Without a doubt, the 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays. My fondness for the USA’s birthday started as a kid. I grew up in a town that spends all year gearing up for the infamous 4th of July parade. People arrive 24 hours ahead of go-time to set out their lawn chairs and blankets, staking claim to the perfect spot (which is the same spot they’ve graced for years, of course). They return in the morning proudly waving flags, pulling fully stocked coolers and reconnecting with old friends and neighbors. From the time I was seven until the time I was…well, much older, I was either proudly walking in the parade or standing on the sidelines cheering for—and chatting with—friends.
Now that I have my own family, we’ve started creating new traditions. We live in a tight-knit neighborhood that’s always up for a parade, and the 4th is no exception. We all meet for donuts, the kids decorate their bikes, then the local police escort everybody in a circle around the ‘hood. The party continues throughout the day with drinks, BBQs, water play and fun with friends. It’s good, old-fashioned American fun.
And that’s what I love about the 4th. It’s a holiday that truly represents the best that our country stands for. It’s a celebration of community and a reminder that everybody—local sports teams, small-business owners, dedicated law enforcement officers—deserves to be celebrated with a hero’s applause now and then. It’s simple, tasty food that allows you time to truly enjoy the company of friends. It’s great weather that allows for sun-up-to-sun-down fun. It’s pride-filled music, heart-warming laughter and awe-inspiring fireworks.
It was most definitely a wonderful holiday weekend for my family and me. And I hope it was for yours as well.
Looking back on the good times, I can’t help but say—honestly and with humility—God bless America.
I love how the basic elements are always there… although a few of the particulars change depending on one’s stage in life…. Like how the bar crawl transformed into wave dodging and sandcastle building on the beach with the kids 😉 But the BBQ, fireworks, and fun times with friends are, indeed, ever present and always the best parts!
Glad your celebration was fun 🙂 Miss you all!
Hmm, did I neglect to mention the Manhattan to Hermosa Beach bar crawl as one of my favorite 4th of July traditions? It certainly was…I still picture us all looking like we did in that great picture in the bar (whose name I can no longer recall — not because of the extra pitchers, but because it’s been far too long). It’s great that though traditions change, good friends don’t!
I remember hitting that hometown parade with you and Nicole many years ago;) Our fourths have certainly changed since then, but I’m so thankful we still can keep each other company and have a fantastic time with our families. We had a blast with you guys! And I so agree with you- I love the chance to celebrate family, community and country, and remember all the blessings we have to be thankful for:)
Who would have thought when we walked the streets of Danville all those years ago that we’d be celebrating together 13 (?) years later with our wonderful husbands and precious kids. We are so blessed, indeed!
We were and you are fortunate to live in smaller family-oriented towns and cities. Growing up in a large city, pretty much, made your type of local celebration unavailable. That hometown parade you mentioned brings back old friends and great memories. No wonder we really feel like we missed out by not going this year. Those scouts and swimmers and ball players of all sorts, floats and and marching bands are yearly reminders that “the good old days are here and now” as well as in our memories. Your grandfather felt great pride that we celebrated with such flourish and proudly proclaimed it “Americana” at its best! He would be so proud to know you have adopted your own special Independence Day celebration.
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Maybe I am channeling your voice after all! xoxo