4th of July Weekend

     Andy and I didn't do anything for the 4th of July but stay home and relax.  We thought we might have a guitar pickin' to go to, but we never heard anything so we assumed they didn't have it.  Thursday I left to visit my mom and step-dad in my hometown of Shiner, Texas.  Yes, this is the same town that brews Shiner Bock, and this is the only place that Shiner Bock (and other Shiner beers) is brewed.  Shiner actually has quite a few booming businesses within its small city limits - the brewery, a plastics company, and Ranch Hand truck accessories.
     When I arrived to my mom's, birthday presents were awaiting me.  If you know me, then you know I love presents (I don't care the size or the price!!).  I got a Vera Bradley cover for my Nook, new crocs, and a tea maker.  Birthdays are the best!

We did not have anything planned for the evening except to catch up on life and enjoy family time.  Mom and John (my step-dad) cooked a delicious dinner of pork tenderloin, onion potatoes, green beans, and salad.
      My mom had to work on Friday, so I hung out around the house.  Watched quite a bit of TV and read on my Nook.  Kevin (my little brother who's not so little anymore) came home in the afternoon, and I was happy to see him.  Friday evening I met Kevin's girlfriend Blair, and she's a sweetheart!!  I think she's really good for him, and my mom can't say enough positive things about her.  Us three girls decided to see Magic Mike that evening!  I do not go star-crazy over celebrities (even the cute ones), and this was no different.  Was Channing Tatum smokin' hot?  Yes.  Was Matthew McConaughey equally as hot?  Probably not, but he did not disappoint.  I did enjoy the movie and hanging out with just the girls.


Mom and I before Magic Mike

     Saturday was Shiner's Halfmoon Holidays or 4th of July celebration.  We started out the morning with the parade through downtown, and ended the night with fireworks at the Green Dickson Park.  I got to hang out with Kevin and Blair some more which was nice.  Mom and John grilled steaks, baked potatoes, and corn on the cob.  Yummy!

Mom and I at the parade

Salute to our Military

Only in Shiner, Tx would there be a Polka float!

Motorized HEB cart - so cool!

I love the fireworks!

      I came back home on Sunday, and boy was Andy sure glad to see me!  He is more than capable of holding down the fort while I'm gone, but he sure likes it better when I do.  :)  This week we are packing for our annual week-long camping trip with Andy's parents.  Then it will be back to the grind and summer will be pretty much over.  BUT, it's not over yet, thankfully!