Our Summer Vacation

We look forward to our special trip to Grandma & Grandpa's every year on the 4th of July. You really can't beat celebrating the 4th in a small town. I've only missed one year, and I'll never do it again. Here are a few highlights of our trip:

Lots of time spent in Grandma & Grandpa's back yard. The kids especially loved wading in the new stream. I think they were both soaking wet at the end of each day.

 Grandma & Grandpa surprised the kids by renting a bounce house. A special thanks to all the younger aunts and uncles who can keep up with these two. I think the "big kids" may have enjoyed the bounce house as much as the little kids.

The parades are always the highlight of the celebration. There are two parades. One for the kids to be in, and the big one on the 4th, where they throw all the candy. Both were a hit.

Probably the biggest victory this year was Hudson actually did some sparklers. If you'll remember, he's a bit afraid of fireworks. Especially the sound. He's always had issues with loud sounds. Sensitive ears, perhaps? Remember those gunshot earphones from previous years? Hudson likes wearing his special "firework earmuffs" and it makes the sound more tolerable for him. And I'm glad he didn't miss Grandpa's spectacular firework show. My dad has impeccable taste in explosives. :) He really knows how to put on a show.

We also made a trip up to the lake. Charlotte absolutely had to go in. As soon as we got out of the truck, she sat down to take her shoes off. She was furious when we told her no. But Grandpa obliged her every whim, and dangled her into the cold water. And remember those tire swings from my childhood? Yep. My kids love 'em.

We all had such a great trip. And now you can see why I was too busy to keep up on my blog during our trip. I was distracted by all the fun. A huge thank you to my folks for making our trip so memorable. Can't wait to see you next!