Page 24 of One Sultry Summer

When the mascot stops in front of us, it hands Emily a handful of candy with an assortment of Smarties, Tootsie Rolls, and Laffy Taffy. Her face lights up. “Thank you, Wolfie!”

We continued to watch the parade, watching horses and their riders trot by. “Daddy that horse looks like Hubs. Do you think I can ride in the parade one day?”

“Maybe someday when you’re older.”

Shortly after the horses go by, there are people walking with their pet dogs in costumes. A couple more floats go by with our local celebrities and honorees. Even one ofour hometown heroes who’s return from the military is on hand. Periodically he waves at the crowd. The parade is near the end, and the last thing we should see is the mayor, Eleanor Hughes.

Eleanor is one of the people Valerie should meet. She’s skilled at balancing our community’s needs with the demands of progress. The wind blows her short gray hair as she waves at all the people. She rides in a convertible with the top down.

“Daddy, if the mayor goes by does that mean the parade is over?”

“That’s right, honey. It’s just like the Christmas parade when Santa goes by, it’s a sign that the parade is finished.”

“That’s too bad I was having fun.” Emily sighed.

“Me too, however, I’m getting a little hungry.” Valerie clutched her stomach.

“There’s only one problem with that.” I chimedin.

“What’s the problem?” Her eyes filled with curiosity.

“I think most of the vendors serve meat. I don’t think you’re gonna have much of a choice being a vegetarian.”

“That’s okay, I’ll figure something out.”

As the crowd dispersed, we could see the food and beverage area. Emily grabbed both of our hands and led us towards the stalls a few feet from the grandstand, each offering delicious treats and refreshments. The smells of popcorn, corn dogs, barbecued ribs, and chili made my stomach growl. The food stands were lined up one after another, so we browsed the offerings before choosing what to eat.

We agreed to meet at the picnic table, once we each had our food. On a paper plate, I got two hot dogs without buns for Emily and cut them up into small pieces. For myself, I bought two chili dogs and an order of fries to share with Emily.Valerie had no problem finding us; in her hands, she had a baked potato with what I’m assuming had vegetarian chili and cheese on it.

Emily and I quickly devoured our hot dogs and fries, while Valerie slowly savored her potato. Even though we stayed within our comfort zones and didn’t try anything new or exciting, we all agreed it was a delicious meal. The town square is the center of town, where a grandstand stood surrounded by grass and park benches. It was bustling with people and children playing games. We enjoyed the warmth of the sun and the cheerful atmosphere.

Valerie didn’t pressure me to be introduced to the community, but I felt obliged to do so at my mother’s request. I suppose you can call this killing two birds with one stone.

“Is everything okay?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You look like you have things on your mind. So, if I’m holding you back from doingsomething else you’d rather do, let me know. I’m plenty capable of walking around on my own.”

“No, not at all. I don’t get a chance very often to just think about other things outside of work and Emily.”

Her eyes studied me momentarily. “When was the last time you had fun?”

“Fun?”

“Yeah, you know, lighthearted pleasure, or enjoyment.”

“What, are you some walking dictionary? Yes, I know how to have fun.”

“Then prove it.” That spark was back in her eyes, and I found myself wanting to kiss her lips and show her how fun I could be. However, I thought it would be better to show her in another way that wouldn’t embarrass my daughter or myself. I picked up our finished plates and threw them in the trash receptacle nearby.

“Follow me,” I said to Valerie as I grabbedEmily’s hand. “Come on Emily, I promised you we’d play some games and go on the carnival rides.”

Our next stop was the game stalls. We tossed coins in a bowl to attempt to win a goldfish. Let’s just say there will be no goldfish residing in our home anytime in the future. We tried our hand at throwing darts to get a stuffed animal. I can’t say my aim was very good as I could only win Emily the smallest prize, which was a miniature dolphin.

Valerie smiled as the man handed the stuffed animal to my little girl. We were having fun, and the games kept us busy for at least an hour. Next, we tried our luck at shooting hoops. Valerie was a natural and managed to sink a few hoops. Emily tried her best to shoot the basketball, but it was falling short each time; she was having fun, despite not winning.

Following our time at the games, we tried a few rides. I purchased the tickets, and we walkedover to where the rides were for smaller children. Emily was brave enough to ride with another girl of the same height. I could tell she was having fun. It was a thrilling kids’ ride, and I was relieved when she finally made it back to the exit.

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