With no big plans this Sunday afternoon, we decided to drive up north to Portage Park to check out the 3rd annual Portage Park comic book and collectable show. Aidan’s been getting more and more interested in superhero comics lately–Wolverine in particular, so when Chris stumbled upon news of the show, we figured why not and took a drive. Aidan was psyched!
The Historic Portage Park TheaterWe got there in a flash–a little less than an hour of relatively easy driving–and found parking right in front.
Aidan was so excited about the show, he wore his homemade “Super Aidan” suit complete with cape and mask, which was a big hit. When we entered the old Portage Park Theater where the show was being held, we were immediately greeted by a nice gentleman who told Aidan he could choose any five comics he wanted from his table for free. Of course, Aidan wasted no time and quickly stocked up on his favorite X-Men books. We were off to a good start.
Aidan made his way around the tables–each cooler than the next. Picked up a few more comics, an X-Men pin, and then set his sights on one particular action figure. The seller wanted five bucks for it. Hmm. A little steep, thought Aidan–his hard-earned five dollar bill burning a hole in his pocket. With a little preparation (and a little help from trusty sidekick dad), Aidan decided to haggle with the gentleman to see if he could talk him down. “Will you take three for it?” Our pony-tailed, long-bearded, comic book and vintage toy aficionado thought for an awkwardly-long moment. Finally, he said, “I can let you have it for four.” Sold! So, Aidan scored his first action figure and learned something about market-place economics and trade in the process.
After all this excitement, we needed to recoup our super strength, so we found our way to the back of the old theater building where they were showing old reels of The Amazing Spiderman. Chillin’ in the dark, we took in a few episodes of ol’ Spidey–and enjoyed seeing a range of other costumed armature super-heroes come and go. Super Aidan gave each a knowing nod as they passed. It’s not easy being a super-hero, but at least one can, on occasion, find a moment of peace in an old 1920′s movie house among kindred spirits, boxes of tattered comics, and a few vintage toys.
Tags: comics · family fun · photos · subculture
Aidan and his Trusty Blanky
Aidan the Musician via Watercolor
