puddles, parades and pools

a good rain is an amazing thing in july in kansas and needs to be celebrated by drenching yourself in puddles, because you know tomorrow they will be replaced by dust.

we stayed in kansas this year for the fourth of july-so we were able to join grandma for the lenexa parade.  it is a classic scene of community to watch babies sitting on laps clapping for the fire trucks as the older kids clamor for candy and hi fives from clowns.

  one of the best moments was when the kids were handed small flags-but not enough for all of them. grant started to get upset because he didn't have a flag. aunt beth, being the perfect aunt that she is, had one in her bag. so all seemed to be ok. then he began to be sad that his wasn't the same. emily chimed in that his was the 'most special flag' ' grant, you are like a king, because your flag has a special little ball on the top'. oh emily...the middle child is developing some wonderful peace making strategies already :)

 and the pool...
we discovered the aquatic park in bonner springs and have declared it 'our pool' for this summer. i love the pool because it is really gives a chance for some undivided attention for play. no laundry or dishes at the pool. becky and dale came up for grandma's birthday and we had fun sharing our pool with them. anneliese easily transferred her crazy jumping onto becky (even when she wasn't ready :)) the boys had a great time going off the diving board and becky helped emily go across the lily pads for the first time.