The Carousel Ride

I almost didn’t make it.

I had helped the Munchkin onto his horse, taken a few photos to capture his excitement and then walked away to watch.

Suddenly, it hits me – I NEED to be on this carousel ride with him – and I have one ticket left!

I rush back to the gate and call out to the young woman on duty. Fortunately, there is a spare horse right next to the Munchkin. I mount my steed.

Round and round we go. Up and down.

The operator tells us that the carousel is turning 100 this year… 100 years of bringing joy to generations of children.

Patting my horse appreciatively, I am transported back in time. My mother rode this carousel. My grandmother. My great-grandmother.

I admire the artwork – so old and beautiful and elegant. I point out the machinery and the old organ to the Munchkin.

We have a pretend sword fight. Ching ching, ching ching.

And we laugh and laugh.

Today I am grateful.