We pulled into the festival about an hour before take off. While waiting for the balloons to inflate, we visited booths. The twins had their faces painted and enjoyed a ride on the bungee swings. At first, both were very apprehensive and wanted to get out of the harness. Once in the air, they changed their mind. Because they were so light they need some additional yanking from the workers so that they could really get going. Of course, Adeline was the one who wanted to go the highest.
This was an interesting evening for Savannah. She experienced her first punishment for some not so gracious behavior early in the week. Alex and I decided that we wouldn't spend any money on her at the festival. I don't who it was harder for, her or us. She was sad but held it together. Fortunately, there was a balloon artist making balloons for free which gave Savannah the opportunity to take something home.
We were joined by our very good friends right before the balloons took off. After watching the balloons take flight, we settled into our spot and let the girls snack and run around. As the sun was setting and the anticipation of fireworks was growing, Mr. Marc surprised the girls with a hot air balloon ride. Since he did this on his own accord, we allowed Savannah to go. She was beyond excited. Miss Adeline didn't consider it for even one second which was a good thing after hearing how noisy the balloons are - something you don't think about when you watch them gracefully float through the sky above. Lila, Savannah and their friends thought it was pretty cool to float up into the sky. I am sure they will remember for the rest of their lives.
After the ride, the fireworks started. One year ago, this same firework show put Adeline over the edge and made her deathly afraid of fireworks ever since. After brainstorming with her teacher, we decided to watch some fireworks on the computer with the sound low with the hope that Adeline wouldn't lose it during this year's show. I was pretty sure Alex was going to have to walk her to the car. She appeared to be excited to see the rainbow of colors light up the sky until the sun started to set. For a good half hour, she was buried in Alex's chest, waiting for the inevitable. With hands over her ears (both her and Daddy's) and a coat wedged against them as well, Adeline powered through the fireworks. She really put on her brave face and claims to have enjoyed them - there were moments where I question this. I am pretty proud of her regardless. I never dreamed she would make it through the show without tears.
A great night!
