Independence Day 2012

Addie and I had a busy, fun-filled 4th of July this year. Jay was working in North Dakota so he wasn’t able to join in the festivities. First, we went to the children’s parade on Longboat Key. It was probably the shortest parade I’ve ever been to, and essentially was the mayor in a convertible and all the neighborhood children riding their bikes or walking their dogs. Addie loved it though. They also had games and a butterfly release, which Addie thought was very neat. We also went to the 4th of July celebration at Bayshore Gardens community center – a small town feel with snow cones, pony rides, face painting, and little games.

After a rest in the afternoon, we went to Adam and Kellie’s place for an early dinner. They had a yummy selection of food, and Addie thought it was so fun to go to their house. We hung out there for a while and then went to the Selby Gardens for their 4th of July celebration and to watch fireworks. We met up with Teresa, Charlie, and Ellie, and the girls had fun playing the lawn games, eating ice cream, walking on the trails, and watching the fireworks. Addie was not all that excited about the fireworks, but the noise didn’t bother her as much as I thought it might. We had a really fun day!

The week before the 4th of July we went to the Suncoast Grand Prix Boat Parade.  Addie and her friends enjoyed all the beads, but Addie wasn't too fond of the noise!  We also ran into Uncle Adam and Kellie at the parade.  I just love running into family at local events!

Addie also had fun with a street performer at the local farmer's market that weekend.