Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Celebrating The Fourth

We were delighted to be invited to a Fourth of July celebration at the horse farm where the girls ride.
Our host barbequed delicious hamburgers and hotdogs and all of the guests brought a dish or two to share. Joe's brother offered a  very moving Grace before the meal, thanking Almighty God not only for the food but also for our Freedom in this great country, and the sacrifices of the men and women who have made it possible.
The party took place in their fabulous pavilion. This wonderful structure has a wall on one end, on which a large stone fireplace is built,  and windowed walls halfway down each side. The other half  has a roof but is open on each side. That little bit of wind protection makes this pavilion useable (with a fire burning!) virtually year round. It is a work of art with wide barn boards placed diagonally across the ceiling and three ceiling fans to circulate the air.
Ever since our family went to Twin Oaks Campground when I was a child, have I LOVED pavilions! They are so nice for hanging out in!

Even on a warm summer evening, there is nothing better than the smell of a wood fire!

The kids all had a great time enjoying the many farm animals.
Donna, our hostess, works hard to improve her property by maintaining it and creating beauty daily.
She loves critters and offers many kinds of farm animals a good home! This is Prada who actually has hair, not fur! It is super long and soft after a shampoo and conditioning!

Of course, the horses were saddled up! This is Misty on whom Natalie learned to canter about 7 years ago.
This is Dixie. Miss J. can walk and trot her by herself.
These young ladies partied with us. After only a few fireworks, another rain storm came through! We went up to the house and had the privilege  of hearing Julia, center, and her brother play a grand piano in the grandest of style! What a treat! Thanks to our friends for a terrific Fourth!