After 52 years, she's in the show

It just hit me the other day that even though I have lead an interesting and amazing life so far, I had always been on the sidelines when it came to fun and exciting events.

I have always been the one in the bleachers, not one that could dunk a basketball nor spike a volleyball. I sat in the seats as I watched my friends perform in concerts or watch as they boogied in dance squad. I stayed back as my friends furthered their educations, as they chatted it up reminiscing about the days when they partied at the frat houses or visited foreign countries, at that time I was starting a family.

Until this year, you would find me on the curb holding a grandchild or chatting with neighbors during the Star Spangled Spectacular Parade. I would rise early and get to the park to save enough seating for the rest of my crew. I would head to the food vendors to get a treat and a drink. I would sit and wave as those that I knew would pass by and toss candy at my clan. I would wave as the political candidate that I felt was worthy of my attention would pass by. This year however, I passed on the sideline seating and instead of being an observer I was a participant.

It took me 52 years to be in the spotlight, I was no longer going to sit by and let another year go by without being in the game. I was in the parade.

Waiting for the festivities to begin, we drank plenty of water, gathered our bags of goodies and even practiced a few parade waves. There was even a bet on whether little 5 year old Abby would walk the whole parade route.

It may seem silly to some, but for myself I felt like a team player, like I was doing something out of the ordinary... and I had a blast! As we made our way through the route I felt sorry for those children that were sitting behind those that stood next to the street, it was those kids that I made feel as though they were special and made a point to get them a piece of candy or a temporary tattoo, I handed treats to kids of all ages and the best part of the whole experience was that I was fortunate enough to see family and friends along the route. Some that I hadn't seen for years. There were times where I would have to sprint to catch up... that was a sight I am sure!

I have always held a special place in my heart for the Star Spangled Spectacular but this year it holds more meaning. I got to play in the game, I was able to perform in a concert, I can now claim that I was in the parade not just sitting by and letting life go by. By the way, Abby did walk the whole parade route, I wonder if her mother has handed her that $100 yet?