Maddie Larson

This picture was taken almost exactly two years ago, right before I got to experience the amazing opportunity of cheering in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! I had cheered in parades for my school before, for events such as homecoming, but it was never anything near as exciting as this was. I was given this incredible opportunity after winning a small inter-squad camp competition the previous summer. My parents knew that opportunities to go to New York for a week and then participate in a nationally broadcasted parade do not come around too often, so they agreed to let me go.

It was one of the best weeks in my life. I had never been to New York before, but I instantly fell in love with it. I got to explore Times Square, shop, learn cheers and dances for the parade, and even got to see two Broadway shows! Since that year, this time of year makes me long to go back to New York and do it all over again. It was easily one of the best trips I have ever taken and definitely one I will never forget!