These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

You know them already: Chocolate. The Chicago Cubs. Dancing With The Stars. Sleeping in on a rainy day. My family (Happy Birthday Big "E"!)

I have a new thing (or things) to add to the list.

A few weeks ago, I participated in a group training run with my Team-In-Training mates. On this particular 10 mile run, I was with two females and we managed to maintain a healthy discussion the whole time, which makes the run pass quickly. During various times, we passed a large number of runners around Queens College here in Charlotte. Most likely some group participating in a local 5k run or walk. In the last 3 miles of the run, the group of runners/walkers coming our way grew in size, and became more colorful. Not their language, but their outfits. Nearly all were wearing some form of pink, and being the quick person I am, I correctly deduced that they were participating in a breast cancer fundraising event. Maybe the pink ribbons gave it away, but it might have been more than that.

Being the gentleman I am, I smiled politely at the ladies, young and old, tall and short, wide and thin, and said "hello" as we passed. Many smiled in return, although some may have thought I was a creep for the staring I was doing. How could I not. After all, hundreds of the women were wearing t-shirts with various eye-catching slogans on them. It was the "Save Second Base" and the "Save The Boobs" slogans in particular caught my eye - as I think they were supposed to. I smiled broadly, and I was prepared to donate to their cause right there, for shear creativity! My kind of people! And, I thought to myself, this is one of the best runs I have ever had - running with all these women! How motivating! If I wasn't intent on finishing my training run, I might have stopped at that moment, set up my own booth on the corner, and solicited volunteers for the "Run With Me In Disney" club. Imagine - 39.3 miles with my own pink posse. How cool would that be?! Being so pumped with adrenaline, I might actually win the race.

A worthwhile cause, a group of volunteers and supporters, and a catchy slogan - sounds like a good way to raise funds. I have a catchy "39.3 and Counting" slogan, but it probably doesn't bring a smile to the face of people I pass when running. I may have to wear pink tights next time.