A Tahoe 4th!

This year we all, everyone but Brett, headed up the mountain for the 4th.  Weather forecasters were calling for multiple days of triple digit heat down in the valley, so the cool mountain air was of much relief.  We spent one entire day basking in the sun at Kiva Beach, chosen for its dog friendliness.  We lugged three kids, two dogs, ice chests, chairs and other beach equipment from the small parking lot down to the wide beach.  We scouted out the surroundings and settled in to the perfect location. 

Ben and the kids kept busy building sand castles and taking quick dips in the cool mountain water.  Lauren loved playing in the shallow areas along the beach and Lucca had fun running back and forth from the lapping water, to the mess of blankets and towels. 

Tina, who is very timid around the water, enjoyed laying under the shade of our beach umbrella and watching all the other doggies that passed by.  My dad and Allie even took a walk trying to find some tennis balls, Tina's favorite to play with.  They returned from the general store at Camp Richardson with three hacky sack balls.  Finally I felt relaxed enough to let Tina off her leash to pay with a ball.  She had fun, but always made sure to keep plenty of distance from the water. 

Mimi, who is much braver than Tina, took a few short trips into the water.  She'll swim, but I'm not sure if she completely enjoys it.  I think she had more fun barking at the passing dogs from her beach blanket. 

On the 4th, we headed over to the Donald's cabin for a BBQ and some cornhole.  After playing cornhole at a friends birthday party a few years ago, we have been totally hooked on the outdoor game.  Ben brought his homemade cornhole boards and corn bags Heather made.  We all enjoyed playing together.  The parents had a good game that was pretty competitive.  Donna finally scored the winning three points with her "holer". 

Claire, Lucca, Lauren and Olivia were all decked out in their red, white and blue attire.  They were all so adorable.  They paraded around the backyard with their "whirligigs" just being kids. 

As the sun was setting, and the mosquitoes were having us for dinner, we called it a night to head back to the cabin we were staying.  On the drive home we could see the South Shore Fireworks over the lake.  It was an all American day! 

Next update will include my cousin Jeff's homecoming BBQ and updates of our backyard garden.