big thanks tuesday. almost at $10k mark!

It's been a whirlwind of a Tuesday with all sorts of pledge love rolling in. Thanks to the 112 people who have believed in me and my project, The Global Citizen Project is now 45% funded with 19 days to go. Help me make this happen and pledge what you can -- even a few dollars helps the big picture effort. XO

Here are the nine wonderful reasons why I need to give thanks today:

Ondine Constable, friend of a friend of a friend via Asheville, N.C., Nia Fitness instructor and freelance writer.

Jeri Clausing, Senior Editor, Hotels and Hospitality at Travel Weekly, we met on a fun-filled press trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico all-inclusive, Hacienda Tres Rios. Thankfully, our paths have crossed since them -- on Jeri's hometurf, Denver.

Denise Dube, fellow foodie and freelance writer, we met on a lovely culinary-centric press trip that took us to all of Québec City's tastiest destinations.

Andrea Lynn, Senior Editor of Chile Pepper magazine, Elvis aficionado, personal chef, writer and foodie; I also met Andrea on the Québec City culinary tour de force.

Kathy Patton and Jeanette Baysa of Hilo Coffee Mill on Big Island, Hawaii. I met these lovely women while on assignment for Imbibe this past summer and ended up spending the better part of the day exploring their stunning plantation, talking hardware stores, chickens, office supplies, the Kindle and sampling all sorts of tasty caffeinated beverages. You can follow Hilo Coffee Mill on Twitter here or stop by next time you're on the Big Island -- Hilo Coffee Mill is located between the 12 & 13 mile markers at 17-995 Volcano Highway.

Kristen Vicente Mallitz, childhood friend and former fellow Betsy Daily dancer (I will never divulge the VHS evidence!)

Danielle Zarrella, Account Manager at Richmond Public Relations and one of my Seattleites to play happy hour with. This woman's got sass and spunk.

Ian Jeffries, Senior Account Supervisor at Edelman