Independence Day

Our tradition has been going strong for nine years in celebrating the 4th of July with a neighborhood block party. Every year we see a mix of the same neighbors that celebrate with us, and those that don't come every year. But every year it is always a huge success and so much fun. It wouldn't be the 4th with out our Block Party.

This year we invited our dear family friends to celebrate with us. They are just the most heart warming people with the best sense of humor. It was a wonderful night.

A surprise visitor arrived as we were winding down the barbecue hours of our night. The Popsicle Man!! The fun behind this story was that the man was starving - s.t.a.r.v.i.ng. - that he offered my hubby a trade. Free Popsicles of any kind from his truck for all the kids, for two burgers and side dishes for him. It was a deal. We made a friend with the Popsicle Man. We invited him back for next year; I bet he shows.

The day was warm, and relaxing. The dogs did amazingly well. The above puppy is the neighborhood Boxer, only seven months old. He was a Rock Star!! Cora has never been worried, nervous, or scared over any Firework. She has always been a dream. Haddie was great for her age; not minding the random noises during the daylight hours, but was more worried as the constant noises were out in the night. She stayed snug in her crate in our family room - doing quick bathroom breaks on a leash in the backyard. Haddie did not mind missing the party going on in the front.

The kids bike parade, and kickball game, were the traditional highlight before the fireworks began. This year was the first year that our son was able to light Fireworks on his own. Originally he was going to light only the supply that he purchased with his own money. He was so proud of choosing when to light which ones, and enjoyed every "grown up moment".

But then to hear as the day turned to night that Dad granted him the fire starter wand to keep lighting the Family Fireworks stash - he was beaming. He did a fantastic job and proved to be highly responsible. The best part was watching his smile beam a mile wide at his grown-up status.

Last year we lit a Lantern in honor of our sweet friend adopting her daughter from Ethiopia. They were headed to see her for the First Time right after the 4th. Baby Girl has been home just short of one year and is thriving! Such a sweet girl who has grown so much in eleven months. This year we lit a Lantern for our friend also adopting from Ethiopia. As of the 4th of July they were still on the Wait List and "nothing new" had been developing in regards to the adoption. On Monday of this week they found out that they are now sitting in the #1 position for a Referral Call. This is a HUGE moment in their lives - waiting for that phone call announcing the arrival of their SON any day. We rejoice.


What a wonderful 4th of July celebration!!