4th of July: Lake Chetek, Wisconsin

We headed to Lake Chetek, Wisconsin to meet Mike's family for the 4th of July. It was a 13 hour drive but the kids did great with some help from the DVD's in the car. :)

Grandma & Grandpa Anderson
Grandpa A's brother, Denny, owns a small cottage on Lake Chetek. Grandpa A has many fond memories spending time with his parents and brothers when he was a boy. A big thanks to Denny for sharing his beautiful cottage and boats with us.

It didn't take long to get out on those boats and check out the lake.
Axel was not impressed by the life jacket which in this family we call "the float coat."
I love this photo and it's even funnier with Axel in the back ground.
Here's a view of the front.
Here are your winners! Both Mike and I ran in the 4 mile Fishy Four Race. Out of 810 run/walkers, I took first place for my age group (4th overall for women) and Mike took second in his. Maybe next time we'll train a little a take the grand prize! Ha! We were sore for days! :)
Every evening, we made a fire and enjoyed smores and each others company.
The evenings were also reserved for fireworks down by they lake.
Sparklers were a huge hit!
We even made it to the top of Wisconsin's High Point.
Uncle Mark and Lucas didn't let the rain stop them from grabbing some yummy parade treats.
Ice cream, of course!
Hanging out at the cottage.
It was a beautiful lake. Lots of water skiing and turtle catching.
Part of the weekend arsenal of fireworks.
Daddy, Axel, Marshall (Grandpa A), Lucas, Uncle Mark & Uncle Bill.
Heading out on the lake to see the firework show. The Whole Crew: Uncle Mark, Uncle Bill, Little Lilly, Cousin Kevin, Daddy, Grandpa A, Lucas & Grandma A.
Aunt Kate, Great-Uncle Denny & Uncle Mark.
Mommy & Axel.
We had a feeling a beautiful sunset was in store. This was a real treat especially after the down pour of rain we had during the parade.
We were right. It was more amazing than expected!!! A perfect scene right before the big fire works show.
Uncle Mark & Aunt Kate.
Axel.
Lucas with Grandma A.
The Boat Captain.
After the big show, we had a little-big show of our own! These were no little fireworks and boy, they were loud and BIG! So fun.
Happy 4th of July!