Fireworks, Friends and Fun

I have loved the Fourth of July ever since I was little. I remember my dad driving to Wyoming to get the "illegal" fireworks to shoot off over the river behind our house, the tiny display at the Menan park, which soon gave way to us going to the big Maleluca fireworks in Idaho Falls.

This year we didn't have any big plans other than taking Brayden to the Boise fireworks, so I was so exited when our friends James and Charise invited us to go up to McCall with them. We stayed with her parents (who by the way have GREAT accomadations).

Our drive up there took a while when the city of Cascade chose to shut down the main highway for their parade. When we finally got there, we got settled, had lunch and took the kids to the beach front. Brooklyn wasn't too sure of the sand and it was a little chilly, but that didn't stop the rest of the kids, including Billy and James that built quite the castle/fort that lasted the whole weekend.

Then we went back for an awesome bbq of ribs and lots of other yummy stuff. I have to say that is the best I have ever eaten on the fourth. We did a few fireworks on the beach until we ran out of matches, and then sat on the docked boat and watched the firework display over the lake. It was so beautiful!!!! It was Brooklyn's first fireworks and she loved them. Brayden and M. were so cute watching the fireworks together. I can't wait for them to get married so we can put this picture in their slideshow.

The next morning Charise made and awesome breakfast (Can you tell I'm prego and love food!!!) and we headed out on a hike. I think the sign said 2 or something miles, but I'm pretty sure it was 5 since you have to add a few when it is steep- right? The kids did great and Brooklyn enjoyed riding in the back pack. When she did hike, she had to step up on every rock in the trail and then jump off and say "cool!" Even the McMullins baby (1 month old) went and slept most of the way. I don't think there is any way I'll be out hiking one month after giving birth, but Charise made it look easy.

Later that evening we went out on the boat. Brayden was THRILLED! Some day we'll have one, but until then we enjoy the charity of others :) The kids loved it as did I. You could smell the water and pine trees- just beautiful! We stopped and to my surprise Brooklyn wanted IN the water. She was so mad when Billy wouldn't dip her in any more. Then Billy bribed Brayden to jump in. What a fun weekend. Thanks McMullins for giving me one of my favorite July 4ths!