National Night Out

For the third year in a row, our neighbor Terrina (with the help of a few others) coordinated a block party for National Night Out. We've really enjoyed getting to know our neighbors better and better through these parties and I for one am living proof these parties work the way they are intended to. I know and recognize our neighbors so much better now, wave and smile when we pass each other and with a better relationship, I find myself more protective of those around me. It's not just my house on the block, it's OUR neighborhood.

Anyway, Mallory had a blast as she usually does at these types of events. I think our block party was unique because the kids had a bike parade. On the Monday before NNO, another set of neighbors and I decorated our kids bikes for the bike parade. We probably went a little crazy, but the kids were so excited they could hardly wait for the next day to ride them.

Once the party started, we instantly had a visit from a Farmington Police Officer, the Farmington Mayor and a bunch of Target employees. The kids were obviously (and a little scary really) the most excited about Target. The employees that came gave out suckers, silly bands and played games with the kids which ultimately ended up with each kid winning a prize. Mallory won a flower and boy was she happy. She just LOVES this flower.

Next we got a great visit from the Farmington Fire Department. They brought a rescue truck, so the kids got to check out the back of the truck with all the medical equipment in it. Mallory had more interest in operating the heavy machinery. The fire department stayed for quite a while, which was nice, as I know they were volunteering their time and had many parties to stop at. Here is Mallory driving the fire truck...

Finally it was time for the big BIKE PARADE. The adults agreed it would be the best to have the smallest/youngest kid lead the parade, since they would be the slowest and wouldn't be left behind this way as all the other kids would have to hold their pace. Well, it just so happens that Mallory got to lead the bike parade. She was so excited to do so and did a great job. While all the kids didn't want to wait for her, she just took her time going from one end of the block to the other. That's a long way for her little legs to pedal, but she didn't stop or give up. She was determined to make it the entire length of the block. Christopher and I were so proud of her.

We had a WONDERFUL time with out neighbors, their kids and the public safety personnel from the City of Farmington. We're looking forward to next years NNO party, and are already starting to plan our bike parade decorations.