WE HATE CANCER!!!

When we started this process of creating an event to raise money for Ryan's care Ashley told me that if we raised $5,000 she would shave her head. I knew that would be easily obtainable because of the amazing family, friends and community we live in. I told her, "You better shoot a little higher Sis. We will raise that easily. How about if we raise $20,000 you shave your head?" She said, "Nope, $5,000."  We all know you don't argue with Ash when she sets her mind to something, but I honestly thought she was kidding. Well, two days ago I was going over our donations and we had $4,800. The past week the checks have finally started to pour in. I have been getting several each day, plus the paypal. I called Ashley and asked her if her razor was sharp because by tomorrow I was SURE we would have $5,000. She said "SERIOUSLY!" I gave her a list of all you wonderful friends that have donated, sponsored holes, and bought slots for the tournament. She put me on speaker and made me repeat everything to Ryan. They were SO excited!!! She said to Ryan, "Honey, looks like I am shaving my head." I reminded her that I though she should shoot higher. She said NO she said $5,000 and that is what she meant!

The next day I had set up a meeting set up at 5:00 with some fellow volunteers that are helping me with the fund raiser. Ashley called and told me she would be there at 6:00 to shave her head. I have to admit I tried to put her off on doing it, but again, you all know Ash. She, Ryan, the boys, Ryan's family, and our family showed up at 6:00 ready to go.  She was seriously going to have Ryan shave her head.

When the time came it didn't go as smooth as we thought it might. It was a VERY sobering, emotional moment. There was MANY tears shed.  It was so amazing to see th strength Ryan and Ashley have, and the love they share.  This terrible trial has brought them together in a way that cannot even be explained. Before Ryan shaved her head he tearfully told Ashley what an amazing, wonderful wife she is and how much he loves and appreciates her. She told him that he has been the most wonderful "FIGHTER" she has ever seen. That shaving her head was nothing compared to all he has gone through.  

When Ryan finished shaving her head he kept telling her over and over, "Honey, you are so beautiful. Isn't she beautiful?!" 

 I am so proud of Ryan and Ashley.  I must say Ashley, you can pull off being bald. ;) We love you both!!!

I had to kiss her beautiful hair goodbye

One last pic before the deed

The boys want to be next. They love the baldness 

True love!

My little baldy w/Ash

The Three Bald Amigos

Robin Red Breast We Love You!

My Christmas wreath is still up because a Robin started build a nest  in it several months ago. Needless to say we have even more guests now. I am not sure what the smaller eggs are. If anyone knows let me know. We aren't using the front door anymore (lol) because of our bird friends. You gotta love spring!!!

1st Annual Ryan Holaday Benefit Golf Tournament!!!

1st Annual Ryan Holaday Benefit Golf Tournament!!! River Bend Golf Course in Homedale, ID, June 19th at 8am. $250/4 person team. Dinner included. Benefit auction to follow. $100 minimum to sponsor a hole. We are also looking for donations for the auction. If you aren't a golfer, you are welcome to attend the dinner. It will be $25/person. Registration deadline for the golf tournament and dinner is June 12. We will also be looking forward to celebrating Ryan's 30th birthday at the golf course!!!

Ryan is 29 and has stage 4 adrenal cancer. He is married to Ashley Bieker Holaday and they have 2 boys. Brody, age 5 and Kolby, age 3. Ryan had a major surgery in November to remove a 5+ pound tumor, a kidney and his gallbladder. He and his family went to Chicago for 2 months to undergo a clinical trial which was unsuccessful. Unfortunately, we recently found out the tumor is back, about the same size, and the cancer has mets to his liver. Ryan is currently undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.

All proceeds will aid in his care. Register online at http://www.theholadays.blogspot.com/ or call Amber Stice at (208) 880-9940 or Zach Bieker at (208) 739-8543.

Thank you all SO much