There are simple ways to add physical activity to your lifestyle, but it takes a little effort to find family-friendly opportunities to move more. One very good opportunity happened last Saturday during the DeSoto Fall Festival. Twenty-eight parents, kids, and volunteers got on bikes and tricycles and rode down Main Street to the cheering of vendors and pedestrians along the way. Their route started at the farmers’ market and included a stop near Clement to chat with a rather large duck. They then continued south almost to Miller and made a u-turn to head back north to the market. Then there were Popsicles, buttons, and a prize for the best decorated bike. (Congratulations Sylas, whose Zamboni design won him a brand new bike!)

There was also a safety clinic, sponsored by Anita Spencer with Edward Jones. Eric Edgar provided great information about biking safely on streets and over railroad tracks. He also lead the parade.

There were no crashes, and the rain didn’t start until everyone was almost back to the market pavilion. Overall it was a great event and very encouraging for kids to get on bikes and ride in the presence of multiple adults. Seeing those examples of adults being active is a great way to emphasize the importance of physical activity.

Special thanks to Hopson Lumber Co. and Walmart for also sponsoring the event. This was the second time both have sponsored the parade, and we’re fortunate to have them. Donna with the Jefferson County Health Department also did a great job of fitting kids with free helmets leading up to the parade. Of course, volunteers make it go as smoothly as can be expected when herding free-range children on bikes down the middle of a street, and for that, Get Healthy DeSoto is thankful!

If you missed the parade, don’t worry. We plan on doing it again. It grew considerably from last year, and we had much better weather. Next year, we’ll put in a request for sunshine too.