Rose Parade Adventure

This is the 17th year that we've been in So. CAL, but the first year that we ventured out to go to the Rose Parade. It was fantastic! We had front row seats to the extravaganza. I read in the local paper that we were part of a crowd in excess of one million along the 5.5 mile route. The crowd was very orderly, and peaceful around our area. We did see a few protesters, but nothing substantial.

The Hare Krishnas were there chanting down the street, which was quite hilarious. They are always good for a little entertainment. They were supposed to be in "worship" but were paying more attention to the crowd as they danced and chanted. I'm not sure how worshipful they really were.

The first picture is us, along with our friends, Leslie and Debbie (Leslie is the new associate pastor) waiting for the parade to start. We got up at 4:30AM, and arrived at our position about 6:20. Then the wait, but with an eclectic crowd, the waiting became very interesting.


We have lots of pictures of horses (like that's a surprise), but I'll only post one, the one with the Clydesdales. Really cool.

These are some of the award winners. The television cannot do justice to the incredible design and flower arrangements. We were in awe of the work and beauty of each one. There wasn't a bad float there. The bands were fantastic. And did I mention there were alot of horses?

The best part was the reaction of our kids. They loved it! I had Michala on my lap through most of the parade. She pointed over and over to different parts and waved to almost everyone there. Oh, and yes, Sesame Street was there, which she really liked. Bob from Sesame Street was on the float, too! That guy has been on Sesame Street since I was a kid!

Ok, I changed my mind. Here is one more picture of horses, just for your benefit. And, the guy in the front of this last float is Jack Hanna, the animal guy. He was on the phone while waving. I guess he's a busy guy.

This was well worth the early rising, driving, fighting the crowd and traveling home. We may have to do this again! Alissa thinks she and Dad need to help reserve the spot next year (which would involve staying all night). Maybe so.