Independence Day Festivities! Monday, July 4!

Max's parents bought a 2003 Thunderbird a few weeks ago and wanted the kids to ride in it in the McKinney parade. 

Rhett ended up sitting in his Gammy's lap, but Kellyn waved to the crowd like she was a pageant princess. It super hot, but a great way to kick off our Independence Day. 

I saw this sweet little Mustang for sale across the street. A girl can dream can't she. 

After the parade we went back to the Dixon's house for lunch then home for naps to rest up for the evening's festivities. 

All my kids and the patriotic door hanger we made.

At 6:30 we headed to the Wright's house for a fun BBQ with our Life Group. The kids painted in the driveway with red, white and blue paints and ran in sprinkler. 

After a yummy dinner and some volleyball it was almost time for the fireworks show. 

Sulayne, the gracious hostess, and I drinking our red wine from plastic Dixie cups...now that's American. :)

The men, Drew, John, the gracious host, and Max with Rhett watching the fireworks.  Rhett was getting tired and cranky by about 9:00 so we kept passing him back and forth.  

Trying to keep Rhett occupied and happy with a glow stick. 

Kellyn and Reagan, sweet friends since birth. 

Evie, Jason, Kellyn, Lindsey and Katia watching the fireworks show in Castle Hills. 

What a fun night with friends and a great way to celebrate America's Independence. What a blessing my freedom is that I often take for granted, but on this day each year as I look around at these wonderful, loyal, generous, helpful friends that I was lucky enough to spend my weekend with I thank God for allowing me to live in America along side them. And I thank God that our children can grow up in a free country.  I pray that we will use that freedom to bring glory to His kingdom. 

"l thank my lucky stars,
to be livin' here today.
‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom,
and they can't take that away.

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA."