THE SMITH FAMILY: Fourth of July

We got to celebrate the Fourth of July twice this year, which is okay with me because I love this holiday!

Our first celebration was with my family. It was part Independence Day and part birthday party. My dad and family were so sweet they wanted to have a birthday dinner for me and also wanted to have a fabulous firework show for the girls since fireworks are pretty much a "no-no" in Illinois. I mean the best we can do is light sparklers and do some poppers.

So on Sunday, July 3rd we had a big family dinner at Becky's house. My dad grilled chicken and shrimp and bought me a cheesecake for my birthday. I also got a big basket of Scentsy stuff from my sisters and mom. It was really nice and so fun to be together. Unfortunately, I didn't get many pictures, I was too busy having fun and putting out fires.

I am being literal about the fires. Becky and her husband Chuck took my dad and bought a bunch of fireworks. They had a big variety--from the little fountains you set off in the street to big aerial fireworks that shoot up 100 feet. Let's just say that I had the scare of my life when one of the big fireworks tipped over and shot into ditch which then started the weeds on fire. Fortunately, everyone was able to get it out before it got out of control, but it scared the daylights out of me. I was pretty much ready to call it night after that, but everyone else was totally unfazed and the show continued----thank goodness without further incident. Needless to say there was much excitement and the girls saw a great show. Their parents were just grateful for what didn't happen :)

The next day we celebrated with the Smith Family. Dave's parents hosted a big backyard party for the extended family. We ate fried chicken, roasted corn on the cob, and a potluck of summer salads and desserts. It was also really nice to visit with some of Dave's aunts, uncles, and cousins. At dusk we pulled out chairs to watch the professional firework show that just happens to be perfectly viewable from Dave's parents front yard. Fun, fun, fun.