The Thousandth Mile

Debbie and I walked 16 miles yesterday. It was such a perfect day for walking. Here we are around Mile 1000. I am so grateful for all of the encouragement and support of so many. For those of you who were waiting for me to get the thousand miles completed before making a donation to Run For Congo Women please feel free to donate now.

I was asked by a reporter today, "Having just walked a thousand miles, do you feel like this is the end of something or the beginning?" I had to smile. It's a great question. And I'm sure you all know the answer: A beginning, of course.

And so the Journey continues...

The Last Lap

My sister, Debbie, and I are starting the final leg of the journey this morning. We have about thirteen miles to go starting from my house and walking to the Pointe Vicente Starbucks and back. We started this journey together back in July and are together again to reach the thousandth milestone. I sincerely hope that we have made a difference for the women of the Congo. It is not too late to donate.

A Critical Time for The Congo

The new U.S. law regarding conflict minerals is keeping attention on the Congo. Check out this article by John Prendergast of Enough! Project. He suggests that now is the time for the U.S.-- namely Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, to orchestrate and secure a long term solution for this war torn region. Let us hope that this critical window of opportunity is not missed.

Check Option

I have had a number of people tell me that they don't like donating online. So here is a solution for all of you who prefer writing checks. Please make your donation payable to Women for Women International and send it to Waggin' Tails, Attn: Carol, 1525 Aviation Blvd. #185., Redondo Beach, CA 90278. Thank you for your generosity!!!

Art Incites Action

I am so grateful to have experienced one of the final performances in Los Angeles of the Pulitzer Prize winning play, RUINED. The artists were astonishing; the story was both provocative and heartbreaking.

In creating this story, both playwright, Lynn Nottage and director, Kate Whoriskey traveled to Uganda and spent ten days with Congolese refugee women, interviewing them and listening to their horrific stories. What they discovered was that all of these women have a powerful desire to share their stories with the world. Whoriskey commented about this fact, "They wanted Peter Jennings and instead they had Lynn and Kate. We know that theater has such a small voice in comparison but we have done what we can to make these stories heard."

But the voice of RUINED is not a whisper but a powerful call to action. The story gives a face and voice to thousands of women who have suffered unspeakable horrors. They have been raped repeatedly, been beaten and tortured, watched as their husbands and children were tortured and murdered. They are not unscathed but what is truly remarkable is that what remains within them is a spark of hope and courage. Please let us continue to fan this spark. Donate today.

Small Steps in eastern Congo

A rebel commander accused of helping lead the attack that involve the raping of an entire village has been handed over to the United Nations by his superiors. The UN has been subjected to the harsh criticism of the entire international community after it was made known that the UN Peacekeepers in DRC were aware of the mass rapes occurring in a local village and did nothing. It was likely that criticism that was the impetus for the arrest. Read the full Guardian article.

Accountability is one necessary step to break the horrific chain of violence against women in this country.

What's Next??????

Some of you have asked me what's next, if I intend to take up a new cause after the 1000 mile journey. I have a long way to go so I can't believe you all are asking this. I have a commitment to the women of the Congo to raise 50 thousand dollars. Women for Women International's Congo program is making a measurable difference for so many women. I may have to walk 5000 miles to get there. I need some corporate sponsors so please let me know if you are well connected. Also, for those who have donated please be sure to check if your employer has a matching program. I know many larger companies do.

But... Since you asked... The answer is yes. I do plan to continue walking to make a difference. My next project will be to build a school in Cambodia. Girls from poor families who are educated are less likely to be sold into brothels. But that's all I want to say right now except that it will be very exciting --- there will be a contest to name the school.

For now, let's stay focused on the Congo. Donate today. Spread the word. And I'll keep walking.

