This year, we decided to spend our 4th of July in another hotel. No, we aren’t moving again – we drove down to Huntington Beach for the weekend with some friends.  If you knew us last year, you’ll remember we had just moved to San Diego and were stuck in a hotel while trying to find a house.  So, this year’s 4th already had way more potential than last year’s! The hotel was way better too!

We didn’t know much about Huntington Beach other than it was only about an hour away and known for having the best 4th of July parade in California. The town and people there were very patriotic and flag decor was seen just about everywhere you could put it – literally everywhere. From bikes to bikinis to dogs and cars. There was even a teen walking around with a tiny American flag Speedo on… quite the people-watching spot it was – but boy, was it crowded!

We headed down to the parade and pushed our way through the crowd of people to grab a seat on the curb. Logan is doing really great since his surgery, but still moving slower than normal. Plus, Easton decided that weekend that he only wanted Daddy to hold him, so Logan was stuck with an extra 30lbs on his shoulders. Nothing like a toddler to force you into a quick recovery!

The parade was great and after some lunch with our friends, we made our way down to the beach for a quick walk.

Logan got an A+ in his hotel booking skills because he not only booked us a room with a great view, he got us a room that was overlooking the Huntington Beach pier, right where the fireworks would be going off! Here’s a quick shot from our balcony during the day and at night.

One of the most enjoyable fireworks displays I’ve seen. Easton enjoyed them for a few minutes before he fell asleep.

The next day was spent at the pool playing in the water with friends. Easton has turned into quite the little water lover (like there was any doubt?).

Among all the fun, we failed to remember that too much activity and lack of schedule makes Easton a cranky boy! Parent fail. Vacations are great, but vacations with toddlers are exhausting! Between the activity filled days, eating late, and poor napping, we had one tired baby! We can only blame ourselves and this was definitely a learning vacation for us. For one, please remind me before we go on our next vacation to book a suite. Having a crib in the only room is no bueno. And sticking to your normal schedule as much as possible is key.

Cheese sticks in bed before heading out for a late dinner.

On our last day in Huntington Beach, we got up early to walk down to the pier before it filled with people. It really is a pretty beach. I’m sure we’ll enjoy coming back another time when it’s not so crowded.

Headed home after an exhaustively fun weekend.

Hope everyone had a fun 4th of July! We are back into our normal groove here at the Staggs house and looking forward to a nice relaxing weekend!