July 4th & 24th Celebrations

This year we spent the 4th & 24th of July with my family doing small town celebrations. The 1st of July was my birthday; I didn't get any pictures this year, but it was a pretty good day. Bryan took me to Pizza Factory for lunch, then we drove over to stay with my family for the holiday and had a BBQ topped off with cake and ice cream.

For the 4th (which was actually on the 3rd since the 4th was on Sunday) we enjoyed sleeping in, having breakfast with the family, then took some family photos when we were in our red, white and blue.

Our cute family.

Lexie had a great time going and playing some games at the town park. She got some fun prizes including her awesome sunglasses.

After games at the park they had free swimming at the town pool. Lexie was excited to go to the pool and swim with Jen! She did stay close to the edge but still had fun.

I didn't get any pictures in the evening, but we went to Kanab for our traditional dutch oven dinner and fireworks at my aunt Merilee's house. It was awesome as usual--great food, great family, great fireworks, and a great Independence Day party! Sunday we went to church and relaxed with the family. On Monday we decided to have another family get together at the Hoyt ranch. We went out and had a BBQ/Dutch oven dinner and Lexie was in heaven playing in the great outdoors with plent of dirt, rocks and sticks.

We also had a fun Pioneer Day on the 24th! There is nothing quite like being in a small town with a rich pioneer heritage to really get you into the spirit of the holiday. I have fond memories of the 24th of July in my hometown. In the morning we got ready and headed down the street for the 20 minute parade.

Waiting for the parade to start. Hoyt had a really nice time.

Bryan and Lexie watching the parade & Lexie with her candy!

Primary float with Jen & Lexie waving to Aunt Mickell and Aunt Jodi on the cheerleader float...or golf cart I guess.

We went to the park after and got some lunch and Lexie and Jen learned how to make homemade ice cream in a bag.

Later in the evening we went up to the town park for a free awesome BBQ/Dutch Oven town dinner which was really good. We are grateful for the founders of our country and the pioneers who settled here for all they sacrificed to give us such a great place to live! July is always fun to celebrate, be with family, and show gratitude for our blessings!