Happy Birthday, America!

On July 4th, the United States of America celebrated 234 years as a nation!  We were blessed to be able to get together with friends to enjoy the day.  My friend, Val, hosted a cookout.  The weather was SO hot, but she has a pool!  The kids had a great time--swimming, badminton, smores--what more could you want?

Our little friend, Sophie, enjoying the pool

Steve had to work that evening, so he could only come for a bit.  At least he had the day off, which isn't always the case.

(And yes, his mouth was full of food.)

Here's Eli giving Aidan a ride in the pool.  Eli is such a great kid--he's wonderful with the younger children, very patient, and always willing to help them out.

Me & my friend, Kelly--love that girl!

Patience, through the badminton net--it was fun playing this game after we had watched the Wimbledon finals that weekend!

Time for s'mores!  Blowing out a marshmallow that had been on fire. :)

Nothing says fun on the 4th of July like sparklers!

(Note how Eli couldn't take his eyes off of the sparkly wonder long enough to look at me while I was taking the picture!)

More fun than that?  Sticking sparklers into the fire pit!  (C'mon now, that's good, responsible fun! LOL)

I hope you all had a happy & safe Independence Day!