Loud Celebration

Once again, Independence Day rolled around and I was less than excited. The noise, the heat, and the chance of third degree burns always stresses me out. Michael and the kids had already driven halfway to Mountain Home to buy the "good" fireworks, though. So we were all set. 

The day before my nieces invited us all over to their house to celebrate the 4th, so our plans expanded.

We arrived around six in the evening and let the celebration begin.

We ate way too much grilled food.

We played clapping games, spy games, and murder games. 

We also sat around and visited. Look at these cute faces. I love them all so much.

Sam stayed well away from the games, but close to the food. He and Uncle Jeff also hammed for the camera.

Michael knew that there were going to be a ton of people so he brought some extra chairs from home. He opened these folding chairs and Finn's mind was blown. He started stroking the chair and smiling like mad. Then he patted the chair next to him, trying to convince someone else about the wonderful nature of these chairs.

I was happy to share the joy with him. Who knew folding chairs are the secret to happiness?

After all the food was eaten and the games played, it finally started getting dark. So, we headed out to play with fire. This dinosaur belching and farting giant smoke clouds brought joy to the soul of everyone of every age.

Then the true fireworks started. I had to hide inside the house when Michael let off a couple slightly illegal fireworks. Meanwhile, the neighbors were trying to outdo the city's display. I also hid inside during the super loud fireworks, but I was still able to watch through the window. It worked out well for everyone. After the last firework was burned out, we piled our kids in the van and drove back across town, watching all the wild illegal fireworks light up the night. 

I'm so glad I was able to get together with family. The Fourth is still not my favorite holiday, but it was a lovely evening full of some of my favorite people. What more could I ask for?