And Then the Music Begins...

This is a photo-heavy post so if seeing July 4 parade photos interests you, read on!  
If not, you can skip this post.

The 4th of July parade in a Western Massachusetts town always thrills the thousands of people who line the streets to see it.

When my own parents took their five kids to the parade, many years ago, it never disappointed.

Today, seeing my grandchildren enjoy the floats, fife and drum corps, and musical bands, fills my heart with happiness.

The music played by the groups of talented musicians of every ilk makes the heart beat hard and fast.

Electric enthusiasm jumps through the air.

The tunes can be heard for blocks. 

 They get hundreds of pairs of feet pounding on the sidewalks and main roads of the parade route. 

Some of the songs bring tears to the eyes as they emphasize patriotism. 

Others make parade viewers smile and clap.

Long live July 4th parades!

Until next year then, (God-willing and the creeks don't rise), goodbye parade-lovers!