God Bless America

Happy 4th to you and yours! We had originally planned to host a big farm party to celebrate the holiday with our family and friends. The good news is that Brett received a promotion recently that he's worked so hard for! We are so proud of him! The bad news is that he had to switch shifts and fire stations and because of the shift change he had to work today and our party plans were put on hold. But it's ok! We still pulled out all of our patriotic decor and partied with our families a few days early.

Anyone who works in public service is probably used to these kinds of circumstances. We just roll with the punches. :) We're hoping to kick off summer next year with our First Annual Summer Shindig at the farm!

Link to purchase this bunting at the bottom of the post!

Our sweet town celebrated Liberty Day last weekend and Baker got to ride in the fire truck at his first parade! He absolutely loved it and had so much fun waving at the crowds and driving the big-big truck! The city really goes all out for this event and Main Street is filled with arts & crafts vendors, live music, food, fireworks and lots of patriotic displays. The celebration first kicked off in 1986 when a group of citizens organized the first Liberty Day to honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty. It's now held on the last Saturday in June every year and is free to the public. It's such a great opportunity to enjoy our charming city and meet new friends and neighbors. Small town living at its best!

Baker was entirely too busy taking in all the excitement to look at the camera for a single picture! :)

In preparation for the party we thought we were going to host, we finished up a few projects around the house. Here is a look at the fire pit after we finished staining it! We decided to go with a dark chestnut. I loved the look of the light natural wood, but we needed a really rich, protective sealer considering how much exposure this area gets. I'm still getting used to it, but I think it's beautiful! Still one of our favorite spots out here on the property! 

We had the opportunity to spend Friday with Brett's side of the family at our brother and sister-in-law's new home. The day started out a little cloudy, but the sunshine finally came out and the kids had a ball playing outside! We're so thankful for the time we have to spend together and fellowship. I love seeing the kids play and make memories together. Pure joy!

Showing off his tattoo!

 Happy Independence Day from our family to yours! May God continue to bless our country, our homes and our families. 

-Lauren

Here is the exact bunting we have sagged on our porch! Incredibly affordable and it has held up SO well outside in the elements. I highly recommend them!

(affiliate link)