The 4th

Happy Independence Day from Team Z!

We started our day with our annual neighborhood parade

Asher got to participate in the parade this year - he had a balloon and some streamers tied to his stroller!

This is how Gaga walked throughout the parade.  Caden was SUPER worried about his balloon blowing away (in his defense, we'd already lost 2), so Gaga held onto the tied-to-the-wagon balloon just in case.

This year was much like other years - a police escort,

a crazy amount of kids, bikes, wagons, and strollers

popsicles at the park after the parade, 

Thanks to the grandmas, even Asher got in on the goods!

stickers from the policeman,

He's saying, "Look at my badge, Uncle Travis!"

and lots of smiles, playing, and pictures!

That evening we had some neighbors and a couple of friends come over for a BBQ.  We didn't get to see any fireworks because we have a fire ban, but we had lots of fun anyway!  We pulled out the pool, Slip-N-Slide, and water toys for Caden, Kaila, and Ethan

They figured out a way to have fun!

JZ (of course!) worked his magic on the grill and we ate GOOD!

Asher had a fun first 4th too

It was almost 10:00 before I got Caden to bed that night (and he did not nap at all that day.  The day before?  4 hours.  July 4?  NOTHING!)!  He only cried once though - when it was time for Kaila and Ethan to go home (he is his mother's son, after all!).  I guess that's the sign of a good day!

Let freedom ring!