The kids have been ready for the 4th of July pretty much since the 5th of July last year!  And, for weeks now, Franny has been talking non-stop about the parade and party at Auntie Noelle’s house.  Everyone had a great day.  The parade was lots of fun, as well as playing with the sprinkler ball and having a great BBQ, complete with hot dogs and ice cream cones (and sprinkles, too!).  It was a relaxing day, free of any melt-downs, sibling squabbles, or crazy behavior—I don’t remember the last time that happened!  They just had a great time being with family and having fun.  It was a wonderful day from beginning to end—lots of smiles, lots of memories, and lots of love.