And the total is...

Wow. And I mean WOW!

We didn't have quite as many people as it sounded like we were going to have.

We had a TON of food leftover.

We had 150 auction items.

I was nervous we wouldn't sell them all! (I think only 4 or 5 things didn't sell).

HUGE thanks to: Todd, Stephanie, Tyler and Elizabeth Flath (Tyler, 13, Elizabeth, 10 and a few friends of theirs raised $561.00 for Linda by colelcting cans and bottles, selling cookies, and having lemonade stands.)

To Jeff and Dawn, and their 4 kids Steph's brother and sister in law who helped the entire time at the benefit, made a TON of baked goods, and just helped out all around.

To Angie and Kevin Ayriss, for coordinating and handling the auction, for her brother and sister in law, Jeff and Allison, for staying the whole time, too...we couldn't have had success without any of you.

To Scott and Janet Dekkinga, for ALL your help, for Scott's brother and sister in law Mark and Laurie for staying the entire time and helping so much!!

To Megan Stewart who was not asked to help, but came prepared to do so anyway. For staying the entire time, for helping people check out at the auction...

For everyone else who I didn't get to personally meet but helped out...to all those who came and supported Linda....For businesses like Subway, and Costco for donating food and cake, for all the people who donated food, made baked goods, donated stuff for the auction...To other businesses who gave: Red Robin, Applebee's, Texas Roadhouse, Bonefish Grill, Southalnd Auto Wash, there's a ton more, but just know you helped raise an enourmous sum of money to help Linda.

OH...do you want to know how much????

Okay, I hope you're sitting down.

Including what is already in her account, but NOT including the few auction items that have to be paid for yet, the total amount raised thus far is.....(drumroll please)..........

$10,200.00

Yes, I'm serious. So that means at the actual benefit, we raised over $8000.00.

Just know from the bottom of my heart whether you contributed in dollars, in prayers, in time, in donation, or all of the above, I am grateful for every single one of you, and I am most grateful to God who answers exceedingly above and beyond all I could have asked or imagined for my very best friend.

Now we just keep praying for a cure. Linda looked beautiful if you weren't there...I think she had a pretty good day...seeing lots of family and friends both old and new.

Thanks again...and God bless you all!

Tomorrow!

Good morning!

Tomorrow is the big day!! Everything has come together so well...thanks to ALL of you who are praying, who donated stuff, who are helping at the benefit...we needed every one of you! Those of you who are praying, please keep doing so...that everyone travels safely, that lots of people show up, and that Linda has a wonderful time and we meet her needs financially.

Thanks again...
God Bless, and SEE YOU TOMORROW!!

new bids

Good morning,

We have a few more bid:

84. One foot part sub from Subway $10.00

61. Hawaiian necklace $50.00

The most up to date auction list

WOW. We have 139 items!!! I don't know if more are still coming, but I wanted to post this because tomorrow is my little boy's 2nd birthday, and I don't know how much I'll be able to work on this. I'm trying to get stuff wrapped up today. SO...here is the list, check out #121! A night at the new Marriott hotel in Grand Rapids!!! God bless you all for your support and encouragement... Please keep Linda in your prayers first and foremost, and second, come to the auction!! : )

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS

ALL OF THE ITEMS LISTED BELOW ARE UP FOR BIDS TODAY. FOLLOWING THE ITEM IS THE RETAIL VALUE OF THE ITEM SO YOU KNOW ITS VALUE. HOWEVER, THERE IS NO MINIMUM BID. PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY! EVERY PENNY OF THIS AUCTION GOES RIGHT TO LINDA.

