I had an early morning as I delivered some goods for NEMO Heart Health as they were going to be walking in the Truman homecoming parade. While I wanted to participate in the activities as I am now an official alumnus, I didn't hang around for the parade or football game. Instead I took the Certified Health Education Specialist Exam. (Sounds like the obvious alternative to a parade and celebration, huh?) As a health science major at Truman I learned all about assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating health-related programs at the community level. I think the exam went well and I should find out in a couple of months if I passed and am a CHES!
After the exam, I ran to the grocery store to pick up some goods for the Buddy Pack Fundraiser. As I was walking in, I ran into the Northeast Counties OT and preteen title holders! They looked beautiful as they had just concluded riding in the parade... and yes, they are sisters.
Next I headed down to Columbia for the Buddy Pack Kids Carnival hosted by Big O Tires. The Buddy Pack Program is coordinated by the Food Bank which is a food collection and distribution center that serves central and northeast Missouri. This volunteer-based organization helps to provide food for over 100,000 people every month. The Buddy Pack Program is specifically for school aged children that are receiving free or reduced meals from schools. This allows students to take home meals over weekends or holidays to provide nutrition they might not otherwise be getting. I have been so incredibly fortunate that I do not have to wonder where my next meal is coming from and a luxury that I definitely take for granted. If you have the ability, I encourage you to donate to this program as so many in our community need this service!
Big O Tires generously hosted a carnival as fundraiser for the Buddy Pack Program. There were lots of families and kids decked out in their Halloween costumes, games, bouncy houses and tasty treats.
Maikieta, Rachel and I worked the Cake Walk!
(I'm pretty sure the wheel wasn't balanced correctly because it kept landing on #19.)
The robotics team from a local high school created this machine that would expel basketballs. It made for a great game- at least for those who are more coordinated than I am!
Our lovely coordinator who helped organize such a great event!
Big Foot was there!
The football team from a local high school team was also there to volunteer. They helped call out numbers when I needed a break... and when the wheel kept landing on the same number for me.
It is actually the greatest feeling when people ask if they can get their picture taken with you!
The cake walk was the busiest game at the carnival- we gave away all of our prizes!
It was an absolutely gorgeous day and we had a great time for a great time!
Finally, I drove back home to Kirksville where I was invited to sing at a "Taste of World" event hosted by the Rotary Club at Pickler's Famous.
I was joined by the Northeast Counties titleholders and we were able to perform for many community members and Truman alumni.
What a day! I think I'm going to go to bed now.
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