We arrived in Minnesota just a day ahead of the famous Ward Springs Fourth of July Parade, at which parade participants hand out candy and beer. We had the good fortunate of sitting next to Gramma and Grampa’s neighbors, Rex and Linda.
The last half of the parade is just a bit wet…
We took a number of boat rides–Ava even got to drive!
Gramma and Grampa kept us full with fabulous food the entire time. Gramma and Ava made homemade ice cream with Ava’s great, great grandfather’s hand-crank ice cream maker.
We took a day trip to the state forest nearby, and had lunch at a cute little tea house called Just Like Grandma’s.
Katie celebrated her birthday with a little help, too.
And, of course, there was liberal spoiling of the grandchildren and great grandchildren!
Smith Family Weblog 
Posted by Karyl on July 18, 2009 at 7:16 am
So – do you also get sprayed with water at the parade? Looks like so much fun! Whose cute dog is that on the pier?
Posted by Gramma Great on July 19, 2009 at 9:28 am
Yes, Karyl, we all got wet at the parade. We pretty much knew we would, due to where we were sitting. At least it was a warm day and no one minded. The dog you referred to, is Wiley, our next door neighbor’s dog. He is one of the most well behaved dogs you could ask for. We really enjoy having him around. In the picture, he is along for the boat ride. Dennis’ boat hardly ever leaves the dock without Wiley on it.