And so it begins...

At Midnight, our parade trek started as Warren moved the float from Sandy, Utah to staging area of 1st South and West Temple.  We were ready to go by 6:00 am where we were greeted by Chanel 4 News for feature about our float.  Cynthia handled it like a pro!

The parade participants showed up bright and early for float judging. 

Our efforts paid off, we were awarded the UTAH Award.  Our float best represents the state of Utah. There are 16 awards given out, three are given to corporations.  We were  thrilled with winning this award, considering that Utah is what this parade is all about.

And now the parade begins...

Float Launch Party

Root-Beer Floats, live music, square dancing and of course a wonderful float to look at and admire.  These are the perfect elements of fun!

The Float is Finished!

Ready for a party and the parade!!

Our float chair, Cynthia, is grateful the float is done!  Well almost...shortly after this picture was taken she repaired the fringe (by her feet) that was torn off in transit.

Off to the Party!!

The last thing to do was put the top on the tree and head over to the Float Party!!

Late Night and Letters

 Who ever said working late into the night isn't fun clearly has never built a float ;)

Putting on the floral sheeting (aka plastic grass) and the lettering

Getting Leaves on the Tree

With just a couple days to go it was time to put the 400 leaves and 80 apples on the tree.  It took a bit of time but very satisfying to see it all come together.  

The Creek Is Almost Ready For Fish

Most creek beds do not require a quick vacuum before fish are introduced, but we wanted everything to be perfect for our beautiful fish!  

The Flower Girls

All we can say is the flowers on the float are going to be AMAZING!!!

Carving the Roots

 Roots are critical for our apple tree and our community...we are glad we have good ones!

The Great Tree

The most challenging part of the float has been the Great Apple Tree.  From its conception it has taken 3 1/2 months to build and is almost complete!  From welding 1 massive trunk, 20 limbs, 40 branches, 240 twigs, wrapping it with burlap, spraying it with 60 cans of "Great Stuff" foam, 10 hours of sanding, 6 gallons of paint its starting to reach its full potential.  It is a work of art!  Thanks to all those who made it happen!

Old Log Schoolhouse 1854

The Old Log Schoolhouse is done!!