Star Spangled Fun!

Even though America isn't what is used to be, and is far from our forefathers' dream, and greedy, selfish, power-hungry politicians seek to destroy the "American Dream", we are still fortunate to live in this country and enjoy the freedoms of this land. I hope I don't offend anyone by saying those things it is simply an opinion...some truth mixed in. So, with that said, a BIG thank you to those serving our country and sacrificing time away from their loved ones to maintain that freedom and safety!

We spent the 4th in North Carolina as tradition has been for the last 12-15 years. Jon got off work early the day before so we packed up the car and made our way to the cabin. We ran into some serious traffic in one of the small towns we pass through. I have NEVER seen that much traffic in this particular town before and come to find out, people were lining the streets and sidewalks for the fireworks show! Perfect! We went up the street about 5 miles to get our own fireworks for that night and had the hardest time picking some out. Most of these fireworks can't be found in Georgia, and are classified as "barely legal". We finally made our selection and as we walked out realized that the firework show had already begun--maybe 5 minutes. So we caught that and by this time it was late and the kids were exhausted!

For the 4th we went to the lake, it was super hot! We had the intention to watch another firework show 30 minutes away and grill hamburgers at the spot before it started. However, our plans were shot when we got there and realized there was no display of fireworks to be seen! Bummer. We ended up eating late and not doing our fireworks we bought, except a few sparklers, but it was still fun nonetheless.

"Gonzo" (16 Shots)
The "Barely Legal" Section of the store. These were awesome, even though I missed the first few shots trying to get the cameras ready. *sigh*

He had just woken up from a short nap and was waiting for some action!


They had some kid size buggies (aka shopping carts in some areas). Keilana saw a little girl with one and she HAD to have one herself. She helped us go shopping for fireworks and would throw some in her little buggy. Jon had the idea to add Kayden to the merchandise. I wish I could find one of these for the kids to play with.


Keilana found this hat without me knowing. My first thought was to hurry and get it off her head (thanks to the whole lice fiasco) but it was already on her head and the damage was done if it was going to happen. So I decided to take click a quick picture of it since it was super cute on her. Some of you might remember her in this dress last year. It still fit her so she wore it again! I'm finding that most of her dresses are fitting her even 2 years later--they just get a little shorter on her. =)


Another BIG accomplishment for Keilana! Last year she would have nothing to do with sparklers but after a little bribing and coercing, we finally got her to hold sparklers this year! After a few she realized they ARE fun and won't hurt her. She still freaks out with the BIG fireworks. She's very apprehensive about loud noises. Good girl, Lana! Way to be brave.


Kayden had no reservations about getting in on the sparkler fun! He loved it but is still a little dangerous with them so Jon was helping him do circles and spell his name.