24th of July

We always enjoy celebrating Pioneer Day on the 24th of July. This year we went up to my parents' house the night before. My sister wanted to have a movie/slumber party with all the grandkids. They started watching "Rio 2" outside with a projector, but when it got too late they came in and fell asleep watching it in the living room. Here's a picture of the eight "big kids" all spread out wall to wall. When it was bedtime, the three little ones had to stay with their parents. 

The next morning we got up early to go downtown for the big parade. This has been a tradition with our Tucker family for as long as I can remember.

We never know for sure who's going to make it from year to year. We just always plan on going and those who can make it come. Here's a couple pictures of the group we had this year. 

My cousin, Emily, bought these crown things for the girls. They loved them. And my sister, Melyssa, did their hair and added some blue hair coloring.

We sprayed these two little boys with water to keep them cool. Then we spiked their hair just for fun.

After the parade, we went back to my parents' house to rest and get some lunch. Later that evening, we went to a Pow Wow. Apparently my kids were still exhausted from playing so much the rest of the day. They both fell asleep and took a nap through most of the Pow Wow.

Seeing all the people dressed up in their traditional costumes was cool. We got there just as the parade and dancing competitions were starting.

My dad and grandparents have always enjoyed the Native American cultures. But now that my brother-in-law (who is Navajo) has joined the family, we have enjoyed learning more about his culture even more. Here he is with my cute niece and nephew. They are all enjoying some yummy fry bread.

After the Pow Wow we stopped off for something to eat and then watched the fireworks all over the valley as we drove home. The kids were a little sad that we didn't do more fireworks after we got home, but it was just too late. But we still had a great 24th of July. I love being able to spend time with our family doing such fun things.