Happy July 4th and 5th

To celebrate Independence Day, we went to our first fireworks show with Anya Rashi. We skipped it last year because she was barely home 6 months by that point, and we thought the loud noise (and late bedtime!) might freak her out. I was happy to be back this year . . . there's something so special about sitting with people from all walks of life who've chosen to abandon their worries or cynicism and be spellbound by fireworks.

Anya Rashi absolutely LOVED the fireworks, and was shrieking with excitment and clapping for every blast. She alternated between her own lawn chair and Daddy's lap, when the noise got to be a little too much for her.

In addition, we celebrated July 5th -- my mom's birthday! Aaron and Nathan made patriotic cards for her, one of which said "233 years ago, our country was born. 66 years ago, you were born." Hope that didn't make grandma feel too old! The other card was signed by none other than John Hancock, fancy calligraphy and all. :o)

My mom is a funny, smart, caring, warm, outgoing, athletic lady. My childhood is filled with memories of watching her play softball (including pitching a no-hitter!), laughing with her, making Christmas cookies, canning and freezing tons of produce from our garden, camping in many states as we drove to Colorado and Oregon, and even working with her one summer during college. I love watching her be a grandma, and I admire her ongoing spirit of adventure in her new retirement years -- tutoring school children, taking Bible study classes, volunteering at Mother & Unborn Baby Care, golfing and bowling in her womens' leagues. She has always given me a great picture of living life to its fullest, and I'm so grateful for her. I love you, Mom. Happy birthday!