Sea Witch Scuttled, Storms & Snow

The Sea Witch drowned (was cancelled) due to heavy rain and winds gusting to 55 mph. For the first time in 22 years, the events of the day - including the ultra-popular Costume Parade (complete with floats) were cancelled by officials at 9 am Saturday.

Mind you, our staff was due at work at 9:30 am, in costume, and suddenly I receive a text message from the locosguys with the news and asking that I try to reach all lunch shift personnel, tell them no costumes, and to arrive at regular time of 10:30 am. I had my costume ready and was about to leave for the restaurant when their message came.  I dropped everything and frantically began calling and texting everyone to give them the news. 

The news arrived too late for some.  They were already in costume and en-route to the restaurant. This created mass confusion among the staff, many of whom had spent considerable time creating their costumes, make-up, and preparing for the day's events.  Some were annoyed that the cancellation took place so late; a few hours before the parade was to step off.

Eventually, the evening staff was told to costume, but our shining moment in the goings-on was not to be.

Ultimately, we did open early, though not as planned.  Business was brisk with families frustrated by the turn of events.  Despite everything,  they all seemed to have a good time. I remember only 1 party that was having none of the festivities and cheer offered, but instead, complained about every-little-thing during their time with us. What can you do? 

While the winds whipped the rain into sheets pummeling everything and everybody, I listened to the laughter and chatter of folks who were sorry things turned out as they did, but happy to be together, safe, warm and enjoying good food and drink.  Those staff members who were in costume did a lot to boost the enjoyment factor for adults and kids alike.

Finished my shift later than usual and headed home to check the ongoing leak in the closet.  Emptied and replaced the bucket again, shed the work drag, had a martini and chilled as supper was cooking. Took a hot shower before going to bed and felt better for it all.  Not a bad day. Disappointing and frustrating, yes, but not bad overall.

This morning I had an Epiphany. My unused costume gets a second chance, giving me time to find the make-up I wanted, and someone who knows how to apply it.  All is not lost.

Looking on the bright side of the bigger picture, we were luckier than the rest of the Northeastern states who are suffering the after effects of major snow storms cause by the same weather system.  Buried under a foot, or more, of snow millions are without electric power.  Many will remain without power for days, some for weeks.

And so it goes.
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