walking the walk

With spring so busy springing around here, I haven't made the time to sit down and tap out a proper entry. But then I received a CD of pictures that made it impossible for me not to make the time.

The disk was compliments of Dave "Longshot" Lonergan, the official photographer for Team Laugh. For those not in the know, Team Laugh is the MS Walk team that I co-captain with my sister, Sarah. Check out a few of these top notch shots from Dave...

First this one of Team Laugh before starting out. Back row, L to R, is Dave, Emerich, the space where Tim & Martin would be if they weren't busy gabbing, Max, and Rob. Middle row is Pam in the red scarf, Nick, Emma, Maya, Larkin, Jen, Malila, Sandra, and Tom. Bringing up the front is Kate, Eamon, Rowan, Sarah, and honorary team member Chas, who actually walks with his sister's team.














Most everyone either dressed for the "laugh" theme, or were willing to wear some of the festive props Sarah brought. None was more willing than my zany nephew, Max. Only the foolish fell for his "smell my flower" trick!



















With over 4000 walkers, it would have been easy to lose each other, so we had an official team beacon I kept tied to my backpack. It bobbed above the masses and I hear it was easy for my teammates to spot from anywhere.












Rowan's BFF, Eamon, was on hand for the event. He dedicated his walk to his dad, Andy, who's learning to live with ALS.



























My pal, Tina, captains her own team, RIBS (Roosevelt Icy Beverage Society).













Everyone who was anyone was there, including these Storm Troopers, who briefly took some of our gals captive.













It truly warmed my heart every time I walked behind a group of my teammates and saw those signs on their backs! (This is the one picture I took, not Dave.)














Martin and Emerich enjoy a water break.














Everyone had big smiles on their faces as they crossed the finish line. Sarah, Pam, and Sandra collect their high fives from the welcoming committee.



















Despite the sore feet, Malila and Larkin keep smiling.




















Once everyone reassembled, it was off to a fabulous brunch at the Eastside Grill, with the owner hosting us in the private dining room that overlooks Lake Union. They even picked up half our tab! Be sure to patronize their fine establishments...and tell them "Library Kate" sent you!

For our first year as Team Laugh, I was overwhelmed with what we accomplished. With 20+ walkers, we raised over $1500 in donations toward MS research and programs. Thank you so much! But just as surprising was how fun it was. There was a real sense of team spirit, and that we were doing something that collectively counted for more than the sum of its parts.

I hope even more folks can join us next year. And this time, bring a friend!
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