Happy Fourth of July! Today has been a quiet day with more than my share of reflection. The 4th of July always brings back memories for me. Mama’s birthday was the fourth of July. It was always a time of reunion and a big celebration for our family. Now, my parents are in Heaven and their descendants are scattered – mostly across the South except for my family which are in Montana, Iowa and Texas. (My youngest keeps reminding me that I gave them roots and wings.)
“The Patriot” with Mel Gibson came out in the year 2000. I did not/would not/could not see the movie until, finally, earlier this year I watched in tears. Somehow I knew that the movie would have a profound effect upon me. It did. I had been searching my family’s history back through the generations and knew that several of my ancestors had fought and died in the American Revolution.
It’s one thing to read about this nation’s history and fight for freedom in a textbook’s black and white, but to see the bloody sacrifice orchestrated across a screen is another thing altogether. The fight for our freedom continued through other wars down through the years. That fight continues today. I’m thankful for those who have given and continue to give so much that we may enjoy the freedom that we have.
My daughter and her husband and their family are in Kentucky visiting his parents, so I spent the afternoon and early evening with my friend and neighbor downstairs who was also alone for the day. She prepared a delicious meal of garlic rosemary chicken and potato salad. I’ve been battling a bulging disc in my neck with the pain that accompanies it, so she insisted that I come empty-handed and hungry. There were strawberries and ice cream for dessert. When I’m feeling better, I will reciprocate with a meal she will hopefully enjoy as much.
4 Comments
bbrunophotography
Dear Dianne,
It’s always so good to see your name in my Inbox. So sorry you’re having those neck problems–no fun. (My doctor has me on a regiment of 2 large Fish Oil capsules each day. 2 grams. It helps with inflammation & pain quite a bit.
What wonderful memories you have today – but a mixed bag, too. So your mother was born on the 4th of July! Each year’s celebration carried a double meaning. I know what you mean about missing parents. Both of mine are in heaven too. Someday, we’ll have such a big, noisy reunion, won’t we?
Take care, friend. Glad you’re back in the midst of family again – you sound happy!
Bonnie
Dianne
Thank you, Bonnie! I need to get the Fish Oil back out and add those to my vitamin regimen! Thank you for your sweet comments. I always enjoy looking at your photos!
quilt32
I hope you’re feeling better today. So nice to have lovely neighbors.
Lillian
Dianne
After six days, I think the prednisone is kicking in – thanks, Lillian. And you’re right – it is nice to have good neighbors.