We have failed miserably for the past 4 years at finding the perfect spot to watch Fireworks. Growing up in hill-y Southern California, we were always able to see Fireworks from the backyard deck. There were are few years that we made the trek to the park or beach, but most of my memories of Fourth of July were at home. Living downtown is great for a lot of things… not Fourth of July. Next year, I think we’ll make more of an effort to be lake-side or better yet… maybe plan a family trip to CALIFORNIA!

My mom “Gramma G” was in town with my youngest sister Emily  for the 4th (and to celebrate my… gulp… 26th birthday!). A whirlwind of a trip, we started with a quickie dinner at Tampopo Japanese Cafe on Greenville (delicious… and cheap! tempura and bento boxes!) before escorting my darling gandaddy and his date to a summer concert at the Dallas Arboretum.

 

Such a bummer when this holiday falls midweek.. at least for my sweet hardworking husband who has to go straight back to work the next day. We attended my mom’s childhood neighborhood parade first thing in the morning, followed by a wonderful afternoon by the pool. Post-swimming naps and snacks and a wonderful meal at our new favorite place Chicken Scratch (read more here). Great food (Free Range Fried Chicken + traditional southern sides) Good beer selection, and AMAZING outdoor atmosphere… very kid friendly!

Full of Fried Chicken our plans to go and see fireworks at Fair Park were quickly abandoned… instead we ate Peach Cobbler (Recipe Here) on the front porch, bathed the baby and called it a night. The rest of  Gramma G/Auntie Em’s trip included a trip to the Dallas World Aquarium, a weekend at Lake Cypress Springs, a birthday celebration and delicious brunch at Oddfellows  in the Bishop Arts District.

And in one short month… WE’RE GOING TO CALIFORNIA!