Fun times on the 4th of July

It was a wonderful 4th and I'm so glad that I live here in the United States where we are truly blessed.
This year we did some firsts as a family which  made it more special. This year both Jessica and Kylynn were able to participate in the Rexburg Parade. Jessica was with the Marching Band Color Guard. She had look forward to doing it since the winter when she first learned the flags. She spent 3 days a week the month of June til the parade practicing and learning the routine. She had so much fun and did a wonderful job.

Jessie doing routine to Madison's Fight song

Kylynn was able to ride on the Heritage 4-H club float. The first day she went to 4-H she learned that they did a float and she wanted to particiate and asked each week when they were going to decorate it. Both of the girls spent an hour or so on the 3rd working on the float. Kylynn held a sign that said "Sheep" while riding on the float. She had a great time and wants to do it again.

Jessie and Ky helping to build the float

Ky on the 4H float

After the parade we went to my parents for the annual 4 BBQ. It is so fun to get together and eat good food. The kids enjoy getting to play with their cousins.

Aleeya bugging Collin at Grandma's house

 After we eat for several year my family then goes and floats the river between Chester Dam and the Fun Bridge in St. Anthony. Jessica was able to go a couple of years ago. but no one else has ever gone. I have always used the excuse that I hate the water and I'm to scared something would happen to the kids. Well this year I decided that we would go. I went and bought us 2 new tubes to use. Delwyn wasn't able to go because of needing to get something done around the yard while he was off work. Matt was really excited to go and ride in the camo colored raft. Then he sat down in the raft and got his bottom wet and it was cold and he suddenly turned terrified. Vicki and Trav saved the day by offering him to ride in their raft. He was so much more relaxed and enjoyed his ride down the river. I was still sacred and didn't want to be left by myself with my kids in case something happened, so Robin agreed to stay with us and guide us down the river. I have to admit it was a little fun, but I sure wish I could have totally relaxed and just enjoyed the restfulness of the river. Aleeya even had fun riding between my lap in the tube or taking a ride with Adri in the kayak. The kids all had a good time and said they would like to do it again next year, maybe we can get Delwyn to go with us.

Robin getting us launched

Getting ready

Collin had to pull us to the side so we could get out of the river

The last thing we  did was set off firework in our yard. The kids really enjoyed watching the neighbors shoot off their firework up in the air, they were beautiful. The kids were all glad when we ran out of fireworks and they could go to bed. It had been a really fun but long day and they were tired.