4th of July

We love the 4th of July around this place. Mark has either been working or we have had a newborn for the last three or four years so this year we were very excited to be able to enjoy it as a family! We started our celebration the night before with our own little fireworks show at home. Yes, I am a mean mom and didn't wait until it was completely dark. It was this light outside at 9:30 for crying out loud!

 This picture cracks me up. We had a screamer (which I hate) and it scared Saydi so she watched from behind my chair. Hilarious.

 Bright and early on the 4th we went to our church for a breakfast. Then we headed off to the parade!

 Weston did this 90% of the time or complained that he was hot. But the candy always got him enjoying things again. He is definitely my child.

 Jonas didn't like the loud noises of the cars or sirens. Who did?

 A lady was walking around giving out frisbees and then she came back and plopped this hat on Mark's head (which was already red from the day before) and said that her husband said he needed it. Ha! Hooray for free stuff.

 It is rare that I get an opportunity to be on the other side of the camera with my chilluns. And even more rare that the picture actually turns out. As noted below. =)

After the parade we took much needed naps and then went to Mark's grandpa's house for a little family bbq. The food was amazing as usual and we visited for a while before coming back home for Jonas to take another little nap. While we were loading up to go to the fireworks Mark's mom stopped by so she and Jerry went with us to this field by our house. 

We had a GREAT view and our kids loved watching the fireworks even though they were definitely tired. Jonas was not a fan when the fireworks started so I just strapped him into his car seat and the poor kid was out in no time flat. I always get emotional during the fireworks. I have always been grateful for my country but even more so after marrying a Marine. People just do not understand what the military members sacrifice for them unless they have lived that lifestyle. I am so thankful I was born in a free country where I can have my own beliefs and practice them in any way I choose. And I am more grateful than I can express for the opportunity to marry someone who loves his country more than himself and showed me a whole lifestyle I never would have seen. Even though Mark isn't active duty anymore his convictions for his country have never faded. We love having the opportunity to celebrate our country!