Santa Monica Fireworks- Un4th of July. FINALLY!

I know, I know...it's a little slow and a few of you have requested a post but here's the deal- I was so busy hosting I took very few pictures. I usually hand my camera to Devon and send her off. Why we didn't do the same this year I don't know. So, I had to try to pilfer pictures from others and in Grandmas case, had to scan the pictures (she's traditional... sticks with film; a true arteest :0) Speaking of Grandma- I don't have any pictures with her in them so if any of you do, would you please add at least one. She was there and she's the only family member I didn't get pictures of.

So let's start with two additions by two of my most faithful atendees, Nyah and Sade. They drew these pictures of the traditional event and presented them to me on arrival. I'd say they captured it rather nicely.

Drawing by Nyah Risser:Drawing by Sade RIsser:

It's taken so long that as much as I wish I had the patience, I don't so in no particular order I present: Santa Monica Fireworks Party 2010

Jeff Risser Clan: Wouldn't be the same without this crew. We should have gotten the traditional Risser Line Up picture but this will do. Thanks for the flag shirt and earrings. You guys always make the day fun.

This is Logan with Finn, my friends little boy. Tracy and Rob frequently travel out of the country on the 4th of July so when they do, that ask if they can join us so their family still celebrates. The last time they celebrated with us was several years ago. When Tracy told Finn they'd be joining us all he could ask was if Logan would be there. Apparently Logan played with Finn on his last visit and he never forgot him. Buddies reunited. (So you know, Finn just ate a blue popsicle; his lips are not typically blue)
Amanda Fairbanks Wood with her daughter Bella and the always photogenic and fun Devon Risser.
Great-Aunt Sydney getting a kiss from Bella. With my dark hair I have successfully fooled several of Toni's grandchildren that I am her. I should be so lucky.

Kristy and Cali Risser. A beautiful shot of beautiful ladies and we had to use this one... Kristy kept her eyes open ;0)

Auntie Kayla with her two Supahstah nieces, Sade and Nyah.

You're never too old to enjoy the wonder of a firework display...

And by the way- Jeremy and Kristy made a beautiful and delicious trifle. Jeremy posted the recipe in the previous blog. I highly recommend it for taste and festive appearance.

Supastah Cali with (proud) Grammpy Gordon.
So happy that Stephen Randall made it this year along with Kristin, Mackenzie, Stephen, Kole and baby girl, Charlie. Keep comin'!

Ben, Leigh and Tristan Ashley joined us and represented Becky's group. Next year can we please add a few more from this side? Would love to have you. Oh, and Kasch Klan...please come. Someone must represent!

Tristan was right at home playing with the kids and enjoying himself. However, poor little guy did NOT enjoy the fireworks so Leigh and Ben exited during the show so they could calm him down. I remember when Logan was a little guy and frightened by them as well. Very happy to have Amanda and kids join us: Isiah, Joshua, Jason and Isabella. Next time bring Brandon!

Toni came early and helped with errands and chores beforehand. Thanks sis, not only was it a help, but it was nice to chat with someone while prepping. Meanwhile, Michael and Brett joined Stephen Randall and fam at the beach.

And last but certainly not least are the other faithful Fireworks attendee's: Gordon and Cherry, Jeremy and Kristy and girls. Kayla surprised her dad and drove up the night before so she could join us. Yay!

So plan on joining us next year (Kasch/Benson, more Ashley's, more Fairbanks and Gordon Risser clan). I believe it will be on Saturday, June 25, 2011. COME!!!! In the meantime, keep scrolling down and enjoy patriotic trifle.