Traditions

My year is ruled by traditions, and I wouldn't have it any other way. On the Fourth of July, my friends have a big party ending in lots of big fireworks. I think this is our 15th year. Several years ago, we started making cookies the night before, decorated in red, white and blue. The cookies are put in flower pots (with styrofoam holding them in place). The kids (and I count myself as one of them) eat the cookies after dinner and through the fireworks. I don't even care that the blue frosting turns my mouth blue! The cookies with sprinkles are my favorite. Here is one of our traditional cookies - Niki's version of the flag. Happy Birthday, America!

Rain

After a few hot and humid days, we finally got the rain we've needed for so long. Everywhere you look, the grass has turned to straw. I've been watering my annuals, but the perennials and the grass were long overdue for a soaking. I heard a couple of storms pass by while I was at work (25 miles away), but my house seems to be in a dry zone, so I wasn't convinced it rained at home. Fortunately, it did, and it looks like we'll have more tonight. Unfortunately, tonight is when the big Detroit fireworks were scheduled for, and they may have to be moved for the first time in five years. Hopefully, the temperature will allow it to cool down below 80 degrees in the house so I can sleep tonight!