Nobody's #1

So, last night was the big night for me. It was our 9th annual family and friends get-together and 4th of July fireworks extravaganza. Seeing friends and family was great, but my main focus was on blowing stuff up!

It was raining on and off most of the day, so I knew that there would be a chance we might not get any fireworks in. However, in looking at radar, it appeared we would be in the clear by nightfall.

Around 7, we had a major downpour, which one attendee said was God's way of making sure I didn't burn down our house. Once that wave of storms passed, I knew we'd be good for most of the show.

Around 8:45 or so, we started making our way out to the yard for the big show. This year, I had set aside about $120 for mostly large-shell fireworks. So, I knew we'd have a nice show. I try to up the ante every year, and this was, by far, the most airborne artillery I've ever purchased for the show.

We had a few fountains as well, and of course Sarah and Amy's annual Pyrotechnic Ballet, where they run around the yard twirling sparklers in each hand. It is, of course, a tradition that draws crowds. And laughs.

We got several "oohs" and "aahhs" throughout the show. My cousin Phillip was there to help in lighting off the big stuff, and we promoted Leigh this year to Pyrothechnician 1st Class.

We shot off fireworks for a good 45 minutes to hour, when a few sprinkles began to fall. And then, the skies opened up. Major downpour, and everyone rushed to get back in the house. The "crew" worked feverishly to get the remaining fireworks back in the garage. We were able to salvage everything that was left, I believe.

We only got about 1/4 of the large artillery off, and we're hoping to find a weekend soon that we can light a few more off. Otherwise, we'll save 'em for next year....the 10th anniversary. And, oh, what plans I've already got stirring in my mind! (insert evil laugh here.)

I'm uploading videos to YouTube now, and once they're done, I'll compile them and post them below.