1. Hand crocheted pink-yellow-lilac afghan $40.00
2. Hand crocheted burgandy and white striped afghan $35.00
3. Towne Air Freight Die Cast Truck $15.00
4. One hour massage given by Jenny Begeman in Kalamazoo $50.00
5. One hour of supervised horseback riding in Martin $40.00
6. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
7. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
8. Pink and white decorative wreath $30.00
9. Creative Memories album $30.00
10. Creative Memories album $30.00
11. Creative Memories basket $73.00
12. Creative Memories package $78.00
13. Gift Certificate to Redux Books Used and Rare Books (Lake Dr.) $25.00
14. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
15. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
16. Cherry and maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $25.00
17. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
18. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
19. Oak 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
20. Handcrafted wooden table $50.00
21. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
22. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
23. Starbucks gift box and WHOLE BEAN coffee $25.00
24. PartyLite 16 votive sampler $15.00
25. PartyLite Tealight combo (12 candles) $10.00
26. Market Day Gourmet Artichoke Dip $7.00
27. Glade scented oil candle $6.00
28. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
29. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
30. Body butter gift basket $30.00
31. Body butter gift basket $30.00
32. Antique German cream pitcher signed by artist $25.00
33. 18 holes of golf for 2 at GVSU The Meadows $66.00
34. 18 holes of golf for 2 at GVSU The Meadows $66.00
35. Gift certificate for a shampoo/set by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
36. Gift certificate for a haircut by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
37. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
38. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
39. Day sponsorship to honor Linda on Blue Lake public radio $175.00
40. Gift certificate to Applebees $15.00
41. Manicure/pedicure at Studio One in Kentwood $90.00
42. Seaweed wrap and sea scrub at Studio One in Kentwood $95.00
43. WZZM hat and mug $10.00
44. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
45. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
46. Four tickets to GVSU football game and blue, large t-shirt$50.00 (tickets are for the GVSU vs. Michigan Tech game at Allendale 7PM, Saturday, Sept. 27)
47. Body lotion basket $15.00
48. Four tickets to Grand Rapids Griffens $68.00
49. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
50. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
51. Twelve hand stamped assorted cards $20.00
52. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Crew Kids-Girl) $20.00
53. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Friends & Flowers) $20.00
54. Stampin’ Up! Stamp set (Cause for Celebration) $20.00
55. Stampin’ Up! Rub Ons (Love & Happiness) $20.00
56. Handcrafted jewelry box titled “Love for Linda” $150.00
57. Dinner for 2 at Carrabbas $45.00
58. 4 White Caps tickets (must be used this season, home games end 8/28) $34.00
59. GVSU T-shirt ($15)60. GVSU sweatshirt ($30)
61. Hand carved Hawaiian necklace straight from Hawaii $90.00 (just saw this, it's AMAZING)
62. Dinner for 2 at the Bonefish Grill $45.00
63. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
64. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
65. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
66. Gift certificates to Drenthe Village Dipper (near Zeeland) $25.00
67. Hand crocheted green-white-yellow baby afghan $20.00
68. Hand crocheted soft pink baby afghan $20.00
69. Hand crocheted pink and white square child afghan $30.00
70. Hand crocheted multi colored flower adult afghan $45.00
71. Gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse $50.00
72. Bean-bag toss game $100.00
73. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
74. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
75. Three free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $12.00
76. Autographed copy of "Mommy Millionaire" book by Kim Lavine $24.00
77. DVD 40th Anniversary edition of Walt Disney's the Jungle Book 2-disc set $20
78. DVD National Treasure 2 Two-disc collector's edition $25.00
79. DVD Step Up 2 The Streets: Dance-off edition $10.00
80. DVD The Hills The complete third season $25.00
81. Four GVSU Men's Basketball tickets for general admission to the January 15, 2009 GVSU vs. Ashland game $28.00
82. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
83. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
84. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
85. Assorted gift basket (SF) $20.00
86. Glade scented oil candle $5.00
87. Oak handcrafted 8x10 picture frame $15.00
88. Mahogany and maple handcrafted 8x10 picture frame $25.00
89. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
90. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
91. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
92. Circle cutting system from Creative Memories $38.00
93. Creative Memories 7x7 teal album $25.00
94. Creative Memories 7x7 album in coffee $25.00
95. Creative Memories 7x7 children’s album $20.00
96. Creative Memories picfolio album in apple plus mats $30.00
97. Creative Memories picfolio album in tan plus mats $30.00
98. Mulberry Reed Diffuser from Partylite $40.00
99. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
100. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
101. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
102. Hand knitted hat $8
103. Hand knitted hat $8
104. Hand crocheted slippers $10
105. Hand knitted child's mittens $7
106. Hand knitted adult's mittens $8
107. Hand crocheted mittens $8
108. Hand crocheted mittens $8
109. Hand crocheted girl's dress size 3 $28
110. Hand knitted girl's cardigan sweater $15
111.Hand knitted girl's cardigan sweater $12
112. Hand knitted girl's vest $7
113. Hand knitted boy's vest $7
114. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
115. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
116. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
117. Hand knitted boy's pullover $15
118. Hand tooled ladies' leather wallet $28
119. One hour massage in Byron Center $60.00
120. One hour massage in Byron Center $60.00
121. One night at the Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids $200.00
122. Ten bowling games $35.00
123. Ten bowling games $35.00
124. Ten bowling games $35.00
125. Ten bowling games $35.00
126. Ten bowling games $35.00
127. Hand made purse/diaper bag $25.00
128. Hand made baby soes/booties $15.00
129. Hand made baby shoes/booties $15.00
130. Michigan CAT license plate $5.00
131. Michigan CAT license plate $5.00
132. Michigan CAT Charcoal Gray Baseball cap $10.00
133. Michigan CAT Black & Khaki Baseball cap $5.00
134. Michigan CAT Black & Silver Baseball cap $10.00
135. Michigan CAT Ladies XL Black long sleeve t-shirt with hood $20.00
136. Michigan CAT Adult Large Blue t-shirt $10.00
137. Michigan CAT Adult Large Gray t-shirt $10.00
138. Michigan CAT Men’s XXL Black Polo (or golf) shirt $40.00
139. Michigan CAT poly-carbonate sport water bottle $10.00

