After a long dry spell, vendors and visitors were both overjoyed to see this annual event restored. The Parade on Main Street in Cañon City and the number of vendors in the parks brought smiles as bright as the beautiful sun filled Colorado sky. It was a long overdue celebration of life. Most consumers and vendors were mask less, showing their too long hidden smiles. People were hugging and enjoying visiting with old and new friends.

“Sales have been brisk and much needed,” said one vendor I spoke with adding, “Most of us have not had a pay day in nearly 18 months; we are delighted to be here!'' The beautiful smile on her face confirmed her words.

This sentiment was echoed from the lips of all the vendors I spoke with. They were clearly having a wonderful time. The items for sell were as varied as the consumer. Handmade items of jewelry, leather, wood, even metal as uniquely individual as the hands that created them. Military caps of all units were being sold by one vendor along with hats and caps of every description. Sundresses were an extremely popular item, along with tee-shirts, and outdoor fixtures. I intercepted one young couple as they were departing the park rather early in the day. “Leaving so soon,” I asked. “Oh heavens no.” came the reply, “We found so many lovely outdoor items for our new home, we have to go home and get the truck.” She added, “We are closing on our first home in a few days, and I can't wait to see the bench and lighting in my very own backyard,” excitement clear in her voice. Even Congressman Doug Lamborn made time in his busy schedule to come and greet his many constituents in the park.

Gazing around Veterans Park, I spotted folks who had brought their lawn chairs from home and were sitting under the many large shade trees enjoying the live music and delighting in watching the toddlers and pet dogs who were obviously enjoying the day. One such child had a huge cotton candy all over her face and was wasting no time in gobbling her treat down. “No, no!” she sternly admonished the puppy whose leash she held in her free hand, “This is not good for little puppies, only little girls like me!”

Upon leaving the park bent upon finding a cool restaurant and a cold beer, I soon realized the entire town of Cañon City was enjoying a profitable day. All of the eateries were packed and enjoying nice sized waiting lists. One other thing that brought joy to my eyes and heart was the “full seating capability” of restaurants' that had been mandated to adhere to social distancing for way to long. In a nutshell, the Blossom and Music festival was a long overdue day of celebration to usher in the summer days ahead. A much-needed ray of hope and sunshine that spread all over Fremont County and our neighbors in Custer County. Our next motivational event this year will be the annual Fourth of July celebration and Independence Day Parade hosted by Westcliffe in Custer County. This is a patriotic event you don't want to miss. Be sure to express your gratitude to our Mayor Ashley Smith, and the city council members for making this day possible.

Keep praying and take heart in seeing some of our old freedoms beginning to return. God will Bless America again.

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