Volunteering with the munchkins

I remember training in the summer heat. I would wake up at 5am just to get my long runs in before it would get too hot. The first part of the summer I would make loops around my house to stop for water. I would dread those runs, due to mostly wanting to quit every time I would pass home. The last part of the summer I started running on a trail that had water cooler stops spaced out a lil' over 2 miles apart. I was amazed that no matter what time of the morning I'd run by one, the water was ICE cold. I often joked with husband (semi-seriously)that I wanted to leave donuts and a thank you note for whoever filled those coolers. I know that it's not a glamorous task but I hope they know it's much appreciated. Which got me to thinking that somehow, I needed to give back.

This morning, the kids and I volunteered to work a water station at a Stroller Warrior event. They're informal races and all run by volunteers. Call me crazy, but I was EXCITED to see runners and give back. When I see water stations in a race I tend to exaggerate and hear a choir singing in my head "Aaaaaaaahhhhhh!" At that point those volunteers are saints! I also really love seeing signs people hold up along the course. I really enjoy the ones that make me laugh rather than ones that would make me cry. I'm an ugly cryer...it's better to laugh. I made a few signs for our station today. I had a blast searching for sayings to use. I posted a list below of the best ones I've seen. It'll be fun using them in future races!

"It's Fartlek, Not Fart lick.", "Don't stop...People are watching", "I'm a stranger but I'm so proud of you!", "Chuck Norris never ran a marathon", "Hurry They're gaining on you!, "Body Glide: $7, "Brand of shoes: $80,Race entry: $70, Crossing the line? Priceless!", “Wine and Beer Ahead!”, "Where are you all going?", "Don't worry, toenails are overrated.", "Worst Parade Ever!", "MOVE IT! My mascara runs faster than you.", "Who needs toenails, anyway?", "Kick some asphalt", "The Kenyans are already at mile 15."

Our next scheduled race is the Beruit 10k with Ainsley's Angels! I'm happy Julianna has another opportunity to race. She's had such a tough start with school that she could use some smiles and people cheering her on! I can already picture her smiling face =) I hope everyone is having great weather this weekend and has the chance to get out and enjoy it!