2.21.2011

Chinese Lunar New Year Parade

When we heard about this parade a month or two ago I knew it was something I wanted to go to. When the actual day came around it was POURING rain. Cache and I debated back and forth throughout the day whether we should go or not. Finally we decided- what the heck, how often do you live in a city with a parade this big (it's boasted to be one of the largest parades in the world). So we bundled up the kids, bought some ponchos, toted our umbrellas and headed for the BART to go into the city.
Our brave friends the Erickson's came with us-Rachel is such a great planner and had something for us to do until the parade started.
It rained, and rained, and rained the entire night. It was so cold and by the end we were all soaked to the bone. Ainsley cried most of the time (I would hate to be wrapped in a garbage bag too -it was really a poncho), I got poked in the head with a few umbrella spokes, and some of the Chinese folk were very pushy.
It was worth it though, and the kids were troopers and will never forget it. The uncomfortable moments are the ones you remember the most, right? It was fun to see the dragons and the floats and costumes. And even though we were drenched, miserable, and tired we still had to eat dinner at our favorite Chinese restaurant Asia Palace-If anyone visits we will take you there-they pretty much know us by name and have our order ready as we walk in the door. As customers leave the owner fills your arms with bags of fresh organic produce and tasty treats for the kids. You will literally walk out of the door with a bag worth more than what you spent at the restaurant.

2 comments:

Whitney Wilkins said...

That looks amazing. When I was between 7 and 11, we lived in Louisiana. I have so many great memories of going to the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans and Mandeville. This looks like even more fun. Great pictures. Almost like being there...almost=).

Heather said...

This reminds me of the movie "What's Up Doc?" If you haven't seen it, you should...it's all set in San Fran and it's hilarious.