More bids

Good morning,

We are up to 123! I will update the auction list as soon as I have more details.
I've received more bids:

2. Burgandy and white striped afghan $50.00
82. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $40.00
88. Mahogany & maple picture frame $40.00

Thanks!

HOLY SMOKES!

Well, we did it. We have 118 confirmed items for auction.

I'm ALMOST speechless.

Almost 100

Good morning!

When we started the silent auction, my husband asked how many items I thought we'd get for the silent auction. I said, "I don't know...20? 40? I'd LOVE 100, but come on!"

WELL....be careful what you wish for. We have 97 items!!! I am floored. God is so good. He cares about even the littlest details.

Check the list for the update items. There were a few corrections made to other posts as well. Here are some additional bids:

#78 National Treasure set $25.00
#6 Gift certificate to Phases Salon $30.00
#40 Gift certificate to Applebees $15.00
#57 Dinner for 2 at Carrabas $45.00
#63 Texas Roadhouse gift certificate $15.00
#64 Texas Roadhouse gift certificate $15.00
#82 Subway 3 foot party sub $10.00
#83 Subway 3 foot party sub $10.00

See you at the auction!

Benefit details

Hi again!

Someone asked that I put all the details of the benefit on the blog, which is a very good idea!!
SO:

The benefit for Linda Tacoma, fighting Stage IV endometrial cancer, is this Saturday, August 16, from 1-5 PM at Rush Creek Bible Church, 2334 76th St (on the corner of 76th street and Byron Center Avenue) in Byron Center, MI. There will be a light lunch for $3.00, a baked goods sale, and a silent auction, with 88 items to bid on! The items are posted on this blog as well. The auction will end at 4:15 to award the high bidders their items. IF YOU ARE NOT THERE WHEN THE ITEMS ARE AWARDED, YOU WILL BE CALLED TO SET UP DELIVERY OF YOUR ITEMS. YOU WILL PAY AT THAT TIME.

