Stars and Stripes.

Well, I'm still playing catch-up mode for the week. Yes, it's technically Sunday but I must capture the moments of our week. After the Olympic Trials whirlwind, it was time to go back to work for a day. And then another day off. Too many Monday's this past week...

The kick-off to celebrating the 4th of July began on Tuesday, watching the West Des Moines parade. It was only 110 degrees outside as we gathered with friends, cooler in hand. The kids collected candy and the adults chatted and complained about the heat. It was much too hot to go down to the end of the parade celebration party so we opted for Mi Mexico with our group in honor of America.

The 4th of July was a great next day. We visited Andy's uncle Morley in the hospital and then joined the same group of friends with all the kids at the pool for a day of fun in the sun. The only way a person could stand to be outside was to sit in water, sipping on cold beverages.

After the sun, we had everyone over to our house and served up an All-American Meal of Grilled Chicken Bacon BBQ and Corn-on-the Cob. Let's not forget the fresh basil pasta salad and sliced watermelon. It's funny how food traditions are assumed. Like buttering your corn. I don't remember exactly when it started but we have always taken a stick of butter and placed it on a plate. Then you roll your corn. It seems normal. My friend Beth thought otherwise. And she's a corn queen!

The evening ended with fireworks and a quick night of sleep before our second Monday wake-up call.

America. God love you!