There's something about the wind driving the rain sideways that is really a thrill. I find it invigorating and refreshing. Maybe it's the clean smell of the air afterwards -- the lack of car fumes, or the clean look of the streets afterwards, as if they were just cleaned with a gigantic water wand.
The sailboats here in the marina were sparring like kids jousting with wooden swords, slapping and snapping at each other, the waves rolling under them like wet hobby horses bringing them face to face with their paper helmeted opponents.
I remember the paper bag helmet I made for the very young Bryan; remember the way he threw his leg over his faithful steed, my then-wife's broom, and King Bryan Of Our House galloped off to face his opponent, The Evil Sir Jimmy Of The House Next Door with the help of Prince Kegan, The Good Knight Of The Other House Next Door. Even Melissa The Fair, got into the act, wanting a "Tiara" because she was The Princess Of Our House. One paper bag Tiara, coming up.
I still remember the feel of the paper as I rolled and folded each bag, the feel of their small heads trusting me to set their hats properly on them. Even Jimmy and Kegan came by to get fitted for their helmets. I really enjoyed my days off, then.
The bags didn't last and I ended up taking them out to Burger King for some hamburgers and to get some of the Burger King crowns.
