Main Street USA

It wouldn't be the Fourth of July without the celebratory parade down Main Street. The kids anticipate the procession of fire trucks with bated breath and covered ears. (Will was actually using his hands as binoculars here.)
Omi and Uncle Dave traditionally join us for the fun.
Uncle Sam looked docile enough to elicit a wave.
Will was the lucky, if not incredulous, recipient of an American flag from a parade participant. It made his day!
Despite my oft-foggy memory, I remember Ellie jumping in utero at the sound of the Civil War muskets firing. Some things never change!
Will puts the new flag to good use. The parade was grand, as usual, even if it didn't feature my favorite fire engine—one from Clarendon Hills' department that can parallel park. The expertly-directed DGHS band, friends on tractors (Miles and Koop), real horses, and loads of candy were favorites.
And USA, you don't look a day over 233.