Blending In

I've already admitted that I didn't really like reading as a kid, in fact if you asked me what my favorite book was as a kid, I quite possibly would have said Where's Waldo.  I was really good at finding him and just about had the books memorized.  So when I came across a Where's Wally race, I jumped on the chance.

Wally, as he is known here is still VERY popular. Many of the kids have dressed up as Wally at school when given the chance; there are books, cards and postcards at all the book shops and he's often mentioned in a crowd.

This morning the National Literacy Foundation sponsored a 5K in London to raise money to buy books for children who may not have the resources to purchase their own.  To make the race more fun, they gave everyone who entered a Where's Wally costume.

It was so much fun to see such an eclectic group of people come together and suddenly blend into one big mob of red and white. All ages and races were represented and even some four legged friends. People were thoroughly enjoying themselves; everyone seemed to be in it for the fun factor.

Back home, 5Ks are very common for me, there seem to be all sorts of fundraisers that include races and I'm always eager to participate, but this was my very first international race. I can't say I did all that well as I have done very little running lately, but I did it, and had a great time despite the freezing temperatures.  There was a dusting of snow on the grassy spots and occasional flurries during the run, but as long as I kept moving, I stayed rather warm.  The announcer said we had signed up for a 5K but ended up with an arctic challenge.

I absolutely loved watching as the line of hundreds of runners spread out through Victoria Park, a solid line of Wallys all out having a great time!  There were also the simple joys of taking a run through a park on a Sunday morning in early spring: daffodils opening up, dogs catching frisbees, children squealing on the playground, boxers warming up in a gazebo, and grown men playing football (soccer).

My Where's Wally Medal!

After the race, I thought about taking off the costume so that I could blend in with others throughout the city, but as I headed for the tube station, I thought, "Why in heavens name would I do that?"  The walk to the tube seemed to have more Wallys in it that "normal" people and as I boarded the tube, I boarded with a few others, so at least I didn't look too conspicuous.  But as I continued riding then changed lines, I realized I was the only one around and that I must look incredibly silly.  Who cares?  I got to be that person on the tube today who made people laugh.  One guy asked, "Are there people all over the city looking for you?"  I responded, "Yes, you won!"

Then as I boarded my train home, the man checking our tickets just laughed and said, "Oh, you've got that Christmas spirit!"  Well...  I'm sure people stared at me on the train ride home, but it didn't bother me as I was staring out the window looking at the white countryside.

I had a wonderful day today, blending in with the other Wallys and then standing out, hopefully bringing a smile to people's faces.