Parade Protocol

First of all, you should probably get a bit of a nap in after lunch and before the parade at 2:00pm. If you can get one on the porch swing with Mr. Pat, then you're golden.
Make sure you find a grand spot for you, mama, Gracie and Nana. Make it under a tree for shade and by the curb so you don't miss the horses.
Keep your eyes peeled for characters; you just might see the one that you are dressing up like for Halloween this year!!
Some of your friends will be in the parade as well, so look sharp and wave vigorously.
Make sure you pace yourself. That nap can only be good for so much waving and giggling. Have a seat on the blankie that your own daddy had when he was a little boy. Sit facing the street so you don't miss the marching bands. If you sit with folded hands, people are really impressed.
Make sure you ask mama and nana later how those great big men get into those teeny, teeny tiny cars. Wish that you had one like it but settle for your two seater stroller for your trip back to Nana's.
Festival over for another year!

Two Peas in Different Pods

My daughters are nine years apart.
Oldest daughter was a bit mothery to Youngest.
She carried her around when she was a baby like she was her own personal doll.
She dressed her up and did her hair.
Youngest adored and looked up to Oldest and Oldest knew that Youngest would always be her baby....

Then they grew up.

So many similarities; so many differences. Interests are the same; different approaches. Values the same; different interpretations. Similiar tastes; different expressions.
In short, they are a blast.
They are so funny.
I love hearing their takes on situations.
Both intense and purposeful and passionate.
And smart.
Man, are they smart.
I have been overwhelmed at the skill that they have directed my new business. Again, effective and productive; different approaches.

I always knew that the three of us would do well together in a business, given our combined talents and gifts and I suppose the time is now to see it start to unfold.

And maybe in more than one way.

Today, I received a text from Youngest, bearing a photo of her newest acquisition: a sewing machine!
No sooner did I close the text, than Oldest called. Our conversation went on for awhile before Oldest says, 'You know what I need, mom; a sewing machine!'
I let her go on for awhile, telling me all the reasons that she needs one; little girls clothes, toys and accessories.
Then I asked her, 'did you just receive a text from Youngest?'
She stated that no, she had not.
Then I tell her of her recent purchase.

There was the usual round of 'No way!! She did not! Really?? Too funny!!!'

My girls.
Bookends on my children line up. The sweet and the savory. The icing on the cake. The balance of it all.
Love them to pieces.......