The 4th of July

No one does the 4th of July like Philly!  Being the birthplace of America, they celebrate for a week.  There are so many different activities and events going on, its hard to choose what to go to.  We kicked off our holiday with fireworks at Penn's Landing on the Delaware River. 

The Roberts and the Clarks came to party it up with us

Some of our favorite neighbors, the Tenny's, had us over on the 3rd to watch the Upper Darby fireworks from their backyard.  It was great fun! (but I forgot my camera, oops)

Of course we had to go downtown for the Philadelphia parade!  We love this parade.  For as loud and as fun as it is... there is also an incredible spirit there.  A gratitude that you feel for all the men and women who have fought, are fighting, and will fight for our country.  I always think of my brother, Jake, who is a pilot in the Air Force.  I think of the times he was deployed.  How grateful I am that he is safe and of how incredibly proud of him we all are.  There were many times during the parade that I couldn't help but tear up.  So proud to be an American!!

They started the parade with a military jets fly-over.  We, especially Tate, were so amazed.  It definitely reminded us of our 'Uncle Jake'.

Watching the Revolutionary Soldiers march down the street, playing 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic' is so incredible.  The video doesn't do it justice.  It humbles you to think of the sacrifices those men and women made.

The red flag is for 9-11.  I couldn't get a good pic, but it has the twin towers with a star where each of them were hit.  Another very touching part of the parade.

Have to get a pic in front of Independence Hall on Independence Day.  The amazing things that happened in this building!

After the parade ended,  we headed home and I had to force the kids to take a nap if they wanted to go to fireworks... again.  The big firework show in Philly is by the Philadelphia Art Museum (made popular from the movie 'Rocky').  I didn't have the courage to brave the crowds by myself, there isn't a subway nearby.... it would have been crazy finding parking.  We opted for the Narberth (a township/suburb of Philly) fireworks.  Went with our friends the Roberts and the Clarks.  It was great fun!  Definitely worth it.

Kids played card games waiting for the fireworks to start. (Connor, Bentli, and Ashley)