Baby, You're A Firework

Happy Birthday, America!

This year, the Alway Family celebrated Brexit 1776 at the Christiansen Lake House.

We really debated about whether or not to let Ryder stay up late to watch the fireworks, since Stew and I both had to work the next morning (and we also have a four-month-old baby to consider). But in the end, we decided that childhood memories are more important than sleep deprived parents. Plus, Ryder had such a blast last year at Brett and Haley's fireworks show that we would have really felt guilty depriving him. 

So we packed up and headed down to Lake Tapps to spend a day in the sun followed by an evening of fireworks. Have I ever mentioned that I hate fireworks? They're so dangerous...

It was an absolutely beautiful day on the lake, and Brett and Haley have the perfect holiday party house. 

Ryder did some swimming in both the lake and in the kiddie pool.

Eventually, he was joined by some lady-friends.

Kiley basically did what she does best... sat around lookin' good.

This is the face of a child saying, "OMG Mom, no more selfies!"

The guys setting up for the big fireworks show.

 

Ryder was extremely entertained by one of my personal childhood favorites... Pop Its! 

And of course sparklers are always a hit with kids... as well as Stewart.

Ryder actually made it until the big fireworks show started at about ten o'clock. 

Luckily, Kiley had gone down for bed hours before and slept right through the entire thing.

The show was amazing as usual!

Even though we didn't get home until after midnight and everyone was super tired the next day, I'm still glad that Ryder got to experience the Fourth of July properly.

We hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday!