A True Sign of Summer...

...the town "fests" have begun!

It's been a stark contrast from what I am used to, these Kansas festivals. I grew up with the Taste of Chicago and Summerfest at my fingertips each summer.

But, there is something to be said about the local celebrations held in small towns. Some good old-fashioned fun awaits. We likey.

Last weekend was Derby Days, not too far from where we live. We promised the girls we would take them to the parade Friday night. I don't know what it is about parades... they are like toddler crack... pardon my lack of taste in terms. Maybe it's the thrill and exhilaration flying candy every 5 seconds. I don't know.

Sassy was pumped for the parade all.the.livelong.day. I could hardly wait for 5:30 to roll around... truly. Because, if I had to field one more questions regarding said event, I may have just dunked my head in the toilet for the mere satisfaction of the peace and quiet it would bring.

Anyway, I was happy when Tyler arrived home from work, and we were off to the parade...

The girls waited patiently and anxiously for the parade to begin. Sassy was in awe that we were sitting outside the parking lot to her pediatrician's office... just as soon as I reassured here that neither her nor Little A would be making nay trips inside.



The girls enjoyed an early cool treat from one of the first groups that went by. This was our first parade since Sassy's dietary restrictions have been in place. We had to ask the kid handing out the popsicles for a not red or orange one. I hope green was a safe choice! As for the rest of the candy, we allowed Sassy and Little A to collect it, but we chose to "buy" it from them with coins {unspecified} for their piggy banks. We will likely do this with birthday favors and Halloween candy, as well. Sassy was none the worse for wear over it.



The girls grew tired and hungry towards the end, but had a great time all together.



We even stopped for pizza and Blockbuster on the way home!

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Saturday morning, we headed up to the high school for the carnival portion of Derby Days. It was a little disappointing. I guess we figured we'd head early and beat the crowds, but we arrived before the rides began, so Sassy was a little bit disappointed. Oops.

We did spend a great deal of time in the kids area- the girls did crafts, dug in the sand for prizes, and enjoyed the petting zoo.



And, the trolley ride to and from the car almost sufficed in the rides department. As for the trolleys, we had a much much better experience this year than last.

We'll have to wait and see what fun we'll have as various town festivals continue throughout the summer!