let freedom ring

The 4th of July might be one of my parents favorite holidays. Traditionally, my brother and I spend some time at the lake. Since moving across the country, we try to spend a week there each summer during the 4th. Auntie Lori and Uncle Tim secure our parade seating in front of the old Tower Bakery the night before and Grandma Amy goes all out for the parade. J2 was in his first kiddie float and Little Miss J walked the entire parade route throwing candy. Trying to organize two 3 year olds, a couple of 11 year olds, and a 9 month old that craps his pants at the most inopportune times for float judging resulted in Gus banishing me from the parade lineup and Uncle Chuck buying me a much needed beer.

 

Farmer in the Dell

 

Chilling

throwing candy. she walked the entire
parade route.

mommy's little firecracker

After the parade we head to the school for the sawdust scramble and the races. Little Miss J run her age group for the forward running race and was none to pleased with her 2nd place finish in the backward running race. Her displeasure was probably because her Uncle David taught her that 2nd place is the 1st loser. Thanks Dave.

sawdust scrambling

found one!

off to the races

 

winner winner chicken dinner

patiently waiting, as usual

Papa Roger's favorite part of this holiday is the FIREWORKS! Here's the pre-show. We don't take pictures of the actual fireworks in order to protect the innocent.

 

 

sparkler!

 

The fireworks show got a bit rained out and then both my munchkins were asleep when Papa Roger finally got to set some off. But when you're three year old is so tired that they fall asleep before you are finished reading one book, then you can be sure that enough 4th of July festivities were had.