My weekend report will have to wait, I'm struggling with time issues this week. I'm out of town giving training. Thanks to Ann for agreeing to report on her weekend. I wish I was with Ann on Sunday, hanging out with some of my church friends.... waving a rainbow flag. Today waving US flag!
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone
Of the many things on my Summer checklist, attending a gay parade has never made it on my list. I’ll chalk it up to my conservative views and leave it there.
I have a minor rule on Sunday, if I don’t have a reason to leave the house, I don’t. That means unless I need gas or groceries, there will be no McDonalds coffee, no free Sunday paper. Last Sunday, I needed to pick up an item left at a friend’s house, so I decided to attend the Pridefest Parade. Yippie, I get to leave the house, attend a parade and get a cup of coffee.
Stepping out of my comfort zone is easier when you have a running buddy, but I could not convince anyone to go with me. Yikes, here I go and here’s what I observed.
There was a decent crowd along the paraded route, from the Capitol down Grand Ave and down East Fourth to Locust. I enjoyed seeing singles, couples and families, both straight and gay. I loved seeing the many ways you can display the colors of the rainbow, be it on yourself or your dog. Yes, there were a few inappropriate sightings and I’ll leave that too.
As the parade came down Fourth Street, I was amazed at the community support, the local churches and major company sponsors. Kudos to these companies and churches for their support, Wells Fargo and who is that here, President Obama!
In the booth area, I was to look-up Ted from Judy’s church and so I did. To my surprise, I found the famous “Cylde and Vivian” that Judy writes about. Nice to put a name to a face. The Gay Men’s Chorus was celebrating their 10th Anniversary and served cake at their booth. The chocolate cake was yummy and filled my sweet tooth.
I caught a few acts on the talent stage, and boy was I in for a treat. A mini drag show featuring a dude and a dudette, they were both good. Then came the Pride Idol winner and darn, I did not get a picture of him. Not only was he nice on the eyes, he sang and danced really well. The Gay Men’s Chorus sang two songs, one being my favorite karaoke song by Neil Diamond, Sweet Caroline.
As I close my Sunday, I’m reflecting on my three days of fun as I stepped out of the box. It wasn’t as hard as I thought and something I should do more often.
Chat Later,
That Girl, Ann Marie
Never have understood why it is necessary to have a Gay Pride Parade - I know feeling this way isn't very "politically correct" however those that have issues with the gay community will never be convinced otherwise with a parade and those of us that are perfectly fine and accepting of differences don't need a parade. It is so very unnecessary and some that I have attended have not shown the gay community in the best light - enough said! Kelley
ReplyDeleteI think I understand what you mean Kelley.
ReplyDelete