The 4th

This 4th of July has been one of my favorites ever. We had a day jammed packed with fun! I for sure paid for it the next day I was so sick, but it was well worth it because we had a blast.

 

 We started the day off WAY to early (but again worth it) so Brandon could run the 5k freedom run with my whole family.

 This was Brandon's first 5k and he did awesome and made his goal time. Now he is ready and anxious for his 1/2 marathon on Saturday.

 My mom and sisters all ran the 5k too, along with my brother, bro-in-laws, aunts, uncles, and my cousins. They all ran in honor of my grandma Virgina. I am very proud of my family and I am glad that they all got to do it together to motivate each other.

After the race we went to Maglebey's fresh. We ran into cousin Meg who also did the 5k. Of ALL my family members that ran the race I am most impressed with Meg, she had been kicking butt and taking names (in the jogging world that is) and has been dedicated to getting outside and walking even in the Arizona heat. I am so proud of all her hard work to be a healthier happier her, she is inspiring.

 After breakfast we went on a drive while we contemplated what we wanted to do with our day, we couldn't decide so we went to the park... while sitting there I thought, It may be overcast but it's still TO HOT to be at the park. It took me all of 5 seconds to decide that we needed to hit up the pool...

 Even though it was overcast and mid 70s, it was still a fun pool day for the 2 hours we were there. Brandon NEVER gets to go to the pool with us so it made it extra special and Irey LOVED having her dad as a side kick!

We came home and took some serious naps. Irey came and snuggled with dad after she woke up. Brandon never gets to play XBOX anymore and her never get snuggles from Irey (she only snuggles mom) so I think this is about as happy as he could be. I just think this picture is classic!

For the evening festivities we headed to "Gillman Park" for our annual 4th of July BBQ. 

 Irey adores fireworks! She didn't sleep at all this past weekend because she would stay up and watch out her window at the fireworks. So when it was finally the 4th, my dad sure didn't disappoint her... he put the Stadium of Fire to shame ;)

 

The BBQ was a blast. Brandon's parents and siblings came PLUS my whole family PLUS lots of Aunts, Uncles, and cousins that I hardly ever get to see PLUS most of the Gillman family. We had a big crowd which translated to- lots and lots of yummy food, some fierce Volleyball games, some catching up and chit chat, and lots of laughs, fun times, and good memories. 

Being with family, the fireworks, and the atmosphere of this holiday make me feel blessed to have my Freedom and proud to be an American!

God Bless the USA and Happy Independence Day!