Parade Insights

Yes, I admit it, I used Angel as my excuse to go to the local St. Patty's Day parade today. But I consider that a fringe benefit to being a Big Sister. Overall, it was enjoyable (at least I wasn't the one wearing a kilt) and Angel was able to take home a ton of candy, beaded necklaces, a bracelet, business cards, a balloon, flyers, a mouse pad, and probably some other crazy things I've already forgotten. The last time I went to a parade, I was ecstatic for stale tootsie rolls and maybe a piece of bubble gum.

Well, it was made blatantly obvious that I am not yet a mother...as I seemingly was the only person to have forgotten a bag (let alone a green hat or other festive sack) to put all the goodies into...and to be quite honest, the thought never even crossed my mind until both of my hands were filled. Fortunately, it was a wee bit cold, and my coat had two big pockets, both of which ended up being filled to the brim. Where did I put my hands? Not sure, I couldn't feel them until I got home.

While Angel was on the front lines battling the other children for handouts, I had the following observations:

• No matter how hard you try and keep your kids or yourselves away from second hand smoke, there will always be somebody who thinks it's okay to butt themselves to the front, dropping ashes and leaving puffs of smoke in their wake
• The persistent and agressive get more candy
• While you're looking at the ground for scraps, you may miss the best to come
• The most rewarding part is seeing a child's eyes light up when you hand them a piece of your candy
• Wear sunglasses if you value your sight (even if it's cloudy) -- the trajectory from a float to the ground, when a high school boy is throwing out the candy can be real dangerous
• No matter what, a rainbow is still the symbol of God's promise
• We've taught our kids to raise their hands for treats, but have we shown them how to lift their hands in praise of the only one truly worthy of it?

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Hope you didn't get pinched!