Happy Independence Day!

Today is my favorite holiday. And honestly, except for the years I spent deployed, this is the first time I've ever not spent it in the middle of a huge family gathering. But we made the most of it, and it was still special.

We had a quiet day at home. First thing in the morning, the kids worked secretly to surprise us with this flag, made from pieces of colored cardstock taped together. I love it!

We all wore patriotic attire. An American flag flew in front of our house for the first time in months (now that I've fixed the broken flagpole brackets). Little Man and MJ had a hot dog eating competition, which Little Man won with a total of 4.5 dogs (because MJ didn't eat all his buns).

And late in the day, Grandma and Grandpa came over to watch the kids do their sparklers. It was a nice way to end our special celebration!