Getting Ready for the Shoe Box Derby 5K

Lisa and me--Lisa is the lead Operation Christmas Child volunteer for the Atlanta area. She also happens to be a biologist at the Georgia Aquarium. She's cool like that.

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This week has been a busy one, and it's getting busier each day. We've been getting ready for the inaugural Shoe Box Derby 5K that is taking place Saturday morning. Are you coming? You should!

There are all kinds of events planned--in addition to the 5K, there is a fun run, a silent auction, a literal shoe box derby for kids, vendors, an activity/play area for kids (including an inflatable bounce house), and so much more. Word on the street is that Chopper, the Gwinnett Braves mascot, will be there for hugs and photos. Oh, and the best part? This benefits Operation Christmas Child--so you know there will be a big ol' shoe box collection going on. Yay!

While I haven't been able to participate in the pre-event volunteer meetings like I wish I could have, I was able to help with a few small projects in recent days. I was thankful for the opportunity to be involved. Looks like this is going to be a great event--many, many people have been working for months to organize a wonderful race with lots of other family friendly activities. Come on out and check it out for yourself! Hope to see you there!

Here are some more photos ...


Last Sunday at a volunteer meeting, I met Mindaugas (right) and his sister, Jogile. They received Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes several years ago when they were growing up in Lithuania. So neat to meet them!


DIY poster that shares a little of Mindaugas and Jogile's story. This will be on display at the OCC collection on race day. I LOVE this quote from Mindaugas: "I want everyone to remember that even a shoe box's small item can be a part of a big dream!"


DIY mile-marker signs to let runners know how far along they are during the 5K. When I asked the race organizer what I could do to help, this was something she needed done. I thought they turned out OK for someone who didn't really know what she was doing (me!). I found some fencing at Lowe's that Tanna helped me separate to tape on the back for stakes. LOL! Seems to work, though. I guess we'll see on Saturday.


Volunteers stuffing goodie bags--I am sure they would all love this photo. LOL!


Filling shoe boxes can be messy! Here is just part of the mess Kate and I made while packing shoe boxes this week. Sure is fun, though!


Kate's shoe box for the actual Shoe Box Derby. Kids can make (or you can help them put together) a shoe box with wheels for this fun event. There aren't really a lot of rules--participants are encouraged to be creative with decoration and design, etc. (We didn't really have a lot of time to be creative with this--maybe next year. I am just glad that it actually rolls ... for now.) Anyway, there are eight categories, divided by age (0-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12). One winner--based on distance--will be declared in each category, and each winner will receive a medal. The overall winner's name will be added to a trophy which will hold several years' worth of champions' names. There is a $5 entry fee.

Anyway, we are excited about this event. Hope to see you there! For more information, check out the Web site at http://www.theshoeboxderby5k.com/.