July 4th

What an amazing weekend it was celebrating the birth of our country!! July 4th has to be one of my top favorite holidays because I have so much pride in America! Just like every July 4th, we started the day off right and went to the balloon festival. It is always way too early but has been such a fun tradition through the years. This year Bentley got to join in on the festivities and was the star of the show.

Of course we couldn't let the morning pass with out a little daddy daughter run which about killed me because it was so hot and we extended the length of our trail. Nothing like a little american spirit to get your butt into gear I guess! We didn't even hesitate at the end and ran straight into the pool to cool off, clothes and everything!! Then it was off to the BBQ and pool party.

I think Bentley enjoyed his first 4th of July...just a guess.

Whats July 4th with out fireworks?? We gathered everyone together and headed over to thanksgiving point to see their firework show and OF COURSE we had our own fun with sparklers beforehand. Sparklers definitely bring out the kid in me as you can see! 

Sparklers are my jam.

How do you want your burger? Rare...So it bleeds American

Left to right: Yasin, Austin, Kylie, Me, Mustafa & Benni

This July 4th was extra special because we were able to have our foster "cousins" over to celebrate. Yasin and Mustafa are from Pakistan while Benni is from Africa. We ended up talking about their customs and what it is like living in their country. Yasin told me that they are never allowed to date or let alone speak to women. I asked how they are able to get married since dating never existed. He told me they do not marry for love, but have arranged marriages. Usually they meet on their wedding day or are allowed to have a conversation with each other to tell each other their habits before they are married. He then went on to say the men are allowed to sell their fiances for money if they wish. I could not believe my ears! I also didn't know my jaw could drop so low. I have always heard of such things, but hearing it come straight from someone who actually knew first hand was a different story. My heart was so full that day for all the blessings I had from living in a free country. I'm so thankful for all that has been sacrificed so that we can have all the privileges that we do. Often times I take my freedom for granted when there are so many who struggle to survive every day. May we never forget.

For Freedom!