If you would like to donate to Linda, but are unable to attend the benefit, you can send a check made out to Byron Bank, to 1963 Baldwin, Jenison, MI 49428. Please put "benefit for Linda Tacoma" in the memo line.

If you have any questions, you can leave them here in a comment, or e-mail me at dougandkerrisweeris@hotmail.com

Thanks!

Correct auction list so far

Hey everyone,

I have a new auction list that has all of the items on it that have been confirmed. The numbers by the items will correspond to the items at the auction. Each dining table will have a list by it, as will the auction table.

When you arrive, you will sign in to receive a number to bid in the auction. For example, if you are the 5th person to sign up, you will receive number 5. Then, in front of each auction item, there is a sheet to use for bidding. There are 2 columns on the sheet, one for your bidding number (which would be 5) and the 2nd column for the amount you want to bid on.

So say the number you received upon signing in was 38, and you wanted to bid $25.00 on the pink and white decorative wreath. So you write your auction number, 38 in the first column, and $25.00 in the second column, on the bid sheet for the pink and white wreath. An hour later you check back and someone has bid $30.00. You REALLY want this wreath, so you put your number down again, and bid $35.00. A nd so on and so forth. It wll make more sense when you see the sheets.

But anyway. Here is the updated list:

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS

ALL OF THE ITEMS LISTED BELOW ARE UP FOR BIDS TODAY. FOLLOWING THE ITEM IS THE RETAIL VALUE OF THE ITEM SO YOU KNOW ITS VALUE. HOWEVER, THERE IS NO MINIMUM BID. PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY! EVERY PENNY OF THIS AUCTION GOES RIGHT TO LINDA.

