4th of july-- my favorite!

Oh ya know, I just love the 4th of July!

This year was so fun but-- SO HOT.

We went to our usual concert in the park etc... this year the joy of extreme heat came along with us. That was sarcasm.

I love the 4th--- but the heat I could live without.

It was especially great to have Jack home!

We ate our Independence Day traditional menu of

Fried Chicken

Shrimp salad

Chips

Veggies & dip

and 

sodas with lemonade.

We also had delicious American flag cookies.

Our Sweet Brian & Laura came along.

And look who else?

Red headed Johnny!!

YEA-- Marcus & Brittany are back from his 5 week internship in Brazil.

Well, Brittany & Johnny were at her parent's house- but Marcus was in Brazil.

We missed them.

While they were away-

Johnny turned 1

Started walking

and 

became an official "red head!"

we could not be more thrilled!!!

(his hair was too thin before to know if it would be truly red or not - he is actually trawberry blondish)

 Trent didn't want his picture taken.

Maybe he was too hot?

In the car on my way home from an appointment with Trent, just an hour before the picnic-

 the thermometer said 100 degrees! HOT STUFF

Brittany shared her hat.

Even with the heat it was crowded.

Most of Jack's buddies who went are home from missions now.

It's so wonderful to see them all home & together.

The fellow on the far right (Taylor) got home from England less than a week ago & has a touch of an English accent.

Amazing boys.

It cooled down & the fire works did not disappoint.

I loved them- set to patriotic music... serious love.