For as long as I can remember, and maybe even before my time, my Godmother Aunt Kathy and my Uncle Bob have thrown a 4th of July picnic. This isn't just a BBQ, this is an all out shindig. The all-day party consists of amazing food and desserts, swimming, a manly game of volleyball (and of course little kid and girlie volleyball ), beer pong, pinata hitting, jello-shot shooting, and so much more.
This year was significant as it was the first big family party since Grandma Nelson's passing. There was something important obviously missing from the party and that something was the woman who we have to thank for creating such crazy human beings. I know Pop-Pop and Mom-Mom were smiling down at us on that day, proud that we had continued the tradition past their time. They were probably also calling most--if not all--of us 'sonsabitches' :).
This happened to be AJ's first Philly 4th. We usually spend this holiday with the Halls--part of John and I's marriage compromise (Thanksgiving in Philly, 4th of July in DC). I think AJ had fun, especially being around all of the little kids. Alex and Shane LOVE AJ and are so good with him! Here are ALL 11 of the great-grandkids--and it's growing every year!
AJ and Daddy, enjoying the day:
Passing on the pinata duties from the old cousins to the younger ones (not so young anymore!)
AJ hitting the pinata--have I mentioned how much this kid LOVES to play sports? Oh, and yes, my child has nothing but a swim diaper on.
Ava and Leah, beautiful little girls!
Normal families would normally worry about this kind of behavior, but we welcome it!
And on to more bad behavior we encourage: beer pong!!!
My family of three--John and I created such a beautiful little person, if I can say so myself!
Our complete family of 9--think there will be a #10 soon?!?! :)
I didn't get any firework pictures because AJ was hysterical. We tried to warm him up earlier in the week, but nope! He says "FIREWORKS GO BOOM AND AJ GOES WAAHH WAAHH!" At least he is honest!
One quick story before I end the post--we had to drive home that night and I didn't drink during the day so John could drink--so I was driving. AJ and I were tired and ready to go and in the car. We waited for what seemed like FOOORREEVVVEERR for John. Everyone had packed up and left and all of a sudden, no one was outside. After about 15 minutes, I went inside with AJ to see what was going on. There was John, with about 10 of my family members, leading everyone in taking shots. John said that in that time frame, they had CRUSHED an entire bottle of Vodka!
Happy 4th everyone!
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