St. Patrick's Day Parade 2009

In keeping with my love of celebrating holidays, our family has enjoyed the St. Patrick's Day parade in Birmingham for several years. Last year's rainy weather caused us to venture into unknown territory, since we were so disappointed that we didn't get to go to the parade, we had our own. You can read of that adventure here. This year, the parade held new significance, since Abigail had been asked to be in the parade. She recently began Irish dance lessons, and her teacher encouraged her to participate in the parade and in a performance afterward with their school, even though Abigail would have only had 2 lessons by then. A few days ago, when we realized the forecast was not looking too promising for this year's parade either, I started warning Abigail that we may not be able to go, or it might be canceled, if it was pouring. It rained all last night, and all morning today, as we got ready to go. Abigail replied to my reminder of the weather with calm assurance, "It's o.k., Mom. I asked God to let it stop in time, and I'm sure He wants us to enjoy the parade and my dance." I passed her room later to see her kneeling by her bed, earnestly praying for God to please make the rain stop, because she wanted to be able to dance so much. That just nearly did me in. The rain wasn't supposed to move out till afternoon, and the parade started at 11:30.

Slightly concerned, we got ready to go, and headed downtown, as the rain grew heavier and heavier. Within that 20 minutes though, Abi's faith never wavered, and she just grew more excited. By the time we reached the meeting point for the start of the parade, the rain had absolutely stopped. The streets were soaked, but the skies were clear! I was so thankful, and again blown away by Abigail's sweet childlike faith. She loved being in the parade, and Elijah and I walked/strolled with her dance school, while James and Isaac, with my brother Jacob, enjoyed watching and taking some photos. The afternoon performance was a showcase of different Irish bands and various dance groups. Abi's teacher, Elizabeth, encouraged Abigail to get on stage with her and do part of the jig she's learning, and when I wondered if that was really a good idea, since she's so new at this, Elizabeth and her mom both said it would be great for her, and that the crowd would be encouraging. Well, they were right! Abi danced well, three different times, and got lots of applause, and many people came up to tell her how well she did, to be so young. She was the youngest dancer to perform, by several years. We are so grateful for her hard work, and even more so of her great faith, that is such an example to us. She is the sweetest little Irish lass we know!
P.S. Thanks, Uncle Jake, for coming!!