July 4th

Aside from Christmas, the 4th of July is my favorite holiday.  I love the warm weather, the barbecues (have I ever mentioned by totally disgusting love of hot dogs?), watermelon, and shaved ice.  I mean, July 4th, to me, is the epitome of summer.

But more than the food, I love what this holiday represents!  I think having a Marine dad and always living on or near a military base really helped instill in me a love for my country as I witnessed first hand the sacrifices that are made for us to enjoy the freedoms that we do.

Also, I grew up just outside our nation's capital, which happens to be one of my favorite places on the planet.  (Side note: if you're ever making plans to visit D.C., I've got some great suggestions as far as things to do!)  There is so much history there detailing the events that took place making our country the great nation that it is today.

I love seeing all of the flags displayed for this holiday and red, white, and blue everywhere! There is an overwhelming sense of togetherness and patriotism that is special to this day--like all of the differences in political opinions, social issues, etc. seem to melt away as we stand together with our hands over our hearts.

I am so grateful and proud to be an American.

Here is how we celebrated...

We stayed Friday night at my family and woke up early Saturday morning to go on a hike at Alta ski resort.  The ski resorts are so beautiful during the summer.

 

 We love the Utah mountains!

Then, we went to a bbq, and Adam went swimming for the first time!  He loved it!  Ok, I don't actually know if he loved it, but I'm interpreting the lack of tears as love.  And he looked adorable in his little swim suit.

We finished the night off by doing fireworks with some neighbors.  Adam lasted for longer than I thought!  But as the fireworks got louder and louder, he eventually gave into the fear, and I had to miss the last few to take him inside.

  

Of course...

Hope you all had a Happy 4th!