Independence Day Celebration

Yesterday involved a long drive to the other side of the state,

A family reunion of 54 people (30 people didn't make it),

Lots of yummy food, swimming, and fireworks,

Yearly traditions of volley ball, rain on the roof, and trivial pursuit,

The older generation sitting around and chatting about who was who and how so many kids came about,

A few political arguments (family tradition),
Memories being made and memories being remember,
and no money was spent.

It really made me think about how so many of our celebrations involve specific apparel needing to be purchased, gifts having to be brought, meals at restaurants, money, money, money, spend, spend, spend. Yesterday was one of the most fun times I've had with family and I even pulled off an NO SPEND day. How truly refreshing to be reminded that so much enjoyment can be had with such little expense.

My brother and nephew : )

That being said, my aunts did an amazing job feeding us all. My dad spent a good chunk of money on some big fireworks, and my grandpa spent a lot of energy getting the pool ready for us all.

Don't worry he was not drinking pop.