Our 4th of July party is over, Ryan is 19, and has had an official send off into the A*my. In a stroke of genius, Jeff decided to rent a moonwalk with a slide, which entertained the kids for a day and a half. (Only rented for one day, but the company set it up a half-day early, much to our delight.) Jeff's brother and family came the night before, so we were able to spend focused time visiting with them--and the kids had a blast bouncing with cousins.
Ryan texting from the top of the slide. I think the worst part of bo*t camp for him will be the loss of his phone.
Inside the 'jumpy-thing'
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The big day arrived with no sign of the promised sunshine--but at least it wasn't raining. Jeff and I worked feverishly trying to get everything set up--while the kids
We did manage to get everything ready in time and I think everyone had a good time.
My camera lens seemed to find my little nephew quite often. He was pretty much a photo-waiting-to-happen all day.
Jillian makes last-minute adjustments to the decorations
Piggy back ride for little sister
My nephew and our dog spent a lot of time together
My adorable neice who is too shy to smile for me, but I love the chocolate around her mouth.
The serious fun...a propane powered potato gun that shoots the length of a football field.
Jeff loads the ammo while the spectators gather. My brother and Ryan were out in the field with baseball gloves trying to catch the potatoes. Jeff had to shoot pop-ups, otherwise the potatoes would go sailing over their heads and into the woods.
My baby brother and his amazingly cute baby
Our doggie was invited to the festivities
My neice wallops the pinata
Jordan loves to hug my Mom
My Aunt never comes without treats for the kids
My dashing uncle. He married my aunt when I was a little girl and I had a huge crush on him. He is the reason I fell in love with black hair. I had no idea that my future husband and many of my children would also have black hair. hee...
Dear friends from far away
"I can't believe we pulled this off...hee."
Free wagon rides for all
"Wheee....hi, everyone!"
And now the moment we've all been waiting for...time to sing to the birthday boy.
"HAPPY...
...BIRTHDAY...
...TO YOU."
"Ryan, Happy Birthday and thank you for serv*ng your country. We're proud of you, son."
"Thanks, Dad. (I'm pretty much dying of embarrassment right now)."
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My Dad and my sister-in-law. I adore them both!
