Fourth of July

The excitement and anticipation of 4th of July was a little subdued for me this year since it was the first one we'd be spending without a fun family gathering. Every July 4th we enjoy hanging out with friends and family BBQing, swimming, and watching the kids set off fireworks. This one would be very different: no friends, no family, no BBQ, no swimming and no fireworks for the kids (they're illegal in Monterey). I was hopeful, nonetheless, and looking forward to a relaxing day with Micah and the kids!

I was not let down.... I can't say it was quite as cool as Dan and Minna's but it was good.

We kicked off the day with a fabulous parade downtown complete with The Bat Mobile, a lady on stilts wearing hot pink converse, marching military men from every branch of the armed forces (which brought the entire crowd to their feet with applause--it was actually quite emotional), diverse and varied bands playing patriotic music, Scooby-doo along with other characters in costume, and Polynesian dancers including Tongan drummers! The kids loved it. We even met up with some friends from the ward, who watched the parade with us and then came over for the afternoon to watch the Germany vs. Italy game (we're very sad for Jan and Birte that Germany is out).


The most spectacular highlight was the firework extravaganza we watched from our very own balcony, while Beckam slept soundly in his own little bed. We not only had a great view of the Monterey fire work show over the bay but ALL the firework shows from here to the skyline--they dotted the horizon for hours. It was awesome. It was also the first time I've seen a firework show coordinated to music that we listened to on the radio. It was a great 4th of July celebration!