There is something ironic about celebrating America in the state that sees itself as America’s equal. Texas pride is something fierce. And strangely, the idea of Texas secession is still brought up, frequently. But come the 4th of July and it’s all America!
Last year, our party was humble, in our neighbor’s front yard. It was such a memorable and fun night. This year, we were bigger in number and needed some acreage. We moved to the Clubhouse, invited he entire development, and celebrated America!
We had our first children’s parade the weekend prior to the 4th. It was hard to not reminisce back to the White Bear Lake children’s parade. Truth be told, it made me really miss WBL. I think this 4th of July was the most homesick I’ve been since we moved. Our parade route was short, but I’m happy to report that both girls pedaled it on their own (for the most part)! After the children’s parade there was BBQ and a giant inflatable slide. Ella wanted no part of that, but Lily was more than happy to try it out when a neighbor girl offered to go with her.
On the actual Fourth of July, we started our day nearby at a children’s shop that had a fire truck and free food. The girls climbed into the truck and sat with a fire fighter for quite awhile while he showed them various tools of the trade and fire truck features. They also tried on helmets and checked out the boots while in there. I think their favorite item was the flashlight, because they’re kids, and flashlights are sweet.
Later in the day, we headed down to the pool area where our neighbors had set up a mini tent city in the sport field. We had tents, grills, music, slip and slides, kiddie pools, face painting, water balloons and fun. Lots of fun (and food). Seriously, we could have fed an army. Somehow I even lost my plate of raspberry bars, so I hope someone found them and enjoyed them.
Our neighbor took the following photos which are far better than my cell phone pics. Thanks to Kat at K Photography. She’s so good!
Last year, there were no fireworks to be found nearby due to extreme drought. Now we’re *just* in moderate drought. Which meant it was “safe enough” to set explosives off. We headed out to nearby “Drip” (Dripping Springs for the non-locals) and parked in the back field of the elementary school, popped open the back of the hatch, snapped some glow sticks and enjoyed the show. Once again, it was no 20 minute show over White Bear Lake where the finale actually blinds you temporarily. But, it was something. And, we were able to watch surrounding amateurs while we waited for the parking lot/field to clear. And, we weren’t devoured by mosquitos, so that was a definite plus!
This post took me forever to write. Partially because of other stuff going on, but partially because of the homesickness I felt surrounding the 4th. It hasn’t lingered past that time, but writing about it made me reminisce about 4th of July pasts so I wasn’t feeling a lot of inspiration. But hey, what’s one month and a few days?
No comments:
Post a Comment