Didn't get a chance to mention it earlier, but there was at least one other very interesting development to report from last night ...
Although we were largely-focused on celebrating a few other family/friend birthdays over the course of the evening, Watrdawg showed-up a bit early with a mystery box that he indicated was still more birthday bounty on behalf of some of the boys from M4C. I was initially puzzled by this, though in retrospect, I suppose that I shouldn't have been very surprised at all. Apparently, more than a few of you launched yet another birthday conspiracy that just so happened to be about a 98% match for the contents of my Brownell's shopping cart. All kidding aside, this really was in no way expected, and while I'll not elaborate too much here for the moment, those of you who were directly-involved are already very well-aware of what was afoot. What I will say is that I was more than a little moved by the continued outpouring of generosity and kindness, and in addition to a rather staggering inventory of pure goodness from Surefire and Wilson Combat (among others), there were several personal notes included in the package which really struck straight to the heart.
Ankle Dave, Ben and Tav in particular seem to have spearheaded much of this, and although I cannot yet really frame the words for just what you managed to accomplish, I will say that I am beyond grateful. For some rather extraordinary, lavish and perfectly-selected gifts, yes -- but even more than this, for the consistent demonstrations of love and support that you have chosen to barrage me with so regularly. I have slowly come to realize that that I often don't realize myself just how powerful and essential these things are in my life. It's been a bit rougher ride for me in the physical sense of late, admittedly, and these gestures -- not really the right word, but bear with me -- serve to give me an even greater measure of resilience when it is needed most. So many here seem to wish to view me as some kind of "island of strength" or perseverance, but in reality, I find that it is far more accurate to observe that I happen to draw incredible strength from each of you. I am engaged in a fierce fight, no doubt, but it has not been one that I have ever been compelled to wage alone. You have been here all along. How can one even begin to take measure of such a thing?
I am doubtless among the most fortunate of men because of those who choose to stand with me. I thank you all. And just in case it wasn't manifestly-clear, you boys managed to make it one hell of a great birthday this year. 
Chuck
Stand your ground; don't fire unless fired upon, but if they mean to have a war, let it begin here. -- Captain John Parker, Lexington, 1775.
glad that you got it, we were all texting yesterday afternoon/evening like giddy kids waiting for it to reach you!
Originally Posted by Sam
Bookmarks