1. Hand crocheted pink-yellow-lilac afghan $40.00
2. Hand crocheted burgandy and white striped afghan $35.00
3. Towne Air Freight Die Cast Truck $15.00
4. One hour massage given by Jenny Begeman in Kalamazoo $50.00
5. One hour of supervised horseback riding in Martin $40.00
6. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
7. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
8. Pink and white decorative wreath $30.00
9. Creative Memories album $30.00
10. Creative Memories album $30.00
11. Creative Memories basket $73.00
12. Creative Memories package $78.00
13. Gift Certificate to Redux Books Used and Rare Books (Lake Dr.) $25.00
14. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
15. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
16. Cherry and maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $25.00
17. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
18. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
19. Oak 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
20. Handcrafted wooden table $50.00
21. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
22. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
23. Starbucks gift box and WHOLE BEAN coffee $25.00
24. PartyLite 16 votive sampler $15.00
25. PartyLite Tealight combo (12 candles) $10.00
26. Market Day Gourmet Artichoke Dip $7.00
27. Glade scented oil candle $6.00
28. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
29. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
30. Body butter gift basket $30.00
31. Body butter gift basket $30.00
32. Antique German cream pitcher signed by artist $25.00
33. 18 holes of golf for 2 at GVSU The Meadows $66.00
34. 18 holes of golf for 2 at GVSU The Meadows $66.00
35. Gift certificate for a shampoo/set by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
36. Gift certificate for a haircut by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
37. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
38. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
39. Day sponsorship to honor Linda on Blue Lake public radio $175.00
40. Gift certificate to Applebees $15.00
41. Manicure/pedicure at Studio One in Kentwood $90.00
42. Seaweed wrap and sea scrub at Studio One in Kentwood $95.00
43. WZZM hat and mug $10.00
44. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
45. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
46. Four tickets to GVSU football game and blue, large t-shirt$50.00 (tickets are for the GVSU vs. Michigan Tech game at Allendale 7PM, Saturday, Sept. 27)
47. Body lotion basket $15.00
48. Four tickets to Grand Rapids Griffens $68.00
49. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
50. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
51. Twelve hand stamped assorted cards $20.00
52. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Crew Kids-Girl) $20.00
53. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Friends & Flowers) $20.00
54. Stampin’ Up! Stamp set (Cause for Celebration) $20.00
55. Stampin’ Up! Rub Ons (Love & Happiness) $20.00
56. Handcrafted jewelry box titled “Love for Linda” $150.00
57. Dinner for 2 at Carrabbas $45.00
58. 4 White Caps tickets (must be used this season, home games end 8/28) $34.00
59. GVSU T-shirt ($15)
60. GVSU sweatshirt ($30)
61. Hand carved Hawaiian necklace straight from Hawaii $90.00
62. Dinner for 2 at the Bonefish Grill $45.00
63. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
64. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
65. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
66. Gift certificates to Drenthe Village Dipper (near Zeeland) $25.00
67. Hand crocheted green-white-yellow baby afghan $20.00
68. Hand crocheted soft pink baby afghan $20.00
69. Hand crocheted pink and white square child afghan $30.00
70. Hand crocheted multi colored flower adult afghan $45.00
71. Gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse $50.00
72. Bean-bas toss game $100.00
73. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
74. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
75. Three free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $12.00
76. Autographed copy of "Mommy Millionaire" book by Kim Lavine $24.00
77. DVD 40th Anniversary edition of Walt Disney's the Jungle Book 2-disc set $20
78. DVD National Treasure 2 Two-disc collector's edition $25.00
79. DVD Step Up 2 The Streets: Dance-off edition $10.00
80. DVD The Hills The complete third season $25.00
81. Four GVSU Men's Basketball tickets for general admission to the January 15, 2009 GVSU vs. Ashland game $28.00
82. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
83. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
84. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
85. Assorted gift basket (SF) $20.00
86. Glade scented oil candle $5.00
87. Oak handcrafted 8x10 picture frame $15.00
88. Mahogany and maple handcrafted 8x10 picture frame $25.00
89. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
90. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
91. Handcrafted wooden pen in velvet case $7.00
92. Circle cutting system from Creative Memories
93. Creative Memories 7x7 teal album $25.00
94. Creative Memories 7x7 album in coffee $25.00
95. Creative Memories 7x7 children’s album $20.00
96. Creative Memories picfolio album in apple plus mats $30.00
97. Creative Memories picfolio album in tan plus mats $30.00
98. Mulberry Reed Diffuser from Partylite $40.00
99. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
100. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
101. Hand knitted knee length socks $12
102. Hand knitted hat $8
103. Hand knitted hat $8
104. Hand crocheted slippers $10
105. Hand knitted child's mittens $7
106. Hand knitted adult's mittens $8
107. Hand crocheted mittens $8
108. Hand crocheted mittens $8
109. Hand crocheted girl's dress size 3 $28
110. Hand knitted girl's cardigan sweater $15
111.Hand knitted girl's cardigan sweater $12
112. Hand knitted girl's vest $7
113. Hand knitted boy's vest $7
114. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
115. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
116. Hand knitted boy's pullover $10
117. Hand knitted boy's pullover $15
118. Handtooled ladies' leather wallet $28
119. One hour massage in Byron Center $60.00
120. One hour massage in Byron Center $60.00

WOW

Hey everyone,

WOW, WOW, WOW is all I can say. The generosity of people is overwhelming. On top of all the wonderful things that are already coming out of this benefit, it has renewed some of my hope in mankind. People are giving so selflessly, so generously, sometimes at quite a cost or sacrifice to them. Thank you in advance for a tremndous outcome.

Our original goal was $4500.00, but I think we will go way above and beyond that. We are already getting donations in the account set up for Linda, and we are hearing of TONS of people who are coming to the benefit.

Please check out the latest version of the silent auction list....there are MORE items!
Thanks!

ALSO, we have a bid of $60.00 for the manicure & pedicure at Studio One

FOR THOSE OF YOU GOING TO THE AUCTION, THERE WILL BE A COMPLETE NUMBERED LIST OF THE AUCTION ITEMS AT EACH DINING TABLE. THE NUMBERS ON THE LIST AT THE DINING TABLES WILL CORRESPOND TO THE NUMBERS OF THE ITEMS ON THE AUCTION TABLES. THE NUMBERS ON THE LISTS MAY OR MAY NOT CORRESPOND WITH THE BLOG NUMBERS.

