FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND... SO FAR

Last evening was spent with the Higginbotham family on their farm in Orange, Virginia. We were all gathered together to help John Higginbotham celebrate his 34th birthday. He was a true Bi-Centennial baby "born on the 4th of July", 1976.

John and Marc were roommates in college, and we have recently reconnected with him and his family... and we are SOOO happy that we have. We spent a truly beautiful evening with a Wonderful group of people.

Shortly after arriving and making sure the kids were set, I snuck off to take pictures of the incredibly picturesque view. The party was held at John's parents house, which sits atop a hill that overlooks the entire farm below.

Luke was in heaven playing with all the kids that were present. Miss Willow, John's daughter, is one of Luke's friends from the Church nursery.

Luke was so happy, he actually let me take a picture of him.

As the sun began to set, I snuck off to take even more beautiful pictures. I just couldn't get enough.


Then it was time to sing "Happy Birthday" and eat Yummy Cupcakes.

Willow definitely got the prize for "Who has the most icing on their face?"

Luke took a few nibbles, but amazingly that was it.

He then made a new friend over Bubbles.

When it started to really get dark, that's when all the excitement began. Mr. Higginbotham had a car trunk full of fireworks, so we were definitely in for a good show.

Grey was ready, and when they started, he seemed to really enjoy them. He would look up at the sky, waiting... then after jumping at the initial ignition, he would clap and then wait for the next one. He was too cute.

Luke on the other hand did not like them at all. He's truly not a big fan of loud noises. So, after about 15 minutes, we said our goodbyes and headed home.

What a way to start off the Fourth of July weekend!!! Breathtaking views, Beautiful weather, Wonderful company and Delicious food... it doesn't get any better than that.

Today was filled with two big Neighborhood events - Kids Fishing Tournament and The Golf-Cart Parade.

The fishing tournament started at 9:00am. We arrived on time and Marc set about getting Luke's pole and bait ready.

They started off at their regular fishing spot...

then moved to the docks, so Luke could be around the other kids.

But to Daddy's disappointment, all Luke wanted to do was hang out with his friend Leo.

Oh well, maybe next year.

After the tournament, was the parade. We got in a line of about 25 Golf-carts, and rode all around the neighborhood. Luke had a blast... Grey fell asleep. At the end of the parade, we stopped at the Myers'.

I was able to get these great shots of the boys in their matching t-shirts...

and a good shot of the family.

Hope everyone is having a Fun and Safe 4th of July Weekend.