Well, my 4th will be spent going to the movies, (maybe) going over to a barbeque, and then hopefully catching some fireworks somewhere (I'd love to go see our local symphony play along to a fireworks show, but if it's too crazy out there, maybe I'll catch some on TV...lol).

I love this day.  I love that even though my family is very much into our  Mexican culture and traditions, we are just as much into American patriotism.  We were pretty much taught at a young age the importance of respecting our veterans, the importance of participating in the voting process, and just having pride in our country.  I grew up seeing the U.S. flag being hung out in front of the house every Veteran's, Memorial, Flag, and Independence Day. I grew up watching my family participate in Veteran's Day parades.  I can remember many a time as a child going to the local military cemetary to honor the fallen.

We may have had a poor childhood and may have dealt with some hardships, but we still understood that we were pretty lucky to have been brought up in this country.

Of course this country is not without its flaws.  The more life experience I get, the more flaws I see.  However, it is truly a place for dreams and opportunity.  I feel pretty blessed to be a part of it all.