A New Reality

Life without soccer and band is still taking some getting used to. I miss both activities.

My Friday's and Saturday's used to be spent juggling football games, marching competitions and soccer games. This past Saturday I spent a rainy day in Dahlonega, GA. It was Gold Rush. If that means nothing to you, don't feel bad because I had no idea what it was either.

EJ called around 9 AM Saturday to say that he just found out some parents were coming up for the parade at 3 PM. Squad progress drills would be in the morning. His squad was scheduled for 11:15 AM. I could come watch that if I wanted to. I told him I could make that and headed out.

The drills were interesting to watch. I could have done without the 43 degree weather and rain, but I managed to stay fairly dry. When EJ was released, he came to find me and we went to get a bite to eat. Then I wandered the square in downtown Dahlonega and waited for the parade to start. I listened to some gospel music, ate some fried dough and wandered through two antique malls and a TON of craft booths. A very pleasant way to spend Saturday afternoon.

The parade was surprisingly very long. Two bands, a fire truck, some Clydesdales and every Boy Scout and Girl Scout in Lumpkin County. Lots of politicians, beauty contest winners AND runners-up. And antique cars; so many of them. The Corp of Cadets were in the beginning of the parade. Honestly, after my cadet went by the event lost most of its appeal for me. But I stayed for most of it.

EJ was able to come home with me after the parade. He had dinner with Kate and me, went to a movie with friends, attended church and played soccer with Kate Sunday afternoon. After dinner Sunday night I took him back to school. A different kind of weekend, but not a bad one.