Fireworks

The Irishman and I went back and forth over the last few weeks about our Fourth of July plans. More specifically, would we attempt to take Caitlin to see fireworks. She usually goes to bed between 7:30 and 8:30, so staying up late to watch a loud, colorful display of patriotism seemed like a risk.

We’d ruled out fireworks at the beach. While it is lovely over looking the water, it is too crowded and too much hassle with a toddler in tow. One of the local universities has a family event that starts at about 5pm. The original plan was to get there early and then leave before fireworks if Caitlin didn’t seem up to it….funny thing about plans!

In actuality got there at about 7:45. (I will add that my husband prepared a lovely roast beef dinner before we left the house - it was worth the wait!) There was live music playing and a healthy crowd. Last time we went to this event the seating was in the grass, but this time due to construction and rain we were in a parking lot. Caitlin was tired. The plus side? Not nearly as many bugs!

Caitlin was tired, but (amazingly) not cranky. She usually only uses a pacifier in the car or at Mass on Sundays. When she wanted to take it with us to see the fireworks we didn’t argue.

Pink bear (her new best friend) came with us, too.

Caitlin just stood and sat and listened to the music.

Periodically she would tuck Bear under her arm so that she could clap her hands,

but mostly she just looked around taking it all in.

As it got dark she kept pointing to the moon in wonder.

Then the fireworks began. I am fairly certain that Morgan and I spent as much time watching her face as we did watching the show.

I was fully prepared to leave early with am unhappy toddler, but she watched the whole thing with amazement.  It was a really long show this year, but Caitlin was looking the whole time.

It was a great way to end the long weekend!