The last week has been quite a roller coaster for those of us living in the Southeast. Storms ravaged our homes, displaced many, and took lives. Although our home was damaged by trees and we are temporarily living somewhere else, I know we are among the lucky ones. Even though our house was looted while we were away I am appreciative that we are alive to take inventory and are fortunate enough to have insurance. All in all it's been such an exhausting mixture of emotions.
This post is a little off-topic for me but it's what I got.
I woke up ready for a good day wanting to shake off the storm after effects. We are staying in a small suburb of Chattanooga called Red Bank.
Today was the Red Bank Jubilee - parade included.
I grew up in a small town but haven't lived in one for 25 years.
The sun was shining, there was a light cool breeze and I couldn't wait for the small town experience.
I grabbed my camera and off we went.
This is what I know for sure:
Amidst destruction and clean up one thing is clear-
Life goes on.
No matter how old you are, anticipation of the parade seems like the longest part
Sitting on the curb of the road next to a child watching a parade is very inspirational.
This tiny waving hand was my view most of the time.
[I didn't know him but he had no problem sharing his candy he scrambled after with me.]
The Shriners and their mini cars make us smile
Sometimes in life you draw the short stick.
For instance, these Shriners got stuck in the plane and didn't get to drive the cool mini cars.
Patriotism gets me weepy
High School marching band - what's not to love
It's mandatory to buy a snow cone at a Jubilee
Jubilee food is so worth every penny and calorie
Classic cars are cool
Being the original owner is even cooler
Going to see a roller derby is definitely on my to-do list
A sense of humor is one of the best things in the world
Equality in it's finest form is a beautiful thing
I wish I was brave enough to join the hoola hoop contest with this little girl
I love small town America
These things I know for sure.
7 comments:
So sorry to hear about your house, Jenn!
On your other note, if I were to try to explain to someone from another country what America is all about, this post might be a good way to to it!
Camille
I think if there was a lake or river nearby it would be a pretty cool summer experience with the kids. The Shriners in the mini-cars is priceless. Not so sure on the deep-friend, bacon wrapped hot dogs... Mila wants a snow-cone, Sally wants to skate with the Derby girls and I want to hang out drinking beer with the cool car guys. Nice!
Such a cool post. You're right...it reminds me of my little town when we have our memorial day fire truck parade. :)
enjoyed reading your post, the pics are beautiful!! Prayers sent your way.
Hi Jenn! Great post and so glad you made it through the storms intact - homes can be rebuilt and stuff can be made or bought again.
Thanks for stopping by my post on the table - hope it inspires you with your table when you can get to it!
Jill @ JunkyVagabond
Grew up in a small town too! (which is not so small now) and this is a great representation of it all!! Always the Shriners and classic cars!! love it~
You're right Jen, life goes on and there is always someone worse off than us, but I am still so sorry for what you are going through.
Your pictures are so inspiring and you are a strong person to handle what is going on right now the way you are....
Good luck....
Lisa
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