And the band played!

Sadly they weren't playing in honour of my little red balloon but in celebration of the Kobe Firefighters. The band led out a colourful parade of firetrucks and fire fighters in front of a huge audience of invited dignitaries and the general public. The Japanese equivalent of Fireman Sam and other colourful characters wandered around entertaining children, with the helicopters overhead and the airplane sky balloon there was a real carnival atmosphere. In the run up to 'Earthquake Memorial Day' it's important to honour and celebrate a group of people who are called upon in many frightening and dangerous situations.

Ziggy was a little disappointed that he didn't get his usual mad off -lead run around but settled for being something of a paparazi model instead ;)

I am a little amazed to have reached 200 - but Blip has become part of daily life now and the magic 365 seems a little less daunting. Thanks to all for your support and comments, your fabulous pictures are a great motivation :))

Happy Sunday to all you wonderful Blippers!

Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey!
Barbara Hoffman