Jumpin' July

We went to the drive-in to see the double feature of Monsters' University and Iron Man 3. About 3/4 of the way through the first movie, our car battery died (that was how we were listening to the movie)!  We tried to use the battery recharger from the drive-in, but our battery was completely DEAD!  So, we called the tow truck.  We realized that the tow truck could only hold 3 people.  We needed 4 more spaces.... so we called Uncle L who happened to still be awake at midnight.  By the time our rides came to get our family and our van, it was about 12:45 AM and we got to see (and partly hear) a little over half of Iron Man 3.  

Such is the "Byrd Luck", but we learned our lesson.... 

BRING a BATTERY OPERATED BOOMBOX to  the DRIVE IN!!!

On Independence Day, we celebrated with a the CP Ward walk, flag ceremony, pancake breakfast and bike parade.  We then went to our local town parade that lasted... about... 20 minutes with only about 10 groups.  Sad... but at least there's an effort, right?!

In the evening, we had a BBQ and fireworks at Uncle L and Auntie C's home.

They were fabulous hosts!  We had a great time!

Grandpa and Grandma B came to visit.  We had fun with a water shooter and cotton candy maker. While they were here, Grandpa B assisted Hard Working Dad and My Three Sons with pulling apart our backyard patio.  

These grandparents love to shop at some of our unique thrift stores around town.  Grandpa B purchased a photo for $25 called "Dogwood Blossoms" (not an original print but one of Ansel Adam's apprentices' printed it from the original negative).  It sold on Ebay for $295!  So Cool!!!

 {photo taken by Warren Coulam}

Finally, we are so grateful for the dedication and service of our local church/scout leaders.  We knew that Son #1 would have an experience of a lifetime if he went on the High Adventure which was a 200 mile bike ride from Sacramento to San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. Including training a grand total of 700 miles!

{photo taken by Warren Coulam}

With various challenges (illness, multiple flat tires, etc.), we wondered if he would make the trip.  But thankfully, for a loving and encouraging scout leader, Son #1 decided to go and truly had wonderful and inspiring stories to share when he got home.

What a great adventure!!!

{photo taken by Warren Coulam}