Independence Day!

Growing up, every 4th of July, my sisters and I marched, twirled baton, danced, or rode our way through the Forest Lake parade.  It was always the highlight of our summer.  Now that my kids are older, I wanted them to see where their mama spent her 4th of July.  So, at 8:30am, we arrived in time to grab a seat along the curb and wait....

The fighter jets fly high above to kick off the parade.

And the kids run to grab as much candy as they can.

This little guy just held out his hands and our kids would give him all the candy he wanted.

He happens to be one of Allie's best buds.

After the parade, we darted out of Forest Lake as quickly as we could.  That place is a zoo if you wait around.  We headed to our house to BBQ with friends.

Later, we walked a couple blocks, parked our chairs, and took in the fireworks in our hometown.

(Note to self:  I will never fight crowds for the 4th fireworks again)

We headed back to our house and...

had our own fireworks show!

Independence Day was a blast this year once again!

Thank you, thank you, thank you, to all the service men and women who have fought for my freedom!