America Rolls On

Time to celebrate another year for this great nation we call home. Yes, I absolutely believe in our country -- it is just some silly people that make things a bit challenging for the rest of us. But no bother -- that is just their designated role in life so we shall accept them. Let's instead focus on the things that truly matter and let the other things sort themselves out, as can be assured that the arc of time bends towards justice (Dr. MLK Jr). 

So what matters? Staying healthy & active, connecting with friends & family and enjoying traditions! 

After 12 years of doing the Liberty by the Lake 10K, that running tradition with friends came to an end as the city decided to eliminate the 10k and only host a 5K. [sigh] So instead of an "official" event, an alternate plan was made! We did our own 10K around the neighborhood -- better start time, more shade, no traffic. Win.

Another tradition is attending our lovely little hometown Fourth of July parade! Interest has been dwindling, but by golly some of us will be there! (Naomi, our non-morning child, opted to sleep in. This is what it will look like in about a month when she heads off to A&M... 😢)

With no little people in our immediate group, we were thrilled to have a young boy right next to us to share in his excitement and joy of candy and lights and the cool foam trailer!

 

The Jeep Club totally raised the bar this year, with what seemed like 25 or more jeeps! (And right behind was the Mini Cooper Club...)

And it is comforting to know that the Shriners are still out there doing good work -- even if they are now Hella Shriners! 

And funny when you are just trying to do your job on Independence Day (though I thought all city workers had the day off?) and get caught up in the parade! This recycling guy was a good sport and waving to the crowd.

The day continued with our traditional swim with "framily" at the neighbors pool, followed by fireworks! (We think we identified a "new" firework: small red explosions that looked like the end of a fiber optic light.) 

Danielle then somehow convinced the adults to take the kids to Braum's for ice cream! (And apparently all the kids in the neighborhood convinced their parents to take them to Braum's -- it was a busy place!)

Another year thrilled to call America home!