For the last two years Strauss has put on a family picnic in Elk Grove Park several weeks before the big event to be able to meet families and hand out awards to the volunteers of Strauss. This year John, Sariah and Katie John are participating. All three got "goodie bags" and a shirt.
Someone thoughtful brought along a bunch of bubble bottles and bubble wands... the girls had a BLAST for quite some time! While the girls blow bubbles, I get to chat with my friend Christy and the boys, John and Jonah, play a game of catch with a football with the guys.
Sariah and Keira really enjoy the catered lunch. (Pyper Holt in the background)
Cheesey smiles from Jonah and Keira!
Fairytale town is one of our favorite places. So much to do in so little time. The crooked mile is a favorite of Jonah's. I'm pretty sure he ran the track about 5 times! Sariah enjoys the shoe slide and the castle the best. Keria loves the giant cheese and the peter rabbit hill slide. 
Here we all are at the pirate ship, nearing the end of our journey (and visit). Overall we had a nice time. 
Keeping with tradition we gather under the flag, recite the pledge and think thankful for our country thoughts. 
As it turns out our family is the only middle of the day activity attendees, well, also my sister Julie and brother Jonathan. So we rolled out the huge 75 foot slip n'slide and went a'slidin'. 
My mom and John are working on a patriotic puzzle. It's a puzzle on the Presidents of the United States.... so informational. 
Before the sparklers and fountain fireworks we gathered to watch some snakes grow. Katie John holds a sign that Aunt Julie made, it seemed to fit our activity well. What fun!