Happy Birthday America

Fun, food, family, fatigue. That about sums up our 4th of July. We have bother #3 Ryan down with wife Tonya and thier brood of 5 here visiting so there are a ton of pics to post, and stories to tell.

One thing that I cannot stop thinking about was last night as we watched the BIG fireworks from a friends backyard. Sofia asked me why it was America's birthday. I went on to explain as best I could in a simple way and one a 5 year old will understand, that America celebrates being free-which means we can live the way we want to live. I went on to explain that many, many men and women have worked very hard and fought very bravely to protect us so that we can keep this privledge (she does know what this word means as from time to time she looses hers! LOL). I also let her know that men and women have died to protect us and they are still fighting when needed to make sure we can live the way we want to.

I told her of the many Uncles, Grandpas, Great Grandpas, etc. who have served our Country to help keep us safe. I got emotional as I told her of her Uncle Jon who would be going to Afghanistan to help in another effort to keep people safe. I just could not get Jon out of my mind as I know he leaves in a few days for his 3rd tour. I can only pray that our Heavenly Father will keep him safe once again and make sure his family are taken care of while he is gone.

The older I get, the 4th of July to me is no longer just about the fun fireworks and carnival rides. It means so much more. And I want to do more to respect it. During our parade yesterday, as the Veterans floats went by I said, "Thank you!" as they rode by. Ella echoed my thanks and she too waved and yelled, "Thank you!" She may not know what power that statement holds to the people who served this country, but she knows what Thank You means.

So, thank you to those who serve our Country. It is US who should salute YOU.

Happy Birthday America.