Le Tour de France... in OUR TOWN!

Ok, here comes A LOT of pics... but we're super excited that 

The Tour de France departed from our town in Albertville! It was (obviously) a huge event and there were loads of people. We decided to stay at the starting line so we could actually see them for more than 10 seconds as the passed by. We had several friends who were in the center of town and they said it happened so quickly... they came and they were gone. I'm glad we stayed at the starting line... 

Here are some of the sights from the day.

... at the Starting line

And "voila"... 

12 July 2012- Depart Tour de France

Albertville

... where you can get Official Gear!

Our little biker chick!

Daddy and the kiddos and the several hundred others there to watch...

So apparently, about 2 hours before the start for the cyclist, there is a huge caravan or parade that goes the entire length of the course each day. Sponsors and huge floats go by giving out free stuff (or "gifts" as they call it). This was the start of the huge caravan!

Mickey Mouse was in the caravan

This is one of the tire sponsors... and yes, Judd, this pic is for you!

I love that only in France would there be a "bread" float!!! 

While we waited for the race to start, we wanted to stay in our spot because we were close to the line. And, we had tired little ones... Noah slept and Sadie Mac rested... it was a long day... but well worth it!

This is the stage where they announced each rider and team

After they were announced, the riders got free things from Power Bar and another sponsor. 

They started lining up and this guy had an interview right in front of us!

Starting to line up...

Bradley Wiggins

On Your Mark...

 Get Set... GO!!!!

Wow, and GO they did!

And team cars followed!

Noah cheering!!!!

 We had an amazing day. Still can't believe it happened, but it was super fun. So thankful for this experience as a family!