Independence Day

This year the 4th of July fell on a Sunday. When you live in a state where the majority of the population is of the LDS faith, the holiday will not be celebrated on the Sunday it falls on, unless that holiday is a religious one. So that meant a weekend full of fun this year. There were large displays of fireworks, parades, and festivities all weekend long. Anna and I sat on our front lawn and watched the large fireworks display from a distance on Saturday. Then on Sunday, we had a barbecue with my in-laws and set off fireworks at home. The loud squeals that came from those fireworks were too much for my very tired and ill-prepared child. The only way she would watch them (without screaming) was from the comfort of the front window inside of the house. So grandpa held her and ultimately rocked her to sleep that night. Finally, on Monday, Anna and I headed up to Cache Valley for the annual Hyrum parade and barbecue with my parents and their friends. All in all, we had a great weekend. I love the simpleness of Independence Day...summer warmth, fun gatherings with family and friends, yummy barbecues, and fireworks, with none of the added stress of gifts or elaborate dinners like other holidays.

Getting ready to light fireworks. She has no idea what is about to happen.
Who knew that the way to get my hubby to smile is to put a blow torch and flammable items in his hands??
A little apprehensive when Trav lit the first firework. After this she would be hiding in the house.
Anna was much more prepared for the celebrations after a good night's sleep. She loves parades!
My beautiful girl with her grandma...and her Bug Juice.
Anna loves her uncle "CoCo".
And her uncle JJ.
Anna's favorite pastime at the barbecue was climbing up the slide and then working up the bravery to slide down. Isn't grandma's face priceless?
A look of sheer determination...
"I did it!"
Loving her Buppa.
And asleep about 5 seconds later. Celebrating is hard work!