cheeky santa dash

This morning was a brilliant thing to be part of! I didn't run but I sang lots and clapped so much that my hands have gone really smooth. If I were to be arrested today I don't think they'd be able to take my fingerprints as I have worn away the grooves on my skin with so much applauding, for all the runners, but particularly for Ben who inspired today's event.

So one of my lovely choirs sang before the runners left, whilst we waited for Ben to come in from his first (24 miles) circuit of the Guild Wheel. We then sang again as the runners both finished their first lap and also completed the 5 km Santa Dash - this could be heard throughout the route one of our running choir members reported, so that was good! We then did an awesome dance/sing along to "Happy" as Ben came in from his second santa dash lap and proceeded onto his 2nd guild wheel circuit. so that will be 45 miles in total. I've returned home for lunch and to walk the dog but I'm hoping to be back in the park later to cheer him as he completes today's challenge. Sponsor him here at : http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=bensbowelmovements

The compere was very in the spirit of the event, bowled over like many of us by Ben's take on life and death - his bowel cancer is terminal and he's using his time to raise money, awareness, and live life to the full. At one point the compere gave me a microphone so I could join him in a duet of Fairytale of New York. It turns out that I really don't know the words. Karaoke without the words is a tad embarrasing but my mates assured me I didn't embarrass myself and I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't reduced to a nervous wreck when holding the mike. I think I've learned some tricks around setting aside my own feelings so as not to shy away from something scary that's actually for the greater good. Or maybe I'm holding to that notion that life's too short to not just seize every moment and live it as joyfully as possible. It was awesome to be part of such an ace thing along with so many wonderful people. The words I have in my ears at the moment are from my friend David LaMotte who urges us to show up - that's all we have to do. I nearly didn't stay today as I wanted to be in two places at once. But I'm so glad I did. I am very very grateful indeed.