Independence Day

The Hot-Dog Man

Yesterday marked a great 4th of July celebration.  More like smorgasbord.  Our friends, the Jenkins, invited us over for a fun-filled afternoon of friends, food, fun and lots of kids.  It was great and even 'The Kid' was somewhat manageable.  (Unlike last time we were there and 'The Man' had to take him home early). 

It was kind of a pot-luck setting so we brought a salad that I have been making for awhile.  It's a favorite.  (Look here if you're interested).  Someone brought one of the largest bowls of guacamole I think I've ever seen.  And a zillion slices of watermelon.  (And what's  a summer BBQ without watermelon I ask you?).    

Lady J had set up her traditional onion-ring station.  It was extremely difficult not to go by and swipe a couple before they whisked them away.  They were oh-so-scrumptious.  

There was also a snow-cone station.  We all enjoyed a cone while we were waiting for dinner to begin. Mmm.  There was also a table for the home-made root-beer.  Another hit.

Some of the older children did some face-painting for all the kids.  I would've had 'The Kid' get some done but he's hard to catch.

And of course, the trampoline was the main attraction for all the kids.  (This was just a sampling, I think at one point there were 8 or 9 of them bouncing).  

After everyone was blissfully fed, someone snuck the ping-pong table out.  I don't think I've ever seen 'The Man' play before.  Hidden talents.  It was fun to watch him play.  'The Kid' helped.

Such a great day with some really great people.  It was nice to be a part of the festivities.  We all had such a good time.

No fireworks for us this year though.  When it doesn't get dark until 9pm, night-time activities end at about 7:30pm for us.  I'm hoping by next summer we can introduce 'The Kid' to some 4th of July fireworks.  I really am curious how he'd like them.

Happy Freedom-ness!

Lady Chan