4th of July Memories Made in the USA!

Although there are some holidays that I find myself approaching with a "take it or leave it" approach (hey, the milk was green on St. Patrick's Day, isn't that enough?), the 4th of July is in a category of its own. It's Independence Day and it's time to celebrate! 

Whereas for some families that means BBQ and for others it means remembering members of their own that have served this country, for us there is always a parade.

For as long as my husband and I have been together, we have hopped in the car on the morning of the 4th and driven (about an hour and a half) back to the city of his childhood and the annual celebrations that occur there. At first it was just the two of us (sometimes with our crazy dog, who howled at the sirens from the fire engines), and then Big Sister E came along, followed two years later by Little Sister B (who wasn't a fan of the sirens, either).

For us, there is just no better way to start off the 4th of July than by all of us being together watching the floats, bands, animals, performers, mascots and acts that come down the street!

The remainder of the day has always been filled with food, fun, family entertainment, keeping cool and, of course, fireworks. From tossing water balloons to shying away from the camel rides to simply pulling out the hose and putting on swimsuits, there's nothing better than a holiday filled with smiles.

While the times have changed, the togetherness has stayed the same and it is clear that the memories continue to grow and grow!

Just as sunscreen is a necessity each year on Independence Day, having my camera with me to document our yearly antics often feels just as important. I keep it charged and at my side and ready to record just about anything and everything.

I'm not taking any chances (Rayovac's alkaline and hearing aid batteries are made in the USA, so what better choices for the 4th of July?) that I'll miss an expression of pure joy like this one!

What does the 4th of July mean to you and your family and how will you celebrate this great holiday?

This post is a part of an ongoing partnership with Rayovac as one of their Rayovac Power Bloggers and products and/or gifts have been received. However, all thoughts and opinions are completely honest and my own.