The Beckley Family 4th of July (continued)

I enjoy the holidays and getting together with family. I am trying to instill that same enthusiasm in Aaron. The 4th started early for me, since I had volunteered to help with the Howland Community 5K & Fun Walk sponsored by St. Joe's. There were over 200 participants. This was the second year for the event, which was a great success. As I returned home, people were already lining up for the Parade so I rushed the "boys" to get ready to find our spot on the parade route. It was 9:30am and quite HOT already so Ran was not thrilled about rushing. The Parade was to start at 10am. We found a spot in the shade near the gazebo. The Parade was a bit long, but we all enjoyed ourselves. Aaron loved seeing the fire trucks, especially when they blew their air horns. He became an excellent waver and once he received an American flag that was even better. Of course Aaron's favorite part of the Parade was the candy. The busy day continued with preparations for the Leeper-Pitts Reunion, which is my father's family. It is held annually at Scotland Meadows Park in New Castle, PA. 2005 was the 95th aanual Leeper-Pitts Reunion and we as a family are looking forward to reaching the 100th. My grandpa, Edgar "Dutchie" Leeper was the oldest attendee at 88 years of age. The weather was hot and sticky which made thing a little uncomfortable. I didn't hear the final count, but I believe that there were over 120 family members and guests in attendance. The food of which there was more than enough was good. Don and Sandy Leeper organized the games. Aaron especially enjoyed soaking mommy during the water balloon toss. He also appreciated the opportunity to choose a stuffed animal as a prize. I would have to say the highlight for Aaron is the Chinese Auction. He likes buying the "tickets", which mommy of course has to fill out. I was getting writers cramp, since I purchased $5.00 worth at 10 for $1.00. We have been lucky enough to win something each year, but this year we won 6 prizes. Uncle Zane topped us at 7. People were starting to groan when "Beckley" was announced. Needless to say Aaron was quite thrilled. He was extra pleased that he had won the Spider Man Coloring Book set. On the way home he looked through the books and hummed the Spider Man theme song. We were all quite worn out so after a brief nap and dinner,Aaron and I spent some time outside blowing bubbles with his new bubble set. Before coming in for the night we lit a few sparklers in honor of the 4th. As you can see just like all holidays our 4th of July was packed with family, food and plenty of FUN. I hope you too enjoyed the holiday. We'll be looking forward to the next.