Happy Fourth of July!

The Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays. This year it started early- the boys woke everyone up at 5 AM so we could be ready to be at the church at 8. Unfortunately, they were ready in about 5 minutes and had to sit around waiting for everyone to wake up and get ready. Mom tied a star-shaped red and blue wreath to the front of our truck so we could be patriotic looking. We arrived at the church right on time. The boys were part of the color guard that raised the flag. They did a very good job. We said the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, and had a prayer. Then two very good letters from military members were read. Spencer read one and did a very good job. As the church doors were opened and closed, the smell of butter and pancakes wafted out. Everyone quickly lined up and went inside. Imagine the dismay when we, still unused to Southern foods, discovered it was a grits, eggs, sausage, and biscuits breakfast instead of a pancakes, eggs, and sausage breakfast. But we wondered- how did the grits smell like pancakes? The food was actually pretty good and we enjoyed being there.
After the breakfast we went home and made our truck sparkling clean. Then the day proceeded in a fun fashion. Mom and Hannah spent the day in the kitchen cooking a pound cake, deviled eggs, potato salad, and jell-o. Jessica worked out in the garden and planted pumpkins and bell peppers. Everyone else rode bikes, played in the backyard, or played inside. After a delicious hamburger dinner we loaded up the truck. We drove to see fireworks, along with many other people. The field, and nearby streets, were lined with people on blankets and chairs. It was actually not as crowded as we expected. We met neighbors and a family from church- that was fun. We spread out our blankets and prepared to wait. We had glow sticks, card games, and face paint to occupy our time. Then, after dark, the show began. Braden was surprised and a little nervous. The fireworks were loud, colorful, and big! We had a good time and then went home. It was a great holiday.