In middle school and for 2 years of high school I played the drums in the marching band. We had to wear wool pants and jackets, a crazy hat with a plum (a large ugly feather), and uncomfortable/not attractive shoes. And it seems like every parade we were in was on a million degree day. I chose to play the drums because in my mind that would make me one of the coolest people in a class of mostly nerds. I say this because I'm absolutely one of them so don't take offense if you are too. I embraced my nerdiness long ago and feel no shame in regards to it. In fact I could talk for hours about all the things I've done in my past that make me a nerd, but we'll have to save those stories for another day.
...back to my story...
Playing the drums was great up until parade day. They're heavy and you have to strap them to yourself with these big metal things that dig into your back. After nearly fainting in several parades I volunteered to play either the triangle or the cow bell from then on. Life did get better after that. I still had to starve off heat exhaustion but at least I didn't have to carry anything heavy. It got even better when I dislocated my knee in PE, had to wear a brace, and couldn't march at all. Being the water girl for the band may sound lame but considering the alternative it was actually the greatest way in the world to go through the parade.
Anyways. Fast forward like 15 years to yesterday. My sister and I took our little boys to the parade.
They loved it. Every time a band went by Charlie was mesmerized. He loved the horns, flutes and of course drums. Loved the soldiers in camo, loved the school mascots, love the princesses. Basically loved all of it. He didn't even mind sitting on the garbage can so his dear old mom could rest her arms.
For my kids sake I now realize I'm going to have to put my bad memories behind me and suck it up. I have a feeling there are many more parades in my future.
2 comments:
Remember the year we went to Naniamo (Canada) because we were being honored and our fabulous lunch was spam? Oh, the good days of band!!!
Ahhh, band... I love it! I love the marching bands and still like to point out how bad some are. The people around me really like to hear about it, I'm pretty sure. The good thing is, Matt's sisters were cheerleaders so they do it right back to me. We both make fun of each other. Man, I can't wait for a parade! Glad to hear Charlie had fun!
Post a Comment