Happy (very) Belated Birthday, America!

Since it is nearly August and all, I figured I should get on the ball and finish up the rest of our 4th of July weekend. You know, because I'm punctual like that. After spending the 3rd at Tim & Heidi's, we headed back to Brainerd and hit the lakes again for a family lunch with the Eieslands. Grammie and Papa were in Illinois visiting my brother Nate and his wife Alissa, but the rest of the Eiesland clan met at my Uncle Scott & Aunt Doreen's beautiful lake home for grilling and beach fun. We weren't sure how the boys would do at the beach, but the second we walked down to the lake, Maguire made a beeline for the water and walked straight in fully clothed.

Yeah, he liked the beach.

Ellie, Maguire, and Uncle Scott building sand castles.

And where was Alex during all of this sandy, wet playtime? He (not surprisingly) opted to steer clear of the water and sand and hang with Grandma Studer on the deck.

During lunch, the boys got to experience their first watermelon slices.

After a pit stop at Grammie & Papa's house for a nap, it was off to the parade. Luckily, everyone else in the family went early enough to stake out a good spot in the shade, and all we had to do was roll in a few minutes before the parade started and claim our seats.

Ellie, waiting patiently for the parade to begin. And for the candy.

The boys were fascinated with the loud fire trucks and motorcycles.

Still waiting for candy.....

Maguire had fun dancing to the bands.

Alex got his first taste of parade candy.

And Maguire spent some quality time with Uncle Tom, discussing circus side show acts and country singer-wannabe little people. (Don't ask. Really.)

After the parade, we met up with my cousin Emily and her family for some pizza. Then the boys and I tucked in for the night while Chris, Ellie, and Grandma Studer headed off to the fireworks. It was a fantastic 4th of July spent with lots of family -- just the way we like it!