we did it right this year!

last year, we went to the christmas parade. all 2.5, very cold hours of it. we said then and there that we weren't doing that again. but the kiddos love the parade, and we weren't going to disappoint. so, we showed up an hour late...they got their fill of the parade, and mama could still feel her toes by the end of it! that's a win-win in my book!! (and they never knew the difference!)

this is our 4th parade to go to, and this is the first one that we (the adults in the family) have been able to stand around and talk to other people. in years past, we have always had to chase one of our people to keep them from getting run over by a float full of boy scouts or get them to stop dancing in the middle of the street with some high school high-steppers in glittery tights!

but, this year was different! they sat on the curb with everyone else and waved at the floats, graciously accepted candy, and sang along with the bands' renditions of christmas hymns.



well, wes did have to get up and bust a move a few times, but at least he stayed out of the street!


reed didn't care one way or the other about the parade. but, he was warm!!


and, about an hour after we arrived, we saw santa...followed by the street sweeper!

then we left! and everyone else decided that next year, they were going to follow our lead and show up late! until one of our children learns how to tell time...we should be in the clear!! :)

(FYI to the grandparents: you can click on the pictures to blow them up and see a clearer version)