Happy Fourth of July

Over the years, Independence Day has become one of my favorite holidays. With no stress from cooking a fancy meal, giving gifts, or the pressure from eating pies, I love the simplicity–and gravity–of the Fourth of July. In high school, I was a varsity cheerleader (I knnnnnow) and we competed for this thing called the Spirit Stick at cheer camp. It was basically just a glitter-covered stick, but it represented pride, unity, and excitement.

Years later, JD jokes that if America distributed a Spirit Stick, I'd get it. I think this beautiful country and our freedom is a gift for which I could never express enough thankfulness. Today I'll likely wear a stars+stripes bathing suit, decorate a cake to look like the American flag, and ensure my dog represents the grand ‘ole flag. Case in point:

Happy 4th!