July in Chicago part 1

The 4th was nice it was about 77 degrees and not humid (and no rain, I can't remember a 4th w/o rain or the threat of rain.) We had some friends over for a BBQ. We played croquet and bocce ball. We could see fireworks from at least three of the nearby towns. Maddy played outside all day and had a blast. Here she is ready for festivities... see how clean she is (seriously who dresses a two year old in white for a BBQ or for anything for that matter?)

We have just been spending the days at the pool or out checking out the area.

I have been trying to keep up the yard and I am fascinated daily by all of the different plants that just keep popping up. Here are a few new things I've found in the yard this week and I don't just mean plants the third picture is a cardinal that comes to that tree every night around 7:30 and sings for a good 20 minutes.

Purple Cone flower
I don't know what this flower is... anyone? As I look I see there is a slug inside that's always nice or not.

The cardinal

And finally I think the patio is done. Our furniture arrived last week and I have spent nearly every morning out there with my coffee.

The blog post wouldn't be complete with out silly Maddy mugging for the camera.

Refusing to look at the camera.