January 6th?!?

Could this really be January 6th? In Philadelphia? Are you sure it's not June 6th? Today it soared into the 70s and Rittenhouse Square was packed with people and their dogs. I sat with the cutest duo today, Fred and his husky, Jack. I am smitten. It was the perfect chance to hang out in the park and get my knit on and work on my third pair of socks... Jaywalkers in some scrumptious yarn from Black Bunny Fibers. This is a great sock pattern and I can see why so many of my friends have knit these socks.

Cruisin through the city today I ran into many friends...the fabulous Maris and her friend Olivia, Mike and his partner, Sharon C and Josh, and made some new acquaintances in the crowd at the Mummers Parade.
I lived in this city for many years and held the Mummers in great disdain...grown men strutting down the street in dresses, feathers, and make-up? Now as an adult I now appreciate the Mummers for the fun and wonderful tradition that is so uniquely Philadelphian. Yeah, the crowd can be drunk and rowdy. But I really admire the dedication of those that strut up Broad Street and the hoards of helpers who push props and scenery behind them. And I really admire all the talented sewers who stitch the costumes, sewing all those sequins and feathers.

The one sad part of the day is that my bestfriend, Suzanne's father is quickly fading away. He was diagnosed not long ago with ALS and the disease is progressing much more rapidly than was expected. I am experiencing a mix of emotions...incredible sadness for Suzanne and her family on the loss of a wonderful father and relief that his suffering will not be long and his end peaceful and dignified, surrounded by people who love him dearly. If you are a person of faith, please say a prayer for this wonderful family.