Happy 4th

The 4th of July is  a very traditional holiday for us.  Every year, we have breakfast, go to the Layton parade, have a BBQ at Jones' in Kaysville, then head back to Layton for fireworks.  I've only dared stray from this schedule once a few years ago, when I took the kids to Toquerville.  Although we had a good time, my kids have never let me plan anything other then the usual on the 4th of July.  We have a great holiday though surrounded by family, we are blessed to live by so many loved ones that we can spend fun days with!

 The beginning of the parade, and we were wondering if it was going to be the end too. 

And 45 minutes later......we enjoyed the rest of the parade.  Not sure what the long delay was, but we got yummy popsicles so it was okay. 

Gator went with Carrie, Wayne, Lu, and Krissy's family over to the carnival at Layton Park after the parade.  Clark is scared of crowds, I don't like heat, and the boys just didn't want to, so I'm so happy Gator has awesome aunts and uncles to take her along. 

Onward to Kaysville for food at Grandma and Grandpa Jones.  At this point in the day, we are starting to get tired and hot!  Good thing, we get to relax in the shade and visit with family, and enjoy yummy hamburgers and salads, while the kids that want to play in the water can. 

One last tradition, that just so happens to be my favorite.  We go back to Layton and sit on my moms lawn and eat snacks and visit and light fireworks.  I love this part of the day, it's cooled off and the sun is not beating down on us and we can just enjoy the evening.  I thought a lot about my mom, these firsts after her death are not fun.  The 4th of July was kinda her holiday, we were all around since her home is in the perfect location and also because she loved sitting in the shade with the babies at the parade, or having us all over in the evening for the fireworks.  I love the memories we have and for the new ones we are making.