A Festive Fourth

"Happy Fourth of July!" say Cody and Jaden. Life has certainly changed in the Schleicher household since last July 4th. Take a look at last year's photo taken on the same flag.

Cody's on the left in both photos. The boys were just barely a month old in the above picture. The flag was latch-hooked by Grammy in honor of her father, the boys' Great-Grandpa Sylvester, who loved this craft. Taking this flag picture may become an annual tradition. It's fun to see how the boys have grown in a year's time.

On this July 4th, we were able to involve our 1-year-old boys in a few more holiday activities. Since Daddy was still out of town, Grandma was a wonderful companion for all of our adventures. In the morning, we attended a parade.

Cody and Jaden, wearing their "Mr. Independent" T-shirts, watched the parade from the comfort of their jogging stroller. It was a warm day, so the stroller provided some nice shade.

Mommy sat next to the boys to feed them snacks and keep them hydrated as we all watched the various floats and groups of people pass by. The boys especially liked the floats that played special music or drummed out a rhythm. They didn't even jump at the military gunshots that started out the event. We didn't get any shots of the actual parade, however, so you'll just have to trust us that we were really there. :)

After a break at home for lunch and naptime, we headed back out for an event called Celebrate Freedom. A local church sponsors activities like inflatable games and dunk tanks at a park very near our home. They also have music and lots of food booths. 

The heat was starting to zap a bit of our energy!

Grandma treated the boys to their first taste of chocolate ice cream. They were both BIG fans! Here is Jaden, taking his first bite.

Cody and Jaden show off their chocolate chins!

At the end of our visit, we were pleased to discover a special toddler area. The toys, like this little helicopter, were just our boys' size.

Cody was the first one to discover this little riding dragon.

Of course, Jaden wanted a turn, too!

Splashing around in the toddler pool was a great way to cool off.

Grandma even helped both boys down the slide.

By the end of the day, Cody and Jaden were tired out! Mommy & Grandma were the only ones awake to enjoy the fireworks. Thankfully, we are blessed to have a perfect view of the show right from our backyard.

 All in all, we had a full day, but a very festive Fourth. Thanks, Grandma, for being with us to celebrate!