Parade of Lights
Paddlers started arriving at Larry McGrath's home before 1500. As the HO lighted nets were prepared Steve Hullcracker Wilson and his son kept us entertained with guitar picking and some songs. Shortly before dark we headed for the launch site where the boats were properly decorated and prepared for launch. In all there were 13 boats with 14 paddlers. All decorated.

We launched at about 1830 and headed for the bridge to begin the parade. Between the greatly decorated non rolling boats--decorated with Santa's and electric lights plus garlands and light sticks--and the HO HO HO's we were quite in demand by the crowds.

All in all there were 6 HO'ers and the rolls were usually 4-6 at a time. There were calls for "do it again" and offers of libation. I don't know about the others but a little wine was warming about 2/3 the way through. One local wags wanted to know if we were good "HO'ers" to which I yelled back that we were good but we were also the ugliest "HO'ers" he ever saw. Just a little play on words.

We finished up with a party at Larry's with hot chocolate, hot stews, cold cuts, chicken, sandwiches, dips and beer. A great night for all involved. Patrick stopped counting rolls at 20 (all his "fingers and toes.." he said); Mike Condit said he stopped counting at 46 and I stopped counting at 50. At the end, we were tired, a little cold but warmed by the responses gotten from the crowds to the joy we spread.

A really great night--for the pleasure and fun we got to the pleasure given. Here's to next year--be that we are all able to meet again in good health and spirit to celebrate the holiday season. Our thanks to Larry McGrath for hosting his home and arranging the launch site. My thanks to all that participated. Pam-we missed you.

    Mike Brown

Submitted on December 14, 2003