How to have a perfect 4th of July

Everyday I feel lucky to live in the Washington DC metro area. I still get goosebumps when I see the Washington Memorial lit up at night. I am still amazed as I walk around the monuments and think about the sacrifices that have and are being made for this wonderful country. Not only do I feel a deep sense of gratitude for our freedom but I am also reminded how important this country was in the restoration of the gospel. I am thankful for my freedoms and my responsibilities as a citizen of this country. I can not imagine a better place to be on Independence Day than to be in Washington D.C. This year I set out to make the best July 4th possible. I think I did such a great job that it should be made into its own How To. There are five steps to the perfect July 4th.

Step 1- Take some time for yourself. Listen to music, read a book, clean your room. Whatever you decide, do it just for you.

Step 2- Go swimming in a lake, river, ocean, mountain stream, or a pool. I chose a pool this year. We had a great conversation about being more balanced in our lives.

Jenell and I soaking up the sun.

Matt and I proved that swimming pool warnings do not lie: we are shallow.

Step 3: Go to a BBQ. There was great food, great friends, and fun activities such as bocce ball and frisbie. It rained and thundered but we kept on playing. I love playing in the rain. It is completely refreshing. Thanks to those that made that event so wonderful.

Everyone loves Peter!!!

Food eating competitions with a twist: interlocking arms.

Step 4: Go to the Lincoln Memorial for fireworks. We walked over the Memorial Bridge to the Lincoln Memorial were we set up blankets to watch the fireworks. It was amazing. There were so many people all over the mall. It was an amazing site to see the Washington Monument and the capitol be lit up by fireworks. Hands down, one of the greatest experiences in DC.

Crossing the Memorial Bridge
One way to pass the time: back massage train. However, I am noticing that those are not my hands on Matt. I think that those hands belong to Brian.

Step 5- Head back home and have an impromptu sing along around the piano.

Public Service Announcement #15: If you'd like to spend the 4th of July in DC click this link: http://www.ehow.com/how_2030045_independence-day-DC.html