lapeer county independence day

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Wow. What a fantastic weekend. Just endless good, clean fun. Started off, of course, with the Friday night Bump-n-Run in North Branch. It did not disappoint. I love watching the kids’ faces, and how they love the countdown at the start of the heat. There were some beloved entries from last year, great to see them back in the mud. The Battlewagon seems practically immortal. Loved the guy who drove all the way around the pits and lurched back onto the field – officials made him leave even though the crowd booed. Also, the guy who drove with his hood up – kudos! The inevitable fire was dealt with promptly, as were flipped over vehicles. A really well-organized, entertaining event.

Bright and early Saturday (well, sort of), went to hear the Declaration of Independence read on the courthouse steps. Makes one very thoughtful to listen the actual words. The sun was shining and the birds were twittering as we sang “America the Beautiful.” It was a nice kick-off for Independence Day.

Stuffed ourselves to the gills at Hadley’s all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at the Old Town Hall. Hung around for the parade. What a treat! I had no idea I was going to get caught in the cross-fire of a pretty heated water fight between spectators and parade entrants - all well-armed with super soakers. The fire trucks, of course, came prepared. What a hoot.

Went through the Hadley Mill Museum before the parade – had a good look at Copeman’s stove, and the first Hadley traffic light, and the giant spinning wheel. Of course, we had to go downstairs to have a good look at the turbine being excavated down there. Very cool stuff. Met this fabulous Great Dane there, all dressed for the occasion. His name’s Rocky.

Following the parade, strolled down to the Art and Soul Festival at LeFleur Décor. It was….totally awesome. I just don’t know how she does it – there’s a magical air to the place – where the ordinary is enchanted, and beautiful surprises are nestled and nurtured in the wonderful garden that seems to grow everywhere. Vendors were great! I especially loved the pottery this time, and the fantastic brooms – yes, brooms. The live music was excellent, too.

Of course, there was the obligatory barbecue, then the whole day was topped off with a spectacular fireworks show. I think I had the best seat in the house, thank you very much. I watched ‘em at Lapeer West. Yes, there was a strange “intermission” if you will, but it was worth the wait. I loved listening to the voices of the kids drifting through the air, singing. The little ones racing around with their luminescent sticks were delightful.

All in all, a perfect fourth. Independence Day in Lapeer County goes in the Things We Do Right category.