Celebrate USA

We have come to enjoy hosting 4th of July parties at our house since we have such a good view of the fireworks without having to endure the mayhem of people we don't care to be around. This year we went fancy and sent out invitations. The girls were very excited to help make the invitations during my lunch hour one day.Chloe decided she liked being in charge of the glue dots. Her little nimble fingers did a great job with that.

Claire was very pleased with the finished product.

I LOVE having my family together. Since my Grandpa Payne's birthday is on the 4th we decided to call him and sing "Happy Birthday". Apparently my mom, who was there visiting, didn't tell him who was on the phone. We all got a good laugh when after a very jolly version of the song he asked "Who is this?"
We also enjoyed having some of our friends join us.

The kids enjoyed playing in the yard as we waited for the firework show to begin. Here Stacey is mixing up something good in the mud mixer.
We got a kick out of Chloe and her friend Parker cruising around the yard. I wish I knew what Parker was looking for under the car.
There was plenty of food for non-stop indulgence. The weather was perfect for hanging out and enjoying the day and each other.

As it finally got dark enough for the show to get started the kids loved playing with their glow sticks and necklaces.

We are so fortunate to be able to celebrate freedom, family and fun.