The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th of July.

I thought I would take a break from blogging Iceland temporarily so I could blog about a few important events. The first being the 4th of July, which happens to be the most fun in Utah.

Fourth of July celebrations really start around the 2nd of July in Utah County, and we loved every minute of it over here in the Robert household.

I woke up bright and early on the 2nd, so Dustin and I decided we might as well get up and go to the Balloon Festival which was happening a few miles down the road. Unfortunately, we were a little too late to actually watch the balloons launch, but it was still so much fun watching them float around the city of Provo. Is there anything more magical and whimsical than a hot air balloon? It's now my life goal to ride in one. I mean, these are balloons attached to oversized baskets that hold humans in them up high in the atmosphere. How insanely cool is that?

After watching the balloons for a while, I went to Courtney's house to help her set up for her party. Upon arrival there, I knew it was going to be a good one. Let's just say Courtney knows how to throw a party, and we are glad we are her friends so we can be invited.

(Photo c/o Nicole, doesn't it look like it came straight from Martha Stewart? She's amazing, and you can see more on her blog.)

(Also Nicole)

(Nicole)

(yes, there was a cotton candy machine and everything!)

By the end of Courtney's party, we were watching fireworks with spectacular views, lighting sparklers, and enjoying a good s'more right over the fire. Perfection.

On the 3rd of July, we partied at Huber Groves in Midway, which was beautiful.

And then the 4th finally came! And I woke up at 6:00 AM in order to get to the balloon launch (which was happening again) before they actually launched! The sad part of the story? They never launched because it was too windy, but they were blown up and tethered, which was cool anyway.

(The balloons being blown down by the wind, they almost smashed the people standing underneath them! I have never seen people scramble so fast.)

From the balloons we went to the parade, I love a good parade. And loved every minute of this one, despite the lack of candy (come on, Provo!!!)

That night I watched some fireworks from my front porch up on the hill. It was practically the perfect holiday, what can I say?