Happy

Happy Fourth of July!

Today my family celebrated the day differently than usual. Our family has a big party every year and we typically go, but this year we got all the way there and decided not to go in. I know that’s kind of weird and we felt a little guilty about it, but there were so many people in the neighborhood having parties that it was just crazy and we just turned around. We went to Famous Dave’s BBQ and had a nice dinner together and then went to a movie. We were basically the only people in the theatre (notice my brother and dad to the left sitting in an empty theatre). As we were driving home we finally found out which one of our neighbors always does the fireworks in the backyard and we pulled on the side of the road to watch them...they were really good this year. Usually we can’t tell who is putting them off, but we discovered the location this year. Much to our surprise, three other families started putting on

fireworks as well so we drove the rest of the way home and watched them from our deck.

I am now in my pajamas hanging in the family room with my family. We made coffee and brownies are in the oven. We’re making our own brownie sundaes and enjoying the rest of Independence Day. While we didn’t celebrate in typical fashion, it was a much needed day with my family. I feel blessed for the sacrifices people have made in order for us to be able to have this time together and I feel blessed that I have a family to spend the day with. I saw a woman as we were leaving the movie that had been there alone. It really broke my heart. I mean, I’m sure she enjoyed the film, but it made me wonder why she was alone on a day people usually spend with family and friends. It made me realize how truly blessed I am and that every second with my family is a gift from God.

What a day! Freedom is a beautiful thing and I celebrate all those that made the independence we enjoy today possible!