Let the July fun begin!

My kids, as well as myself, look forward to the month of July all year long!  It is a month full of family fun, 4th of July celebrations, and birthdays (both Madison's and AJ's are in July)

This year we kicked off July with the arrival of my sister, Kristeen, and her daughter Maia.  We anticipate their July visit for months.  When they show up, they fun begins!!  

The first big activity was the city parade on July 3rd.  All the grand kids participated in one way or another.  Grandpa made sure everyone was ready....sunglasses and all!

Here are Maia and Madison posing on the motorcycle.

We first tried this set-up.....all kids on the Harley.  Since there was no room for Grandpa and Lane wouldn't make a very safe driver, we had to move to plan B.  

Madison and Maia ended up riding their festive 4th of July bikes....

While Lane and AJ had the honors of riding on the Harley....

Our other cousin Keyera rode her bike too.  They all enjoyed a shaved ice after enduring the hot parade -- fun for all!

The new tradition is to rent the Manti Outdoor Aquatic Center on the night of the 3rd.  We meet with other family and friends and cool off  in the refreshing water.  Nothing like a night time swim in July!

The kids couldn't get enough of the water...

The 3rd of July fun doesn't end at the pool.  After the swim, which is around 10:00PM, we all drive out to my dad's farm and watch a grand fire work show.  My Dad organizes an amazing illegal firework show full of action!  It has come to be known as "The Field of Fear!"  My family, Andy included, lasted just long enough to witness the last blast and then they were out cold...all snuggled together in the back of the Bronco.  I was the designated driver to get this bunch home!

The 4th of July was full of foot races, fun games, and frog winning!  
Ready Lane?  Go!!!  
AJ and Madison worked together in the three-legged race.  Believe it or not, they didn't even fall...but they sure did giggle the whole way!

The night of the 4th we hung out at my Mom and Dad's.  Here the kids are reacting to a firework show put on by their cousin, Gabe!  What excitement!
Thanks Gabe for the great entertainment!  You rock!  
We then all gathered up on the roof of my Dad's back coop to watch the City firework show.  It is a great view up there!  The 4th finally came to an end...but that didn't mean the fun was over.  We were off to Zion's National Park the next morning!!  That post coming soon!