We arrive at 9:00 AM and immediately start unloading. It will be a long day. Tables, tents, crock pots, 4 barbeques, 1 smoker and lots of small items are set-up to begin the job of feeding dinner to almost 500 people. Throughout the week, we already had smoked and cooked 200 pounds of pork. Our job this day is to thaw, heat and shred it all for the hungry crowd walking for the American Cancer Society in the Relay For Life, which includes survivor, their caretakers, family and friends.

Spirits run high and all day we receive lots of comments from happy people about how amazing the barbecued pork smells as it's heating. We aren't the only ones preparing for the walkers. I meet Sandy Powell, an interior designer, who's in charge of decorating the cafeteria in this year's theme of "Happy Birthday" at Fountain Middle School where the event is held. I meet the members of the Widefield String Quartet who provide excellent music during dinner. I meet members of the Fountain Fire Department who not only walk the relay, but  provide support for emergencies. There are so many individuals and organizations who have contributed toward this day, I've only scratched the surface.

As evening approaches, there is no sign of the party letting up. Quite a few walkers duck back into the cafeteria to grab another smoked pork sandwich before we break down. We happily keep dishing until the last of the food is gone. Loading-up our equipment happens long after dark. We are all tired but it has been a fun, memorable day. I don't think anyone notices as we pull out of the parking lot. The revelry and celebration is still going strong around us. I smile and silently wish all of the survivors a very happy birthday. And many more to come.