We had a fun-filled 4th of July weekend. Saturday there was a big firework show at Garcia Bend. It didn't start until almost 10:00 but Tyler stayed awake in anticipation of seeing "firetruck works." It was worth the wait, he found the whole experience stimulating, from all the people at the park, to the sounds of the loud popping fireworks and the sights of the neat lights. "Ohh look at that one mama." Unlike his first parade last week, Tyler was able to stay awake for his first firework show. Gavin, on the other hand, was already asleep when we got to the park so I hoped he would sleep through it, nicely bundled in his stroller. At one point during the 15 minute show, I looked over to see Gavin's eyes wide open, staring up at the fireworks over his stroller. He didn't flinch, just watched for a few minutes and then closed his eyes again.

Sunday we had a BBQ party for the 4th. Lots of friends came over: Mack & Owen came with their parents. Mack and Tyler were really glad to see each other. Conner came with his parents. Last time Tyler and Conner were together, Tyler couldn't get enough of Conner. Not one to hide his emotions, Tyler blurted out excitedly "I love you Conner." That makes my heart melt every time I think about it. Hope came over with her mommy, and Baby Grace brought her parents. Will and Sophia were there, too. At one point, Tyler put on Will's shoes. Poor Will spent the entire afternoon barefoot and Tyler, who hates to wear his own sandals, did not want to part with Will's. We had a blast, the kids all played very nicely. I was really impressed with how well Mack and Tyler shared and took turns playing with everything. They must be growing up! We ended the night with fireworks in the front yard, which Tyler wanted nothing to do with. He stayed inside with Owen and his mommy, who Tyler is fond enough of to wrap his arm around her leg and hang on like he does mine.

We learned a few things this weekend: We have some awesome friends with awesome kids, most of whom are boys. Everyone loves Gavin's smile and he dishes it out generously. Tyler can actually manage to watch other kids play with his toys without having a complete meltdown. We are getting worse (instead of better) at sticking to a timeline when it comes to serving food. Fireworks are a hit! If you forget, or don't have enough time to clean the windows before company arrives, just hand the kids a piece of chalk and have them scribble on the window. The chalk will deter from the smeared tongue and finger prints enough to look like the mess just happened that day.