Fourth of July

We celebrated the Fourth of July by going to a parade down town. Corban held his ears most of the time because of the noise. Still, it was fun for everyone.



The kids brought bags for candy, but hardly any candy was given out and I was glad for that! It's not about the candy! It was a nice overcast day - perfect for viewing a parade.





After the parade, Mike, Cari, Sadie, Kristi and I worked as volunteers manning the games that were stationed next to the Community Arts Center. We worked until the afternoon, while Trevon escorted the little kids around the food and fun.



This year the city had wristbands for sale for $5. The bands provided the kids entrance to the bouncehouse, slide and games. At the games, the kids earned tickets, instead of candy, that they redeemed for toy prizes.

The girls were in charge of the ring toss game.



Cameron worked up a sweat while he played...



Mike monitored the big slide (for over three hours)!






The kids ended up with some fun toys.



We headed home just afternoon. After eating lunch, we planned a BBQ dinner and made a quick trip to the grocery store so that we could make some Cherry Pie Crunch later. With vanilla ice cream, it's a family favorite!

Trevon took up a collection toward the purchase of fireworks. Then, he went to the store and bought us some fun things for the evening.

We had BBQ chicken, garden squash, green beans and sliced, grilled potatoes for our dinner. Soon after we enjoyed the Cherry Pie Crunch. Then, just before dark, we headed to the park.

At the park we played Ultimate Frisbee. Our teams ended up being the girls against the boys. We had a fun time playing this game. When it was too hard to see anymore, we lit our fireworks. Corban opted to watch from the car!









I was able to convince Corban to sit on my lap when the city's firework show began. We watched them and when they ended, noticed a fire had started on the hill...of course, we had to get a closer look...before we headed home.

I think my favorite part of the day was playing Ultimate Frisbee. I love playing outside games with my family.

Now, in case you're wondering how to make Cherry Pie Crunch.....

Cherry Pie Crunch
2 cans prepared cherry pie filling
2 TBsp. fresh lemon juice
3/4 c. melted butter
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 pkg. white cake mix
1/2 c. sliced almonds

Combine prepared cherry pie filling, cinnamon, almond extract, and fresh lemon juice. Spread in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle white cake mix over fruit. Pour melted butter and sliced almonds on top. Bake for 40 minutes at 375 degrees. SERVE WARM with vanilla ICE CREAM!