Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Independence Day

We had a very fun and relaxing holiday with a ward breakfast, a family BBQ and our own little firework show in our backyard. If you know my Joseph, you know he is very sensitive to loud sounds and he spent the last Fourth of July with his hands over his ears. This year he was so excited about doing fireworks and he told me over and over again that he wasn't afraid of fireworks anymore. We picked out the obligatory pop-its and sparklers and also a couple of non-screaming fountains and one where a parachuting army guy is launched into the sky. The pop-its were a HUGE hit with both the boys, and then we started on the fountains. Justin was in a trance as he watched the fountains. They both just loved it and I was so happy to see that it seemed Joseph was going to be OK. Then the army guy firework made a huge booming sound that made everybody jump and Joseph lost it:He was consoled after a good hard cry but was now determined NOT to do any sparklers. So being the mean mom I am, I coerced him into standing next to me while I held the sparklers. But you can see how much fun he's having.So what is Justin doing during this time? Totally showing up Joseph with the sparklers and having the time of his life! Darren couldn't get them lit fast enough for him.My little pyromaniac! As soon as it burned out, he'd say, "One more, ok, Daddy?"And then, SUCCESS! Joseph decided he would hold a sparkler after all and loved it, for about 20 seconds. He handed it off to me pretty quick. But check out the happy face! And how far he's holding it from his body.I am so very grateful for this beautiful country where I can do fireworks in my backyard if I want. I am proud to be an American!

8 comments:

Emily said...

I love that last picture with his arm stretched as far as it can go! Too funny.

Easton didn't LOVE the fireworks either and did the ear-covering thing. So maybe next year he'll be better.

I just love those boys!

Jonathan and Michelle said...

Awesome pictures! You were able to catch some awesome expressions and moments! I'm glad that you guys had a great 4th!

Ben & Diane said...

I loved this post. My kids loved the fireworks. Maybe they are just so used to being loud at home. I don't know. What's even funnier than the picture of Joseph crying, is that you took a picture of it!

Jill said...

I know. Joseph is going to hate me for it one day.

Jenni said...

Jill, you are SO DANG CUTE!!! I love pictures of you and Darren with your boys because you're an adorable little family!!! Joseph CRACKS ME UP! And how funny that they react so differently to fireworks!

I Love the pictures!!!! I cannot wait to see my boys!!!!!!

Carol and Bruce said...

darn that big boom, just when he was having so much fun! Such fun pictures and I'm glad you had a fun holiday.

Mj said...

Poor Joseph! At least Justin looks happy with all the fun! :-)

We're planning a visit to the West Seattle ward here in a few weeks (or maybe next few months!), I can't wait to catch up and see your cute little boys!

Katie said...

Cute, cute, cute! Hey, how is the house stuff coming? Any word yet?