Happy 4th of July

This year was probably the first year we didn't get to see fireworks.  The fire department of Rapid City called off all fireworks for the 4th.  They were battling 2 wild fires during the week.  As for the family, we all headed out to Bella Fausch to watch their 4th of July parade.  I would describe it as one 'honky tonk' kind of parade.  There were over 200 entries, and most were people throwing candy and spraying you with water guns.  It was comical to say the least.  The kids loved it though.  

As for addison, well she apparently needed a nap at that time

She was MAD

 Smile!

 Lyric sat while Gwen did all the candy work

 After the parade we went and had some lunch.  I will never forget the woman's reaction when we told her we had a party of 23.  I thought she was going to have a heart attack.  We were quickly escorted to a back room that we had all to ourselves, which ended up being really nice.

Gwen and Elijah were buddies the entire weekend.

 Cute little Eli.  You wouldn't guess that he is almost 2!  He's going to be a little football player.

 and here's Jocelyn

After lunch we headed back to downtown Rapid city for their 4th of July celebration.  The kids played in the water fountains, had ice cream, while the adults (okay dad's) had a few adult beverages and watched.  Then it was back to the house to enjoy another dinner for 23!  By Wednesday we were getting the hang of feeding everyone and cleaning up rather quickly.

Happy 4th of July!