Thursday, July 31, 2025

July

This photo technically isn't from July, but I came across it in July =)
Rooke's school schedules community service hours during the school day for the Junior and Senior students.  Rooke helped at a local garden and thoroughly enjoyed it.  The food grown is distributed to local food banks and shelters to help with food insecurity in the area.

We had a great time celebrating the Fourth of July this year!  The girls and I took a picnic to the dress rehearsal of the PBS production, A Capitol Fourth.  Going on the 3rd is actually fantastic: you get all the same performers with WAY less traffic and crowds and lines and security.  It was a beautiful night to be outside!

Heading towards security and entrance with NO lines!  This space would be packed with people on the actual 4th.




One of the performers for the concert was Lauren Daigle, an artist we enjoy!  During her final song, the girls ran to the front to stand near the stage.  On her way off stage, Lauren walked by the girls and was so kind to briefly interact with them.  Bridgette asked for a quick photo all together!!  



Getting ready for time with friends on the actual 4th.  Gretchen and I made our traditional American flag poke cake.


Silly friends and the festive desserts for our hangout

After dinner and hanging out, the adults spontaneously decided to jet down to the Hill to see the fireworks.  Our view wasn't awesome, but we laughed and still had a great time together.   



Fun selfies I find on my phone!


Rooke is still playing in tournaments!  Three more this month: two were back-to-back at the same facility.  Ryan and I tag-teamed for those two tournaments.


With so many consecutive days, I spent some time in the local laundromat!

These fun friends were awesome helpers for our church's VBS!  It's always a blast to help lead VBS and I love that the girls are growing up with the opportunity to serve and lead in this way.  


Saturday morning breakfast.  Still my favorite family meal.

Rooke's final basketball tournament!  We made it a family trip.  He'll play again in the school season, Lord willing, but this was the final tournament for his club team and we had a great time watching games and exploring Atlantic City a little bit.

The girls and I made it to the beach between games!



Making the most of our pool on a hot summer day