From FL To NY: it's not about the miles, it's all about the smiles

From FL to NY Share One Mans Journey by Foot to Bring Happiness up the US Eastern Seaboard. From FL to NY is a powerfully written and motivating book that outlines several important factors needed for life: 1) How the skill of “Being Calm” is critical in tough situations; 2) The power of "asking" and its ability to open closed doors 3) Taking challenges and turning them into strengths. 4) How questions and actions lead to amazing results. 5) Benefits of a “Never give up, never surrender attitude." From FL to NY is a wealth of information and a guide for overcoming the challenges of everyday life. In 2006, Edward Rodriguez's life devolved into a series of difficult challenges. He faced a business disaster, a grievous loss in the family, and his own serious illness. As he struggled to regain a foothold on his life, Eddy had an idea. He would reach out to others every day and share a smile. “Smiling made me feel better,” Edward shared. “I decided to dedicate my life to sharing happiness.” The Smile and Wave Project began in 2007 as Edward worked toward his goal of touching 10 million people with a smile. As part of the Project, Eddy decided to take a Walk for Happiness Awareness. In March 2011, he left South Florida with only a backpack. He added a stroller, and eventually a rolling cart, as he logged around 2000 miles. Sharing the smile along the journey, he walked up the east coast, stopping in Myrtle Beach, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and many small towns all the way to New York City. From Florida to New York recounts Edward’s many adventures on the Walk for Happiness Awareness. Despite a lack of resources, he was able to secure lodging, eat in restaurants, and stay with friendly strangers from South Florida to the Big Apple. His journey inspired him to open a new chapter in his life story. It is his hope that From Florida to New York will do the same for readers. “Edward’s story is touching, and really opened my eyes to the kindness of strangers,” shared Jaimie Engle, editor and writing coach on the project. “To have gone through all the trials and still desire to spread happiness shows me the strong spirit and heart we share as humans, if we choose to smile!”