June is coming to a close

It never ceases to amaze me how fast the summer months go by. This is our first official summer in Sparta. As the days pass by we are settling into a routine of life in this small farming community. The hills are lush and green with corn fields every where you look!
This month, Sparta hosted an event called "Butterfest". A carnival is set up in the town's park and there are many activities throughout the weekend, including a parade. Much like the ones we were used to up in Hibbing, there were a lot of homemade floats and school bands. I couldn't believe what a huge deal this event is..softball tourneys, contests of all sorts, food, games and concerts.
Recently, we discovered a local beach, which is only a ten minute drive from our house. So we have spent many a hot day down there. Fort McCoy is right down the highway from us and they have a nice campground facility there. Anyone looking at doing some camping should check it out. The beach is a part of the campground. It's clean, sandy and well maintained. They have lots of lifeguards (just ask my girls all their names) and two slides out on a floating dock. The kids are enjoying it and Britt drives down there after work a lot.
June has been a very hot month so far and we sure could use some rain...!
Another summer month gone...July promises to be full of fun and adventure.
That's it for now.

Brock sitting on the beach at Fort McCoy; the heat index was one hundred this particular day.

I had to include this picture for all of you who think people just drive around in tractors around here... oh wait....nevermind.

A farmer on stilts talks to some kids along the parade route

The Sparta Marching Band banner... in the Butterfest parade.