Well, we survived last night's fireworks war zone. So now I decided to share some photos and diary notes taken during last year's fourth of July. 

It had been a small get-together at our house. After dinner, table cleared, dishes washed, dessert and coffee on standby, I slipped outside to take some photographs of our backyard showcasing the party decoration. 

Sun gradually dipping below the horizon. Cool light breezes gently lifted the paper streamers. String lighting and candles lent serene ambiance. Meanwhile, overheard lively conversation drifted outward from the living room windows. Then high-pitch laughter. My sister-in-law's. Her laugh is contagious. 

Moments more I continue photographing until this blissfulness changes. Once again here goes the neighborhood. The surrounding neighborhood are gearing up for their fireworks ballistics. 

And so, covering my ears it was time to return indoors. Time to join the conversation and laughter. Time to serve the dessert and coffee. Most of all, time to truly embrace our independence.

Cheers.

~ June

Note: These photos reveal just a small portion of what is a sizable yard with several garden sections (photos coming later). There used to be just a two-tier deck. Eventually, we replaced the extensive lower deck with pavers, bricks, and gravel walkway. In addition, my husband built the trellis and overhang beams onto the remaining upper deck. Once finished, I dug the garden beds and amended the clay soil with organic compost; planted wisteria, honeysuckle, lilac, hydrangea, lady's mantle, hostas, lilies, astilbe and many more plants. Lots of work but a nice change from before. This year these plantings have grown surprisingly well. Come next spring, I have more plans for these areas. I'll be needing more work gloves!