Newspaper Photo

Emily's mom called to tell us that Anna's photo (along with Rebecca, her friend from school) was featured in the suburban weekly newspaper as part of a report on July 4 festivities (see previous post). I e-mailed the photographer, who was glad to e-mail me the photo.

Fourth of July Fireworks

On July fourth, Anna and I met a friend for lunch and then the whole family (Grandparents, too!) went to a suburban park to listen to swing music and see a fireworks display in the the evening. We met some more friends there, and the girls played with bubbles and danced to the music. This was Anna's first time to see fireworks.

Anna's Artwork

Anna told me this was a drawing of Jesus on the cross and that He is sad, but that it will be OK because He rose from the dead. It is always interesting to see what she draws when she asks for paper....lets me know what she is thinking about.

Fun with Friends

On July 3, a few moms and daughters gathered to have an early fourth of July celebration complete with food and a craft (thanks, Vicki!). The girls had lots of fun.

Of course, I had to have one last staged photo shoot with the flag dress prior to leaving the house!

Pre-school Parade

Today was the Independence Day Children's Parade at Anna's preschool. Anna and her friends were decked in red, white, and blue and excited about the parade. I'm not certain there was a deep understanding of what this holiday is about, though. When asked what country has a birthday on July 4, some of the children shouted out JESUS! At any rate, everyone had fun decorating bikes and scooters for the big event. Anna and her good friend Preston changed places in the lineup so they could be together. Policemen and firemen joined the parade (yes, the sirens were loud!), and after walking around the block, the children got to "tour" the firetruck. Once everyone was back inside, we enjoyed lemonade, chocolate chip cookies, and live music. The families and children all had a great time!

Now and Then

These two pictures show Anna and her friend Julia Lee both now and during their first Independence Day parade when they were a year and a half old. I think Anna was a bit traumatized by the noise the first time. She still thinks it is too loud.

Ready for Church...