go to the American Cancer Society for research and programs such as Hope Lodge.

2009-04-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

Speaking of strength, on Friday night Becky drove us down to the U of M so we could observe the Relay For Life there. It was awesome! So many students, we got a lot of ideas for the Burnsville Relay and it really brought home the need for more volunteers. They had so many committee members and of course that made it run smoothly and added to the energy and excitement. SO- if you are reading this blog and plan to be involved PLEASE consider being a volunteer, you can do a lot or a little... send us an email or comment on this post. I was amazed at the crowd and the activities they planned- it was so cool! Don't forget to check out the Burnsville Relay website for more information on registering.

2009-04-18T09:08:00.001-07:00

Becky at a Relay committee meeting, April 15. We had a great time and worked out some of the details for this event. I am still in awe of Becky's strength and commitment, her volunteer spirit is very strong even as she struggles through cancer treatment. What an inspiration.

PICTURES!!!

2009-04-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Enjoy these photos from the Burnsville Relay 2008!

Moving On!

2009-04-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Bonnie for getting registered! We're on our way, the team is growing! There was a committee meeting Thursday and things are moving forward, the event will certainly be a good one. Everyone on Becky's team can be thinking about the camp site decorations and any fund raising we need to do. The book sale is still an option but I have heard from no one so maybe you all are not on board with that? (comment please)

Now, a big CONGRATULATIONS to Becky!! She has been chosen to speak to nursing students at Century College! We are all so excited for her and very proud, I know she will be an inspiration and bring new information to the students about the realities she has been struggling with. I can't imagine anybody being better qualified, can you?

Talk soon,

Brenda

2009-03-25T20:46:00.001-07:00

Hello friends of Becky,

Just a reminder to please get registered for her team.... click on the link to the right.
Special thanks to Tom Bade, Jamie, Pat and James, and Natalie for getting signed up! And to all those I've thanked in earlier posts- you rock! The team is growing and we will very likely need to form a team 2, team 3.... let's keep it up!

Brenda

Luminaria

2009-03-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

"As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria, each of which has a special meaning. Some celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and have lived to tell their stories. Many remember the lives of those who have been lost to this disease. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor."
(ACS website)

It's time to order your luminarias, please email and tell us how many you would like. You will be decorating one side with either "in honor of" or "in memory of" your own friends or family affected by this disease- or we can decorate & label for you. Luminarias are $10 each, they do count towards your individual fundraising goal.

Sadly there is never a shortage of luminarias to be lit. Remember each one represents someone who is fighting, or has died from cancer. It touches us all, that's why we do this. People have described this part of the event as life changing, moving, emotional and a real wake up call.
It will be my first time to see this, Becky said it was incredible last year** better bring tissues:)

Brenda

2009-03-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day! I hope all of you are enjoying it! Spring is here and that means everything will go faster now, Relay will be here in no time so get registered for Becky's team soon.
If you read Becky's CaringBridge site you know that she had a super week. Everyone is pretty excited about the news from the Dr. She's doing great!!! Still a ways to go with the chemo of course but it's just such good news.
I kind of think of Relay for Life as a celebration of that, Becky will be done with chemo by then. She will be a speaker at the opening ceremony. It's sure to be moving and emotional, I know she will be awesome. This is our time as her friends and family to show support, and to contribute to a cause we all believe in.
Let's roll! Get registered!

Brenda

2009-03-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Good morning, it's spring!! Does this weather inspire you to walk?

It's time to register for Becky's team! Please visit the American Cancer Society Burnsville relay website to sign up. Relay for Life is a big event requiring a great deal of planning. Your registration is very important, and it's not too early.

