Christmas Parade!

Some friends and I walked down the little lane by my house to watch the Mayor’s Annual Christmas Parade and we had a ball. The parade lasted more than two hours, but we didn’t. We got chilled and, to be honest, a little bored. How many marching bands, high-steppers and motorcycles can you watch before they all blur together. But we had some children with us and they loved it – especially the part where the people in the parade threw candy and toys to them. We’re lucky to be right at the start of the parade route, so goodies were plentiful.

In Baltimore, there’s always loads of purple and many ravens to be found. It’s because of our football team, the Ravens, whose colours are black and purple. Yesterday was no exception.

And what would a Christmas Parade be without Star Wars characters?  With guns?Or Marie Antoinette with a working snow globe embedded in her bouffant hair-do! Of course, when Ma Petite Shoe, the store that sells both shoes and chocolate sponsors you, why not?

There were Masons galore, in cars, on motorcycles and even on flying carpets. This guy brought his dog, who brought his bear. How funny is that!!! God knows that Connor would have been off like a shot if I tried this!Of course, there were loads of fabulous vintage cars, including this Barracuda,a Kaiser Manhattan,and the Grinch in a muscle car.Traffic lights were no impediment for Frosty-the-Snowman!

One thing that might be unique to Baltimore is the tradition of neighbourhood high-stepping groups. I admire these kids for their work on their routines, and willingness to go out in public in such amazing outfits. See for yourself.

Who says that green tie-dye velour cat suits aren’t in vogue!I didn’t know you could still buy white go-go boots. I worried that these poor girls would catch a chill. But I have to tell you, the drumming is just amazing, and the kids start as young as eight years old.

I know that everyone loved it, as evidenced by this cutie-pie and his son dad.It really was a fun way to start the season, and even more fun that it was so close to the new house!