July 4th Visitors

During the first week of July my parents came to town for an extended visit.  Their factory shuts down each year around this time and they added a few more vacation days so that they could depend the week with us.  Who wouldn't want to vacation in lovely Bloomington, Illinois?  The kids were so happy to have Grandma and Grandpa visiting for so many days.  Unfortunately the oppressive heat continued and we were limited to a lot of indoor activities and hanging out at the house. They arrived on the Sunday before the Fourth of July ready for a fun week. Addy had t-ball practice on Monday, so Grandma and Grandpa got to watch her on the field. 



On Tuesday we headed to Peoria to go to Bass Pro Shop.   Addy and Carter were so excited to show their Grandparents around the store.  It was definitely a good indoor activity to avoid the heat of the day.  On Tuesday evening our little town had their fireworks display at the city park so we headed there after dinner to stake out a spot for our lawn chairs.  Addy and Carter had a blast playing on the playground and with friends from the neighborhood before the fireworks.  We all really enjoyed the fireworks.  The town of Downs puts on a great event and we love the fact that we can go to our small town fireworks and not fight the crowds in the larger cities to celebrate the 4th.

Addy on the carousel at Bass Pro

Having fun on the school lawn before the fireworks

On Wednesday, we headed to a 4th of July parade in a nearby town and then went home to grill out and let the kids swim in the pool. It was great to hang out at home and spend time together without any real plans or itinerary for the day.  I am one that loves to go, go, go, but even I enjoy a holiday at home once in a while:) 

Papaw really loves to get into the 4th of July spirit!

Mom and Dad headed home on Friday.  We were all sad to see the go but we were so happy that they got to stay longer than usual.  It was a great week and the kids really enjoyed having so much time with their grandparents at their own house.  Although Bloomington, Illinois doesn't seem like a premiere vacation destination for most people, we are thrilled that Grandma and Grandpa think it's a great place to visit:)