Yesterday, while we were out, I teased Sam a little. “Hey, look at that guy riding a bike!” I said. “Sam, you should think about getting yourself a bike; they look pretty fun.” (Of course, he’s getting a bike for his birthday; it’s not really a secret.)
“I’m getting a bike when I turn six.”
“Really? From whom?”
“Daddy promised.”
“Oh, did he? I never heard him promise that. I thought I heard him say he was getting you a box of crayons, or maybe a hockey stick.”
I needled him a little while, trying to push his buttons, but he never rose to the bait. Finally, he said, “Well, if I don’t get a bike this year, I might get one next year.”
“That wouldn’t bother you?”
“No. I was talking to God last night before bed, and He told me that I don’t need a bike to be happy. I don’t need toys or candy or even cars. All I need is my family, my friends, and things that help me live, like food and air.”
“Oh, really?” I was melting fast.
“Yes, and real-life heroes, like doctors and nurses and policemen and firemen. That’s what’s important.”
…So, just how many bikes would you like, Son? Because I’d give you the whole world if I could. 
I’m doing this race as my first 50K/ultra in July 2012. I’m so tardy to the party but...