Picnic and Parade

It was time for the big picnic and parade! I got Emma dressed in her new outfit from Grandma so she would look extra festive for the days events. While the food was getting put onto the table in the dinning room, Emma and Merik had their fun with toy cars.

Then Emma started her snuggling mode, Merik being all boy thought this was quite strange.

So Glen and Holly had to jump in and help Emma out a bit.

Then it was time to get some food.

My Grandma, being the amazing hostess she is insisted on serving everyone their drinks. She stood by the punch bowl and made sure that everyone got at least one first good round of food and drink before sitting down to enjoy her party.
My dad and Uncle Keith enjoying a laugh and some wonderful food.
Looking out at all the guests taking their seats with their plates of food and noticing that all the surrounding neighbors were doing the exact same thing.
GG told me to go ask my mom for plastic bags for Merik and Emma so they could put their candy from the parade in them. I thought they wouldn't need them, but GG insisted so I was off to find my mom. She was working hard in the kitchen cleaning up after all the 40 plus guest that were enjoying the party. It made me think of the years my mom must have spent in that very kitchen doing that exact chore.
Emma and Merik playing after lunch.
Emma showing GG how much she ate by sticking out her tummy. It was full of chicken, watermelon, berries, corn, salads, and yummy cookies!
Emma saluting the flag as the parade is about to start.
GG bought a bunch of flags so that all her guest could wave them as the parade marched by. Emma and Merik were thrilled they each got one to hold.
Emma and Merik excited about the music and fun coming their way
Almost every float that went by threw out tons of candy, Emma thought this was a bit odd at first and wasn't sure what to make of it, but once she got the hang of it, she would rush out grab the candy and then start handing it out to all the other kids. She would then deposit a few pieces into her own bag. She always amazes me on how giving she really is.

This was a cool little semi! Driven by a 7 year old boy...what little boy wouldn't want one of these?!
A happy clown had to stop and give Emma a high 5
Watching the pipers, it just isn't a parade with out them.
A lion trying to give Emma a hug
Being a country parade, there were loads of John Deere tractors...

and fabulous old cars

The best part was watching Emma dance with all the people on the floats!Finally after almost 2 hours of parade fun Emma and Grandma watched the end.