4th of July in Seaside

Yesterday, I posted about our stay at Grayton Beach State Park, and briefly mentioned the neighboring town of Seaside, Florida. I'd like to go into a little more detail about Seaside today if that's cool with errbody.
Let's start with a little history. Seaside is a planned community, meaning it was designed and built all at the same time, instead of developing organically, as most cities and towns do. It was built around the principles of "New Urbanism" a civil design concept that originated in the 1980s, which "promotes walkable neighborhoods containing a range of housing and job types" (wiki). Seaside is so perfect-looking, it was used as the set for the movie The Truman Show. It also doesn't hurt that it's right in the Florida panhandle, which is home to some of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen (and I've been places). Also, the main square is lined with food trailers that are built into the sidewalk. Urban planning at its finest!

Guy in the blue has HAD IT.

As you know, Seaside is where Team Tilly spent July 4th. After an afternoon at the beach, we headed into town to partake in the city-wide celebration that included a performance by the Pensacola Symphony. And also this golf cart:

#florida

But seriously, it was beautifully decorated, and really felt like small-town America. Josh mentioned that it reminded him of Main Street USA at Disney World, and he was totally right.

After giggling at the golf cart and standing in a way-too-long line for snow cones, we headed back to the beach for fireworks just as the sun was setting.

We watched the fireworks back at our campground, Grayton Beach State Park. We were right smack in the middle of the panhandle, and every city and town from Panama City Beach (to the East) to Fort Walton Beach (to the West), a stretch of about 60 miles, was setting off elaborate fireworks displays at the same time. Everywhere I looked, there were shimmery explosions in the sky. It was a totally surreal experience, and one that my 2-year-old iphone couldn't possibly capture accurately. So you'll just have to see it for yourself one day.

To hear about what's going on with our trip right when it happens instead of 3 weeks later, you should follow us on Instagram @tillyandlovebug, where I post 1-3 pictures per day of our shenanigans.