I'm in love with long weekends. Every month needs at least one three day weekend, right?

Our Independence Day weekend began on the 3rd with tailgating and fireworks with friends. The kids and I attended this event last year and had so much fun that we brought another family with us this year.

Ian took over the camera for the fireworks. Unlike me, he's great and reading directions and, while the rest of us hung out, internet searched for best fireworks photo practices. And he nailed it. A few of his many great shots are below.

Followed on the fourth by a cookout and pool time.


And sparklers.


The next morning the kids left with their father for two (very long!) weeks and I finished the weekend camping and beaching.

Yup, every month needs at least one three-day weekend.