The 2024 presidential election motivated me to have a birthday do-over

At the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Pointe in Time Emerald Gala Today marks a week since my birthday.  Its occurrence is a tremendous blessing. Because all around us are reminders about the fragility of life. To that end, my brother, who always makes a point to celebrate me, took me to the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater's Pointe in Time Emerald Gala on November 2d. That was the beginning of my birthday celebrations. And then, on my birthday itself, I got a bit of a surprise... My actual birthday was tough. It was Election Day. And, I spent the day working polls as a part of an election protection effort. My efforts were designed to protect all voters. However, deep in my heart I love my AKA sister, Kamala Harris and I hoped for her historic victory. Then, much to my chagrin and despite my efforts—and those of thousands more—she lost. In my estimation, that loss was one of the greatest setbacks in human dignity in my lifetime.  The country elected a felon and self-proclaimed, racist, ableis

A Peek Into the Life of a Mommy Blogger: Light Up Night!


Last night was “Light Up Night” in Pittsburgh. “Light Up Night” is the beginning of the Holiday shopping season in downtown Pittsburgh. And it is a big party!

I was excited about “Light Up Night” because a PR rep had emailed me and invited me to an event that would include members of the Pittsburgh Steelers, members of the Kool & The Gang and other fun stuff.   Since “Light Up Night” is a family affair, I convinced Andre and the toddler to walk downtown with me to enjoy the festivities. Andre was up for the event, but had no interest in being in a tent, making nice, and promoting my blog.  He’s a real trooper, but even he has his limits. Still, to his credit, he went with me in pursuit of connections and cocktails, albeit reluctantly.

Unfortunately, we never found the media tent. It wasn’t for lack of trying. It’s just that there were so many people downtown that we could barely move.  You haven’t lived until you try to navigate a stroller in a crowd. It got so challenging that we took the toddler out of the stroller. I took the toddler, Andre took the stroller. Apparently over 800,000 people are expected in downtown Pittsburgh this weekend. I think that they all converged on the town this evening!




Light Up Night, a Free Event for Families


I was disappointed that we never made it to the tent. I called the PR rep and expressed my regrets. Then I moped for awhile. Andre pointed out that I may have missed the media event, but I could still enjoy the evening. So, I did. (I am so easily influenced!)

It was a gorgeous evening in Pittsburgh. We hadn’t had dinner. So Andre bought is us bought chicken on a stick. Yes, I let my kid eat street meat again… Just when we thought we had seen everything found a booth selling these delicious things called apple pie rings. They were fried dough stuffed with apples and dusted with cinnamon sugar. They permeated the air with a fried sweetness that beckoned us.  So, we bought some.  Imagine a piping hot fried pastry that melts in your mouth surrounding apple pie. It reminded me of the good old days when McDonald’s used to fry their pies. (I know they had like two million calories, but they were delicious!) There may be something more delicious, but I haven’t discovered it yet!

Finally, with our bellies full and smiles on our faces, we walked home. The trip to “Light Up Night” was totally worth it. 

For those of you in Pittsburgh there’s an entire weekend of festivities. So, if you’re looking for something to do tonight, come downtown!  There's great food options along the river. Also, be sure to visit Macy's and Fifth Avenue Place where they are giving away balloon creatures to the kids. It's a great time for families. Just be prepared for the crowds!



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Comments

vicky said…
I'm glad you guys had fun! Sounds it was a success, so many people! I love big town events! It's a little bit early for Athens to start any holiday festivities yet, but I can't wait till then. (It probably won't be 'big' this year with the financial crisis and all!)
Hi Vicki! Keep me posted about holidays in your beautiful, albeit cash strapped, country. Thanks for stopping by my blog! Love yours!!!