4th of July

This year, we spent the 4th of July with Jake's family in Utah. We all went camping up at Deer Creek. Jake's dad brought his boat & jet skis, so we really enjoyed being out on the water to keep us cooled down.
The kids all had fun playing together & the adults enjoyed sitting around & visiting while watching the kids.
Eating is always a big part of being together & the s'mores was a huge hit with the kids. They were trying real hard to get the perfect golden brown marshmallow. There were many charred marshmallows, but it didn't keep them from eating any of them. I wasn't so excited about camping--I really don't like being in dirt & seeing my kids getting all dirty. I'm kind of a clean freak, I guess. It all turned out to be ok & taking a shower after camping is one of the best showers you can ever have.
We got to see the newest cousin, Chase, while we were there. He is being adopted by John & Courtney. He is so tiny--less than 5 lbs! I have never seen a baby so small. He was fun to hold & we all oohed & aahed over him. There is a picture of my baby, Brooklyn with Chase. She looks so big next to him!
Watching fireworks is something the kids all enjoyed. Hearing the loud pops, seeing the bright lights & hoping no one gets hurt. I love to watch a fireworks show put on by professionals, but sitting there on the side seeing the fireworks go off right in front of me always makes me nervous. There was one close call, but fortunately no one got hurt & we all had a good time.
Jake was excited to work on improving his wakeboarding skills. He wants to get better and he was able to get some advice from others on how to do certain tricks. He tried doing a flip & did pretty good for his first try. We'll have to get out on the water more so he can perfect it better.
Melissa & Brittany had their first experience of rock jumping. It doesn't seem that high when you are sitting in the boat, but once you get up there it's a different perspective. They were nervous, but it didn't take them too long to jump in. I was proud of them. It's fun to see them be more adventurous & try new things. Good job, girls. (pictures are not downloading--I'll keep trying)
I love the 4th of July! Ever since being a part of the military I have come to respect & love my country more. I get teary-eyed anytime I hear a patriotic song or see the military jets fly over head. What great sacrifices that have been made & so often they get little recognition. I am grateful to those who leave their families, put their lives on the line, & fight for those of us back home so we can feel safe, live freely & enjoy the blessings we have in this great land. I hope more Americans will see what we have & not take it for granted. I hope we will all be proud of who we are, stand united & want to do good for those that need our help.