wearin' of the green

I was determined to rest... but I just couldn't pass up the parade. So Camden and I headed out early to stake out a parking spot... for the car and for our chairs. Laura and Eric headed off with the band. The only way I can describe sitting in the sun and breathing in fresh air, all while gazing at a big blue sky and swaying palms is... glorious. And more so after spending three full days on the couch.

We had a while to wait before the parade began, but the festivities had clearly already begun... and the people watching was downright spectacular. The big green sunglasses and the ridiculous hats. Red and green leprechaun beards... and a few larger than life leprechauns dragging around an inflatable one. Beads and beer bottles... everything, and everyone, decked out for the day.

Cam & I laughed and cheered and collected the candy and trinkets that were tossed into the crowd. We clapped along with the music... bagpipes and marching bands... and of course we cheered the loudest for our amazing Marching Pride. (Laura was on the other side so I couldn't get a picture! Although, I did catch that handsome chaperone on the side!)

I was glad we went... I needed the refreshment and the outdoors. And I couldn't resist one glimpse of the beach before we got back into the car. If I had had my choice, I would have kicked off my shoes and stretched out in the sand. I would have scooped up the waves and breathed in every last bit of the salty air that makes my heart feel alive. But I had more resting to do, and I was grateful for the few moments I spent with my eyes to the surf.

So here comes St. Patrick's Day.
Wear green. Smile. Have fun.
And don't be tricked into seeking that pot of gold...

The rainbow is more beautiful than the pot at the end of it, because the rainbow is now. And the pot never turns out to be quite what I expected. -Hugh Prather