Their father's children

We moved here 10 years ago and I have always wanted to go see the drum corps competition that goes on every summer during Lumberjack Days in Stillwater. Mrs. Rellim knows about my secret longing to be in a marching band. I talked her into attending a similar event in Illinois many years ago. One of the biggest mistakes I made in elementary school was not sticking with the flute. I did not know about the future marching band fun that I would miss out on by quitting a band instrument in the 5th grade.

I decided that I would go see Drum Beauty in Stillwater tonight. Eight bands from Minnesota and different states performing to see who can put on the marching bandiest show. Gary's eyes got all watery when I mentioned going and so because I did not want to see a grown man cry over being forced to endure something like a marching band show when he would rather go pantyhose shopping with his mother-in-law, I told him he could have an excused absence.

But the kids? They were going to go with me and they were going to LOVE! this as much as I do!

Problem 1: Cheap seats faced the west making it difficult to watch the backside of the bands performing from 7 to 8:30 at night.

Problem 2: The children hated it. Here is Hope who asked me if she could sit in the bleachers like this with my legs pressed against her ears so she couldn't hear or see any of the show.

So we left early and I told Hank that next year I was going to buy one VIP ticket for myself, front and center, and I would just go alone and have a good time and that would be fine. He was sweet and said, "But Mom I don't want you to be lonely. Can't you find a person who likes this stuff, too?"

I don't know. I'm beginning to think it's a very small group of people.

More joyful pictures here.