Happy 4th of July!!

This year, we are celebrating Independence Day as we always do: with a family get-together over at my parents' house.  My birthday is on the 5th, and my mom's follows on the 6th, so we have one giant party, setting off bottle rockets and eating burgers off the grill!

I'll be taking the weekend off to just relax and spend some time with my family.  Jared told me we could do anything I wanted on my birthday, so he is taking me to an animal shelter an hour away to do some volunteering.  We visit shelters a lot, but Jared is usually in a hurry and doesn't let me stay for too long - men, I tell ya! ;)  But Saturday, we get to walk dogs and play with kitties all day!  It'll be a great birthday. :)

Here's what Riley will be wearing on the 4th:

Doesn't he look dapper and handsome?!  We got this polka-dot bowtie collar from the Usagiteam Etsy shop when we adopted Riley last year.  Their business is run out of San Francisco, and we can't say enough great things about it!  Profits from the shop go to various shelters around the country - we approve!!  Not only do they sell these bowtie collars (look at this adorable argyle one!), they also sell matching leashes and bandanas.  The fabrics are awesome and hand-picked, in various colors and patterns ranging from seersucker to plaid!  If you're looking for a spiffy new look for your furry friend, Usagi is highly recommended!  (A bowtie is also quite the attention-getter when taking your pooch for a walk!)

Don't forget to keep your pets safe this Friday - try to keep them inside in case the fireworks spook them!  Thankfully, Riley doesn't seem to even notice fireworks or thunderstorms - the only thing that freaks him out is the ice maker!  Do you have any special plans for the 4th??  Have a great weekend :)