Meet Lexi

Lexi is the newest and youngest member of Team Canine Congo Run. What she lacks in experience she makes up for in enthusiasm, boundless energy and sheer cuteness. A five month old pit bull mix, Lexi already bears the scars of abuse but she is a sweet, loving girl on the fast track to recovery. Her foster family found her irresistible and soon made her a permanent member of the family--- much to the delight of Henry, her big brother who adores her. Lexi can already keep up with me and Henry on our two hour trail hikes. Once again, I am so grateful to have such delightful company on the thousand mile journey. So for the love of Lexi and all abused animals who forgive people so easily, please give today and assist the women of the Congo on their long road to recovery.

Half The Sky

I am currently reading Half The Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity For Women Worldwide by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. This national bestseller, written by the first married couple to win a Pulitzer Prize for journalism, is, I believe, one of the most important books of our time, dealing with the single most important issue of our time: gender inequality. Yes, I do believe that before we can tackle any of the other challenges that we face on a national or global level we must first raise the status of women worldwide. "Through inspiring stories of extraordinary women, Kristof and WuDunn show that the most effective way to fight global poverty is to unleash the potential of women. They also offer an uplifting do-it-yourself toolkit for those who want to help."

I am currently focusing my efforts on the Congo but there are places all over the world where help is needed. And it's not just in the developing world; sex trafficking and forced prostitution occur in this country as well as in other developed nations. It's tragic, it's shocking, it's unnecessary and it's time for the world to stand up and say, "Enough!" In their introduction to the book, Kristof and WuDunn tell their readers, "It's true that there are many injustices in the world, many worthy causes competing for attention and support, and we all have divided allegiances. We focus on this topic because, to us, this kind of oppression feels transcendent--- and so does the opportunity. We have seen that outsiders can truly make a significant difference."

Read this book. Make a contribution of your time, your money or your attention. I know many people are struggling financially right now. But there are so many ways to help. Take a moment out of each day to send healing and love to these areas of the world, envision light in these places of darkness and despair. You can make a difference.

Another Word on Pet Food

Since my blog on pet food I've gotten many questions regarding the nutritional value of particular brands of dog and cat food. My answer is always the same: READ THE LABEL. The main ingredient in any pet food should be meat, i.e., chicken, fish, beef and not meat-by-products or meat meal (which actually contain very few micronutrients). Twenty years ago the main ingredient in many pet foods was corn meal. I am shocked that this is still the case for some popular brands. I don't believe dogs or cats should be fed corn. But cats, unlike dogs who are omnivores, are carnivores and have much higher protein requirements than dogs. Corn is simply a cheap source of calories. It is also a common allergen for pets and people alike. In my opinion, you should avoid pet foods that contain corn meal, soy meal or wheat. These are empty calories that will make your pet fat. Then I hear things like, "Oh, but Fluffy just loves this food!" (Fluffy is probably a 20 pound cat who is more fat than Fluffy!) I'm sure many children love Wonder Bread and potato chips but I don't think that should be the basis of their diet! Obesity causes a whole host of metabolic problems and diminishes your pet's quality of life. Feed your pet food that will allow him to thrive!

Reflections on Walking 500 Miles

Today I crossed the halfway mark on my thousand mile journey for the women of the Congo, two months from the day I started. So how do I feel? Strong, exhilarated, hopeful. There are a few imbalances in my body: I have plantar fasciitis in my left foot and bursitis in my left hip. The foot pain is sometimes a challenge but that's certainly not anything to keep me from walking another five hundred miles. I've been asked how I stay strong. I believe there are five main reasons, and these are not in any particular order: The love & encouragement from family & friends, my healthy vegetarian diet, the fact that I practice Bikram Yoga at least 3 times per week (I go to Bikram Redondo; they are fabulous), my favorite LMP, Ui Eli (Her Integrative Muscle Therapy is very deep work and definitely not for sissies.), and the fact that I am surrounded by animals all day.

Another question I get a lot is, "How much weight have you lost?" I really have no idea but I've dropped down one size. What have I learned? I've learned that many people, particularly friends, really don't like it when you ask for money. But I am letting people know that there are so many other ways they can assist me in my cause so hopefully I haven't offended anyone. At the same time, I've also learned that so many people are amazingly generous with their money, their hearts and their time. It takes my breath away.

