The Fourth of July festivities started for us last week with the Children's Parade. We decorated our bikes/scooters/rollerblades the night before so we would be ready for the "big" 6 block walk. Katy was a little disappointed in how slow she had to go on her bike. I think she thought she would be able to dazzle people with her amazing bike riding skills. And Jenny and Tyler kept asking where all the people were. There's nothing like being in a parade when there aren't any people there to watch it. But it was fun!
Waiting for the parade to start!
Then we hit the hot air balloons the morning of the 3rd. 
It's always to fun to meet Grandma and Grandpa Z and Kym there.
. . . nothing better then sitting on a Grandpa's lap!
. . . or riding on shoulders! After the balloons Bret treated us to a yummy breakfast (1200 calories yummy) at IHOP. You gotta love that spinach/mushroom omelet!
Last year we started something a little new on the 4th. We decided to start it off with an early morning run. This year my Mom and I ran the 5K and Kym, my Aunt Leslie, and Uncle Rory ran the 10K. 
My sister talked me into training for it a few months ago . . . and I'm so glad. I've never run that far in my life so . . . It was exciting for me to actually be able to finish the race.
. . . and there's nothing funner then doing it with people you love. Thanks for encouraging me Kym! Way to Go!
Then it was time to cruise home for a quick shower and then back for the parade. I can't get over how handsome these two are! OH! I love them!
We had Otter Pops . . .
and treats . . . 
and more Otter Pops!
And we can't imagine the parade without cousins! We had so much fun throwing poppers, fighting for our spot and sharing otter pops with our fellow parade neighbors. :) Anyone for some White Glasses?
After a little nap we headed over to a family BBQ for some yummy food and water balloon games. Thank you Cindy! It was delicious! We had to sneak out a little early so we wouldn't miss the STADIUM OF FIRE!
The weather was absolutely perfect that night. We thought we might be "sweatin' buckets" the whole time but the clouds came over and there was even a little breeze. It was perfect!
Shawn couldn't get enough of Grandma Z the whole night. She was the only one he wanted to sit by. And he definitely kept her going on the Licorice and Cinnamon Bears!
Bret even managed to get a few "back scratches" in.
Jenny had so much fun being with Kymmie all day. She just can't get enough of her. We are so glad she lives close enough to play with us. We love you Kym!
Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for being such good sports with Buddy! He definitely knows who he loves and what he wants!
By the end of the night, when it was finally time for the fireworks, Shawn was read to crash. He made it through the first few minutes and then he zonked.
We had such a fun day! The 4th of July is probably one of our family's favorite holidays. It's so great to be reminded each year of how blessed we are. What a privilege it is to be an American. We are so grateful to live in America and have the freedoms that we do. We pray for the men who are fighting for our country today and their families for being so strong and loyal. May we all remember how blessed we are throughout the entire year!GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
3 comments:
WOW... What a post! Loved all the photos! The bikes looked Awesome! I know you had the best looking bikes in the whole Parade. Wish I was around to cheer as you passed. Nic way to Run. That is awesome. I remember running it with Heath and we pushed McKinnley in the stroller. So fun! It waas great to see your Mom, Dad and Kym. It was an eventfull day! Your family pic. is a winner! Love the photo of Shawn at the very end with his darling expression and spiked up hair. He is getting so big! I can't wait to be with you all.
what a day indeed. im so impressed you ran this year count me in next year, and hopefully my body will shrink down a bit. im glad you had a good day, you otter pops were a hit.we love you clarkees
The 4th wouldn't be the 4th without your family! The fun began when your family showed up to the parade. Thanks for always bringing the otterpops! We like that tradition! I was proud of you for your fun too! That is some determination! You took some winner shots. The last one of Shawn is hands down the best. He is just photogenic with his great big cheese. We love you all!
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