Over the last few years I realize I have slowly drifted away from something I value greatly…and that is giving back. Doing what I do for a living leads to plenty of opportunities to be a part of organizations I believe in and to help…which is in my nature. I’ve also come to realize with my involvement in the Toy Company, that at least some degree, I have strayed from certain aspects of who I am and what I value.

I recently have enjoyed a renewed interest in charity and positive causes and I am slowly guiding myself back into a life that is more in line with my soul purpose. I have many wonderful clients but one of my absolute favorites is Nancy Holloway. I love her enthusiasm and sense of humor and while she is one of my largest clients, I now consider her one of my best friends…she also is a damn good business woman and scares the crap out of me!

Nancy is a two-time breast cancer survivor and although my Grandmother died of a different type of cancer, research in this area has always been incredibly important to me. In order to raise money for her cancer walk, Nancy decided to host a Wine Tasting and invited me to contribute any way that I could. I initially started by donating a website by Gainesville, Florida Web Design Firm Six Six Media. I then starting calling some of my best clients and invited them. Lindsay got in on the act and brought a couple of friends, Jodi and Iain, and her introduction to Jeremiah Johns of Gainesville, Florida based AP Limo’s. Jeremiah parked his pink, Porsche Limo out front of the host restaurant, Francesca’s, and let everyone know that a portion of the Limo rentals went to Breast Cancer research.

Highlights of the evening included one of my very good clients and friends, Niya Dix entering into a bidding war on a Picnic Basket and a Commemorative bottle of Gator Wine from 2003. She sneaked in her winning bids right as the auction sheets were being picked up and also managed to somehow win 4 different raffle prizes! Sandy Pratt joined in on the fun as well which led to a fun evening.

After the event, Nancy, myself, and Lisa and Jaye from FGU sat down dinner. I almost lost it at the table about a half dozen times as I was overwhelmed by Nancy thanking me for her help and knowing how much she meant it. I finally made it home where I could cry my little eyes out and I believe this may have been an experience that actually ended up healing me a little. I feel so good…