July 4, 2014

 July 4 began bright and early!  We woke up all three of the youngest kids to head to Mandan so we could watch Jamison race and then enjoy the parade.  I thought Joshua would be GRUMPY - but he woke up happy and ready to go.

We drove to Mandan, set up our chairs in an ideal location, and then proceeded down Main Street to watch the race.

 On our way down Main Street, we found our favorite Private.  It was very special to see Krissy in uniform on the Fourth of July.

 This photo was taken by a friend.  I love it since it is both a photo of Jamison running and a family photo!

Mandan has a 5K road race each year on the 4th.  It was the first time Jamison has run it.

Jay is normally fairly conservative in his wardrobe, but with his running attire he is bold.  I thought he would have the best July 4 look.

I was wrong.

He was "owned" by a girl!

Ha!

Miss Mandy, his girlfriend, raced in the super-hot patriotic "deuces" hat.

They make a pretty cute pair!

After the race, we headed to a restaurant for breakfast.  Mataya has been plucked from her crib fast asleep.  She rode to Mandan, watched the race, and took a quick cat-nap before downing her first bottle of the day.  She is one patient, and very social, little peanut!

Our plan was to watch the parade after breakfast - but due to bad weather the parade was canceled.  So, we headed home for naps.  Mataya and I slept snuggled up together for hours on my big bed.  It was heavenly!

We headed over to the Ault's for food, fellowship, and fireworks in the evening.

Mataya and I skipped the fireworks.  We came home early and went to bed.

Though I do not have photos of the fireworks, or video footage of Tom's annual "Roman Candle Ballet," it will live in the memory of Joshua and Brenna forever.

I am so very thankful for friends that feel like family.