Fourth of July: Part 1 of 2

Smelling flowers before the parade starts

Excitement is in the air!

This fourth of July was especially exciting because Sadie turned 18 months old to the day. She celebrated by attending her first-ever Friendswood 4th of July parade. This year marked the 116th anniversary of this longstanding tradition for the small suburban city. We woke early - 7:15 - to begin getting ready, dressing Sadie in the stars and stripes dress we have had waiting for this very occasion. She also broke out her new red squeaker shoes trimmed with bright red bows. Special shoes for a special occasion. Daddy and Granddaddy had a great idea to set up camp by the local Sonic - Sadie's favorite place for pediatrician-approved ice crunching. We arrived with plenty of time, so we took a few pictures and tried not to melt as the Houston heat began bearing down. My natural obsessive nature served Sadie well as each compulsion manifested into yet another sunscreen application for Sadie's delicate skin.

Sonic ice with Granny

Once the parade began, Sadie was hoisted onto Daddy's shoulders. They have been practicing for weeks and Sadie has become a champion shoulder-sitter. Clinging to her styrofoam Sonic cup, she crunched ice as each attraction passed by in front of her curious toddler eyes.

Daddy and ice; it doesn't get any better!

Having fun in the sun!

Waving her flag for all to see

So much fun!

Our sweet little fire cracker

Say "cheeese!"

There are horses!!!

After the parade we ate our packed lunch at the Sonic tables. Great idea! After unloading some of our gear to lighten our load, we headed toward the park to hear some music and peruse the various booths. Sadie clearly had the best seat in Friendswood as she lounged on soft blankets inside the wagon pulled by her Daddy - all while carrying her cup of ice and bag of freeze-dried fruit.

Sadie's Sweet Ride

When we started to leave, a Zumba dance teacher started a very loud demonstration from the gazebo. Sadie was transfixed by the sounds and sight and toddled over to see what all the commotion was about. Within seconds she meandered to the front of the dancers, began dancing along with them - eventually climbing the stairs to perform for all willing to watch.

Sadie dancing Zumba!

This closed out our time at the park. As we made our way home to rest up for part two of the 4th of July adventures, Sadie fell fast asleep within seconds of the car ride.