Grand Rapids Press and baked goods

Hey everyone,

Quick update...Linda is in the Grand Rapids Press in the Ada to Zeeland section. Whoo-Hoo~! And best of all, IT WAS FREE! Thank you, GR Press editorials.

Also, if you are planning on bringing any baked goods to the benefit, please put a price on them. Don't worry too much about it, just slap a price on there.

Thanks!!

updated auction items

Hey everyone,

Make sure to check out the July 31 post which lists all of the silent auction items. There have been a few changes. Also, I have bids on the following items:

#3 Towne Truck $15.00
#49 Southland auto wash $20.00
#50 Southland auto wash $20.00
#51 Cards $20.00

Remember, these are not necessarily SOLD yet. If YOU want these items, you'll have to bid higher!

Thanks!

Change in info

Good morning.

If you would like to pre-bid on an item, please e-mail it to dougandkerrisweeris@hotmail.com

Angie started a new job recently and is working super long hours...so I'm helping her out. Keep checking the list, because it's getting more and more awesome items!!

We are so looking forward to seeing you all there...and raising as much money for Linda as possible!

Thanks again.

couple notes

Hey everyone,

These are all of the Subways that gave food to us for Linda's benefit. If you like subs, please support these generous businesses.

28th Street @ Breton Ave (along with 54th Street @ Division Ave)

28th Street east of Byron Center Ave (along with Kalamazoo Ave north of M-6)

Grandville in Wal-Mart on Kenowa (along with 44th Street @ Clyde Park)

Jenison on Baldwin (along with Standale & Allendale, both on Lake Michigan Dr, and Hudsonville on Port Sheldon)

ALSO: Just want to make sure that people understand that there is NO MINIMUM BID on any auction item. The retail price is simply what the item would sell for in a store. Give as generously as YOU can....every penny will go to Linda because everything was 100% donated!
Please don't NOT bid on something because you feel your bid is too small. Every dollar we make will help Linda.

Thanks, and have a terrific day!

Few quick updates

Hey everyone,

Make sure you keep checking the list of auction items...we keep getting more every day!

Also, we have all the pop we need. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

We are getting SO many donations from businesses as well as individuals. Someone donated a $50.00 gift certificate from Outback Steakhouse!

HUGE PROPS to Subway on 28th and Breton, Byron Center, and Jenison (maybe one more) for donating almost ALL the subs! PLEASE give them your business.

That's all for now...more later!
P.S. Linda had a GREAT day today that included lunch with her sister and the "best pedicure she's ever had! Please keep her in your prayers. We are hoping to see her tomorrow.

Pop and baked goods

Good morning.

There have been some changes made to the silent auction list on the previous post, so check those out.

Also, if you are bringing 2 liters of pop or baked goods, please e-mail me or comment here so I know we have enough.

Thanks!

Silent auction items so far

Good morning!

I wanted to post the silent auction items in case any of you can't attend the benefit but wanted to bid on something. If you see something of interest to you, send your name, phone number, the name and number of the item and the price you want to pay to Kerri Sweeris at dougandkerrisweeris@hotmail.com

Remember that the price listed is only the retail value, and we are trying to raise enough money to pay Linda's rent and insurance for 5 months. That's about $4500.00. If you REALLY want it, remember, too, that others will be bidding on it as well.

Also, I thought I'd include the bank information for her benefit account: If you'd like to contribute in this way, send a check made out to Byron Bank, with the memo line stating "benefit for Linda Tacoma." Mail it to: Byron Bank, 1963 Baldwin, Jenison, MI 49428.

I talked to Linda yesterday. She's pretty tired and kinda zoned out from the pain meds. Her next appointment is August 12, for a check-up with her doctor.

Thanks!

