I used some leftover dishtowel fabric, that had a red, and blue stripe and wrapped it around an old Christmas wreath.....tied a same fabric bow on it, and added Heather's flag!!
For many years my Aunt Emmy and Uncle Bud, hosted a children's 4th of July party. The celebration was held for their grandchildren, and great nieces and nephews. One year, Mr. Math and I decided to take our girls. We packed up the van and drove from Cupertino to San Diego. We only had 3 daughters at the time, so the 9 hour drive wasn't too bad. It was worth the trip! We had a blast! A good old fashion picnic with chocolate cake, a band and a dance floor, and at the end of the evening, flags and sparklers for all, and Aunt Emmy leading us all in Your A Grand Old Flag!
Daughter number 3 loving her chocolate cake, and Uncle Bud with two of his favorite nieces!
Not sure what we were thinking having the kids face the sun....but I love all their red, white, and blue outfits!!
Growing up the 4th of July was an extra special day in our family...Grandpa Cote', my mother's dad, was born on the 4th of July, in 1892. He was born in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. He and his new wife moved to Beverly Hills California, in 1919. In 1937 work took him to Burlingame in Northern California. Nana and Grandpa retired to San Diego, in the late 60's. He passed away in 1980.
little Raymond in his winter coat
he was Raymond Jr, his family called him Jack
Grandpa and my mom on her wedding day.
Grandpa Cote' loved to paint...he preferred oils over water colors. I am lucky enough to have several of his paintings. He painted landscapes and flowers...well, landscapes and pansies! He loved pansies.
We had a quiet 4th here at the Xavier Ct house, Mr Math is getting ready to go on vacation for a week with daughters number 2 and 3 and I spent most of the day helping them get ready. I was able to get a little work done in my crafting room. I owe a few people thank you gifts!
Wishing you all a Happy 4th of July!!
chris
Sometimes it's a good thing to be able to take the time to reflect on days gone by...and think of those we love and miss. Thank you for sharing your family story...they're the best kind!
ReplyDeleteYou are so fortunate to have those photographs and the painting done by Grandpa. He had a wonderful talent and thankfully, the pictures were saved.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post Chris!! Love all the photos and memories of your family! How wonderful to have his paintings! Such treasures!! Love your wreath!! Happy 4th of July to you and your family! ox Heather
ReplyDeleteYou know I can't think of a better holiday to be born on than Christmas but the 4th of July would be spectacular. Just like everyone was celebrating...Great story. I do hope you all are not melting as we are. Boys are still at camp here and Miss Claire spent a few days on the farm with my parents. I am going to spend the next few days cleaning and sewing so that we can all get back to normal when the boys come home. Smiles...Renee
ReplyDeleteThe pictures are very sweet. Love are their little Red, White and Blue outfits! What great memories. :)
ReplyDeleteErica
Your wreath looks great. I love all of the old family pictures, and your aunt sounds like a very special person. How wonderful that you have some of your grandfather's paintings. Apparently, artistic talent runs in your family. laurie
ReplyDeleteChris, that is such a neat wreath! I love the way you used the towels, such a great idea! Also, loving the family history here. It is wonderful that you have such great memories to share, and the pictures are priceless. I think it such a treasure to have your grandpa's paintings. He was a splendid artist. I love, love the painted porcelain plate with pansies! Yummy!!! My mom had a plate that was really pretty and hand painted, family heirloom over 100 years old. When they were re-roofing her house last month it fell and broke! Anyways, hope you had a great fourth!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Susie
Such wonderful memories - and, oh, those treasured photos! Love those matching outfits!
ReplyDeleteGood job with your wreath!