Sunday, July 5, 2009

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!

12 comments:

Sara said...

I love that 2nd picture of Anya Rashi - what a sweet, sweet smile! So glad you had a great celebration!

Julie & Patrick said...

My goodness...Anya Rahsi looks so grown up in these latest shots! Her hair style is so cute.

God bless Mother's...it sounds like you've got a dandy! She must definitely be 66 years YOUNG with all those fun activities!!

Julie R

Scott and Molly said...

I love you, too, Pearl. mwah- that's a big kiss from Molly.

Justice Ny said...

I love the second pic too - so sweet!

Tina and Todd said...

Anya Rashi's dress is adorable!

Pam said...

Anya Rashi looks so gorgeous in those pictures! And all grown up. Wow. Glad you guys had a great weekend.
Happy Birthday to Grandma! :)

ColleenC said...

Awww! Beautiful kids!!!

Sounds like such a fun weekend!!!

Amy said...

All of the kids are beautiful in these pics :) Simeon was not too fond of the fireworks - maybe when he gets Anya's age he will enjoy them.
Glad you had a good holiday!

The Labontes said...

Sounds like a lovely holiday. Your mom sounds a lot like mine. I love how active she is and how much she participates with my kids.

Kristy

Sara Fidiró said...

Simply amazing your blog. kiss

Jeff and Leslie said...

Absolutely love the dress! She is such a beautiful little girl. Sounds like a fun weekend was had by all!

Justice Ny said...

Nancy...you're a winner of Mamalaw's heart healthy gymbag. There's no email contact info for you. Please send me an email with your mailing address - nyashasmith at hotmail dot com.