Independence and Kloders!

Due to last minute vacation rescheduling, we ended up staying in Philadelphia for the 4th of July. A day at the beach (including a fun dinner with David and Jess!), a few projects around the house and lots of lazing about together made for a fun extended weekend of vacation time.

Due to all the rain, we enjoyed our picnic dinner under a big umbrella before the official Philadelphia fireworks over the Art Museum:

Once Joshua came back from California, we finished up the flower boxes and were able to plant our tomatoes and some climbing plants just in time for Kate and Neal to visit us from Pittsburgh. It was SO MUCH FUN having them stay with us. I feel so blessed to have a bunch of close friends who are so well-rounded, funny and entertaining. Moreover, Kate and Neal are the easiest guest ever that we were teasing that we should write them a thank you note after they left.

It was nice to break in the backyard with them ... and shoot off some fireworks in the street in front of our house, too.

Then on Saturday, we had some close family and friends over for a big brunch to celebrate Kate's graduation from her pediatric residency program and Joshua's promotion. We really appreciate all the support we have in our lives. Joshua and Padre really seemed to enjoy the espressos Matt made for everyone.