{4th of july}

It was only three years ago, that I celebrated my first 4th of July here in Iowa. We had literally just unpacked our boxes, and had barely settled into our new townhouse, when we had our first experience as a family, celebrating a holiday far far away from "home." We took Hunter (only 16 months old at the time) to the Waukee parade and then later on that evening, to see the fireworks at Centennial Park. I find it very fitting that this 4th of July, turned out to be the last holiday we celebrated together (now as a family of four) as our time in Iowa quickly draws to an end. So many wonderful memories have been made since that time three years ago.

{try to ignore the weird "smile" Hunter is making in this pic}


I don't usually get too sentimental, but this year as I looked at each of my boys dressed in their red and blue shirts, and Steve in his "Utes red", I couldn't help but get teary-eyed as our journey has almost reached it's end. Or really.... is this just the beginning? Interesting. My time here has been full of many ups and downs. I have learned so much about myself, about sacrifice, overcoming trials, endurance, patience and tolerance---really the list could go on and on. I have made some of the most incredible friends, and met some of the most inspiring people along the way. I have had to rely on strength much greater than my own. So yes, this 4th of July was a bit sentimental for me. But in a very, very good way!

First up, was the parade.

The boys came home with bags full of candy. Which meant it was a very good parade by their standards.

Then came the cupcakes.

The very patriotic and delicious cupcakes.

And finally...

fireworks and sparklers.

It really was a wonderful 4th of July weekend. I am so proud to live in this great country, and even prouder to be an American. I am optimistic for what the future holds, and feel truly blessed to live in a land where freedom is a right as well as a great privilege.

**On a side note....during the next few weeks, I will be busy packing, cleaning, and getting ready for the 'big move' at the end of this month, so unless something major happens around here I will be MIA when it comes to blogging. Oh wait I almost forgot..... "Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince" will be out in theaters July 15th! Now if that isn't major news-- then I don't know what is?**

Until then....