4th of July

I've always loved this time of year.  Summer is in full swing and we are usually having a lot of fun enjoying the beautiful summers that Utah gives us.  This year as we were hanging out at home when the girls screamed out there was smoke coming up from the mountains behind us.  And sure enough we witnessed the beginning of a major fire up Alpine canyon.  We couldnt believe how fast it had advanced and I kept checking the news on tv and online to find out which direction it was taking.  I was never too worried it would come this far to Suncrest but was more concerned for our friends living in Alpine. It was crazy to watch.  So sad and disheartening.  This year has been ridiculous for fires in Utah..too dry and too many careless people.  This picture was towards the beginning, we had been watching it for a while just getting bigger and thicker.

 And here is the fire at night several nights later. 

The fire had started a few days before July 4th, we honestly didnt think they would do a fireworks display this year but it seemed to still be on!  For our annual fun we met up at Pleasant Grove again with most of the family.  We always have a good time and everyone brings a treat to share.  We had a lot of junk food again (as always) and the kids loved playing with their cousins.  Grandma and Grandpa bought each family a light saber sword which was a big hit!

My red and white popcorn mish mash:

 My boys.  I love that when the kids are frightened of the loud booms from the fireworks, they know they can cozy up to dad.  He will keep them safe.  Finn was quite unsure of the noises this year again but being with Daddy seemed to make it all just fine!