We had a very nice 4th of July. We like to host a grill-out potluck with family and friends. We had the perfect turnout this year, not too big, and not too small. I was able to thoroughly enjoy myself and get out of the kitchen. All the kids got to go swimming in the inflatable pools. The weather was perfect and it was just great.

After our guests left, we headed over to the neighbors picnic.  Now they had a spread!!!  wow!!  Maria enjoyed the finger jello the best!  Don’t need those teeth for jello!

We brought Maria home and Chad went out to watch the neighbors’ fireworks show from our front yard. Unfortunately they got shut down this year by the police.  😦  Too bad, because every other year has been amazing!!  It definitely rivaled the city’s show!

Yesterday we headed to our friend Abby’s 2nd birthday party.  It was fun to see friends, and Maria being the show-off that she is turning out to be took about 3 steps all on her own!  Which was completely appropriate since Abby took her first steps at our house last year on the 4th!

Here are some pictures from Friday:

Maria started out in her little pool

But then moved up to the big pool with the big kids. Here she is with Grace.

Grandma blew bubbles at the kids, and Maria would shut her eyes when they came close.

Keeping up with cousins Jana and Luke

In her new chair!