Happy Birthday America!

On Monday morning, we woke up to find a giggly Payton in our bed.  We reminded him that "today is American's birthday."  We had been reading him a book each night about why we celebrate the 4th of July.  The book discussed the English King, colonist, battles, etc.  In response to us reminding Payton that we were going to celebrate American's birthday, he replied "Are they coming back?"  Chad and I both responded quickly (thinking that he had picked up some great information from his book!).  Chad asked, "Who? The colonist?"  I quickly added, "Who? The English King?"  To which Payton promptly replied, "No, my friends.  Are they coming back for another party tonight."  I guess he didn't pick up all the details from that book.....but, we did have a great day celebrating America's birthday!

Amy, Eric and Brady hit the road Monday morning.  

We headed downtown with Kade and Mary Margaret for lunch a Fleet's Landing and a quick walk through the newly renovated market. 

Owen with Mary Margaret and Uncle Kade

 They left from downtown to head back to NC.  I was really worried Payton was going to have a complete meltdown when he found out all our friends were leaving but he handled it pretty well!  He did refuse to give "Margret Margret" a hug...but, this was an improvement from Friday night when he proclaimed that she "did NOT look pretty."  He was very sad to see all of them leave.  Mommy and Daddy were pretty sad too!

Fortunately, we still had an eventful night planned.  We headed out to the Pitt Street bridge with a group of friends to watch all the fireworks.  The kids had a great time dancing, playing and snacking while waiting for the fireworks to start. 

   

From this spot, we had a great view of Sullivan's Island and the Charleston Harbor and we could see fireworks from all the surrounding areas - including Sullivan's Island and from the Riverdogs stadium.  

The Ballenger Family

Daddy and his two favorite boys ready for the fireworks!

Owen enjoyed the show but, like the rest of crowd, was exhausted by the end of the night.  It was a great night and a great way to end our wonderful 4th of July weekend.  I hated for it all to end!