Happy Birthday America

We had an amazing Fourth of July. It was a little bittersweet, as it was a final family gathering before my cousin Robert left for Afghanistan, but it was wonderful to get together with all of my Mama's family. My Aunt Dena and Uncle Bob threw an awesome Birthday Party for America at their lakehouse on Eagle Lake. The house looked great and the food, fellowship and family made it a perfect day. We got there just in time for the Boat Parade. Holt is still talking about those boats that threw candy and toys. Afterward, Ken and the guys began cooking some of the fresh fish they caught that morning. Meanwhile, Bob and some of the other guys marked off the croquet field, while Robert and John figured out the tournament logistics. The prize, getting your name on the Culpepper Croquet Trophy, pictured below. After hours of play Beth and her partner were the winners.

It is always so much fun for me to get to see Holt and Irene play together, but this time was even more fun because the house and yard were full of Children, Little Peppers two children, Lance and Savannah, were there and One of Robert's friends from Law School came and brought his son Brady, who was between Holt and Irene in age. Also, Ashley and Jeff were there with Lexie and the soon to make his arrival Colin. Olivia was great and made all of the parent's Job easy by entertaining all of the kiddos. And, of course sweet Mary was there.

We ended the night with an awesome fireworks display off of the dock courtesy of Ken. All in all I think it goes down as the best Fourth of July ever.

No Cathering that is not Apple Juice
The Trophy

Sweet Mary, scooting along.

This was at the end of the night and they are still smiling.

Mary is so stinking cute.

Mary with her cousin Savannah

Barbara making use of the Highchair.

On the Levee

Suppertime

I laugh out lout every time I see Lance in the background getting down on that Watermelon. He is all about it.

Cousins

"Let us out"

The Boat parade