What a wonderful July 4th day it was! Yours truly, spouse, son Scott, wife Heather, and 5 of my grandkids, John, Jason, Kaitlynn, Dustyn and Bryson rode on a float in the parade. It was a first for all the kids and they had a blast. There was candy flying all over the place!

It’s always good to teach the principle of giving in a fun way. They were throwing candy out, and making sure all the kids in the crowd were able to get some. It was a good start to a wonderful day!

I saw Pearl Cantrell riding in the front seat of the horse drawn wagon. Our 100 year old First Lady was in excellent spirits. She asked me to mention she had friends down last week who took her out, but I didn’t have a piece of paper with me to write down the particulars. So Pearl, it’s here, but the names have not been added, sorry.

I think anyone who was anyone was at the park. My grandson commented that it was a really nice family time. I have to second that thought. The entire area was a delight to the eye. Adults visiting, playing games and kid watching, while those kids played and laughed, splashed in the water cannon and dizzied themselves on the merry-go-round. It really was a perfect day.

I hope everyone enjoyed the fish fry; the smell was so delicious the hairs in my nose stood up and applauded! I can personally tell you the sno cones were mouth luscious also.

The entire day was capped off by those awe inspiring fireworks. I must say for a little town, we put on a “wallappalosa” show!

Congratulations to the Stars and Stripes committee for another inspirational day. I’m sure the committee will have a long list of names to thank. I know for me, it will be one of those life moments that go into your memory book to take out and enjoy, when you have a down moment.

I spoke with Thomas Lee Alston last week. He called in answer to my unwritten question regarding the City Council relations. He says everyone is a big happy family, sometimes they squabble, but this is a friendly, wonderful town and everyone works well together, as evidenced by this celebration.

He also confirmed the fact the city insurance does not cover the rodeo grounds since it is a private facility. That’s fine with me, I love the park. I’m glad everyone works with one another to get the job done. The city will benefit from a united Council.

VBS was a power blast and now it’s time to get ready for Youth Camp. The sponsor will be Lara Smith. Camp dates are July 21st -25th; the venue will be the Baptist camp at Lake Brownwood. The cost is $155; limited sponsorships are available. Please contact Pastor Fikes or Lara Smith if you are interested in attending.

I’m going to keep it short this week because I know there are pictures of several events that need to be printed.

Carol Bryant tells me there will be two more play days in August. The next one is July 14th starting at 6:30pm. The booths open at 5:15pm, and exhibitions begin at 5:45pm. Congratulations to Elizabeth Bryant for winning first place in barrel racing, in her age group, at the 4th of July roping on Saturday. Way to go Elizabeth, and congratulations to all the other competitors.

The 4th of July reminds us of the sacrifices that were made to start this country. Please remember to pray for our leaders, our government and our precious troops. I hope everyone took the time to share with their families. God bless America, have a blessed week.