Happy Independence Day to all! Here in the States, most families celebrate by getting together, eating lots of picnicky foods, & gathering for fireworks. As with every holiday, surely each family celebrates differently. Here is our celebration.
From the earliest age I can remember, we have been celebrating the fourth of July at our family cottage on the lake with as much family as will fit. And that’s a whole lotta family!. My father’s side included a plethora of Aunts and Uncles, making them my Great Aunts & Great Uncles. Great, they were indeed. They often brought their children who brought their children and so on. Sadly over the years, some of these wonderful people have left our lives and are no doubt still celebrating together in heaven.
Here’s to them – the generations ahead of us who paved the way, and without whom none of this wonderful life would be possible. They are an inspiration.
And here’s to one very special Great -my Grandmother, who will be absent this fourth of July for the first time. Her cottage will be filled with love & laughter from the next generations, the way she intended. I miss her. We all miss her. A lot.
Let’s toast to her. As we always say, A la famiglia! To family! Happy Independence Day! (and Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law.). Enjoy and be safe 
I used to love Fourth of July at the cottage! Tell everyone “hello” for me, and have a wonderful time!
Miss you all –
Arden