The Waiting is The Hardest Part

After much anticipation, the holiday weekend arrived. We had lots of things to do and people to see. Remember when you prepared for special events in the past like the prom (way back in the day). I remember all the excitement leading up to the occasion, only to be let down by the actual event. Well this was not the case with our visit from Piper!

See, Piper and I met through an awesome social network called cre8Buzz. Prior to joining The Buzz I considered all social networks to be places for those with too much time on their hands, teenagers, or elderly perverts. My friend over at A Bun's Life turned me on to The Buzz shortly after I started blogging and Piper was one of my first encounters. I knew from the moment I "spoke" to her that we were be fast friends. What is funny is, I usually do not associate with other redheads; we are like oil and water, but not this time.

Piper arrived in Missouri Friday afternoon after hubs and I spent the morning at the 4th of July parade with the boys. I love traditions like this parade. It is really more of a political rally; all those running for reelection have a truck or float and are handing out pamphlets. The best part for the kids is that all the participants throw candy to the crowd. It is like a small town Mardi Gras; without the flesh and drunkenness; that came later in the weekend.

I let Piper settle in and cool off; after all, she had just driven over four hours without AC in her truck. Ouch. I hope I don't disappoint after the effort she has made! We head to a neighborhood block party where we leave the boys with Nana and Papa, after all, we have to prepare for an early start in the morning. Our first date together is very romantic; I took Piper to Price Cutter Plus to get food and drinks for the float. Don't worry, I am not a total loser. we watched fireworks in the parking lot!

Floaters began arriving at the Crooked Tree around 7:30 AM to head to Hootontown. With a name like this you know it will be a good time. I am almost sure we had a good time, but am not able to remember minor details thanks in part to a 5th of Captain Morgan. Yes, that's right, when I gamble I am all in. For some reason I listened to Piper and tried Sparks; an alcoholic energy drink. I love that stuff! That was my morning starter and when I realized I did not bring a cup for the Cappy, I just used my empty Sparks can. Not a good sign. Hopefully Piper still thinks I am as fabulous in person as I am on line!


Sunday morning I awoke to many bruises. Hubs asked how I was feeling and I mentioned a couple of odd spots to have bruises. He was more than happy to recount how they came about. We all laughed at the story of how I tipped over the fireman's canoe in an attempt to escape the wrath of my annoyed, and much more sober (at the time) husband. I guess I was a little clumsy on the river. Mud, Captain, and Crocs just don't play nice.

(Brad's shirt says "I am part of the problem".) Interesting...















The weekend ended all too soon and before I knew it Piper had to head home. I wish we had spent more time together, three was really a crowd and the Captain's Hook kept poking me. In the short time we were together I am so glad I took a chance. Trust issue that go way back for me normally prevent me from opening up and meeting new folks, let alone inviting an on-line friend to come stay the weekend with you. What I learned from this is, if you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat! I challenge everyone to take a chance on something or someone. Even themselves.