Ask me what I did this weekend. I tidied the house, grocery shopped, broke a Guinness world record…for doing the hokey pokey! Yes, I did!
Well, I didn’t exactly do it alone. 2,568 people joined me to shake it all about on our Walkway over the Hudson (the world’s longest, elevated pedestrian bridge)
My friends Mya, Jamey, Tory and I (from right to left)
This newspaper article with videos describes the event.
So why did I do it? I think this week’s Monday Listicles prompt of ”things that make you go hmm” fits the bill.
I did it:
1- Because few weeks ago a friend sent me an e-mail with a link to the event and she said “I think I need to do this.” I laughed and thought to myself, “Hmmm, I think I’ll join her.”
2- Because it was silly- and I am prone to sillines.
3- Because it was an opportunity to be with friends.
4- Because it was outdoors in a beautiful spot.
5- Because it involved walking and dancing.
6- Because it was a fundraiser for the Walkway, which is amazing.
7- Because it was a fun, positive way to start the day.
8- Because it was something I would never forget.
9- Because it was a wonderful community event.
10- Because that’s what it’s all about.
And here is a Shakespearian version of the Hokey Pokey (the winning entry from a Washington Post Style Invitational contest asking readers to submit instructions for something- in the style of someone famous. This brilliant poem was written by Jeff Brechlin.
O proud left foot, that ventures quick within
Then soon upon a backward journey lithe.
Anon, once more the gesture, then begin:
Command sinistral pedestal to writhe.
Commence thou then the fervid Hokey-Poke,
A mad gyration, hips in wanton swirl.
To spin! A wilde release from Heavens yoke.
Blessed dervish! Surely canst go, girl.
The Hoke, the poke — banish now thy doubt
Verily, I say, ’tis what it’s all about.
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Oh how very fun Iza! I can’t think of a better way of passing some time on the weekend then hokey pokeying with some great friends…I suppose some libations would have made it that much more fun
It was 8 in the morning, Jackie (yes, I know it was 5 o’clock somewhere
) but I stuck with water for the time being!
We all need to be silly sometimes and if you can do it for a good cause – even better.
That’s true, Wayne! Thanks!
You are such a fun gal. And the best way to be charitable is with friends and wholeheartedly. Love this! ANd the Hokey pokey poem is great. Great job Anonymous.
Thanks, Stasha. It would have been even better with you there. I adore that poem. So glad to have stumbled upon it!
Oh bbf, what fun! I only wish I could have gone with. Your smiles say it all. I mean, who wouldn’t want to do that? Well, maybe a grumpy person wouldn’t. I love your reasons too. And that Hokey Pokey poet is awesome! He/she should tell the world he/she wrote it. My mission. To find out who wrote that thing. Bodacious. Hugging you tight!
You are right, bbf! We need to find the writer of the poem. Isn’t it terrific? I would have LOVED to have you join us. Hugs and smooches to you!
How cool! It sounds like such a fun experience.
Thank you, Katie! It was a fun and silly event!
This event sounds great! What a special day. And as the others have said, love that Hokey Pokey poem! Ellen
Thanks for a great listicles topic- though I deviated a bit. Isn’t that poem perfect?
Well, you already broke the world record for AWESOME, so this does not surprise me. I would have been right with you, ’cause heaven knows I like me some silly!
We must find the genius who wrote that poem. It’s a masterpiece! And now I must go, for it’s time to “command sinistral pedestal to writhe.”
Aw gee, what a nice thing to say, Renee. I would have loved to have you with us! And I found the author of the brilliant poem (and updated my post) The genius is Jeff Brechlin.
Enjoyed your comical post!
I’m so glad you liked it, Tracy. Thanks!
Sounds like a lot of fun! I’d definitely done it if it was in my neck of the woods.
Thank you, Donna! I am glad you are prone to silliness too!
Well what a great way to spend your weekend. Atta way to go!!
Thanks, Deanna! It was a blast!
I wish I’d known about it – I would have come with you!
And that Shakespeare version is absolutely brilliant! So clever! Thanks so much for sharing 
Oh, too bad, Susanna…It would have been great to have you there, and if Phyllis wasn’t such a world traveler, she could have joined us too!
Wow, a world record! How fun! Love the picture!
Thanks Tina. It was fun!
Dear Iza:
What a wonderful blog about an event that is near and dear to me! I am so glad you enjoyed the Hokey Pokey! Your reasons for going are just perfect. Love it.
Don’t miss the July 4th Fireworks from the Walkway! Tickets are on sale now from our website.
Best wishes,
Ellen
Thanks so much, Ellen! My friends and I had a great time! And thanks for letting me know about the fireworks. My cousin will be visiting from Europe and that may be a perfect spot to see them!