Here we go!! Aiden wanted to be in charge, but required help from Grandpa Todd!!! He is already an excellent driver and along with his excellent hiking skills may have a future as the Captain of a Ship, we'll see. He loved it!!! 
This was Aiden's first parade experience. Melissa was out of town, so we took him with us. He was very excited at first with all of the lights and music, but became tired of sitting on my lap. Half way through the event he decided that he would like to walk around the boat and proceeded to go from one side to the other for the remainder of the parade. He also took over the driving responsibilities from time to time, but Grandpa Todd didn't seem to mind. I don't think that he understood that there was water on the other side of the door since it was dark. Overall, he seemed to enjoy it and we loved having him along for the ride.
Madilyn had a good time too and was a great help with her nephew. She got cold towards the end of the parade and sat next to her dad under the covers for a few minutes in order to warm up. Seth didn't attend this year, he had a slumber party at his friend's house the night before and said he needed to sleep instead. With Seth's absence, Madilyn was in charge of the traditional parade duties including; waving to bystanders, providing vocal entertainment and wishing "Merry Christmas" to residents along the lake. She did a great job.
It was very cold that night (according to our standards in sunny Arizona), so we all had to cuddle a bit. Aiden probably got more kisses than he would like but with those cute cheeks so close, how could anyone resist?Since Grandpa and Grandma moved to the lake the annual Christmas Boat Parade has become a tradition for our family. The boat is decorated with lights and other holiday ornaments (by Grandpa and Grandma) and a parade is held for the community. Grandpa and Grandma prefer to watch the parade from their dock, so we take
the family around the lake for the parade. The lights that people have in their backyards are just as beautiful as those displayed on the boats themselves, so it is a wonderful experience and a great holiday event that we look forward to every year!!!!!
