America Turns 237

When we told Norah we were going to a party for America's birthday, all kinds of confusion ensued: Where is she? (She's here - this IS America)  Are we going to her house? (We live at her house) Where is her car? (Her car is Grandpa's truck) And most importantly, Where is her cake? (America actually chooses watermelon instead of cake for her birthday.... whaaaaat??)

So, with Greta visiting this year, off we went to her birthday party, the neighborhood "parade" and festivities. Norah was old enough to participate in some of the "big kid" activities this year and so we bought tickets and toted her around to the bounce house, face painting, big slide, etc. Meanwhile, all the neighborhood grownups stood around bemoaning the lack of beer (America would totally want craft beer at her party!) and repeating the chorus: thank God it's not as hot as last year!

 The "parade", which is sort of just a big neighborhood-wide goforawalk.

 Shriekingly good fun!

 When will these guys be old enough to sit still for a picture?

 Dancing to the Roe Family Band, alone, in front of a full crowd. Norah = ZERO inhibitions.

America wants you to have dragon facepaint on her birthday. And watermelon.