Independence Day

Since we'd gotten home from vacation early, early, early June 30, by the time the 4th rolled around our house was still a bit chaotic as we were still trying to get everything in back in place and laundry done.

We did pull out our swimming pool for the backyard and let the girls play in the pool for a good long bit; meanwhile, Tom and I played some XBox. After pool time, we finally got ready for the day. We'd bought 4th of July shirts in Washington for the girls, and I was fortunately able to find them so they could wear them (of course I did forgot to take pictures of them . . . it really was a blah kind of day for us). We did decide to make homemade ice cream for a special treat today. The girls really enjoyed this and every time Tom added ice cubes he had 3 helpers adding the cubes for him.



We were going to do some fireworks ourselves, but there was a ban on fireworks and the only way to do it was to go to a special designated firework area. The last time we tried going to one of those areas it had rained and there was mud everywhere in this huge field crammed pack with people and fireworks. The kids were miserable, and we were miserable. We decided that we really didn't want to do that again, especially as it had rained a bit during the day. The other problem was that the girls were still adjusting to a new sleeping schedule since returning to Texas, and by the time 8 o'clock hit, they were ready for bed. Of course darkness doesn't really hit until after 9, so we were very boring parents (maybe you could consider us mean, too) and made them go to bed on time tonight . . . without any fireworks. Fortunately, they really don't remember this holiday very much, so they didn't feel like they missed out on much. I felt bad later that night that they had missed out on seeing fireworks, but I did feel like we'd made the best decision. Hopefully next year will be better and a little more fun because we really love this holiday. We LOVE our country and are so grateful for all of the freedoms we have and for the kind of life we are able to lead because of this country. We are very proud to be Americans. Here's hoping that next year will be filled with fireworks and a little more celebration at the Orme house.