I woke up before the sun did this morning. I wiped the sleep from my eyes and grunted my way out of bed, nudging my better half on the way...
"MS Walk"
::deep inhale and stretch::
"ok", she replied... followed by, "coffee"
We tip-toed around the house, stumbling over running shoes, water bottles, and protein drinks, proving once again that no one is graceful at 6AM. We walked out the door 15 minutes later to a frosted and dew-covered morning. The air's cool snap was our caffeine and the sunrise was our breakfast, warming our tummies and faces. We piled in to the car and made our way to South County Regional Park, laughter slowly filling the silence as the final remnants of sleep burned away under the morning sun.
We pulled up to the parking lot and immediately saw Beau, my closest friend and motivation for enrolling in the MS Walk. He smiled his huge smile and I flicked him off in return. That's what friends are for :) As we walked towards the food tent, we met up with his parents who proceeded to pass out warm embraces and hearty hellos. To know Beau's parents is to truly understand Beau - they're the source of his generosity, strength, and genuine character. We stood in the sun and caught up on life, laughing and smiling through mouthfuls of gratis bagels and bananas.
When the walk began, Beau, myself, and LuLu set out side-by-side with Beau's parents a few steps behind us. The details of the walk are many and beautiful, but I think I'll hold those in my heart for my own personal recollection. Beau and I talked as old friends do; candidly, warmly, and without limitations. When the race ended, his parents thanked me profusely and I returned home to a "Thank You" e-mail from Beau.
When I woke up this morning, I set out to give back in the name of a friend. Looking back on the day however, I didn't expect to receive so much more in return. Can't wait for next year... Now to write back Beau...
"Dear Butthead..." :)
Dan
