Inspired and impressed by my 16 year old daughter's efforts to raise over $100 in sponsorships for her 6-mile walk to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis society (sold $1 paper foot at a time), I decided to participate in the event instead of just dropping her off and picking her up when it was over.  I wrote out a check for $25, the minimum donation required to participate, and joined her and her high school team in the walk. 

It was a great day for walking.  The temperature was in the low to mid 60's, mostly cloudy with the clouds clearing and the sun shining by the end of the walk.  Given my impromptu decision, I was not really prepared for the walk, having gotten insufficient sleep (thanks to a very late night out with my husband) and improper hydration.  Nevertheless, I was determined and actually wound up finishing 11 minutes earlier than my daughter and her friends.  I walked 6 miles in 2 hours, which is a 20-minute mile pace.  That's not especially great, but I was happy with it given my mostly sedentary lifestyle.

I also had really no idea just how much support these events have, with the large turnout and the number of teams in "team" t-shirts.  We were provided water, snacks, and lunch, which was somewhat unexpected and great.  Subway sponsored lunch, so I had a turkey sub and not just a hot dog. :-)  Thank you, Subway!   There was also music provided by a live band at the finish line, which was fun.

The walk reminded me of how much I enjoy being outdoors, and of how much I love walking in the woods. It also reminded me that I do not do enough charitable work, which I am going to remedy.  I'll let you know how I make out there in a future blog post. :-)

I will certainly participate in the event next year, and will be soliciting sponsorships.  What a great time for a worthy cause!