Brad's Favorite Holiday, aka the 4th of July

Yes it's true, Brad's favorite holiday is the 4th of July, he looks forward to it every year. And every year that we have been together, this is our seventh by the way, we have attended the parade in the morning, and watched fireworks in the evening. Well 2009 was no exception. We did do a few things differently though. This was the first year we didn't take our chances finding a spot along the parade route, or join other family members already there. No, we decided to head over at 3 pm Friday with all the other early birds and set out blankets to save our spot. We got a great spot, and then with this crazy weather we've been having this summer, Brad woke up at about 2 in the morning hearing thunder and rain. So he drove over to Provo, and put tarps over our already wet blankets. Needless to say, the parade was a little wetter this year then others, in fact we had a little shower right in the middle of the parade. But luckily that didn't "dampen our spirits." We had a great time anyway.
Another fun treat this year is that in addition to the other members of Brad's family that were there with us along the parade route, Brad's parents came along for the first time since we've been together. It turned out to be great for me for more than one reason. The biggest was that Chase was fussy since we got there so early, so Gramp Bowen walked him up and down the parade route for quite awhile during the waiting time. Then he was able to get him to sleep later. Thanks Gramp!
Here's Brad and his mom and dad waiting for the parade to start.
And here's daddy and Chasey watching the parade go by. Chasey loved it whenever there was a marching band. Maybe he'll be our little musician!!
Later that evening after a wonderful family Dutch Oven cookout, Aunt Becca and Uncle Steven joined us up by the Temple grounds to watch the fireworks at Stadium of Fire. Chase really loved it, and we all had fun playing together for a few hours while we waited. And for anyone who is wondering, the view up there to see the fireworks is really great. Traffic going home kinda sucks though!!
Daddy, Chasey, Steven and Becca playing soccer with a beach ball. Great kick Chase!!
Aunt Becca and Chasey also had a great time wresting!!
And here is the cute little Bowen family enjoying another wonderful Independence Day together!! May each of us remember every day of the year the blessings of Freedom and Sacrifice we celebrate on this holiday!!