Memories

The first year…

Do you remember those first years in the park? I remember it rained a lot. I especially remember the first year, splashing with the kids in the puddles (lakes) and listening to Steve Pineo, who I thought (and still think) makes his guitar sing like an angel. Man, we had fun. It was wholesome fun – silly in many ways. We took the kids home to a sitter, changed into warmer duds and came back for a few too many beers. It was great fun. I think we were still toting a stroller and the older kids ran wild. Kid heaven! It was magic, that first year. We all felt it…something about that long summer night was special. Families together, having fun, sharing the enjoyment of music and just being a community. We all knew that this was something we wanted…we craved this sense of belonging and fun. These were our people, even if we didn’t see them often. They watched out for our kids and we knew we could count on them in a jam – what a way to celebrate community!

For many years it was the same…kids running, music, great friends, laughs and sometimes rain. Somehow I always missed most of the headliner act as I was taking the kids home to the sitter. I never minded though as that was never what it was about for me. I just liked being there. Like those vintage cars we’re getting older (somehow I don’t get admired the way those cars do….). However, like those aging beauties this community just gets better with age, and so does our celebration. I look forward to seeing you all at the Parkland Summerfest this year – hope the sun shines…but remember, the rainy years are more fun.

If you want to share any of your memories….go to the Summerfest Facebook site and share!