When I reflect on 2019, I can’t help but feel a little bit amazed. It’s been a busy year to say the least yet, at the same time, not so busy that I feel like an outsider looking in. You know that feeling right? When life is so crazy you can hardly hold on and you wonder if you truly were there?! This has been an incredible year!

This Spring, we took the leap and began making big efforts to put our name and mission out there for everyone to see. This was scary. Terrifying in fact, but incredibly fulfilling as I see and feel our mission touching people’s hearts every time we participate in an event.

In July we kicked off our first activity kit and put the call out for 1,000 origami cranes. And to be honest with you, I didn’t know we’d reach that goal. Yesterday however, the Youth Team and I delivered 1,070 Origami Crane Kits to the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. 1,070!! I am humbled by the engagement and dedication of our communities to fold and pack all of these. We had kids as young as 6 and adults into their 80’s folding cranes & assembling kits.

Speaking of our Youth Team, I’m glowing with pride to say we have 8 amazingly dedicated young women leading the way. They inspire me each and every time we meet. These teens have heart, passion and gratitude. Their ideas blow me away and I CANNOT way for us to jump into 2020 with new and fun activities. These are the leaders of our future and believe me when I say we are in great hands!

The team led a very successful Back to School supply drive to which we delivered to Sacred Heart Children’s hospital where they are being handed out through their BEST program as a reward for completion. We are hopeful that they bring a smile to a young person’s face and provide comfort knowing someone is thinking of them.

Our family began Tough As Nails to inspire those around us and spread the message that we can all make an impact in this world in small but very meaningful ways. I felt called to make a difference and touch hearts… to be of service. This morning though, my heart is overflowing and it is this community that has touched my heart. I am full of gratitude to be leading the way with Tough As Nails.

Thank you for believing in us, supporting us and encouraging us to continue.