Fourth of July 2012

The Fourth of July was one to remember this year. We had a great day. With Mike just beginning his fellowship and now being on the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to having any say in anything, I wasn't planning on him being around for the holiday. But we had a tender mercy occur and Mike didn't have to go into the hospital at all that day! Hooray! 

Woke up and went for a run. It feels so good to start my day that way. I still haven't found anyone to run with and still don't see any runners while I'm out but I'm feeling more and more comfortable in my neighborhood. Plus I always feel better after I go, I never get back from a run and regret going. :)

We headed over to our church Fourth Of July breakfast celebration. We had a great time mingling and getting to know more and more people we go to church with. I couldn't feel more loved and welcome in our new ward. Everyone is very friendly and outgoing. It's been so comforting and has made our adjustment a lot easier. 

That evening we had been invited by some neighbors to attend another neighbor's street party. It was a blast. We had a barbecue with lots of people from the neighborhood who we go to church with. Again, everyone was so friendly. It was easy to talk to people. I've never felt this comfortable in a ward from the get go. People really go out of their way to get to know you and make you feel welcome. 

Once everyone had eaten. We headed out to the street where everyone was out on their lawns hanging out. It was quite the street party.

Charlotte loved playing with the other kids but I think the highlight for her was playing in the gutter. Yes, I'm a great mom, I let my child play in the gutter. 

Judge me all you want. 

Other highlights included yard games, a parade of kids riding their decorated bikes down the street, and a water balloon fight between the kids. It really was so fun.  

Some of our new neighbors and friends we go to church with. 

The entire street was closed for the night for various games and activities. It was such a good time. 

The night ended with a firework show put on some guy in the neighborhood. We had heard it was a pretty good show and worth watching. Let me tell you his show did not disappoint. This guy takes his fireworks very seriously. Here he is with some of his firework load getting ready. 

Part of the firework show we got to enjoy. Pictures don't do justice, it really was an impressive show. He put Mike's, Walker Firework Extravaganza show to shame. If we ever host a firework show again, Mike will have to put more than $50 bucks into fireworks to keep up with this guy. I'm not kidding he probably spent at least $1000 bucks. 

But really the highlight of the Fourth of July was having my MOM COME INTO TOWN!!!! Hooray! She fit right in and mingled and got to know everyone with us. In fact, I'm pretty sure there were plenty of people who enjoyed talking to my mom more than Mike and I. Not surprised, she's pretty freakin awesome. 

We had so much fun having Grandma Kris in town. That's a whole other post to come! 

Happy birthday America!