So when people ask if I'm at all discouraged because I've completed 50% of my journey and raised only 3% of my fundraising goal the answer is absolutely not. Some are waiting until I complete my task and some are still waiting to learn about it. So pass it on. We are making a huge difference in the lives of Congolese women and it means something to them that the world actually cares.

My Journey continues...

Ruined

Have any of you seen the play, RUINED? It won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for drama and is now being performed at the Geffen Playhouse in Westwood. "Lynn Nottage's Ruined is a powerful portrayal of the triumph of the human spirit in a war-torn country. Guided by music and the rhythm of life in the Congo, Ruined transports us to Mama Nadi's bar, a small town refuge where intimacy comes at a price." It plays through October 17. I definitely plan on seeing it. I've heard it described as powerful, provocative, moving, emotional and disturbing. It gives a face and a voice to the women of the Congo. I'll let you know what I thought but if you get the chance then please do see this play.

What To Eat

As some of you know, I have been a vegetarian for over 25 years. My latest nutrition guru is author, Michael Pollan, who has written numerous best selling books on the subject of food--- my favorite of Pollan's is In Defense of Food. I encourage everyone to read it. Pollan basically suggests that we should eat real food instead of edible food-like substances (i.e. anything that comes in a package).

As I try to convert my diet to nearly all food, I have been pondering the question of what to feed my cats. Shouldn't I be feeding them "real" food instead of something that comes in a bag or a can? Nearly all commercial pet food is very highly processed, particularly dry food. Now I love my cats dearly but I'm not sure I'm ready to start preparing meat dishes for them every day. So while I continue to ponder this I will let you know, as I am asked frequently, what I feed my cats and what I feel is the best pet food on the market. (Drum roll, please.) While there are a number of high quality pet foods to choose from, I believe the best one is...

WERUVA Weruva is all human grade, minimally processed and comes in BPA-free cans. They only make canned food for both dogs and cats. They also have incredibly high safety standards. My girls love the Paw Lickin' Chicken (it looks just like chicken) and the Asian Fusion. It also costs more than most pet foods but I think it's worth it. They are a most impressive company. Please visit the Weruva website. And by the way, the company was named after the owners' three rescued cats, Webster, Rudy and Vanessa. You gotta love it!

Home Again

Well I'm back home again, missing my sister but happy to be walking with all my four-legged friends. The dogs all very happy to get back to their walking for Congo women. I should hit mile 400 this week. I believe I am right on target for a November finish. The grand finale walk should be very exciting--- a 25-30 mile race with the sun. Stay tuned for more info about that. Someone asked how my foot was doing. It still hurts (I have plantar fasciitis) but it doesn't seem to be getting any worse. I'm sure I have another 600 miles in me. The Congo has been in the headlines a great deal over the past couple of weeks. I'm hoping that this awareness will generate some healing for this region of the world.

The Sights of Spokane

Debbie and I have been walking for 3 days around Spokane. I just love making new friends along the way. On Saturday we met the Lewis & Clark Drill Team out there having their own fundraiser. Good luck, girls! On Sunday I met Felix the cat. I was so relieved that he didn't try to follow us. Yesterday we did a four hour, 14 mile walk on the Centennial Trail, a beautiful trail that meanders its way alongside the Spokane River. The views were spectacular! And we met a very special little snake. Today we took it easy, going only 7 miles.

Walking Vacation

I'm visiting my sister in Spokane for a week. Yesterday was a travel day for me but I still managed to get in 3 miles at the San Jose airport while waiting for a connecting flight! Today Debbie and I walked to downtown Spokane wearing our "Carol is walking a 1000 miles for Congo women" T-shirts. While making a purchase at Auntie's Bookstore, the kind woman assisting us asked about the journey. She immediately reached for her purse and handed me some money, saying that she wanted very much to help. The kindness and generosity of strangers never fails to touch my heart. I don't even know her name.

