Independence Day

The 4th of July celebration ranks right up there with Christmas for our family.  It's always been this way, and while Adam and I had different traditions growing up, this holiday has always meant the same to both of us - "family", food and fireworks.  As usual we gathered with Adam's family at Lake of the Woods to enjoy these three things. 

The day always begins with the Decatur 4th of July Parade (a hodge-podge of politicians, tractors and first responders).  We always sit at the beginning, when the entrants have the most candy to throw.  This was the first year Mason understood the concept of getting candy, but he did not like having to share it with the other kids.  We'll work on that for next year.  Little Mya got all dolled up for the parade - we should've entered her!

After the parade, the rest of the family arrives and we share food, life updates and memories.  Mix in some boat rides, swimming and sunning and we've had ourselves quite a day.  Yet there's more!

The 4th wouldn't be complete without fireworks. Mason had his first chance to play with sparklers.  The kid was so excited he could barely hold still for a picture.  (If Adam's looking at me, who's supervising the rest of the kids?!?!) Once it's dark the Village of Decatur shoots off their display, followed by Adam's own brilliant display. 

At the end of the day, we're all exhausted, but all the memories make it soooo worth it.