Fourth Of July 2020

Home for the Holiday

"With freedom comes responsibility." Eleanor Roosevelt

Parades, apple pie, contests, hamburgers, friends, family, and fireworks are the essential ingredients for a celebratory Fourth of July.  This year will be unforgettable as the Covid 19 virus has changed the celebration landscape.  The large gatherings, festivities and essential mix of fun are on the shelf across the country. We ourselves are accustomed to celebrating in the islands viewing a parade, taking walks, wildlife adventures, exquisite dinners and viewing incredible fireworks that fill the sky.  Though this is year is unique, never fret. 

We have an opportunity to slip back in time and create an old fashioned Fourth of July at home.  Many of you are wondering what to do.  Well, think back to when you were little.  What did you do then? 

Growing up in the Northwest, we had sparklers, black snakes, and fountains to light off in the driveway. We attended barbecues with family or friends and watched local fireworks live or viewed a vibrant display on television.  Some were on boats on the lakes partaking in the glory of lights in the darkened night.   After all, the 4th is symbolic to us for a variety of reasons.  We did and do love birthday parties that are jubilant.  At least I do!  It is one night a year to be grateful even when the home town fireworks remain loud late into the night. 

Why Celebrate with Resolve? 

We freed ourselves from the British to form a unique and free country.  Immigration then and now was paramount for those seeking freedom. My grandparents on my mother's side immigrated from Norway to the land of plenty. They built a successful store and raised nine children.  My grandparents on my father's side were from Germany, England and Russia.  They toiled to become doctors and dentists working their way through school. They had grit, gumption and vision to make dreams come true through belief, hard work and dedication.  

They like us today were free to choose how to live.  We can achieve anything we desire if we grease our elbows, study, take the tests and build with our hands, our hearts, and minds.  We can make our world a better place.  We can achieve no matter what our circumstances were or are in this life.   In other words, nothing can stop anyone if they have the courage to seek out opportunities.  This is the essence, beauty, and strength of our country. 

In these changing times, only good can come out of it by believing in a positive outcome.  Of course, if you are enmeshed in watching or reading the news every day, you might think differently.  From my perception, we are doing what we can to protect ourselves and others from the virus Covid 19.  We wear our masks and are cautious though we have not stopped living. We support the peaceful protesters and abhor the horrific violence from agitators.  We are shocked at the crazy devastation.  We can only hope and pray that peace will arrive soon.

What To Do This 4th?  

"With freedom, books, flowers and the moon, who could not be happy." Oscar Wilde

Of course, this year will be one for the history books.  Fourth of July in 2020 could be compared to  celebrations during WWII.   Everyone celebrated at home while the war raged on overseas. Similarly, to WWII the virus has put our country and the world on edge.  Thus, as noted a mellow strategy is in play. 

Gatherings will be small and epic fireworks shows non-existent in most areas.   Alas, we can have fun, celebrate with joy, and remember our forefathers who built and designed our country. 

 
    Take Time to Decorate

"Freedom lies in being bold." Robert Frost

Add a splash of red, white, and blue to your garden and inside your house.   Put your flag out commemorating our country.  Or display flowers in the favored hues for a reminder of thankfulness.  We are grateful.  We are a collective.  We are Americans.  We believe in our country. 

Serve Up 

"You don't need a silver fork to eat good food." Paul Prudhomme

Watermelon, hamburgers, hot dogs, cherry pie, potato salad, red-white and blue fruit salads all fit the bill.   Serve with relish, partake in bubbly, and enjoy the festivities of the day.  Make the day special for you and your loved ones.  The festivities may include a hike, walk or relaxing.  Whatever makes you smile and be grateful. And, when the food is ready, dig in. 

 Dress in Red, White, and Blue

"How important it is to celebrate our heroes and she-roes!" Maya Angelou

Red, white, and blue are the colors of the day.  Slip into white shorts or pants, add a red top or striped sweater, paint your nails and presto, you are ready for the holiday.   It is always fun to dress up so why not make this a holiday one to remember for the ages.  After all, we will never forget this holiday for a variety of reasons.  Thus, make it the best one to date or at least unforgettable. 

  Think Positive

"The secret of happiness is freedom; the secret of freedom is courage." Carrie Jones

This Fourth of July remember the days gone by and embrace a home style Fourth with all the trapping of celebration.  We have much to be thankful for in our country.  We are blessed with life, friendships, and family.  May you have a Happy Fourth of July. 

Happy 4th of July! 

Until Next Time
Kim