The 4th of July weekend is one of those rare opportunities where the stars align—a long weekend, warm weather, and every excuse to lean into fun, food, and family. While we love recapping our adventures, we’re just as excited for the plans we have in store. This year, we’re keeping things simple, local, and full of energy (and snacks). Here’s what our family’s weekend is shaping up to look like:
1. Pool Days = Happy Days
Step one to surviving a summer holiday with toddlers? Water. Whether it’s the splash pad, the kiddie pool, or the deep end (with floaties, of course), we plan to spend a good chunk of the weekend poolside. Our community pool has become our unofficial vacation home—complete with pool noodles, frozen fruit bars, and a parental rotation system that ensures at least one adult gets to sit down for 10 minutes. Maybe.
2. BBQ at the Pool
There’s something iconic about grilling next to a pool on the 4th of July. We’re talking burgers, hot dogs, watermelon slices, and those red-white-and-blue popsicles that melt faster than you can eat them. The kids love running between bites and cannonballs, and we love that someone else is manning the grill. (Shout out to the neighbor who brings smoked ribs every year.)
3. Aquarium Adventure
We’re carving out one morning for a trip to the local aquarium. It’s air-conditioned (win), educational (double win), and guaranteed to keep the kids fascinated long enough for us to enjoy an overpriced coffee in peace. Last year’s highlight was the stingray touch tank. This year, we’re aiming for the sea lion show.
4. Pickleball & Playdates
Yes, we’re fully on the pickleball train. The kids don’t entirely get the rules, but they love chasing the ball, and it’s surprisingly fun family exercise. We’ve got a few friends coming by for an informal round-robin tournament (read: total chaos with snacks). It’s the perfect way to stay active without making it feel like a workout.
5. Lots of Little Moments
There will be sidewalk chalk. There will be bug spray. There will be sunscreen battles and last-minute diaper changes. And in between all of that? There will be laughter, minor meltdowns, and memory-making. The plan isn’t to have a perfect weekend—just a joyful, present one.
As always, we’ll be sharing the real-time wins and fails over on @thetiredcouple. And yes, we’ll be making the most of our NordVPN connection to catch up on shows post-bedtime and checking in on pet supplies at BudgetPetCare.com while the kids nap.
Here’s to family, freedom, and flexibility. Happy 4th, friends!