Independence Day

Parades, BBQ's, and Fireworks... seems to be the American way for the 4th. We had a great holiday weekend with lots of food, family time and fun!

We had to start the weekend with crafts. Sometimes I feel guilty because Gussie and I did crafts for EVERY holiday and filled the house with all of her creations when she was little. Winky is a different kind of kid and crafts with her are a mess-filled experience. Gussie still loves them so it's worth the effort when we do manage to find things that make both of them happy.

We went to the parade and had a good time. The girls collected lots of candy and other miscellaneous items. Groups gave out crayons, sparklers, water bottles, t-shirts, ice pops, beads, and food coupons, just to name a few. This has been a family tradition since we moved back to Iowa and the girls really enjoyed it.

Here's John and Paul BBQ'ing lunch.

Gussie took this picture of our picnic dinner as we waited for the fireworks to start. Winky had a very hard time with the concept of waiting until dark.

Winky with her "ears" on. The girls wore these for the fireworks and they worked great. Neither of them liked the loud booms, but with the ears on, they could watch them without being bothered by the loud noise.

Gussie and Grandma cuddling up. The weather was perfect this year. Not too hot, not too cold, and no rain. I don't think I could have asked for anything better.