It was a happy 4th indeed.

We started out with an early neighborhood breakfast/party/parade. We walked over with our neighbors, and I just love seeing Pearce and Miyo together. It is adorable watching their friendship blossom. They get excited and smile and wave alot when they see each other. The breakfast was actually pretty good. All of the neighborhood kids decorated their bikes/wagons for a little parade (walk around the neighborhood). Pearce was checking out all the bikes that were parked; playing with attached flags and balloons. We got a little tricycle at a garage sale in Cle Elum last summer, but it is still just a little too big for her. Her legs are getting pretty close to touching the peddles. Hopefully before the summer's over. 

 It was perfect timing to jump in the bounce house when all the kids left for their parade.

 Jameson let Pearce ride in his spot on the way home, while the girls shared their candy the whole ride home.

 We got home before the heat was too bad. And then did a quick trip to Wal-mart to pick up some last minute fireworks for the night. While Pearce took her afternoon nap, Jeremy and I watched a documentary on soldiers in fighting in Afghanistan and their (physical and emotional) adjustments once home. They make huge sacrifices and I'm also reminded of my many cousins who have served over seas (as well as grandpa). And I am very grateful.

Brooke lives a few blocks down from Sugarhouse Park, and had a small family BBQ that we went to in the late afternoon. Being friends with Brooke for 10+ years means my family is her family and vice versa. Brooke always does a lovely food spread. And I can't get enough of her cutie pie Braylon.

 It was perfect having the kiddie pool set up because it was just short of a million degrees. Pearce played out in the water/sun most of the evening, happy as can be.

After our bellies were full we chilled and did fireworks in the streets before heading out to the park for the big firework show. Here is a snapshot of Jeremy teaching Pearce to throw "pop-its"...with equal parts excitement and fear.

 Christian and his parents.

Pearce hiding behind my back for the majority of the loud bigger firecrackers.

 too funny how she would cover her face.

 daddy's little helper.

These pics were after we walked to the park and Brooke's family's tradition is bringing homemade strawberry shortcake and homemade ice cream and serving it there. Perfect treat to a perfect night.

 I'm no dummy in the friends I choose. :-) Brookie, you're the best!

 Love this one. Jeremy doing sparkler with Pearce for the first time.

Getting the hang of it.

I loved laying on the blanket with Jeremy and Pearce watching the firework show. Snuggling our little one... who half the time covered her face with her blankie. And the other half of the time standing and jumping and giggling. Happy Independence Day!