By Guest Blogger, Volunstar Grady Brown
“Always hold onto Hope. Hope anchors the soul. Hope shines the brightest in the darkest moments. Hope is what is left when fear is sent packing. Be joyful in hope. Cheerfully expectant. Look for the miraculous. Anything is possible.
You are valuable. A masterpiece full of light and love. You have something amazing to give this world. You are brave, beautiful, strong, and courageous” Sylvia Wolford , New Smyrna Beach Participant 2015
This morning kicked off with a scenic boat ride tour through part of Florida’s intercostal waterway provided by Marine Discovery Center. We sighted dolphins, egrets, osprey, pelican nests in the mangroves, and other wildlife. While our boat ride was cut short with a Florida sudden downpour, we all came together shielding each other from the rain and singing the theme song Gilligan’s Island before our safe return. Our delicious lunch was catered by Merk’s.

That afternoon, the survivors went to Boren Beauty to get ready for date night and to have some much needed girl bonding.  There is nothing more special than feeling pampered and surrounded by other strong women.  A special thanks to Kelly, Karin, Paige and Jen for taking their day off (and Kelly’s birthday) to come in to provide this special treat!  The women were also treated to a beautiful pair of pearl earrings from Jewelry of Joy.

One of our survivors, Sylvia shared her talent of photography with a gift to all of the women that signified hope.  The quote above was inscribed on the back of each matted photograph.

The parents were spoiled with a delicious meal at SoNapa Restaurant while the kids hung out with some of the Volunstars to play games, eat pizza donated by Mikey’s and watch a movie.