Canadian Corner

The first annual Powder Puff for Parkinson's Research has come and gone.

Another venue offered to educate and provide awareness for those with pd and those who know people with pd and those who just wanted to have a good time, created by Lynda McKenzie and Jan Auty-Carlisle. Jack and Mary Clark were kind enough to allow us to use their beautiful Highland Thoroughbred Farms property for our spa day, thanks again Jack and Mary.

I don't know who has the connections, but somebody managed to arrange for absolutely perfect weather, I was impressed that's for sure. The day started out with registrations, sign ups for massages during the day, receiving gift bags to take home and getting tickets for the door prizes....

Attendees could take part in massage therapies, offered by a team of professionals, a luxurious foot treatment, tarot card readings, cranial sacral massage, a walk through the extensive herb garden with a naturopath, participate in an aqua fit class in the warm pool overlooking acres of beautiful, rolling hills of Caledon, browse through the selection of hats, cards and other art pieces created by Lynda McKenzie, check out the fashions offered by Weekenders or just mingle.....So much to do, so little time....A beautiful lunch was offered, buffet style and enjoyed on the grounds with a spectacular view.

 

During our lunch we were fortunate enough to enjoy the words of wisdom of Chris Hall who spoke of her experiences at the PAN forum this year. Her talk was informative, encouraging and very positive....Thanks so much Chris. It is always good to see you, and I am so glad you were able to pull yourself away from your travels with some of the other plwpers.... The theme of the day was "Ladies who wear hats and do lunch" in keeping with the line of gifts that Lynda McKenzie was introducing at this spa day.

 

With this in mind, attendees could either bring their own hats or purchase one at the site. We picked six winners...it was hard to choose any one hat, they were all so good...and creative. One person had gone to the trouble of creating her hat out of her wedding dress, which was now 33 years old. (I am happy to say, she is still married to the same man that saw her in this dress 33 years ago!) Her hat was very elaborate, had something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue and was very romantic as well....Another hat was full of sunflowers and the creator herself has a personality that is full of sunflowers so it was a perfect hat for her....

 

The Parkinson Powder Puff Spa day is going to be an annual event as the feedback has been spectacular. Everyone had a lovely time, needed a break, enjoyed seeing old and new friends, loved the property and were happy to help with our cause. Such support is overwhelming and greatly appreciated. If anyone wants information on our day please feel free to contact either of us. We'd be happy to pass on our insights. What's next up in this neck of the woods....Parkiepalooza, so, get your party shoes ready, rest up so that you can dance all night, and plan on being there....
Take care all, Jan
Jan Carlisle