The Cozy Corner: Back to the Tradition of Celebrating the "Third of July"

Friday, July 04, 2014

Back to the Tradition of Celebrating the "Third of July"

HAPPY THIRD OF JULY!!!!! Last year, with the Western States Road Trip that we took, we missed the annual celebration we hold every year on the Third of July with our long time family friends.

We tried to keep things light and simple with the meals today - lots of fruit, baked beans, chips, sliders, and Costco Polish dogs.

And, something new this year - Vintage Sodas purchased from World Market. This was indeed a hit with the kids.

Thanks to John and Michael's efforts in putting together a drip system for watering the plants a couple of weeks ago, my flowers are looking happy - even after our week's absence.

S'mores on the dessert menu, along with Rice Krispie Treats, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. (Oh, and Raspberry Pretzel Salad - but we do classify that as a salad....) =)

Truthfully, Whitley's not really a fruit kid - but couldn't resist imitating me with the cherries...

I was SOOOOOOOO excited to see this girl again, I can't even tell you. And, if I was anywhere near the trampoline, she was excited to see me. But, if I wanted her to sit with my by the fire or eat dinner - nope, not interested. I know my place in her life!

She found plenty of people to support her "bouncy" habit though...

She has the forward roll totally down...

Soon after 6pm, these two families showed up - the Meyers and Quigleys. It was probably one of the best nights we've all ever had in terms of funny stories and laughter.

At this point, Lisa was playing "Remember When..." with the girls as to all of the things they used to do together. "Remember when Stephanie looked over in the hotel room and saw Mikayla lifting her shirt to nurse 'Baby Annabel" (the doll) because Erica taught her how?" Needless to say, the girls were rolling with all of the fun memories!

Meanwhile, Ellie was schooling her daddy on the basketball court. Really. She totally impressed Michael with her shooting skills!

Even Adam and Jackson joined in to help with Whitley's endless desire to be on the trampoline.

The guys were having a great time catching up. Honestly, that is Dennis' interested face... =)

Fireworks time - with half the fun provided by watching the boys and their antics and lack of talent in skill in setting them off.

Brayden was such a hoot, but we all agree that next year he's required to participate in a safety tutorial prior to lighting - his helter skelter antics had us a wee bit worried we'd end up in the ER by the end of the night.

This was Whitley's first time witnessing fireworks. It was so much fun to see her get excited. However the noise was scary to her. Her curiosity won out every time, though, as she was constantly asking for "more" even after burying her head into Stephie.