Maryland BBQ

Nothing like a little backyard BBQ in the summer time. Especially when it's the backyard you grew up in! It was a nice way to say goodbye to my family before we headed out to Utah. Saying goodbye the last year or so was always easy, because I almost always knew the next time I'd visit again, this goodbye was harder. This goodbye was harder because we are moving farther and I am not sure when we will be back. But, I feel ready to go. I feel ready to start this new adventure with Danny and James.

Parting is such sweet sorrow. Grandma and her 10th grand baby!Will tearing into a juicy cheeseburger from Chef Danny.

My hub makes some tastey burgers!Clarissa and her cute babe.

My dad fresh from mowing the lawn. I love that sweat band.

I will never not think of my dad when I see a sweat band. =) Kody bonding with me - his Auntie Lauren.

The fruit thief!

James is such a big boy. He loved holding his baby cousin Kody.
So proud to hold the Kod-ster!

4th of July - Washington, D.C.

Nothing beats the 4th of July in Washington, D.C. One may argue the fireworks are

better in _____, but nothing beats the venue D.C. provides. All the monuments lit up by the giant fireworks is a majestic sight all should see! Lucky for me it has been a family tradition that I have enjoyed since I was just a babe. This year was extra special. All my siblings were in town, and for the first time in a long time we were all together for a D.C. 4th. Carmen, Ellie, and Luke

Kody loves being outside.

Brian's perfect header to Nathan.
Ellie climbing on Grandpa Jim, trying to get sip.

Then climbing on me!

Sweet Paige.

Carmen and her kids.

My sweet

Extra special treat this 4th - Amanda (my roommate from college) and her family joined us! It was my first time meeting her baby Dex.Brandon, Clarissa, and Kody ready for the fireworks to begin!
The crowd and the White House.

We could hear the Killers playing at the White House concert. The Washington Monument.
And, the fireworks begin!Will and Michelle
Allie, Grandma, Darin, Paige, Jenny, and Nathan watching the fireworks.Amazing fireworks show!

James trying to touch the fireworks.

I was impressed that none of the kids were scared by the show. Walking back to our cars after the show was a neat experience. Everyone walked so orderly and kindly. As we continued on a wave of song came over the crowd until we were all singing the National Anthem together. It was a special moment that left me teary eyed. I love my U.S.A!