TBT: fourth of july

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
i've always loved the fourth of july. it's such a happy summer day, full of fun activities. i'll definitely be missing my family's bbq and pool time today. so, to cope with the separation pains, i will reminisce on 1997. what a great year. and what a great time to reflect on for this fourth-of-july-themed throwback thursday! 

july 4, 1997 was a pretty significant day in my life. my family was up in idaho visiting cousins, and we all dressed up to participate in a parade. so fun! we threw candy and waved like princesses. i even looked the part, all dressed up as belle. 

(my cute cousins and my cute belle dress)

there i was, just minding my own business. throwing candy like i was told to. probably pocketing some. i guess the people of idaho liked what they saw, because someone walked away with a shiny trophy! 

"independence day parade -- cutie pie award"

16 years later, and i'm still a little too proud about it!