Independence Day..............

I guess I look at July 4th just a little differently than most folks. It's a holiday for me not of jingoism, nor rabid patriotism, but rather of a great deal of satisfaction. It's as if I look at the country and say, "Well old girl, 234 years old and still doing fine." I couldn't be prouder. We have seen some tough times but we have landed on our feet and kept on going to create one of the greatest countries in the world.

This is the first Independence Day that I haven't spent dressed in clothing that went out of style 250 years ago. Feels a little strange, but I will be spending time with my mom and dad, sister and various other kin folk. I am sorta reminded of what Erma Bombeck had to say about the holiday:

You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.

But since it is one of the most important holidays that we celebrate, I thought I would see what John Adams had to say about it. He said:

The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epocha in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will triumph in that Days Transaction, even although We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.

They agreed to the declaration on the 2nd, but signed it on the 4th so ol' Johnny got the date wrong. But he sure did every thing else right.

So folks, I hope you all have a very happy and safe 4th of July and keep a eye on that tater salad.