Last night (Thursday) I was helping with registration out with a K-6 Cross Country Jamboree in Chugiak. It was quite a difference from my usual role at races. This time I was the one sitting behind the table with all the answers. It's a completely different perspective. Usually I'm concerned about getting my warm-up in, getting my bib, knowing my start time, testing my wax... as you can see it's a lot of me, me, me. At this race though it was all about helping the kids (and worried parents) get ready to go. It gave me a much greater empathy (and appreciation) for race volunteers, officials, and organizers. I mean, can't people fill out forms with legible handwriting? I even got the are-you-stupid? look from one mom when I didn't have an immediate answer to her unique question. I was caught off guard by that but it did shock me into forming the thought, "don't think less of someone just because he or she can't answer one question (ask at least five)."

Races aren't too bad from the other side of the table, especially when the weather is nice. It was pretty sweet to see all of the Elementary school kids out getting excited for their race and wearing their medals afterwards.

The race was organized by Healthy Futures.