When you have a loved one serving his country your 4th of July celebration takes on new meaning. Our daughter is able to skype with her Marine husband serving in Afghanistan when he is available and I’ve tried to capture the distinct smile she gets on her face when they are communicating miles apart from each other. This is a close capture but she caught me with my camera so the “look” is a little off…

We love to display the red, white, and blue here at our old house. I always hope to find some new red, white and blue treasures on clearance after the 4th!

Our pulled pork ready to be sauced up for our sandwiches!

Dear was ready to serve up some special red, white and blue drinks!

The best part of our celebrations are the people who join us to eat and enjoy fellowship together.

My sister Lana and her husband Steve were able to walk over and join us.

My dear friends of 26 years and walking buddies here in the Northwest Jody and Jan…

I always love to capture our daughter Katie in photos to post so her husband Andrew can enjoy them from miles away in Afghanistan!

Sisters!

Our dear Northwest friends and family. Thank you for joining us and making our celebration a special treat!

Roses from Jody’s garden…

Now I hope to be able to fall asleep with all the loud fireworks exploding in the skies around us…

Hope you all had a wonderful Independence Day celebration! Blessings!