Miracle on 34th Street

If I had planned for a year, I could not have designed a better day. We arrived at 34th and 7th (escorted through parade barrier after barrier...cool) about 10:30. Theresa is the manager of a photography studio that does all the layout shoots for names such as Lord and Taylor, Macy's and New York Magazine. Her brother Mike works there too.

The parade is concludes at Heralds Square in front of Macy's on 34th Street. From there the parade is dissembled...bands go west, floats and balloons go north, directly past the studio. We could have watched it from the second story; however, because it was 66 degrees outside, we stood outside and oowed and awed as the parade unfolded in front of us. We had the entire block to ourselves.

We took pictures, pictures and more pictures. I knew my nieces love Dora so I made sure I posed with her. I have only included a handful on the blog. If anyone wants to see more...just let me know! The mothership picture happened when I was sent of a flour search (the gravy depended on it). As I was trekking back, I stopped to take a photo that included a Hello Kitty lawn chair and discarded booze bottles. After I took it, this guys says to me, "You want me to take a picture so that you can be in it?" As I turned around to say "No, thank you," I saw the highlight of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade before me....Santa's Sleigh. I said, "I want to take my picture on that!" He said, "Okay, get up there, but promise me you will not fall." The posted picture says it all. I gave the guy a big hug, and then beamed all the way back to the studio.

The meal was a cornucopia - turkey, stuffing, potatoes, green bean casserole, corn, sweet potatoes, and a dessert galore. Theresa managed to make one long table for all 23 of us. Before eating we held hands, prayed and went around the room so each of us could give thanks specifically. It was beautiful. The conversations were rich with nostalgia, future plans and loads of laughter.

Hours later, after we ate, napped, talked and cleaned, professional pictures were taken of all. I so wish Tyler had been here. Actually, I wish my entire had been here; it was a day that made my stomach full and my heart huge. However, something always feels a bit empty when my mom and dad are not involved. I miss them and Thad, Kim, Sydni, and Jadyn too. We will see my sister tomorrow, so that will complete the holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving to all. Despite all the hardships at the Schetnan's this year, I am still reminded as to how lucky we are that we live and love so close and so hard. We are truly blessed.