Happy Independence Day!

We just returned from a "mini vacation" in St. Joseph visiting Aron's family for the 4th of July. We had an absolutely wonderful time!!! We spent Friday with Aron's dad, Bev, Uncle Gary, and Aunt Judy. The weather was marvelous so we ate, played, and relaxed outside all day. In the evening we went with Aron's mom to downtown St. Jo where we walked around town looking at all the safari animal statues that have been painted by local individuals and groups. Afterward we stopped for ice cream and walked to Silver Beach where the kids played. On Saturday, we headed to Aron's Uncle Dave and Aunt Karen's house on the beach in Stevensville. The weather was not ideal, but this didn't stop the kids from enjoying Lake Michigan! By the evening the weather was perfect. The kids took great naps and were ready for FIREWORKS! We decided to extend our vacation a bit and stayed all day Sunday enjoying the BEST beach day EVER!!! The weather was GORGEOUS! We all walked away with sunburns (which are making me feel like a really bad mom) even after applying sunblock twice! Russell was a true water bug! He rarely left the water. Sloane stayed close to shore and only went in past her knees if I was holding her. She preferred walking along the shore watching the other kids and dogs play. She made friends with everyone! This was definitely a 4th of July to remember!!!