Happy Fourth of July

 It is always nice to celebrate America's birthday in America.  We had both a Fourth Eve celebration as well as a nice family time today.  I will first give you glimpse of our "Fourth Eve" celebration...a kid-friendly fireworks show in the night of the 3rd.  I will save our day at the pool and grilling out at home for another post.

 Wow she makes a cute patriot!  Thanks to Nai Nai for the skirt and top.  I do wonder exactly how my children will relate to this holiday when they are a little older as they wrestle with "America is my passport and parents' culture but not the place I am growing up".  But at least in these young years it is fun to celebrate.  As the years go on overseas I am growing in appreciation for all that this holiday means and am thankful.

 First ponytail!  It was rather challenging to get her little itty bit of hair into a very itty bitty pony tail holder...then added the bow.  But she didn't pull it out like this and sure is cute.  Look at this scrunched up nose look.  This one is becoming common and I think she knows she is being funny.

 So this Fourth celebration (on the Third) had a bouncy house, a rain tent, hot dogs, the US Air Force band and of course fireworks.  The kids had lots of fun and managed to not meltdown until we arrived back home at 10 pm.

 Austin was conducting the band with his glowstick.

 Lucy's first glimpse of fireworks...she shed a few tears at first but then mostly was calm and stared at them so intently.

 The boys watching...Bennett did not like the noise and covered his ears the entire show.  Austin has come a long way with his fear of noises and didn't seem phased.  They should be fireworks experts after Chinese New Year...

I have to admit, after living in China American fireworks seem pretty tame.  They had a WIDE area roped off around where the fireworks would be set off...an important safety measure I am sure, but I could not help but contrast it and laugh a little since in China anyone can set off fireworks about anywhere and anytime...right next to your window, right around 100's of people.  Chris and I also decided though it was nice to see a coordinated fireworks show, as opposed to just seeing them here, there and everywhere. 

I will update about our actual Fourth day next time.  We are headed to my college roommate reunion tomorrow...always an anticipated part of my time home but this year with families and kids...18 of us in one river house.  Should be lots of fun!  Happy Independence Day!