the 4th

I was sad to learn that there isn't a 4th of July parade here.  I'm not really sure why it bothered me, as we never went to the parade in Bloomington, but I really wanted to go to a parade this year.

Well, after much searching online, I found a parade in a town of 3,000, about 15 minutes south of here.  It's a cute little town that reminded me quite a bit of Coal City.  The whole parade lasted about 15-20 minutes!  There were police cars to begin and end the parade, as well as 2 firetrucks.  Besides that, it was mostly the town people riding on decorated bikes, horses, golf carts, etc.  Everyone threw candy - even the 6 year old riding a battery powered 4-wheeler.  We all had a blast, especially the kids - and we weren't outside long enough for my skin to burn (huge plus!)

I can't figure out how to turn this one... Please leave a comment if you know how! :)

On the 4th, we enjoyed spending time with family who came to visit.  The kids had fun playing, and everyone enjoyed a refreshing dip in the pool.  Then, after the kids had gone to bed, Papi and I heard fireworks.  I thought it was more from the neighbors, but Papi went outside to check.  We were able to watch the city fireworks display from our patio!  Papi woke up Chulo (and tried to wake Bonita) and we enjoyed the fireworks together - Chulo's first time!  The neighbors didn't even start up again until the end of the city's show, thankfully, as they decided to set their own fireworks off right above our building, and we were grateful to go inside to avoid the sparks falling overhead!

Happy 4th of July!