Fourth of July, 2011

(July 2-Emily needed to get used to the idea of the pool for a few minutes before actually getting in)

On July 4, 2010, Emily was only about 3 weeks old, and we were in the midst of new parent sleepless nights and foggy days. So we didn't do anything at all to celebrate the 4th of July. However, this year we decided to venture out and have some good family time, and attempt a firework show. After some really delicious smoked chicken, brisket, baked beans, potato salad, fruit, bacon wrapped stuffed jalapenos and strawberry shortcake cake, we packed up and headed out to a local park to brave the heat, crowds, fire ants, and watch fireworks.

Emily's normal bedtime is 7:30. This has been the case since she was about 4 months old, and she hasn't gone to bed later than 8:00 since then. The fireworks started at 9:30, so this whole thing was a big adventure for us on several different levels. Luckily, there were lots of interesting people to watch, and Emily was pretty happy at the park. Matt carried her around for about an hour to get in some good people-watching. She also had several bites of cookie, lots of water, and some time to walk around the grass. Once the fireworks started, she was a bit scared. She did watch them for a short time, but then felt safest clinging to Matt with her head on his shoulder. She didn't cry, but I don't think she really enjoyed the fireworks either. All in all, she was quite a trooper! After the long drive home, she was put in her crib at about midnight! Of course, she didn't really sleep in this morning, but I think she'll make it up in longer naps the next day or two (finger's crossed).

Matt and I really enjoyed spending the time with his family and my mom, and Emily seemed to have fun as well. Hopefully next year the fireworks won't be quite as scary!