The 4th of July

This year for the 4th of July we decided to take a "mini" vacation. Since it will most likely be the last big trip we take before the babies come, Matt took a week off work and we took advantage.

Weds. we drove down to Las Vegas and spent the night there. We went and saw a Cirque de Soliel show called "Mystere". It was really amazing and the girls loved it. After that we walked the strip (always interesting with kids at night), and stopped in M&M World. The kids are addicted to M&Ms and loved this store that was all about M&M's. They got to fill their own bag M&M's of all choices. I think this was a highlight for them. They have always wanted to stay in the "castle" hotel, so that night we stayed in the Excalibur. It was a fun night. The next day, Thursday, we continued on to Utah, stopping along the way to do some outlet shopping. Friday we spent hanging out with family and friends. Matt and I were able to do a session in the MT. Timp. Temple, while Aunt Trudy took the girls to the movie "UP". Saturday, July 4th, dawned bright and early as we all gathered for the parade.

Here are the girls waiting for the parade to start.

Dad, Hannah, and Anya watching the parade.

Aunt Trudy with Cora and Cari. We blame Aunt Trudy for Cora's addiction to Doritos. She would eat the whole bag if we let her...she just loves them!

After the parade we assembled at the Family compound (since Matt and I's parents live next door to each other) and started some rip, roaring BBQ's. Matt , I and the girls hopped back and forth between the two, but mostly spent time at the Jeppson side. Afterall that is where all the cousins are. It was great to see everyone and enjoy some good food and fun fireworks.

We left Tuesday morning, but what trip isn't a trip home without spending some fun times with cousins. All the cousins got together on Monday for a pool part at Grandma Jeppson's, and they loved it. Matt was able to get a round of golf in with his brother and nephews, and I was able to have a family dinner with ALL of my siblings. There are only four of us, but it seems like it is hard to get us all together in the same state. Especially since two of us live out of state. This was a really special dinner too, since both of my brothers are deploying soon. So we won't be together at least for another year. It was great seeing them, if only briefly, and the girls eat up the attention their Aunt and uncles give them.

Tuesday we headed home, only after stopping in Vegas again for and extended lunch. We were able to meet up with one of Matt's good friends from Fort Hood, TX and Afghanistan. It was great getting caught up with the Penny's, and it was even greater only having a two hour drive to get home after lunch! Thanks to everyone who made our trip so special. We enjoyed visiting with all of you that we could! Happy 4th of July!