4th of July Fun

The past couple of years Dan and I have tried different fireworks displays around our area and have been disappointed.  Although last year at Stone Mountain was awesome, the displays we have been to around the Chattanooga area were nothing in comparison to what we both grew up with in Florida. This year we decided to try Pops in the Park- a evening in Coolidge park complete with an orchestra and of course fireworks.  We set up our chairs right on the Walnut street bridge and awaited the fireworks.  Amelia was captivated by all the people.  She didn't get scared or startled at all at the fireworks. This was her expression throughout the whole 10-15 minute show . . .

It was a great fireworks show . . .  just not long enough in our opinions :)

The next evening, on the 4th, we decided to go to see Toy Story 3 at a local Drive-In Theatre.  It ended up being sold out so we returned home to set off our own fireworks in the driveway.  We were in for a real treat though- a neighbor just a road up from us had some incredible fireworks.  Their "show" was better than the one we saw at Pops in the Park!  Next year we plan to just enjoy the festivities of our neighbors :)  Sparklers are a must for 4th of July- Amelia was just in awe of the lights and sounds.

We also spent some time checking out a new trail in our area.  There is a land trust up on Lookout Mountain that is only open 2 Saturdays a month with a trail to a big waterfall- we are hoping to see that one soon. But, they just opened the Nickajack trail year round so we thought we would check it out.

What a beautiful trail through the woods! It is open to hikers, mountain biking and horseback riding.  I usually prefer trails that follow along a creek or end up at a waterfall- but this was a pretty trail. We did a 5 mile round-trip and we were exhausted!  Of course, Dan had to show off what bib Amelia was wearing that day. Amelia loves to ride face out now in the Bjorn- she is so curious!