We had a classic Washington Fourth of July. In the morning, Daddy took M&A to our favorite July 4th activity – the Palisades Parade. It was very hot, so we decided that I would stay home with the Captain. They went and ran into some friends there, and watched the usual attractions – the Bolivian dancers, the firetruck, the kids from Key School, etc. Their candy yield was minimal this year, which was a disappointment. But they had fun.

We then had a few hours of downtime at home (yes, they practiced the piano), and then we went over to Grampy and Nana's for a late afternoon swim and dinner. It was very pleasant and relaxing. Grampy also DVR'ed the track and field Olympic Trials and we watched most of it with him, which was also very fun. Perfect way to spend the holiday.

Then we went downtown to the State Department and watched the fireworks over the mall from the comfort of an inside office. The noise level was totally bearable and the fireworks were gorgeous. Some new ones this year: smiley faces, cubes, and stars. The girls loved them. I also got to see Daddy's office for the first time (I know, I know).

Sadly, Daddy is going to Afghanistan tomorrow for three nights. Not excited about any part of that sentence.

Here are some cute pics – first, A in 4th of July butterfly makeup from camp yesterday, and second, A and N sleeping in my bed the other morning. I love when they are both asleep there. It happens sometimes when I cuddle with him after his first early morning feeding.