A Neighborhood Fourth

One of the million things I love about America: Small neighborhood get-togethers.
Two of my neighbors organized a bicycle parade, inviting everyone to decorate bikes, strollers, and wagons. We had dogs, roller-bladers, flags waving, and a pair of balloon-decorated SUVs fore and aft to keep the kiddies safe from any traffic. Neighbors watched on lawn chairs as we marched by. People yelled "God Bless America" and "Happy Fourth." One SUV blasted Lee Greenwood's God Bless the USA on repeat. I didn't mind. I never get tired of it.

Afterwards - lemonade and cookies for all at a driveway lemonade stand. The sign proclaimed "25 cents" but the host dad waived that for those who didn't bring cash.

What a great chance to meet neighbors and celebrate our freedom, and our common joy in our children.