July 4

We had a great time on the 4th of July. We had an afternoon BBQ

at my parents. My grandpa and grandma were there, along w/ my aunt & uncle,

and brother & sister inlaw. Here we are in front of the flag.

Due to gas prices my brother got a moped. He brought it and everyone took a spin on it.
I drove it once- and was a tad nervous. I used to drive my dad's when I was Julie's age...no fear of course....but I guess I lost my cool.


Jacob was very keen on his uncle's arsenal....and I am not kidding when I say
ARSENAL! My brother has a hidden weapons permit- and brought alot of his stuff to
show us. Let's see, there was: brass knuckles, a metal wand you snapped to extend out(used to cane or smack someone in the temple), a couple hand guns, and at least 3 war rifles...that looked like machine guns (but were semi auto). The one Jake has has the bayonet attachment on.
He is looking forward to guns safety classes when he is older, and going duck hunting & such w/ his uncle.


Besides the moped & guns uncle Jon brought oysters to grill for appetizers. It was a first
for Solon, Jacob and I. Jake had just this one, seasoned w/ butter, garlic, and salsa. He said they didn't have much taste- but declined seconds! I tried 2 each seasoned differently....they weren't
my cup o tea.

Here is Alyssa eating a festive cookie. After we ate we did a few sparklers and headed off to my inlaws. We went down the road w/ them to a neighborhood BBQ/ fire works show. My neice and nephew went too. As it turns out the kids were more into playing on the play set than watching the fireworks. One of the ladies that came had the GREAT IDEA to bring tons of glow bracelets. It made it nice to keep track of where the kids were in the dark. Unfortunately, I had forgotten my camera & have no pics w/ the Elenbaas side. The above pics are from my dad.
Well, we love the 4th. We are grateful for the freedoms we have as Americans, and pray those freedoms will continue.