While our 4th of July didn’t go exactly as planned (we missed the parade we set out to see because the time listed for it was incorrect, then missed our backup plan of an outdoor symphony concert because Julian fell asleep in the car on the way), but we still ended up having a nice day. Ava got to ride her new bike (a present for her 4th birthday). My sister Carrie joined us for the evening. We picked up some dinner and some fireworks which Jody set off in the street. Carrie and I were sure to throw in some oooohs and aaaahs for good measure and the kids enjoyed it all.
My best shots are of my big girl learning to ride her bike:
Then here are a few from our mini fireworks display:
See more Best Shot Monday posts this week over at Slurping Life


Blessed Nest says:
I love the bike shots but something about the “natural” look of the 4th celebration that I just love!
http://www.blessednestperch.com/home-at-blessed-nest/2008/7/7/reminiscing.html
July 7th, 2008 at 2:11 am
Shannon says:
Those are terrific shots – I love the biking ones!! Adorable! We had something similar to the bugabike (kinderbike) – it really helped my son when he was three. My younger son is even starting to use it a bit this summer (he is two and a half) . . . not so great yet but he can shuffle around on it a bit.
July 7th, 2008 at 8:58 am
Muthering Heights says:
These are beautiful photos! It looks like you had a great weekend!
July 7th, 2008 at 9:41 am
megan says:
gotta love pics of kids watching fireworks…even the small kind :).
July 7th, 2008 at 10:07 am
Quiskaeya says:
Fun times. Good times. Times to cherish. :)
July 7th, 2008 at 10:29 am
MelodyA. says:
It’s look like Daddy was working just as hard on that bike as Ava! Love the look on their faces while watching the show. We have a burn ban so no fireworks at home for us. We really missed it.
July 7th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Christina says:
Holy cow, she looks SO BIG!!!
July 7th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Erinne says:
Look at your cuties growing so much…
Love the shots – they are so fun.
July 7th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
Stacy says:
Love that b&w shot and the conversion. Looks like you had a good time, too!
July 7th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Maggie says:
These are great! And look at what a big girl Ava is, riding that big girl bike!
July 7th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
carey says:
awwww, look at her on her big girl bike!!
July 7th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
golightly says:
The bike riding shots are so cool, but I really love the middle B&W 4th of July shot.
July 8th, 2008 at 12:04 am
Maya says:
I love the middle photo of the fireworks series. They look so excited!
July 8th, 2008 at 8:05 am
Gina says:
Riding a bike….such a milestone. They grow up waaaaayyyyyy to fast! Thanks for sharing!
July 8th, 2008 at 8:55 am
kim says:
Looks like a great time! Love the kids’ expressions as they’re watching the fireworks.
July 8th, 2008 at 9:38 am
em says:
No offense, but since when do fireworks fit into a green lifestyle? They are in many ways the epitome of needless pollution and release of toxins? Or were you able to find some less harmful fireworks? But yes, love the pictures!
July 9th, 2008 at 10:53 am
amygeekgrl says:
Hi Em,
I know, I thought about that too and know it was not a green thing to do, but then I have never claimed to be perfect. There are some things I will do – like setting off $12 worth of fireworks once a year, or letting my kids run through the sprinkler once in a while, because they enjoy it. I hope that the many many other green things I do still make a difference and inspire others to do the same.
Thank you,
Amy
July 9th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Sommer says:
Well, we’re human and just b/c you have an online presence doesn’t make you unhuman. Amen Amy! I’m with you! You showed your real verses perfect.
July 9th, 2008 at 11:22 am
MommyBrain says:
Hey.. we’re all allowed to set off fireworks once a year… I’d do just about anything to see that smile on my girls’ faces!!! You’re a great mom, and yes, you are inspiring!!
July 9th, 2008 at 11:47 am
casual friday everyday says:
Oh for heavens sake. Some people.
I love the pictures…it looks like you all had such a wonderful time!
July 9th, 2008 at 7:52 pm