Fourth of July Parade - Pendleton Style!

I know it seems late to be doing a post about the 4th, but I just had to share a few pics of the Fourth of July Parade in our town. It was quite unique. Praise God it was a bit overcast that day and we didn't end up puddles of goo on the sidewalk. Josiah insisted on bringing a full size American flag to wave!

This is my favorite pic of the parade. How beautifully wild and majestic is this combo? 

 Hailey was trying to help the conductor of the All-Mounted Pendleton Round Up Band. He played right along with Hailey. It was so cute. These guys looked like they were having way too much fun!

Josiah's friend, Gracia (girl with the painted face), rode her scooter through the parade with Cayuse Technologies. Her friendship has been such a blessing to Josiah. They are both very fun, creative and outgoing, so they have much in common.

Here is a picture of Gracia's mom, Jeni, and little sister, Naomi. Jeni was the first new friend I made when moving here. She is also a homeschooling mom and happens to go to the same church we go to. We have a lot in common and instantly connected. I'm so grateful for her friendship as it has made the transition to a new community bearable. I love our "iron sharpening iron" relationship! Naomi is Hailey's age and they have a lot of fun playing, too. We often go to the pool and children's museum together.

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th and were able to stop and reflect on just how blessed we are to live in this great nation. Thank you to all who have made sacrifices to preserve it! It is time to stop and reflect on the question, "What are we doing with that liberty?".

God Bless,
Jackie