Here is to our independence…

...and like most families; here is to eating barbeque, enjoying the glow and popping of fireworks, and all that comes with celebrating our independence with the company of family and friends.

For us it started last night, Raymond and Heather drove up to South Carolina to buys some fireworks, yes even though they are now legal in GA, they still don't make them the same! This was a first in so many ways…for one he drove across state lines and second, he is caring on a tradition that his dad and I started way back when we would celebrate the 4^th or New Years in GA. Lil Raymond had to work today so he was unable to spend the day with us, however did not want to miss out on the fun of popping fireworks so him and Robert started last night, as Heather and I watched, Emma was inside the house the whole time, she still can't stand the sound of them.

Today we went to Marietta to celebrate Justin's 17^th birthday. Connie had prepared a great spread with barbeque ribs, chicken, hamburger, dogs and all the fixins, including her famous backed beans, everything was yummy! After a long while at her house and popping some fireworks, we made our way to my mom's where we were able to view the "big" fireworks that were displayed by the City of Marietta, as usual it was a great show!

This whole weekend was a great joy, even though one of our boys traveled out of town to visit family in Florida, another one came home for the weekend holiday. Although we missed Brandon, seeing Melvin this weekend was good for the soul. I didn't think it was possible for him to grow anymore, but he did, after measuring him on our growth chart, yep he has a new line, it would be at the crack at the top of the doorway! Hopefully we will be able to make it to Ole Miss this fall to watch him play some football.

Here is a special thank you to those who over two hundred and thirty years ago, fought for our nation, and for those who still sacrifice and stand in harm's way to preserve and protect it.

Here are a few pics from Justin's B-day party...spending time with family is always fun!

Robert with his gmaMe & RaymondCrazy Em and her daddyJustin, Raymond, and RobertJustin & Idalia