Independence Day honors the 232rd birthday of the United States of America and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On July 4, 1776, we claimed our independence from Britain and Democracy was born. It’s a day of picnics, backyard BBQs and patriotic parades and marching bands, a night of concerts and fireworks of “bombs bursting in air”, and a reason to fly the American flag. To show respect for our American flag, we need to use proper US Flag Etiquette.

I look forward to spending time with all of my family in this area tomorrow at a BBQ in the afternoon. We plan on barbequing steak, chicken, hot dogs, sausages and smoked links. Also part of the meal will be potato salad, macaroni salad, corn on the cob, baked potatoes and a birthday cake because we have two family members celebrating their birthdays. I know this type of meal is full of carbohydrates and calories, which is a big obstacle for a diabetic like me. I know my body will pay the price for eating a lot of these foods. I will have to watch my portion sizes to help with this situation.

We are not sure if the local fireworks will be set off because it is suppose to rain. We are fortunate to be able to have local fireworks, when so many areas of our country are under water or having bad wildfires or severe drought and are ordered to have no fireworks display. It is truly sad that other citizens in these areas are not able to enjoy fireworks this year. It makes me more thankful that I can celebrate Independence Day even more with the freedom to celebrate. May we all be more thankful for our freedom that our men and women in service are fighting over seas for us to remain independent.

Happy 4th of July!