Day 24 -- Setting up and cheering at MS walk

"If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else."
---Booker T. Washington

Today I helped at a walk to raise awareness and funds for a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. I went as a volunteer for a MoverMoms project with another mom, who was kind enough to go on the morning of her birthday and with my youngest daughter, who seems to take to these projects like a fish to water, especially when there are t-shirts and food being given out! We also went with a dad and his two daughters, as they went to cheer on their mom who was a walker.

The tasks were pretty minor -- putting up a tent for tables with various things on them, from food to cow-bells to bubbles and more; carrrying water jugs from one place to another; taping down trash bags so that the wind didn't blow them away; and just being there to cheer on the walkers as they crossed the finish line.

But the impact of all the volunteers collectively was to create a finish line where participants could feel that their accomplishment (30 mile walk!) was being recognized and celebrated. There was a small but enthusiastic crowd of people of all ages cheering, several tables of lunch types of food and drinks, ample space under tents to sit and rest, and upbeat music playing in the background to give the atmosphere a more festive feel.

All this took place on a gorgeous fall day in the backdrop of the Washington monument, with the sun shining, the wind blowing, and the temperature a breezy 60 degrees or so. Great way to spend a Sunday morning!