Becky and I met this weekend to discuss the progress of her team. We talked about having a fundraiser, a used book sale! Everyone will be invited to collect books and help out with a one day sale, probably at her church. The money will go to the team, so if anyone is having trouble with the goal of $100, this is a way to cover that. Leave a comment on this blog if it interests you! I think it sounds like a fun day and I am willing to organize it but would appreciate help... (hint:)

Have a great day everyone!
Brenda

what's new

2009-03-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hey kids! Here's an update on the Relay. We had a committee meeting last Thursday, there were a few more people this time which was fun. We talked about one thing that I want you all to get on your calendars. It looks like we will be participating in Dan Patch Days- walking in the parade and having a booth or table! Please consider joining us for this one, it's not just for Becky's team but for the entire Burnsville Relay. It's about getting the word out, selling luminarias and signing up teams and we need LOTS & LOTS of people. It's June 25-28, the parade is Sunday, June 28. The Blazettes are on board for this one! It's going to be a ball! Any theme or costume ideas???? Email us!

2009-03-03T17:20:00.001-08:00

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity. It offers everyone in a community an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length.

Relay For Life is a life-changing event that brings together more than 3.5 million people to:

Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight.
Remember loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, people who have walked alongside people battling cancer can grieve and find healing.
Fight Back. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and desperately want to put an end to the disease.

2009-03-01T15:42:00.000-08:00

Big THANKS!

2009-02-25T08:51:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Teresa McDonald and Rebecca Plumb for registering!!
(no- they're not the girls in the picture:)
Also, a big thanks to Jess Irwin for registering and helping me get this blog up!!

I will try to get our team page updated soon, we may have a blog over there too. I want to take advantage of the message boards and I encourage you all to explore here-
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_id=15941
go to your participant page and follow some of the links, they are full of ideas.

Have a great day everyone!
Brenda

2009-02-24T13:12:00.000-08:00

(the following is from the ACS website)
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life^® offers the opportunity to remember people who have lost their lives to cancer and honor those who have won their battle. One of the most moving parts of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony of Hope. As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria, each of which has a special meaning. Some celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and have lived to tell their stories. Many remember the lives of those who have been lost to this disease. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor.

2009-02-22T19:13:00.000-08:00

Good evening everyone!

It's been a busy day, lots of emails! I know there are some issues with the registration process and I want to assure you all that you are not alone! Maybe I can clarify a few things.. it gets a bit confusing.

1. There is a goal for each team member to raise $100, but you do not need to pay that when you sign up. This has been the most common question from team members. I suggest that you register to fund raise online, then invite your friends and family, co-workers etc. to donate on your behalf by visiting the website and following the instructions. This way you will be credited.
Register here -- http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=15941&pg=entry
We have a lot of time to raise money and there are ideas in the works for that. The important thing is to get Becky's team signed up so PLEASE REGISTER!!!!!!!!! Telling Becky that you are IN is not enough, you must register as a team member of Becky's Believers.

2. I have been asked if all team members are required to stay the whole night. It would be awesome but we all know that not everyone can do that. We'll have a "schedule" for walkers - someone has to be on the track walking at all times, even 4 a.m. We'll talk more about this when the time gets closer.

I'm going to stop with those 2 items for now, I hope that helped??? Thank you all for beginning this journey! Details are just a small part of it and we'll get through this stuff!
Talk soon,
Brenda

ACS on YouTube

2009-02-19T15:39:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends!

Check out the Relay for Life videos at You Tube.
http://www.youtube.com/AmerCancerSociety

There are so many videos here, including tutorials ( in case you have questions or problems with the registration process) it's all here. It's really inspiring to watch some of the survivor stories, also heartbreaking to see the luminaria ceremonies. If you are like me and have never been to this event, you'll see what it's all about here.

Talk soon!
Bren

2009-02-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

Becky and Jamie at the September benefit

Becky at book club in December

Relay for Life

2009-02-14T14:18:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! Welcome to the team blog for Becky's Believers!! This will be the place to go for details and updates regarding Relay for Life, taking place August 7, 2009. My name is Brenda Irwin and I am the team captain. My first task will be to get us registered, that will happen this week.
I want to tell you all that I'm happy to be here, I look forward to this adventure and I know we are going to have a great time! We are off & running, check back often and always feel free to post comments or questions. Thank you all for signing up!