Four Days at the Lake = Four Days of Bliss...

Day One, Fourth of July, Parade and Fireworks

I think the Fourth of July has got to be my second most favorite day of the year next to Christmas of course. Mostly because it is the one day of the year that we can always count on our whole group of friends and their children to be together. It is also the day that I catch up with several of my high school friends that I grew up with. We are SO fortunate to have grown up in a small town where traditions run deep and the value of returning to keep in touch has not faded after (um-hum 20+ years). For this I am blessed beyond measure.

Day One began with our annual trip to the Town Beach in the neighboring village. In truth, it is more like an old-fashioned swimming hole. But the playground and picnic area is great and the beach is very kid friendly. I must also add that it is normally SO QUIET there that the maximum beach capacity is 35, yup, 35. That is one underwhelmed lifeguard. BUT...on the Fourth of July things are different. Thankfully they always politely overlook the headcount that day.


The Annual Photo of all the Children, Priceless!


Paul...what more can I say :0)


The Guyz, getting ready...


JUMP!!!!!


All Kids, Big and Small

The Parade in my hometown is a much anticipated event for the children for two reasons. The candy, and it means the fireworks are coming soon. This year was LL first Fourth of July up north. She held up very well, considering the pace, the over-stimulation, the number of strangers who fussed over her, the late night and the noisy (but AWESOME) fireworks. In fact she had us ALL just about splitting a seam when we were sitting lakeside waiting for the fireworks to begin. I'm not sure what inspired her, but all of a sudden she just burst into "song". It was absolutely hysterical!! She just stood there, with her little back to the lake, facing countless onlookers and sang to her hearts content. Then all of a sudden she would pause for a moment and clap her hands and say, "Yay-y-y-"! All the while fully expecting you to show your gratitude accordingly.


Our Group at the Parade


Santa Rides a Harley?!


Parade Fun with Mama


Um, whatever...


Singing for Joy, Reveling in the Laughter


Lovin' the Audience, Waiting for the Applause


Chilaxin, waiting for the fireworks


Patriotic Music Set Against a Beautiful Backdrop


Ah, There is No Place Like Home...

Days Two Through Four...Family, Friends, Frivolity


Tea Party-Adirondack Style


Flowers for the Centerpiece


Beach Beauty's


Lakeside and Lovin' It


Lovebug and Little Ladybug


LL's New Toy, Thank You Aunt Tammy!


Life is Tough...


Music by the Lake


Another Good Day at the Lake


Storytime with Mama Lovebug


My Three Guyz


BB, Hope your Face Doesn't Freeze Like That!!