Happy 4th! Tomorrow is the official Birthday of the United States. Across the 50, citizens will celebrate their nation. It was the day, back in 1776 that 13 petulant little colonies declared themselves independent from their would be overseer, Great Britain. I mean petulant with a touch of nostalgic warmth. If you’re familiar with the history of our founding, you’ll understand where I am coming from. “The fifty-four men who composed the First Continental Congress represented different interests, religions, and regions; they held conflicting opinions as to how best to restore their rights. Most did not know each other; some did not like each other.” 239 years later, here we stand despite those differences, and those differences still run strong among the citizens. Petulance might very well be the creed of Americans (I say with warm humor).

It is okay to be proud, for what we have accomplished, and to go forward with pride that we are going to live up to the declaration we made all those years ago. Changes, just in the past few weeks, have reinvigorated the hopes of millions. There is still more work to be done. So stay safe. Enjoy your fireworks in proper and legal style. Don’t drink too much. Be careful with that grill. Hug your family close. Then on Monday, we get back to work forging the promise we made of being the greatest nation.

July 4th celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. USA.gov has fun facts, fireworks laws, and safety tips for a great 4th of July.

For information about the holiday, tips, recipes, safety and other points of interest go to Fourth of July Is Independence Day | USA.gov