Taking a Break at a Parade
I love living in small town America!
Yesterday, I took a break and joined my neighbors to walk the few blocks to the main street of our small town and watch the Daffodil Parade. This was my description of this parade from my Facebook post a year ago when Scott was well and we were enjoying life together during our first spring at the cottage:
We walked!! to downtown Orting to watch the Daffodil Parade on its final stop. The parade makes 4 stops across Pierce County. Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, and Orting. Two places we have lived plus two of our haunts. Both grandkids schools/colleges were represented. Being familiar with all the towns and schools felt like we had finally arrived home. The pandemic complicated this! We sat on the patio of Los Pinos Mexican restaurant, watched the parade go by, and then enjoyed a meal and walked back home.
The 2025 theme, Growing Locally, is inspired by incoming president Marin’s childhood. “Growing up in Orting," she explained “Farmers were the heart of our community and I saw the importance of reinvesting in our local community as we grow.” Additionally, the theme touches on the princesses’ journeys. “The Daffodil court has grown in their communities and will have a chance to truly blossom, reflecting the values and lessons instilled in them by their communities and learning new ones as they travel and meet other Pierce county residents.”
The first time I learned of this unique parade that travels between four cities, was when my grandson marched in the parade with his high school band. Last year, I took so many pictures! This year I did not—when I am too tired to take pictures, that is a sure sign of exhaustion!
These were my favorites from last year:
Today as I was searching for pictures of this year’s parade, I came across the image below on the parade’s Facebook page. The website credited on the image (www.AlexsPromise.com) tells the story of the tragic death of Chief Leschi Daffodil Princess Alexandria Tyler Cole. A member of the Quinault Nation and the organization’s continuing efforts to fulfill its mission to promote mental health.
Mission Statement:
"In memory of Alexandria Cole, we unite and empower young leaders to spread kindness, understanding, and support for mental health and inclusion in our community and beyond."
What a beautiful reminder for all of us. May we all embrace what makes us unique, ask for help when we need it (something I am becoming more comfortable with), love ourselves and each other, and know that when bad days happen, we can try again tomorrow. And maybe go to a parade with friends.