As a rule I avoid crowds. In the warmer months that rule becomes strict, if I am sweating I am best a solitary creature. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve lost conciousness from heat exhaustion at summer time gatherings. For winter time events I’m there, I will happily sit through sleet or snow bundled in my long underwear for the Santa Claus parade. Just don’t ask me to sit in the sun.
This past week my mental health support team challenged me to wake up each morning and tell myself what I wanted to create for that day. Like an affirmation, today I want to create a sense of peace.
This past weekend my city was hosting it’s annual Sound of Music Festival, a free music festival complete with marching band parade. I’ve happened on the parade in the past but was unable to enjoy it due to heat and crowds. This year I was determined to find myself a shady spot to enjoy every pipe and drum band from here to Cape Breton. And Spirit of the West was playing. There was no holding Ken back from an afternoon concert remembering his younger days.
All this in the heat. With people. Insane amounts of people because there was a rumour going around that Justin Bieber was going to show up. Spirit of the West themselves helped spread it.
So we packed up a picnic and suncreen and headed out for a day of music in the sunshine. But before I left I told myself ”Today I am going to create a fun family day.” And I did. I sat in the grass of the waterfront park with a whole lot of people, mostly parents encouraging their kids to enjoy a healthy dose of Celtic drinking music and I had fun.
Until I got home and the magic spell wore off and my feet hurt up to my ribcage from marching around the city four times. I lay in bed after all the excitement and I said to myself ‘Tomorrow I am going to create a day of rest with my feet up.”
P.S. Justin was a no show. He’s probably scared of crowds and heat.
In case you are unfamiliar with Spirit of the West I will remedy that for you. Please enjoy Home for a Rest.
So sad I missed it:( We were home, but given that Baby D is arriving soon (do you hear me child?! Mommy said SOON!!!!!!) my walking is limited at best. It’s the first time in 8 years of marriage that we haven’t walked down from our house, on the bright side I will be walking ready for Rib-Fest
There was a lovely breeze on the waterfront but the sitting on the grass and navigating through the crowds would have been tricky for you. Smart to stay home.
You need to move to a nicer climate. I hear the SK has awesome weather ;o)
I hear that too.
This post makes me so very happy.
I love the idea that you made it through such a big day, and then planned a great day by yourself.
Makes me pretty happy too. I am pleased to report that my feet have recovered, mostly.