4th of July

This summer we have been busy doing a whole lot of nothing...just enjoying simple things and time together. For the 4th of July, we had a family BBQ at my parents with swimming and games. Fireworks are illegal in El Dorado County, so that night we headed down to the Folsom Rodeo... good times!

Megan (always the fun aunt) face painted stars on Makayla's cheek. The kids were very excited to find out what the Rodeo was all about. Makayla's Favorite part was the "pretty ladies with the painted horses"(trick riders).

The best part of the night was when they had all the kids come down to play a game. The kids were supposed to line up around the edge and when the announcer yelled go, they were suppose to run out and collect silver dollars and cow bells. Well, Evan didn't quit get the whole wait until he says go part, and went running out filling his arms with bells. He was so proud of himself. If you look closely you will see him in the middle with the red shirt (and the mean cowboy that made him put the bells back and line up). When they made him return his prized bells, the crowd booed...I don't think I have ever laughed so much...that boy!

One of the really neat parts was that they had a man jump from a plane with a huge American Flag...it was amazing! I love so many things about the 4th of July...so many people coming together (even if it involves cowboy boots and tight jeans)....teaching our kids respect and love for their country...the awe on my kids faces as fireworks light up the night sky...and truly appreciating all the sacrifices that made it possible for us to enjoy that wonderful moment.