Thursday, July 9, 2015

Independence Day

Our first official day in Ashland was the 4th of July! We had heard last summer from one Christopher's professors that Ashland's Independence Day festivities were not to be missed. He was right! We woke up early, got a Starbucks, walked downtown and hunted for the perfect spot to watch the parade from. We found it! It wasn't an easy task, mind you! The whole parade route was lined with blankets and chairs, with roped off and staked off areas Friday when we rolled into town. People take this parade seriously! Anyway, we found a great spot halfway down the route. We sat on a rock wall in someone's front yard. All the houses along the route were very generous and allowed folks to sit in their yards and some had refreshments out for the taking too! We could see everything and more importantly, we were in the shade for 3/4 of the parade! The parade lasted an hour and 45 minutes!! 

Once the shade went away, this really kind couple invited us to sit in front of them on the curb (they still had shade).  Leila had already been sitting with them for a while chatting and laughing together. The wife thanked me for allowing her to have some "grandma practice"! 

After visiting the food and crafts booths in the park and eating lunch, we walked all the way home. 

We decided to eat dinner at home because we were worried our street would get too crowded. You see, the city sets of fireworks in the university's sports complex which is RIGHT ACROSS the street from our rental! Score! We walked outside five minutes before it started and had front row seats to the fireworks! When it was over, we walked inside and went to bed! No parking or traffic to worry about. We had ice scream and pie for dessert. It was a very festive Fourth! 


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