Fourth of July festivities

Sunday we had some of my family over for a little July 4th celebration. It was such a nice day so we swam and played all afternoon. The kids love the new pool we just put up. It is 12 feet wide and about 2 1/2 feet deep...perfect for them.

Uncle Nick, Grandma Karen and Great Grandma Shirley hanging out by the pool

Riley enjoying the slide

Snack time!

"hey guys, watch what I can do!"

Princess Hailey floating around the pool

Hannah having a blast making waves

After everyone left we headed out to Brookfield to save our spot for the parade the next morning. We had never been to this parade but we reserved our spots where everyone else was...we figured they knew what they were doing!

We decided not to take the boys to the fireworks this year. But after we put them to bed, Matt and I went across the field and we could see the Waukesha fireworks pretty well.

On Monday morning we headed out to meet our friends the Weis and Krause families at the parade. Our plan was a success...we had great seats! We all agreed it was a great parade and it had awesome candy!

Gretchen could hardly wait for the parade to start!

Caleb loved the parade. "want mo cany"

Can you tell how Casey felt about it?

Friends for life!

Momma taught Caleb how to fill his bag! Smile and wave baby!
(notice Casey in the background)

Following the parade we enjoyed being entertained by some of the UW-Madison Marching band as they put on their famous "fifth quarter" show. It was so neat! Casey said he really enjoyed having a picnic and watching the band. I was surprised seeing as though his ears were covered for most of the parade!

After leaving we headed back to our house so the little ones could rest. Casey and Lilly had the pool to themselves and boy did they have a great time! We even talked the adults into taking a little dip!

After dinner we surprised Alyssa with a birthday cake that Gretchen had made for her. Happy birthday girl! You look great!


We then ended our celebration by heading to Mitchell Park in Brookfield for family fest. The kids enjoyed playing on the playground and watching the juggling show. Gretchen and Matt made their debut. Don't be surprised if you see them in a juggling show in Vegas in the future!



Happy Birthday America!