4th of July Parade

So this was is it, my very first moment as a Mommy when I had to miss something REALLY important.  I've always found a way to get to Muffins for Mom, The Thanksgiving Feast, etc, but this year I just couldn't make Audrey's 4th of July Parade.  It was THE very last day of summer school.  Any other day and I would have taken off.  I was really heartbroken and felt like I failed her, but I also feel so lucky that James and Grammy got to go.  I was especially sad because Audrey has grown so much since last year's 4th of July parade.  Last year she wouldn't even look at us, or anyone for that matter.  She kept her head down and was near tears the entire time.  This year I got texts from James, my mom, and Katie that Audrey did awesome and loved being in the parade.  Here she is "leading" her group . . .

Making the rounds . . .

One of my most favorite pictures ever of Auds.  Katie sent me this pic of Audrey and Sara after the parade. They have a real friendship and real conversations.  It's amazing.  I love them both!

Hanging with friends and posing for pictures after the parade . . .

Being a working Mom is hard.  My mom told me that when she ran up to get Audrey's picture after the parade, Audrey immediately asked, "Where's Mama?"  My mom explained that I was at work but would see all of the pictures.  And when I picked Audrey up from school that day the very first words out of her mouth were, Mommy, please be at my parade next time.  Wow.  Heavy words from a 3 year old.  All I can do is look at the positive and know that she is ALWAYS surrounded by people who love her, even if Mommy isn't there.  Which I think will be a lesson that will serve her well in life.  She is a lucky girl and I hope she grows to appreciate our country and become an independent lady!