Independence Day

Happy Fourth of July! I don't know about you, but Independence Day has always been one of my favorite holidays. I consider myself to be very patriotic person, so I enjoy the day commemorating our nation's foundation (even though that causes my internal Anglophile conflict).

First off, it has been incredibly wonderful being at home for a few days. Leaving the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple (and the Little Baseball? I don't know if Hoboken has a nickname) behind me, and all of the woes and worries that are there, such as unemployment and relative homelessness has been very rejuvenating. I took the Megabus to Pittsburgh early last Wednesday, and have had a very nice time with family and friends, eating lots of great meals, and spending time with people that I haven't seen in a long time. I realized how much I had missed being home when the bus drove past Monroeville and I smiled in recognition (which is saying something, because I absolutely hate Monroeville). It's hard to believe that in a little less than 24 hours I'll be back in NY/NJ again!

With my mom in Poland, and my sister working, I had a really nice Fourth hanging out with my Dad. It was strange, since most years I've spent the Fourth with most of my family at Ocean City, MD. But it was nice to be in Oakmont, I hadn't been here for the holiday in a number of years. We actually started off the day with what I can only describe as a quintessentially American event: a flagpole dedication at the public library. While not quite as Anytown, USA as it could have been (the community choir was not there singing patriotic songs, and there was no bugler), but to me, that's America. A small town, proud of what they have, and proud of their country. A few local dignitaries said a few words, we said the pledge of allegiance, a couple of Vietnam vets saluted the flag, and then everyone went inside for some lemonade and home-baked cookies. If you ask me, that's what is at the root of this country. We exist in the thousands of small towns, where people work hard and appreciate the freedoms that they have. They are typically honest, good people trying to provide for their families. And if you ask me, that's what's worth fighting for. That's worth defending.

I actually went golfing today with my dad. I hadn't hit a ball in at least 3 years, and neither of us are particularly good, but we thought it sounded fun. We ended up playing on the Oakmont East course, and we were the only ones there, which was nice since we weren't hitting too well. But it was a really fun time! The evening closed out watching a wonderful fireworks display from the fairway of the 18th hole at Oakmont Country Club. Some of the best fireworks I've seen in years, a long, loud, colorful and varied display. It left me feeling invigorated and proud, full of patriotic zeal. I know that's a little hokey, but it's genuine.

God bless America!