Happy 4th of July 2015

We were fortunate enough to be able to spend the 4th of July with my brother, Ben and his family.  They have two daughters, Megan and Lanie and Ella loves spending time with them.  She has said in the past that she would like to live with them so she can have sisters.

The night before we had a "manicure" moment.  We all got into the spirit of the holiday.

We were off to Lake Tahoe for the day.  My brother prepared us and especially Byron that it would be crowded but the fireworks show would be worth it.  We played "Rubberneckers" (a travel game) on the way there and we had a lot of fun.  It is a lot more fun to play with more than two people.  It rained a lot on the drive and there was concern that our plans for the day would be spoiled.

But nope....the clouds and few showers did not deter the girls at all.  I dipped into the water and it was cold.  

Hours of fun...even in ponchos.  The weather doesn't matter as long as you have someone to share the adventure with you.  The girls dug out a small area in the sand to be able to view the fireworks.  It didn't seem to matter that they were ready 4 hours before the fireworks would start:)

We are so thankful for our country.  A place where we can enjoy time together as a family and make memories that will last forever.  May God bless the USA...and may we do what is necessary to defend and protect our families in this beautiful country that we have been given.

The weather did deter the crowds...somewhat.  We were informed that it has been much worse in years past.  It was still crowded but very manageable.  We had staked out a large space anyway.  

The sunset was absolutely gorgeous.  The fireworks show did not disappoint.  They were done over the lake from 3 different barges.  It was the best fireworks show we have ever seen.  As Byron describes, it was like a fireworks finale for 25 minutes.  It really did last for 25 minutes straight.  It was a great way to celebrate our freedom!!