You can say we just "clown around", but it is so much more! We have been around almost 50 years starting out as a small group of women who wanted to clown but were not allowed in the other clubs simply because they were women. We now accept anyone 18 and over who wants to help us spread joy and healing through laughter. We attend many parades throughout the year from Forest Lake's 4th of July to St. Paul's Winter Carnival. We also perform at nursing homes and special events. We also entertain at charity events throughout MN and nearby WI including St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital Give Thanks. Walk, Sarah's Daisy Dash and Wishes & More. When I joined the group 7 or 8 years ago, I never thought I would get so much out of it. Seeing the joy in the wide-eyed child when they first see you, fills your heart and takes away the stress in your life. Seeing the little laugh from a "young-at-heart" kid sitting in his wheelchair watching you perform at his nursing home if a true gift. I know my favorite experience was the Earl Brown Parade in Brooklyn Park. A little girl came out in the street to hug me and when I talked to her, her mom darted my way. At first I thought I did something wrong as she was "challenged", but her mom wanted to translate as her little girl was deaf. I stopped our hug and had the litle girl stand in front of me and in sign language I told her how great a hugger she was and how beautiful she was and that she made my day. Her eyes and smile were the biggest I have ever seen and the tears filled her mom's eyes as we talked. I do not think I will ever forget that moment. Another moment was A parade in White Bear Lake when this little girl about 4 or 5 came out with a picture she colored for the clowns. Her little sweet voice said "Thank you" and Cleo handed it to me. I keep that gift from her to this day! What an Artist!
It is a little bit of work and you drive all over the cities thru road construction, rain, snow, heat and below freezing temps, but the smiles, the joy and the laughter makes all those little things go away. Becoming a clown was the best decision I ever made!