Independence Day!

We had a great Fourth of July!

First we went to the parade, our tradition for quite a few years now. Cora waved her flag with the best of them, and danced to the music.

I have to say, the parade wasn't that great this year. I admit we were late getting there, but we saw no marching bands, very few emergency vehicles, and just a couple of horses. If all the good stuff really was in the first 45 minutes, I suggest they spread it out a bit more next year.

Still, an overall-fun experience. Cora's favorite part was playing with the water bottle/fan Grandma brought for her.

After the parade we went to a carnival at the new Bridgeport shopping center. It would have been more fun, if it hadn't been oh-so-hot. We didn't stay long.
In the evening, we had everyone over to our house for a bite to eat and some drinks in the back yard. My family, and Uncle Bill, Aunt Patty, William and Alison, and our friend Christine joined us. The evening was lush, as Stace would say, after it cooled off. We are so pleased to be able to host.

We then watched the fireworks at the mall. We didn't have our camera with us, so I'll have to get the photos off Patty's camera to show Cora's pure joy at watching the show. She loved it, and chattered the whole time. ("Oooh, look at that one! That one was really good! It was red, and blue! I like that one!" etc.)

Then it was back to our house for more drinks! What partiers we are.