Remember how one of our plans for 2016 was to do more hiking? It was partially inspired by wanting to feel and get healthier, but also because of an idea that I had years ago when my dad was first diagnosed with leukemia.

Unable to bike ride for very long (and lacking a bike) and not really interested in doing a marathon, I found a different type of charity activity: hiking! First called “Hike for Discovery” and then a few other things, it is now part of the “Team in Training” charity program for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Bringing groups of people from around the country who raise money for the LLS, these hikers get the opportunity to hike in some of the most beautiful places. 2016 will see a group of charity hikers (including Eric and I!!) going to the Grand Canyon for a weekend of amazing sights and experiences.

I have been to the Canyon once before for a two week training with my work.  I am lucky enough that we get to be sent to some of America’s greatest treasures to learn and network! Coming from green and river ladened New England, the starkness of the high desert was such an alien landscape with no water and only a few colors. It was beautiful, though, and I was lucky enough to go down into the Canyon with some now dear friends and experience it first hand.

Eric, on the other hand, has never been to the Southwest and is incredibly excited to go. Seeing the big ditch for the first time is an experience and I can’t wait to see how he reacts to it (especially if there are inverted clouds).

We will be updating about our progress here along with our regular posts, but if you would like to help support a great charity, please consider donating through us. Our team page link is here and if you do donate, we will be more than happy to send you a postcard from our journey as a way of thanks!