Fireworks, Steaks and Lakes

We got back into Billings on the afternoon of July 4th with a bit of time to unload and relax, before the evening festivities.

Several branches of John's family came over, and we ate, drank and had fun with sparklers and other small-scale firecrackers.

Then, we walked across the street to get a nice view of the local fireworks display.

On Sunday, the hot spell broke and we woke up to cloudy skies and off-and-on light rain. It was a lovely change from the heat.

Thankfully the rain held off while we met up with the extended family again at a big park. Since grass was present, a soccer game broke out. This time, even Genia got involved, and me, for a bit. We were both s-o-r-e the next day! I am not used to sprinting.

Violet enjoyed playing with John and Genia's niece, who is a year younger than she is.

I'm not sure what was so fascinating about the underside of Stacey's shoe...

We went out to dinner, and were able to take over the banquet room. Afterwards, we took a photo of the cousins, and the honorary cousins.

In the evening, after getting the children to bed, we four adults stayed up to play a bit of Boggle, the word-finding game.

Our flight Monday was in the evening, and the airport is super close to Genia and John's home. Therefore we had quite a bit of time to play around before saying good-bye.

After getting packed in the morning, we went out to lunch at a Bull Mountain Grille, where Stace was able to enjoy a top-class steak. This place might become a new "must stop" on our trips.

After lunch, Stace and John went out to the Trailead gin distillery, where they always go together. Genia and I stayed with the kids at Lake Elmo, a fitting last hurrah.

Our flight home was smooth, and we're now back home. Thanks, Roberts family, for another great time together!