July fourth, flags and freedom

How do you celebrate Independence Day, the fourth of July?

We use the four “F’s” as our guide, fourth, freedom, flags and fireworks, ensuring we don’t skip a beat when we party!

Always, we celebrate this mid-summer holiday at the lake. Hot sun and cool water go hand-in-hand, setting the stage for hot dogs on the grill, smores around a bonfire, starry nights lit by sparklers waving as we cheer on the boat parade. Our pets require a bit of sedation to ready them for the incoming “booms” of the fireworks, our children are doused in bug spray and wear neon, glow-in-the-dark bracelets and necklaces, and now, we wait,

wait some more,

and then a little more…

As the sun begins to set, we gather blankets to strew across the grass, and settle in for a spectacular night.

The fireworks above are as loud as they are colorful, actually brilliant; the type that you literally feel before you see the explosion, are THE best. The children now understand the importance of “rating and ranking” each BOOM, followed by “oooohs and ahhhhs”!

This is our “tradition”, as a family, as hosts of our dear guests, or even the two of us.

This is who we are.

Patriots.

We are a Military family, generations have served in different branches, different positions and locations served, though they all agree that it was a great “honor” to do so. Each soldier and their family members, all proud Americans.

How do you celebrate Independence Day? Do you have favorite traditions, repeated annually, favorite games to play, recipes to prepare, activites that cannot be missed.

Our beach towels were strung from cottage to cottage...which made me so happy to see!

Do you celebrate the same way every year? or never the same thing twice?

Drop a line and let me know, also, what dish do you make for guests, or take to a party for the fourth? (also of great importance)!!

Happy Independence Day!

Keep sparkling!

xx,