Independence!

I love so many things about the 4th of July- red and blue gingham tablecloths, pie, everyone in denim shorts and t-shirts, cook-outs, sunny mornings and midsummer thunderstorm-y afternoons, even the scent  of chlorine from the pool mingling with coconut suntan lotion.. Our 4th of July was spent swimming cooking, eating, talking, just relaxing really. I was thankful for something a little more low-key this year. We topped it off with some fireworks at the neighbors'. Below are a few of my favorite snapshots from the day. 

My favorite person. "Finger lickin' good."

Summer Feet

Sister Erin's splendid pies, or The Reason Why I Attempted Water-Aerobics Today. 

Pretty Paige swingin'

Poppy and the little doll. (My dad and my niece!) 

It was a fascinating day, weather-wise. I love those days when the sun peeks through the rain-clouds. 

I know, it always confuses me when people take pictures of fireworks.. 

but I just couldn't resist posting just one. 

Here is where I should say something deep about living in America and how I always take our freedoms for granted.. I can't really say anything on that subject that hasn't already been said. I guess all I can think of is that I'm just very thankful for my life, but I also realize that there are many (yes, even in good ol' America) who don't enjoy some of the liberties that I do. Living here does not guarantee perfect happiness, and I wish that I was more conscious of that truth in the lives of others. So I guess I am reminded today of the fragility of life and the fallibility of humans.. maybe that's why we need something beyond ourselves in order to experience "perfect peace."