Friday, July 4, 2008

Happy 4th

It's traditional to celebrate the 4th of July by being on vacation, by being near water if possible (the lake, the ocean). You've got to have a cook out, of course -- hot dogs, hamburgers. Sparklers, or even firecrackers, if you can get them. They are illegal in many states but uncles seem to have a knack for bringing some to the party. Families get together -- many plan big reunions -- or else friends and neighbors do. It used to be that everyone had the day off, but now more and more stores are open (having BIG JULY 4th SALES!) and more people are condemned to work.
I don't know that any of these pictures were taken on July 4th -- probably not, in fact.
But they are family, we are picnicking and vacationing, and so they will do. We're headed out for a cook out ourselves this afternoon, happily, and I need to get to the grocery store before it gets too crowded. If you have today off, enjoy it. If not (and maybe it's just another Friday where you are?) then think about the weekend ahead and what you'll do for fun. The United States have certainly changed the course of world history by their existence -- sometimes for good and sometimes not. It's hard to be an American these days on the world stage, but for today we'll try to focus on our more shining hours, and on better days ahead.

3 comments:

Natalie, the Chickenblogger said...

Well said. When we are not at our best, I like to think of our potential.
Someday, I hope to comment on all of your wonderful posts and respond to your emails too... in the meantime: Thank you. You make my life better.

Lesley said...

Happy Fourth of July, Jennifer! Have a great day's cook out and drive home safely.

Joy for the Journey said...

Hi, Jennifer! I am so glad that you stopped by my blog - I have really enjoyed visiting yours! I will have to mull over the challenge. It sounds like fun! We are headed out of town this morning, so it'll take me a few days. Hope you had a great holiday.
Sarah