Happy Independence Day

Today is my birthday. It is also the day we in the United States celebrate Independence Day, marking the end of British rule in the colonies. We hope none of our friends in the U.K. hold that against us. We're happy to remain friends.

When I was a kid, I naturally thought all the hullabaloo - parades, fireworks, picnics, excitement - was meant to celebrate me. Imagine my disappointment when I found out it wasn't. My sister, however, was delighted. She had always resented the fact that my birthday had parades and hers didn't. It was one of those classic "nana, nana, nana," moments between siblings. 

The year I found out the horrible truth was the year it became my turn to refuse to come out from under the bed and go to the corner for the parade.

Still, this holiday always stirs my patriotic spirit. I love the parades and the fireworks, and the general air of excitement and fun that surrounds us as we picnic. I've been known to spend the entire day singing "I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy"; much to the chagrin of my children who like to come to Grandma's Ranch to party. I kid myself that they are coming to celebrate me, but I know better. They come because it is a day off work, and they can shoot off fireworks here in the country.

Nothing ever changes, especially my naivety.

I have to admit that the kids do a pretty awesome fireworks show. Here are a couple of shots of fireworks from two years ago. Last year we couldn't do fireworks because of the drought in Texas.

 

Wishing all in the United States a Happy Fourth of July. Have fun and be safe. And to my kids who may take time out of our busy day to read this, I'm just kidding. I know you come out here for the chores I save up for you. (smile)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

  Maryann Miller is a novelist, editor and sometimes actress. Her latest release is Open Season as an e-book for all devices. To check out her editing rates visit her website. When not working, Maryann likes to take her dog for a walk and work outside on her little ranch in East Texas.