I walked with Katie and the girls from Des Plaines Girls Softball in the Independence Day parade today in Des Plaines. I'd say "marched", because that's what one traditionally does in a parade, but it would be very difficult to describe this as marching. :) Ambling would be more accurate. Everyone had a good time and Uncle Jeff was able to come out and join Gretchen and Julie watching the parade. Much candy was thrown into the crowd.

Later in the day, we went to the local pool where they had planned many child-friendly activities for the holiday.

Ruby the Dog continues to really not like fireworks. The good news is that it should be mostly over soon and taper down to naught in the next few days.