Thanking God for our freedom #4!

Hi all!

You know what has impressed us most about our individual posts? Just that. The freedom we have in this country, the freedom we have as children of God to live out the uniqueness He's created in each one of us. Individuals yet united by His grace under the banners of the freedom we have in Christ, and the freedom we enjoy in the United States. Both bought with a great price. Thank You, Lord.

So..... here's our day! I'm not sure in what order the pics will post, but we started off at the parade. A wonderful celebration heartland style!!! Families and community gathered to simply enjoy and appreciate each other and this great nation. The Clintons were there, as whas Mit Romney, both with great fanfare. And it was exciting to see some of the leaders of our nation up close and personal. (Yes, Grandma, Grandpa and I shook the hand of our former president! I know Dad really wanted to.)

But the standing ovations were reserved for those who fought and sacrificed so much for our freedom. The Vietman vets, the reservists, the national guard. It was so touching to see the appreciation expressed. Brought a tear to our eyes (not a rare thing for you mom!).

Then we gathered back at the house for our first family BBQ. It was so much fun! We had 35-40 people, extended family and a few neighbors. The deck and yard functioned beautifully! We're getting an idea of how to set things up for a large group. It was great to get reacquainted with Norma, Marilynn, Lois, Lori, Dean, Ginny and all the cousins. We're going to the VFW (Veteran's of Foreign Wars) steak dinner tonight with the whole group. Good people. Can't wait for you all to come out and meet them as well.

Then, after a little nap! and walk along the lakefront, it was off to Gma and Gpa's for the fireworks. There was definately alot of oooooh! and ahhhhhhh!'s heard across the lake! It was a good show.

Dean and Murielle Hess stopped by and showed us a painting they had purchased. On one side of a river was a young family enjoying a picnic in a meadow with farmland and homes set peacefully in the background. The mom had her hands outstreched as she reached for her husband-soldier on the other side of the river shown fighting a desert war. Peace and freedom at a great price. God, bless those who are sacrificing so much for this amazing country we all enjoy!

We love you all sooooo much. Thanks for sharing your day with us. It was so good to be able to share it with Dad!

See you all soon! : >
Dad and Mom