Here's another one of those crazy inspirational women. I met this lady many, many years ago when she was dating my husband's childhood best friend. We could see that they were a great team...she even enjoyed watching wrestling with him...WWF...not the Olympics! This was love. Over the years we have grown to love Karin and consider her one of our family. Karin is one of those mom's who you truly admire. She has three funny and active kids, a dog, volunteers at the school and attends all the soccer and hockey games. Unfortunately, in 2009 Karin had to put on her "super-mom" cape and face breast cancer. She has fought with such beautiful strength, humour and gratitude. She even won her helpful neighbours the CTV backyard ice rink contest this past winter (you know the one where Lance Brown surprises the people with an ice rink in their backyard). For the second year in a row Karin will be walking in the Weekend to End Women's Cancer in Toronto. Last year Karin completed the walk mere days after her final radiation treatment...talk about inspiring! The walk takes 2 days, 60km, from downtown Toronto to Downsview park and back again. If you are interested in donating to Karin's team check out their team page...Karin's Breast Friends.
Q: Tell me 3 things about yourself
A:
I'm a former banker and now stay-at-home mom to 3 active kids, Jackson (8), Cole (6) and Keira (4). Recent breast cancer survivor - how fun is it to finally be able to say that?
Q: Are you for, or against, small appliances on the counter
A:
I used to be against, but since we renovated our kitchen and have all this wonderful counter space, I'm now for.
Q: Name 5 things that are on your counter right now
A:
Just five? Tough.
1. Appliances - kettle, coffee maker, blender, espresso machine, toaster oven
2. my laptop
3. TV
4. school file folder - my attempt at being organized
5. but mostly stuff - a bowl of junk there - the reality of me not being organized!
Q: What, if anything, would you change about your kitchen counter?
A:
There really isn't anything I would change about my counter. It's been one year since our kitchen renovation was completed and I am still loving having all this space.
Q: What is your favourite thing to do on your kitchen counter?
A:
Since our renovation, we do A LOT on our kitchen counter. The peninsula is a fabulous gathering place for eating, working and playing. And that is probably my favourite thing to do - gather 'round.
Bonus Question: What has motivated you to take part in the walk this year?
A:
Well, the work isn't done. A lot of money has been raised over the years and one of the legacy's of that money is a drug called Herceptin. Without this discovery I wouldn't be here taking part in your blog! Breast cancer is an umbrella for many types of cancer and while Herceptin saved me, it doesn't save everybody. I want to pay back those who helped me, by contributing to future discoveries. Our team raised over $19,000 last year and hopefully we can do more this year. Also, it was a great experience and a whole lot of fun!
I love the honesty in those pictures...isn't this what all of our kitchens look like. If you have been inspired by Karin's story, follow the link to her team page Karin's Breast Friends and show your support for this amazing woman.
Thanks Karin. Have a great weekend everyone!