Last year on the fourth of July, we had few plans. At the last minute we decided to check out the famous Provo Parade with some good friends, then afterward walked around the freedom festival booths until our clothes were soaked with sweat and the back of our necks were rosy with sunburn (mind you, it probably took us less than 20 minutes to get to that point). The rest of the day was uneventful, with a normal dinner, no fireworks, and an early bedtime.

A year has now passed and I have learned my lesson. Fireworks are always better than no fireworks.

Saturday was quickly approaching and we had no plans to speak of. Friday afternoon I decided something had to be done about it. After a few phone calls and text messages, Landen, Deborah, Sam, and Abby were coming over bringing steaks, fireworks and watermelon a plenty.

We all ate til we could eat no more, played a rousing game of Clue, watched a few hilarious YouTube videos, and then moved outside for fireworks — ladies watching from the sidelines, and men playing the part of pyromaniac.

Also, not to be overlooked, Landen and I went to the morning parade and then met Philip for a stroll through the Freedom Festival where we bought and devoured a delicious Funnel Cake. Why pass up any opportunity to eat deep fat fried fair food?

A fun time was had by all.

Happy Independence Day.