4th of July

I think this is the first year since the kids have been born that we have really celebrated the 4th of July - staying up until dark to watch the fire works.  Now, I am the first to admit that I'm not a huge fan of this holiday...not because I'm unpatriotic, more because the constant loud booming is unnerving.  I am not exaggerating when I say that our neighborhood is crazy.  Certifiable.  There were so many fireworks, I could almost see the money burning!  Washington has very liberal fireworks laws, so some of them really were incredible.  They started around 8:00 and went steadily until after midnight.  I love to watch fireworks (from a safe distance) and there were definitely some beautiful ones.  And the kids loved it!  Especially Carter - I think staying up late made him feel quite grown up.

We headed up two blocks to our friends, the Borreviks, who are also in our small group. Their street does a big dinner and then gathers together to put on an incredible firework show. I loved the socializing and really enjoyed spending time with our friends. The kids were off and running, having a great time, as well. (Kennedy wasn't feeling well earlier in the afternoon - she had an ear infection that was diagnosed the next day - but she rallied and enjoyed the party for a couple of hours)

The kids tricked out their bikes and had a little parade with the neighbor kids. 

 a fun activity for them, which they took very seriously

Enjoying one of the yummy, festive treats that I made for the block party.

Such a simple, fun idea - thanks pinterest - ice cream sandwiches rolled in sprinkles.

Someone is looking a little too grown up...

Had to snap a few pictures before we headed up the street.  Kennedy was still on the couch at this point, poor thing.

Happy 4th!

Not one to miss a party, Kennedy was ready for some fun after a little Tylenol.

love that little crinkled nose smile

Getting ready to ride around the block in a parade of sorts

It was fun having Nana with us, too.

Kennedy and Kaitlin

They were so sweet and played very well together

dear friends

thanks for having us, Sheri!

The Washougal fire department even made an appearance

Kennedy was right up front trying to snag a few pieces of candy!

fun with sparklers

I think my heart was racing the entire time the kids were playing with the sparklers and then again the entire time that the fireworks were going off...it all just seems so dangerous.  At what other time do we find it acceptable to let kids play with fire?  They loved every second of it.

I felt better with the girls sitting next to Dan...figured his reflexes were good and he'd keep them from catching on fire.  It was so cute to see Kennedy warming up to him - he's a great dad and a lot of fun.

Kennedy called it quits a bit after 8:00 - she still wasn't feeling very good and was getting tired.

I rode Carter's bike home, which elicited a lot of giggles from Kennedy and Nana.

Staying warm (and safe) while we watched the big fireworks.

Happy 4th of July!