"Independence Day, Happy Birthday!"

Don't you like birthday parties? When I was a kid, birthdays were a great thing at our house. Mom, Dad, Nona, Uncle Salvatore and all of us kids; a party for us all was a big event. Mom would always prepare a great dinner, the cake was something to behold; large enough to feed us all, filled with cannoli and a frosting of whipped cream and butter cream, my mouth waters just thinking about it. The room was completely crowded as we waited for Mom to enter the room with the cake, lights were turned off and the candles illuminated the room and the faces around the table. The strains of "Happy Birthday" filled the air, and the designated honoree usually had a smile that threatened to split their ears from its wideness. Dad would glow with happiness as he surveyed the table; he was always happiest when surrounded by his family. Mom and Nona were always busy taking care of the needs around the table, making sure that there was enough coffee, plates and napkins to meet every need. Dad would usually ask how it felt to be a year older. Sometimes stories were told about the previous year in the guest of honor's life; both good and bad. Gifts were brought to the table and the "Polaroid" was put through its paces. The table always had pictures lined up and drying in order to insure memories of the occasion. Birthday celebrations are great fun.

We now approach the Independence Day holiday, America's Birthday. 234 years old on the Fourth, America continues to celebrate its conception. The dream of individual freedom, the dream of self governance, the promise of a chance to pursue happiness, were the gifts we were given on that fateful day in 1776. Thirteen "family members" sat at that first birthday party; now thirty-seven more surround the table. Every state, every city, town and village will have parades, make speeches, and enjoy fireworks in celebration of our nation's birth. Over the years, our nation has had some growing pains and some bumps in the road; yet America endures. Our strength lies in our people. Chests swollen with pride in America will be prevalent this week-end. "God Bless America" will be played at countless picnics, barbeques, and parades. Veterans will march and children will wave small flags. All this, because many years ago, a small country stood up for freedom against tyranny. The spirit of America is un-matched anywhere in the world. Let's all stand together this week-end to remember how privileged we are to be citizens of this great nation. Let's remember our freedom comes at a cost. The cost is to be aware of anything that threatens our freedom and our constitution, and to stop those threats. Enjoy America, protect her freedoms, there is no other nation like her. Cheer, sing and wave our flag with pride! America, the land of the free, and the home of the brave; let's keep it that way!!!!

(this is my last blog until next Tuesday, off for a "Birthday" party")