July 4th Highlights

I have always loved the layed back relaxed holidays. I enjoy just being with friends and family and having fun. There is always so much to pick and choose from on the 4th, from breakfasts to lunches and carnivals, water activities, sports, picnics or BBQs, games, fireworks, and of course, trying to hit people's feet with those poppers. Trust me, the last one is the most fun.

This year Emma said she wanted to go swimming, so we didn't say no. She loves diving for rings, and Eric let her try with all of them instead of just one. Of course, she needs a little help getting down to them - otherwise she just stays at the top with her head under and her arms reaching out.

Knowing she would be up later than usual we wanted to make sure she got a nap. And as soon as she was up we were off to get together with family. When they weren't trying to pilfer food prior to dinner, the kids were watching movies and playing outside on the swings (I think all of them got hurt on the swing at least once that day, but they all got right back on), blowing bubbles and throwing bean bags. They tried their hand at ping pong, but that was mostly for the adults. Eric went undefeated which I was happy about until he beat me too (not that I'm great or anything, I just don't like to lose). Dinner was great (you can't beat grilled corn on the cob), and it was wonderful being outside.

Not long after eating the kids were anxious to get going with some fireworks, so we did some smoke bombs. They went crazy running through all the different colors of smoke. When it was finally dark enough to somewhat enjoy sparklers they did those too. Then we walked over to watch the fireworks show at the park. Between the fireworks, all the people, and their glow sticks, the kids were extremely well entertained. The older 2 stayed up for some of our own fireworks, but Emma didn't really like the screamers. She preferred the quiet ones.
We got home just after midnight, and hurried to bed. It was another great holiday! I love that we get to have so much fun and then get to do it again in 3 weeks! You gotta love back to back holidays like that. Plus it's just that much more time Eric has paid off of work. The summer is going by so quickly! Even as an adult I think it's too short.