On our way home we were joined for a short time by a nice gray and white tabby cat. I am always thrilled when a four legged friend joins me. But I panicked a bit because she tried to cross the streeet with us so I walked her back to where we found her where she happily ran off chasing a butterfly.

And so the journey continues.

In The News

The horrific gang-rape of nearly 200 women and some babies in eastern Congo made headlines all over the world today. Read about the tragedy on MSNBC or in The New York Times. It is deeply saddening.

But there is something you can do about it. It takes less than a minute to send an email to the 21 largest electronics companies demanding that they remove conflict minerals from their supply chains. This is an absolute necessity to bring an end to this kind of violence.

I am walking a thousand miles to raise money for these women who have suffered unspeakable horrors. Women For Women International helps these women put their lives back together. Please help. Donate today.

Conflict Minerals

The main reason for the conflict in eastern Congo is the mineral trade. Armed militants make hundreds of millions of dollars in profits by controlling the mining operations. Many use mass rape as a means of controlling the local populations. These minerals found in the Congo, mainly tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold, all end up in our cell phones, mp3 players, computers, and other electronic devices. Learn more about conflict minerals.

Yes, the women in this war ravaged region need financial assistance. That is why I am raising money. But there is something even more important than financial assistance and it's something everyone can do.The entire world economy is based on consumption. This gives us enormous power as consumers. We must demand conflict-free electronics. Please send this email to the 21 largest electronics companies today.

The Dog Days of Summer

Well, it must be the two warm days we've had because some of my canine companions are feeling less enthusiastic about walking a thousand miles. Bubbles, pictured here, got wind of the "cat plan" and wants to sign up for that. She'd much rather than nap than walk in the warm weather. Who can blame her? In case you don't know, my cat, Sage, has offered to take a thousand naps for the women of the Congo. (She is still looking for sponsors if anyone is interested.) While Noodle and Henry, are in for the long haul, Cookie Monster and Paddington Bear find the nap idea more appealing. Lily says she would love to help but she has a bad back so just sign her up for the nap thing. She's fascinated with cats and would like to know where the cats will be taking their naps so she can join them. Baxter, her brother, says he can keep going as long as there are squirrels and lizards to chase. Paki, my other cat, says she's willing to do a few extra miles if the dogs can't make it. And so the Journey continues and I am so very content having my four-legged friends by my side.

Walk Anyone?

I will be walking on Sunday 8/22 at 10 AM at the start of the greenbelt in Hermosa Beach, on Herondo. I would love for some of you to join me.

For All You Law & Order SVU Fans

My friend, Pat, told me about a Law & Order SVU episode that was on last week that dealt with a Congolese woman. The episode is titled, "Witness", it's episode 16 of Season 11 and it first aired on 3/17/2010. I just watched it on Amazon for $1.99. It was well worth it. It is an incredibly poignant dramatization of what these women experience. I highly recommend it. Mariska Hargitay, one of the show's co-stars, is very outspoken against violence toward women. In her Blog about the episode, Hargitay is very clear about our own culpability in regards to the situation in the Congo:

"There are few other conflicts in the world where the link between our consumer appetites and massive human suffering is so direct. The armed groups perpetuating the violence generate hundreds of millions of dollars each year by trading in four main minerals: tin, tantalum, tungsten (the "three Ts") and gold. These minerals are essential to our cell phones, laptops and other electronics." Read Mariska's complete post about the episode.

Closing in on 200 Miles!

I walked 12 miles today; Paki walked .3 miles. And just like a dog, she had to stop and smell everything along the way. I'm sure there are those cat people out there who think I belong in the same category as Walmart, Monsanto and the devil for allowing my cats to go outside. It's just how we choose to live. At least we don't eat "Round Up"- ready corn!

The $250 Challenge

We received an anonymous donation of $250 today that came with this challenge. "I CHALLENGE ANYONE TO MATCH OR EXCEED THIS DONATION. I DARE SOMEONE TO DOUBLE IT." So the gauntlet is down, anyone care to rise to the challenge? We're coming up to 4th quarter and I know there are some of you out there that need additional tax write-offs. Of course, I also know many of you out there, like me, need additional income. So don't think your $10 donation is meaningless. Every gift is a gift of the heart and I am so grateful to everyone who has taken the time and the expense to give. We still have a long way to go together to reach a thousand miles and $50K. I'm so glad I'm in good company.

