A Slippery Slope

So today was the 4th of July! We spent it in a kind of unconventional way, opting to forego the traditional parade brouhaha and relax at home as a family. We had a blast playing on our little Walmart water slide and barbecuing in the backyard. Alex and Andie were crazy and fearless, and Avery worked her way up to that state. Check out the video below for proof!

Then we split up for the evening: Steph and Alex went to the Stadium of Fire, and Dave, Andie and Avery bought their own fireworks and created the Sidewalk of Fire in front of the house. Avery ended up being terrified of the fireworks, even the seemingly harmless turtle that pooped sparks. Dave still has the the nail marks in his flesh to prove it. So they put Avery to bed and continued without her. Andie loved the show, and took pride in her uncanny ability to pick the best fountains. She also showed particular concern for her dad as he lit the fuses, making sure to tell him not to "get blowed up" because he was her "best dad in the world."

Alex and Steph had great time at the big show. Miley Cyrus was the headlining performer, so Alex was in pre-teen, Disney Channel heaven. Steph bawled like a patriotic baby when the jets flew over, the soldiers held a gigantic flag over the field, and the whole crowd sang the national anthem. Kind of got verklempt.

All in all, it was a great holiday. Hope yours was awesome!