Holiday weekend

Happy Independence Day!

I love this holiday so much. Maybe because it falls in my birthweek:)

As tradition call for, we made our annual trip up to the USU lawns to watch the Logan fireworks. We used to buy tickets and go in the stadium to see the whole show. But with so many little ones in the family, it's just more practical, and more fun, to play on the grass outside.

I brought dollar store glow sticks that were a hit with all the little cousins. A few did end up breaking open. That stuff looks cool sprayed all over your hand in the dark;)

James was mesmerized by the fireworks and Naomi loved them, of course.

The next morning we reunited with the whole Champlin Family clan for the 8th annual (I think it's 8th, right Zach?) Champlin Family 4th of July Breakfast. Zach was manning the griddle/grill of course. Do you think he would let anyone else even get near that?

I love Independence Day. We live in a great country.

Grandma Linda and sweet baby James!

James taking it easy, waiting for Naomi to wake up and party with him.

We are missing a few girls! Aimee (out of the country), and Erica wasn't there yet!

My Birthday!

27 and counting. I feel old this year. I think I liked 25 better. Or 21 for that matter.
Whatever the number, I had a good birthday. My mom baked a cake for me and I assembled and decorated it, we did the same for cupcakes. I really like baking. The problem is that I like to bake all those delicious unhealthy treats. Like cupcakes, brownies, cookies, cakes, etc. No good for getting in shape. Or maybe that's why I run, so I can eat cupcakes.
We played with snaps and sparklers once it was dark and Dave and Erica came over with their boys to join in the fun.
The fun continued on to the next day, (I think we should implement a birthday week, maybe we could call it a birthweek instead. And celebrate for 7 straight days.) with brunch with the Champlin's. Village Inn was graced with our presence and Naomi and James made that poor waiter work for their money. Who knew how fun jelly packets could be? And eating pancakes with your fingers?
So here's to my birthday:)
I'm glad I could spend my special day with all of my favorite people!

Cute cake huh? I like fruit. And I decided that 10 candles was plenty.

James and Naomi helped put them in.

Village Inn Fun!

The following are all taken by our very own Naomi, she's developing her photography skills.