july FOURTH o-nine

Our 4th of july was spent in hot hot Arizona. Grandma and Grandpa took the kids to the church parade and breakfast early that morning.

They were more than excited to show off the grandkids and Farmboy and I were more than happy to sleep in a bit. We did arrive in time for the last few songs and breakfast.


Farmboy and I got a short date where we traveled around Mesa visiting some childhood spots. And of course we stopped in to get some Thrifty icecream {it's hard to pay over $.25 and not feel like you are getting ripped off}.

That evening we headed to a local church ball field {thinking we'd be the only ones with the brilliant idea---not a chance} to see the fireworks. They were perfect. 20 to 30 minutes long is just right for 2 tired kids. HY and Mini-E thought it was wonderful. And I have to admit that it's my favorite part of the holiday as well.

4th of July Festivities

With such a young family, we don't have very many traditions. So, each year we try to invent a few more to add to the list. This year we:

Lit some sparklers the night before & took a walk
Went to the ward breakfast at 8 am at the park
Drove up to Hill Air Force Base to check out the cool planes & helicopters (so cool, you have to check it out & it's FREE)
Took naps
Daddy made homemade icecream
BBQed with Aunt Lala & Uncle RD's family
Had our own fireworks show with cousins
And watched big fireworks from afar

Not bad to add to the traditions. We'll be keeping a few of those fun traditions for next year.

Happy 4th of July

Evolution of the family picture...

You all know the drill. Nonna calls everyone to come gather for a family picture. A few stragle in here and there. "Come on guys....girls...kids...get your brother...get your sister..."

"Scoot in a bit. Get close...Come on Chi"
"A little closer...we can't see you..." Almost there

We look more like a choir being conducted by Nonna.

The Finished product...

It's definitely worth it. And it only took about 20 minutes.

Happy 4th of July

A Quick Page(thanks to Mindy) to document our family on the 4th of July. It's very rare to get us all in one picture.

We had such a great day yesterday. We got to spend the day with FAMILY. In my opinion that's the best way to spend any day.