And the Miles Keep Rolling By

Well, Henry and I crossed the 150th mile mark today. To celebrate, we rolled around in the cool, wet grass. Ah, such a delight. Paddington is getting tired of the long walks; he wonders why he didn't get on the "thousand nap" plan like all the cats. Of course, my cat, Paki has walked about 2 miles out of the 150 with me. My good friend, Dianne, walked 5 miles with me on Sunday. It's nice to always have good company along. I hope more of you join me soon.

The Inspiration for my Journey

Lisa Shannon, the founder of Run For Congo Women,

has been a huge inspiration to me. Please read the article in the August issue of RUNNER'S WORLD magazine about Lisa and some very courageous women in the Congo.

Team Canine Congo Run

Jack and Maxi, the happy-go-lucky labs, are essential members of Team Canine Congo Run. We walk together 6 days a week. These two do great PR work as well because they insist on saying hello to everyone they see.

Today was massage day and this time it was my turn! I figure I need a tune-up every hundred miles. Ui Eli, LMP is the person I turn to for routine maintenance. Ui uses Integrative Muscle Therapy (IMT); it's very deep work and definitely not for sissies. But the results are amazing. She also does a barefoot massage that is incredible. Now I'm ready for the next hundred miles!

The 100 Mile Mark and Your Questions Answered

Today I passed the hundredth mile mark; actually I was dragged across it by Tommy and Bubbles.

I've been asked a number of questions out there on the trail and via email. So here are your answers:

How do you know how far you've walked? I use a pedometer that's been calibrated with the measurement of my stride. I've measured it against the 1/4 mile markers on the greenbelt and it's completely accurate. Sometimes it does get stuck and doesn't record my strides so, if anything, my mileage is underreported. How do you feel? Great, thanks! Ask me again in 500 miles. How are your feet? (Yes, someone did ask that.) Well, actually, I have plantar fasciitis in my left foot. Anybody have that? Everyone with plantar fasciitis please DONATE now. Give until it hurts, because it really does hurt. What if I don't want to donate online, can I write a check? Yes, I can accept checks made out to Women For Women International. If you wish to do so then please contact me directly via my website. What if you walk a thousand miles and don't reach your fundraising goal of $50K? (Ouch!) Then I will continue to walk until I do. (I can be stubborn that way.) But let's try to accomplish both goals together so PLEASE Donate now. How old are you? Wow, now we're getting personal. Okay, I turn 50 next year. Hey, it's the new 30, right? My brother, Jeff, is 50, he's a lifeguard and an extreme athlete in Hawaii. My sister, Debbie, who just hiked to the top of Mt.Wilson with me is three years shy of her 60th birthday. We do all kinds of crazy, adventurous stuff. It's never too late. You're never too old. And even small steps can make a difference.

Oh Henry

Meet Henry. Henry, a sweet pit bull mix, is a member of Team Canine Congo Run and one of my favorite companions on the Journey. Henry has boundless energy and is good company on those long hikes --- as long as we are well equipped with water and snacks (just like my sister, Debbie). Henry is a friendly guy and loves meeting people and other dogs on the trail. Of all the dogs I walk, Henry is the very best listener. He once saw a cat on the trail and took off after it. I yelled for him to stop and he stopped instantly from a full run. Of course, he was disappointed but he walked right back over to me. He is a delight! So let's give some of those pit bulls a chance.

Week One: 80 Miles, $800, and a Message That was Sent Around the World

What a great launch week. I've walked 80 miles, almost never alone. We've raised nearly $800. Our message of hope and healing and change for the women of the Congo has traveled around the world. I have been reminded that I have the most incredible sister in the world, the most supportive, remarkable friends. And I have learned that strangers can be every bit as supportive and remarkable as friends. I want to thank every one of you who has taken steps on this journey. I am so touched by your kindness and generosity.

