Four Wheels & Fireworks

Back at "Patient Acres," Olivia gave everyone a ride on her four wheeler. She lights up when she can take someone with her, especially if it's their first time or they don't go frequently. I think that's because she finds it comical to hear everyone's screams of terror when they realize their life is in the hands of a five year old!

Aunt Christy was the first brave soul to venture out with Olivia

After her feet were safely on solid ground Christy got in some snuggle time with Mia

Next up was Uncle Aaron's terrifying ride

Nana got a turn too, but she's used to this type of torment now

Last up was Papa

Mia loves to sit on Andy's lap on the tractor

The fireworks in Alpena are always spectacular. We've seen them many other places, granted no huge towns, but other places never measure up to Alpena's firework extravaganza. This year was no exception. In fact, I'd have to say it was the most memorable yet. We watched them from the Bay Motel where most of the family was staying. It was right next to where they let off the fireworks so it was an up close and personal experience. The sounds were so loud, but exhilarating at the same time. Both photos I have are from the grand finale. It was phenomenal. I literally thought there was going to be an explosion or injury to the workers because of how many were going off at once and the sheer noise it was making. The ground was actually shaking and all the street lights went off because the sky was lit up so brightly. The finale lasted for at least a minute and I took pleasure in listening to Andy's laughter like a little child watching it all.

Amazingly enough, Olivia managed to sleep through the entire fireworks show. We tried waking her, but she was one tuckered out little girl.

Shipwrecked Sisters

After taking in pristine views and gorgeous weather while visiting Presque Isle and all the lighthouses we headed back for more festivities in Alpena. At the shipwreck museum they hold a maritime festival. Both girls were excited to get their faces painted. Mia was so cute sitting patiently while getting it done and Olivia was such a great big sister encouraging her on. I've loved watching the relationship blossom between them. It melts my heart watching Olivia get so excited for Mia's accomplishments in life. She truly is an amazing big sister.

Checking out our "Star!"

Both girls showing off their newly painted faces. Olivia's is in silver so harder to see.

All smiles

Also, at the Maritime Festival, was the first ever Cardboard Boat Regatta. It was quite comical seeing everyone's homemade boats enter the water. My height disadvantage made it hard for me to see so we didn't stay to watch all the heats, and instead went inside to checkout all the shipwreck exhibits. Later, as we were walking back to our truck, Olivia asked me who won the race. I told her I didn't know and it's not like we knew anyone in the race. About two minutes after her question my cousin Bari poked me in the arm. He told me he was in the race. I asked how he did and he said his team won the race! Olivia now had her answer. He also had built the only boat we'd really seen because it was in the parade earlier that day.

Bari and his team's winning cardboard boat!

Old and New Presque Isle

After the 4th of July parade we headed north to Presque Isle to see the lighthouses and enjoy a gorgeous view of Lake Huron.

The Old Presque Isle Lighthouse and keeper's home

Andy, Olivia, and Mia atop of the lighthouse

A full view of the light house with Aaron and Christy at the top enjoying it's scenic views.

Olivia putting a flower behind her ear, while everyone else walks back up from the beach in front of the lighthouse.

Aaron and Andy where they belong in the stockades

Mia helping herself to a drink with an old hand pump

The New Presque Isle Lighthouse

Christy, Aaron, Olivia, and Andy all conquered the climb. You wouldn't think this lighthouse was much taller, but it was quite a work out.

4th of July Parade

Mia and Nana waving at a float

As is tradition, we went to the annual Fourth of July parade in Alpena. The girls love watching the parade and getting way too much candy. The parade is always full of patriotic homage and my favorite, sales at the downtown stores. There's a reason we always sit in front of the shoe store.

The whole gang sitting and relaxing at the parade

Mia looking on with Uncle Dale and Aunt Julie in the background

Olivia snuggling with her favorite Aunt Jen

Hugs good bye to Aunt Julie

Patient Acres

Well, we had an amazing vacation up North for two weeks. It was two weeks spent with simple pleasures, exploring nature, visiting family, swimming, and just being together. A lot of projects were accomplished too. A deck built, trails made, landscaping done, a pavilion put up, the shed cleaned out and organized, a bat house hung, and a trailer full of trash taken to the recycling center. As a family patience is something we all need to work on, but we seem to do quite well on it while up north. We also have learned we need to be patient while getting projects done on the property. So we have finally decided on a name for our property. It has officially been dubbed "Patient Acres." It fits us quite well!

Mia and Olivia enjoyed riding the 4 wheeler around. Mia of course on short rides with either mom or dad, but Olivia would spend hours a day riding on all her trails.

Daddy and Mia cruising the trails

Some night time fun with sparklers. In the background notice the new deck Andy built on our camper.

Daddy and his girls

Some deer we spotted on the road before our property.

Andy's entire family came up for a week as well. Not only his parents and sister this year, but his brother Aaron and his wife Chirsty also made the trip from Southern Georgia. It was a busy few days, but we packed in a lot of fun and excitement. We spent a relaxing day on the beach at my Uncle Dave and Aunt Marvis' home and then walked the pier at the boat harbor that evening.

Stopping for a photo at the pier