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS
All of these items were generously donated free of charge. The retail price of each item is listed so you have any idea of what the products are worth. PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY! Every penny from this auction goes directly to Linda. Thanks!

1. Hand crocheted pink-yellow-lilac afghan $40.00
2. Hand crocheted burgandy and white striped afghan $35.00
3. Towne Air Freight Die Cast Truck $15.00
4. One hour massage given by Jenny Begeman in Kalamazoo $50.00
5. One hour of supervised horseback riding in Martin $40.00
6. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
7. Gift certificate to Phases Salon on Cascade Road haircut and style $45.00
8. Pink and white decorative wreath $30.00
9. Creative Memories album $30.00
10. Creative Memories album $30.00
11. Creative Memories basket $73.00
12. Creative Memories package $78.00
13. Gift Certificate to Redux Books Used and Rare Books (Lake Dr.) $25.00
14. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
15. Body butter gift baskets $30.00
16. Cherry and maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $25.00
17. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
18. Maple 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
19. Red oak 8x10 handcrafted picture frame $15.00
20. Handcrafted wooden table $40.00
21. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
22. One month gift certificate to Curves $30.00
23. Starbucks gift box and coffee $25.00
24. PartyLite 16 votive sampler $15.00
25. PartyLite Tealight combo (12 candles) $10.00
26. Market Day Gourmet Artichoke Dip $7.00
27. Glade scented oil candle $6.00
28. Birthday part at bowling alley (pending)
29. Haircut at (pending)
30. Manicure/pedicure at (pending)
31. Massage at (pending)
32. Bowling Ball (pending)
33. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
34. Body Butter gift basket $30.00
35. Body butter gift basket $30.00
36. Body butter gift basket $30.00
37. Antique German cream pitcher signed by artist $25.00
38. Two 2, 18 hole rounds at the Meadows GVSU golf course (not sure)
39. Day sponsorship to honor Linda on Blue Lake public radio $175.00
40. Gift certificate to Applebees $15.00
41. Manicure/pedicure $90.00 at Studio One in Kentwood
42. Seaweed wrap and sea scrub $95.00 at Studio One in Kentwood
43. WZZM hat and mug $10.00
44. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
45. Gift certificate to Red Robin $10.00
46. Four tickets to GVSU football game and blue, large t-shirt$50.00 (tickets are for the GVSU vs. Michigan Tech game at Allendale 7PM, Saturday, Sept. 27)
47. Body lotion basket $15.00
48. Four tickets to Grand Rapids Griffens $68.00
49. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
50. Gift certificate to Southland Auto Wash $20.00
51. Twelve hand stamped assorted cards $20.00
52. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Crew Kids-Girl) $20.00
53. Stampin’ Up! Simply Scrappin’ Kit (Friends & Flowers) $20.00
54. Stampin’ Up! Stamp set (Cause for Celebration) $20.00
55. Stampin’ Up! Rub Ons (Love & Happiness) $20.00
56. Handcrafted jewelry box titled “Love for Linda” $150.00
57. Dinner for 2 at Carrabbas $45.00
58. 4 White Caps tickets $34.00 must be used this season, home games end 8/28
59. GVSU T-shirt ($15)
60. GVSU sweatshirt ($30)
61. Hand carved Hawaiin necklace straight from Hawaii $90.00
62. Dinner for 2 at the Bonefish Grill $45.00
63. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
64. Gift certificates to Drenthe Village Dipper (near Zeeland) $25.00
65. Hand crocheted green-white-yellow baby afghan $20.00
66. Hand crocheted soft pink baby afghan $20.00
67. Hand crocheted pink and white square child afghan $30.00
68. Hand crocheted multi colored flower adult afghan $45.00
69. Gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse $50.00
70. Gift basket with lotion, hand stamped cards, and more! (pending)
71. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
72. Gift certificate to the Texas Roadhouse $15.00
73. Gift certificate for a shampoo/set by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
74. Gift certificate for a haircut by Romi Castillo at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
75. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
76. Gift certificate for a haircut by Loretta Voetburg at A Perfect Touch Hair Salon $15.00
77. Bean bag toss game $100.00
78. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
79. Two free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $8.00
80. Three free 6" subs from Subway (Broadmore & M-6 or Hudsonville) $12.00
81. Autographed copy of "Mommy Millionaire" book by Kim Lavine $24.00
82. DVD 40th Anniversary edition of Walt Disney's the Jungle Book 2-disc set $20
83. DVD National Treause 2 Two-disc collector's edition $25.00
84. DVD Step Up 2 The Streets: Dance-off edition $10.00
85. DVD The Hills The complete third season $25.00
86. Four GVSU Men's Basketball tickets for general admission to the January 15, 2009 GVSU vs. Ashland game $28.00
87. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
88. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
89. One 3 foot party sub from Subway $30.00
90. Assorted gift basket (SF) $20.00

