happy independence day

i could probably write something profound about all the blessings and freedoms we share as americans, but i know there are others who can say it better. plus, i'm exhausted and almost asleep. so i'll just say that i had a great 4th and i loved spending time with my peeps. i love my peeps! and i missed my peeps who couldn't make it, most notably my papa Joe D. but everyone who wasn't there was in my thouhts today. i'm so rateful for my friends and family near and far. also, on a slightly sadder note, my godmother mentioned that next Monday would've been Pat's 30th birthday. I really miss him, in a way that words cannot describe. i try to focus on remembering happy times and thinking about what a good guy he was, but i still hurt so much from losing him and holidays and birthdays are a painful reminder of that.

to end on a happy note, this was the smoothest 4th party yet, thanks to ALL the uests who helped in so many ways. and, mark your calendars now for the Centennial Celebration!