Red, White & You

Three cheers for the red, white and blue!!!

Our six year old, Timothy’s, favorite holiday is the Fourth of July.  Why?  Because he’s proud of the freedom Americans fought to obtain?  Umm, no.  Because his uncles and many family friends have served our country in times of peace and war?  Nope.  Because he loves guns, battles and all things explosive?  Closer… but still no.  Actually it’s because he likes the glow-sticks we give out every year at dusk to occupy the children until the fireworks.

It’s understandable, really.  I mean- he’s only six.  How could he know the significance of this all-American holiday?  How can he understand why we launch fireworks and why we enjoy BBQs with neighbors- of every cultural background- together as Americans?

Amid the bustle of everyday busyness, the “minor” holidays are often a welcome relief.  Many head to the water or paint the house like any Saturday.  It’s wonderful to have some time off to enjoy life and have a little fun!  So what sets a commemorative day, like July 4, apart in your children’s minds?

I’m looking ahead to Independence Day and this year, I’m asking questions.  Like, how can we make family memories while teaching the history, values and sacrifices that made our country great?

“Like most holidays, different people have different levels of engagement and different ways of participating,” commented 210 dad Eric Lowe.  He and wife Meg, a teacher, are establishing traditions like fireworks, a BBQ complete with the perennial favorite “blueberry flag” cake, and time spent with neighbors and friends.  “Although the song came along many years after we gained our independence, the Star Spangled Banner always brings a tear to my eye.” adds Meg.

Here at the Olsen home, we enjoy the annual neighborhood parade- brimming with patriotically decorated bikes, home-built floats, and a color guard from the high school.  The children love the candy and the firetruck, I love the day off from lunch duty- all the neighbors share pizza at the amenity center afterwards!  It’s a welcome break before the evening’s cookout, games and fireworks.

Across the First Coast, celebrations range from simple- a picnic lunch and special prayers for servicemen, to elaborate multi-family parties.  Some love spreading a blanket amidst the vibrant crowd for fireworks over the Castillo, others look forward to a Phantom Fireworks run to choose the perfect backyard pack.

And even this diversity- the freedom to choose your perfect celebration- is quintessentially American!  I love my country.  I’m grateful for the opportunity to celebrate freedom and teach our children about their heritage: Irish, Lebanese, Norwegian, English, and Cherokee- great- grandparents who loved this land and fought for the freedom we celebrate today as Americans.

We can be so forgetful- so every year, take a few minutes from your 4th, whether relaxing or full, to share some history and gratitude with your children.

How exactly should we celebrate Independence Day?  Together.  Happy 4th!

This article was originally published in The Creekline.