But I was planning inside. My pride had been hurt by Stephen and Sarah, and I was not going to overlook that.I had to make an impression on them—something audacious and clear that would demonstrate to them that I was still the vivacious lady I had always been and that I was not going to back down. It occurred to me that the yearly block party in the neighborhood was in just one week. Everybody dressed up, there was a talent show, and this year there was even going to be a little parade down the block, so it was usually a big affair. It was the ideal chance for me to get my message across. Over the following three days, I gathered everything I required. I collected some things from the craft store and even dug out an old outfit from the back of my wardrobe on my few trips there. I was prepared by the time the block party day finally came.It was a bright day as I walked down the street toward the block party. Already there, mixing with the neighbors, I could see Stephen and Sarah, totally oblivious to what was about to unfold. As I walked up to them, I had to bite back a smile. “You made it, mom!” I walked over and Stephen yelled out to me. But then he looked at me and his eyes grew wide.
I had on a bright red dress that perfectly accentuated my curves, and a wide-brimmed red hat with a big feather perched on my head.The highlight of the show, though, was my makeup. I had gone all out, wearing bright blush and strong eyeliner in addition to red lipstick, of course. I had the entire appearance of a grand dame—a lady who was unafraid to draw attention to herself. Sarah was in complete shock. With a tone that blended horror and bewilderment, she questioned, “Edith, what on earth are you wearing?”I gave a charming smile. Oh, nothing special, just a little project I put together. You know, I kind of expected myself to adopt that “clown” expression you described. < Stephen appeared to wish he could just go under the earth. “Mom, this is it.” “Excellent?” I completed the task for him. “Why, my dear, thank you.” The parade was underway before they had a chance to say anything more. The other competitors were lined up at the front, and I strode over to join them. I hadn’t disclosed to anyone that I had signed up to be the parade’s grand marshal. I waved to the audience and blew kisses to my supportive neighbors as the music started and we started to march down the street.
