It was a busy busy weekend in the life of yours truly!

It began with a trip to the movie theater. After a long day of work on Friday, I was perfectly content to head home, make dinner and relax on my couch. My decision to be completely lazy was challenged a bit when I drove through the Subaru 4 mile race on my way home, but I was determined to expend little to no energy for the rest of the evening. My plans changed, however, when my boyfriend suggested we go see Christopher Nolan’s latest film Inception.  I was initially hesitant but I figured the walk to and from the car probably wouldn’t kill me. The film was well worth my effort, and then some! I am not much for special effects, I generally feel they distract from the plot of the film and allow for lapses in story line and quality of acting. I hate when films take a break from the story so we can watch people shoot guns and buildings blow up. Rarely do I think effects contribute to a story, but I was shown otherwise! The dream-like setting of the film made every effect an element of fantasy and interest. It was also a brilliant story with a wonderful cast.

Saturday I spent a day by the pool, which was much needed, then on a whim went to see Great Big Sea at Artpark. I have seen Great Big Sea a number of times, once at Thursday at the Square and last year at Buffalo Place Rocks the Harbor. Each time they play an amazing show, and Saturday was no exception. The band seemed to have been thoroughly “refreshed” before the show, which allowed for some song improvisation and banter between the members, which made everything that much more personal and enjoyable.

On Sunday was the much anticipated Pulaski Day Parade. I was nervous about my duties as co-emcee to begin with, but when Don Postles arrived complete with polish phrases and a knowledge of who’s who in Buffalo, I realized I wasn’t anywhere close to a nervous as I should have been!  Despite my inability to pronounce a single polish name other than Szmanski correctly (I apologize again to individuals whose names I sufficiently butchered), it turned out alright and was a great learning experience. I had never been to the parade before and it was astounding to see the strength of the Polish community in Western New York. I’ll be brushing up on my polish so hopefully I can take part in the fun again next year.

Overall the weekend was busy, yet thrilling, and I hope to have many more like it!

‘Til next time, from Poland, with love,

-Allie

Don and I at the Pulaski Day Parade