Happy Fourth!

Saturday was one of the longest days I've had in a while, but it was a good day. I usually don't like the 4th of July, since I hate loud noises and bright lights, both of which are prominent features of the celebration. I've always understood the significance of the holiday, how America is the promised land and how this holiday celebrates our independence, but I've just never really enjoyed those traditions. Usually my family goes to Paonia for Cherry Days, and we watch the parade as well as picnic in the park. That is how I usually like to spend the Fourth, among my family in a low key setting. This year we decided not to drive 7 hours each way, and stayed here in Fort Collins.

As a result we started with our friend Tabi, who we went to brunch with after her run in the Firecracker 5K. We went to The Farmer's Table and it was really good. I had a breakfast burrito, while Jon and Tabi got the classic biscuits and gravy. Then we went to 3 different barbecues, which put us eating at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. Blah!

One was the Fairbank BBQ with all the ward members who were in town. It was fun, but it rained on us, so we mostly spent the time inside. Bing got to meet lots of kids from our ward though so I'm sure he enjoyed it.

Then we went to the Hummer BBQ put on by Paul and Moriah. The other Hummers came, including Meghan, Alli, Matt and Catie, and a few of Paul and Mo's friends. That was fun too! Bing got so wet just running through the grass with Choco, he looked like he just got out of the bath. :)

The last BBQ was at the Baratta's house. We go over to dinner there almost every Sunday, but this time we went over on Saturday too, because the Fourth of July is a very big deal at their house. It's Mike's birthday and the kids love setting off fireworks and all that fun stuff. I had never really done that before. I must admit I didn't like the screamers that produced no colors, but there were some awesome fireworks, and it was cool to see what they would do!


Malia with her sparkler!

And Jacob with his!

All three kids, Jacob, their neighbor Isabel, and Malia.

Bing was so scared of the fireworks, we left him inside for most of it, but here's a pic of him whimpering...

As you can see we had a really great time with our friends and family. It was one of the best 4th of July's ever, and it was great to spend the whole day with my wonderful husband. :)