And so the Journey continues...

Massage Between the Miles

Another 14 miles on the journey today and still time for a massage. I'm the one who really needed the massage! Actually, Lily is one of my favorite massage clients. She goes all soft when I put my hands on her and she goes into a very deep relaxation.

Lily, a Rottie/Dobie mix, had an injury in 2005 resulting in a spinal embolism, paralyzing her. She was walking again 9 months later but continued to have weakness and instability in her back and in her hind legs. And because she started to carry more of her weight on her front legs she has now developed arthritis in her front elbow. After beginning a massage program Lily's mobility improved and her activity level has increased. Her playtime with her Dobie brother, Baxter, can be quite vigorous and rambunctious. As a matter of fact, immediately following today's massage, Baxter enticed her into a game of wrestle and chase. Lily charged down the stairs after him. Unable to slow herself at the bottom of the stairs she careened into a trio of penguins knocking one over, hit the wall then continued the chase. Well, I never act my age either!

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How Long Will It Take?

Everyone has been asking me how long the thousand mile journey is going to take. My goal is to be finished by the end of November. I'm hoping to have some sort of grand finale finish like a "Race the Sun" walk where we leave at dawn and try to complete a 30 - 40 mile walk before the sun sets. Sounds like fun, right? That was actually my sister's idea so, naturally, she will be joining me. Right, Debbie?????

My cat, Sage, says next time I should try taking a thousand naps for the women of the Congo. Now why didn't I think of that!

In the Sun All Day

I spend most all day outside in the sun. I know those of you who live here in the South Bay are scratching your heads right now, saying, "Huh? What sun?" Well I do spend quite a bit of time in the sun. As it turns out, we are discovering that many of our sunscreens are actually more dangerous to our health than the sun. Please check out Environmental Working Group's 2010 Sunscreen Guide. It is incredibly informative. And if you are now asking yourself why so many known environmental toxins find their way into our cosmetics then watch The Story of Cosmetics; it's a real eye opener! It's time that we start making choices that are healthier for our bodies and the planet.

I only wear sunscreen (a less toxic version) when it's absolutely necessary--- like the hike up to Mt Wilson when it was simply way too hot for sun protection clothing or when I'm in the water. But my preference is a hat and protective clothing. I love O'Neill's RG8 Eco Series, skins and hoodies made from recycled plastic bottles that provide UV protection--- very cool! Coolibar has lightweight drawstring pants that are very comfortable.

Eleven and a half more miles for the Congo sisters today!

For the Love of Dogs

I'm a little sore today but I can still walk. I've decided to enlist the help of my many canine companions (and one crazy cat named Paki) to walk by my side as I am logging in miles. Paddington Bear (pictured here) and his brothers, Cookie Monster and Noodle, have committed to at least 12 miles per week. Jack and Maxi, two irresistible labs, have offered the same, as has Henry, the world's sweetest pit bull. Bubbles tires easily in the summer heat so she's not willing to make a firm commitment. Paki who is a cat will walk whenever and for however long she wants. So for the love of animals and in honor of those who are walking for the women of the Congo please donate today.

Twenty five miles logged after day 3, 975 miles to go!

981 Miles to Go

My sister, Debbie, and I continued the 1000 mile journey today by heading up the Old Mt Wilson Trail in Alta Dena. The trail climbs about 5000 feet over 7.5 miles. It was rather warm out and it's been a while since we've done anything quite so rigorous so we weren't sure we were going to make it to the top. But we did it! Fifteen miles roundtrip! We saw a deer on the way up so I took that as a good omen for the Journey. My feet hurt. I hope I can still walk tomorrow because the journey continues....

First Mile

Today I begin my 1000 mile journey to create awareness for the plight of the women of the Congo. Starting at the Hermosa Beach Pier this morning I will be taking my first steps with my friends at my side. I'm hoping to meet many people and share my adventure with them. Please join me.