Need volunteers

Good morning!

Well, the benefit is just going gangbusters. Neither of us, Angie, Steph or myself can get over the overwhelming response. I mean, we KNEW that Linda is AMAZING, but it's just a beautiful thing to see how many lives she has touched. And I'm so thankful that people are expressing how much she means to them by giving and helping is such awesome ways.

Speaking of help, {wink wink} we do need some volunteers to help AT the actual benefit.
I would like to have 5 people committed to clean-up (I have one, thank you Pam).
I need 2 people to help with the food table from 1-3, and 2 people to help with the food table from 3-5.
I need 2 or 3 people to help Angie with the silent auction table.
And I need 1 or 2 people to help Stephanie's awesome kids at the baked goods table.

SO...if you can fill one of these positions, please leave a comment here, or e-mail me.
Thank you so much!

Update on the auction items: we are up to almost 60 items!!! CRAZY! I guess we are going to GIVE BIG!!

Benefit going strong

Good morning!

Well, the bad news is that we didn't get to go see Linda this weekend. The transmission went out on our car! Thank the Lord it went out on Saturday when Doug just had to run to town as opposed to going out when we were all on the road with Jacob in the car!

The good news is that this benefit is growing and growing! People I do not know have been calling to donate things, people I've never heard of have e-mailed me and asked questions. The donations for the silent auction have been pouring in! Please make sure you get there early enough to bid on these fantastic items! Just a few worth mentioning: A golf foursome at the Meadows, restaurant gift certificates, handcrafted wood projects (picture frames, jewelry box titled "Love for Linda" and a handcrafted table), Stampin' Up! products, Creative Memories projects....not to mention all the yummy baked goods!

There are people ALL over the place praying for Linda. My sister had a guy come up to her at church yesterday and say, "I'm really praying for your friend Linda." All of us and our representative churches, friends, family....we are storming the gates of Heaven on Linda's behalf. Let's keep it up folks! Remeber, "The prayers of the righteous availeth MUCH!"

Update on silent auction

WOW. We have had a HUGE response to the fliers going out, and we still have three weeks to go! Three week from today to be exact. So far, we have over 40 items for the silent auction totaling (retail) about $1500.00! Sweet! We also have lots of people making baked goods to sell there, and will have a donation box. I'm hoping to raise LOTS of money...enough to pay her rent for a few months at least!

Talked to Miss Linda last night and she sounded super tired. We're going to lunch with her tomorrow, so it will be wonderful to see her.

Not much else right now....

A little background

Hey everyone,

Welcome to the very first post of my very first blog. I'm doing this to keep people updated on my best friend Linda. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 endometrial cancer on Nov 1. We are working on a benefit for her. She is the best friend you could ever dare to have. She's kind and compassionate, she would do anything for you. She loves unconditionally, and she's a godly woman. She has told me that the reason she keeps going is because so many people are praying for her. And praying we are! We are praying for a miracle. She has been through 2 unsuccessful rounds of chemo, and is on her 3rd round of treatment. I will keep you posted... Please keep her in your prayers.