by John Rogers –
The Sidney Sparkles Parade always marks the start of the Christmas season. The excitement of getting there early to find a spot, maybe on chairs we’ve remembered to bring, maybe just on the edge of the sidewalk. It’s usually cold (or we just forget the years when the weather doesn’t match our expectations), and everyone’s bundled up in hats, and scarves and mittens.
There’s a buzz in the air while we wait, eagerly, impatiently; watching and listening for the first sounds. For kids there’s excitement in it all – the candy being handed out, the trucks, lights and music. For parents there always seems to be a bittersweet edge to the festivities. While they’re watching the parade, we’re watching them, wondering how many more years we’ll get to share the magic with them.
