The Fourth Of July - Part 1

This was our first 4th of July spent at home - usually we are up north, but this year we're going later in the month since John no longer works for GM and isn't *forced* to take his vacation during their shutdown period any longer. :-P So we got up early to take in a local parade, and the kids totally LOVED it! :)

Of course, John had to make fun of the fact that all the WOMEN were noticing that the kids were in matching outfits and the MEN could really care less. :-P Hmmph - how can anyone not appreciate the fact that even my BOY's outfit matched his sisters' exactly? MEN. :-P






We were standing right next to the train tracks and wouldn't it figure that a train temporarily stopped the parade?! No one minded at all, including Lucas who, as you know, is now train-obsessed, courtesy of his love for all things Thomas and Friends. :-P

Yes the girls SCORED with not only tossed candy, but TOILET PAPER rolls as well. :-P Now mind you, we didn't get *5* rolls like some people (ahem Sharyn :-P - whom I have to add I was lucky to get to FINALLY meet IRL, we've only been saying for the past year that we're going to meet up someday! :-P) but I must say I was pleasantly surprised that the 3 rolls we got were nice and soft. ;)

The girls were very patriotic in their red/white/blue flip flops and painted blue toenails. :)

The city that held the parade has an awesome playscape area called Imagination Station - of course we promised the kids that they could play after the parade was over ;)

And the toothless wonder in her glory... :))

After the parade and play :), we headed home for lunch, and then took off in the afternoon for the beach (the joys of living where we do - lots of metro and state parks with beach areas easily accessible!) More pics to come - stay tuned for part 2! :))