Declaring Independence

A year ago . . .
We came to VISIT my parents in Idaho Falls for the Fourth of July.
And we said, in a YEAR, we will have a baby.
But who knew that he would be THIS cute?

And who knew that he would be so much fun to play with?
Not Chris . . .

And not Grandpa . . .

Really, the rest of us have fun playing with him too.  We just don't have pictures!  :-)
Who knew that in a YEAR, we would live in Idaho Falls, of all places, close to my parents?

Because, really, a year ago, we were barely starting to LOOK for jobs in the library field.  But then we found one here!
And who would know that we would be able to enjoy the fireworks in folding chairs, close to bathrooms with flush-able toilets and sinks with running water, and a wonderful meal with an orchestra to serenade us prior to the fireworks?

Thank to my Aunt Ruth who was participating with the orchestra at the Shilo Inn, we were able to get great seats for the fireworks.  These seats were DEFINITELY more manageable, especially for having that baby with us!

Anyway, what a difference a year makes.  We are grateful to be here!  And grateful for the amazing year that has transpired and led us to this point!  And grateful to live in a free country!