Maple Leaf Festival and Parade 2019

Hello all!

I have a few minutes, so I thought I'd drop you all a note. We had a perfect morning for our town's Maple Leaf Parade 2019. We have been attending the Carthage Maple Leaf Festival for over twenty-five years now. Two years ago I missed, because I was in the hospital after a bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer. Last year, I attended after I had a second surgery. No surgery this year!  Update: I visited my surgeon for a check-up on the 24th and found out I am having surgery on November 11th for a revision. Oh well, at least it's not in October this year. Praise God!

Fall is a beautiful time to be outside. The trees are just beginning to show beautiful autumn colors.  I hope to take a fall foliage drive next weekend. I think the trees may be just right by then. A few years ago, my blog friend, Michelle of Ozark Sew n Sews, told me about a highway called the Pig Trail. If we feel up to venturing into Arkansas, you can bet I'll be asking her about directions and about the colors. Do drop in and visit Michelle. She's just the sweetest thing!

My family and I began the parade on our feet to honor the American Flag, our veterans, our troops, and our law enforcement and firemen. It's just right to stand and salute the flag and to clap and give honor to the men and women who give so much for us. Next up, our very own Carthage High School Marching Band. We are so proud of them. There are bands from all over the region who march then perform in a regional competition.

When we go to the parade, we sit near the Church of God. They are so kind, they not only serve yummy food, they also open their restrooms to the public. Believe me, when you sit there for two or three hours, that's a big blessing!

There are floats of all shapes and sizes. Many honor our flag and our God. I love that. This year, the parade lasted a couple of hours. That's just right in my opinion. Afterward, we headed home for lunch, then back to the square to see the craft vendors and to listen to the Maple Leaf Music Company fall recital. They did it right on the square for all to enjoy. My Emily teaches there, and I loved listening to her students and seeing the joy and pride in her face as they performed.

Well, I need to go now. We are invited to a harvest party at the home of dear friends. I've got a pot of ham and beans to contribute to a soup and chili supper. I'll bet there will be a bonfire and maybe even a hay ride. 

Y'all grab all the joy and sparkles that you can during this fabulous fall season! If you don't have something to do, invite someone to do something! Call someone, text, email, whatever it takes! 

God bless you and keep you....

Laura
Happy it's Fall!