Happy 4th

The 4th of July means to me...

FREEDOM

FAMILY

FRIENDS

FOOD

and LOTS OF FUN!

And this year was no exception. We took a vacation up north to hang out with family and get out of the sweltering Phoenix heat. We found relief in the cool mountain pines, at the desert escape we call KOA. Our days were filled with a whole lot of nothing really. We got some great relaxation time, while still managing to do all of the fun activities the north has to offer.

We visited Snowbowl and rode the skyride to the top of the mountain. Call me crazy, but I really like being suspended 50 feet above ground, esp. when the cable stops and we rock back and forth, it's kind of soothing:)

We found the new aquatic center and spent one afternoon swimming and playing in the water. The best part was that the fun was all to be had indoors. No need for sunscreen and unbearable burns. WAHOO!

and you know me, what is a vacation without SHOPPING at the mall?
(and then taking a break outside for some goofy pictures:)?

Even with all this fun, we did find time to celebrate the RED, WHITE and BLUE! We pulled out our patriotic shirts and headed downtown to watch the annual 4th of July parade. I love standing with thousands of others and cheering for those who serve and protect our country. It doesn't get more patriotic than that!

We topped off our Independence day celebration with a few all American foods and crafts. Unfortunately, there was no fire works display due to the extreme fire danger, but we compensated with a delicious dutchoven peach cobbler!

Other random pictures from our vacation that are too cute not to share!