July 4th, 2014

Happy 4th of July! We spent the day with our friends, the Harlins. Tyson took the kids out rafting on the river, and then we went to their house for some food. Later in the evening we went to our favorite spot to view fireworks -- up in the foothills. It was a really pleasant evening, the weather was perfect. We have been meeting-up with the Harlins on the 4th for many years. 

The only thing missing to make it a perfect day was Charles. However, Baby Henry was saying, "Daddy, daddy, daddy!" when we were up on the hill. I asked him where he was, and he pointed to the empty chair next to me. And there was a lovely warm breeze blowing too, which is Charles' way of saying, "I'm here." 

After the City fireworks we went to the Harlin's house for more. It is always a highlight for the kids. Charles loved to play with fireworks, and would always purchase some for the party. I was not brave enough to go to the fireworks stand this year… maybe next year. People in our area have some pretty spectacular displays though, so we were certainly not missing out on fun. 

After the fireworks, we sat and chatted until 2:00am. The weather was just perfect outside, Summer nights are something special. 

We had a great time, and are recovering from it today. 

There is nothing better than friends, family, food, fireworks, and FUN!  

Notice the ice-cream… we forgot spoons so they just scooped it out with cones and ate it. 

 

Waiting for the show to begin.

Rachelle, and me. Blogger distorted the image in a weird way? 

Playing with camera settings… I thought this picture was cool, I like how the city lights turned into checkmarks.

This picture makes me giggle. Talk about deer in the headlights! Also, William insisted that he sit on Tyson's lap. All of my kids gravitate towards him… Tyson is Charles' best friend, and my kids love him too. I think it is comforting for them to be around him.

Fireworks!

Sammi and a bunch of boys. (The 2 babies are missing -- they are boys too!) Sammi can hold her own though -- she can still beat Daniel arm-wresting, for now. But Daniel is growing like crazy! One day he will be her bodyguard.  And mine, too!

William wanted to do help with the fireworks so badly, he had to be reigned in a lot. But he got to take a few turns.

Life is flying by like crazy. I can hardly believe how fast time is slipping away. I think it best that everyone calms down, and enjoys each and everyday! Each day is a gift from God to you. Make the most of your days! Make them count! Make time for family, and for fun, and for breathing in and out.

Enjoy life.

Choose Happiness!