Families, Flags, and the Fourth of July

Growing up in my hometown of Darrington Washington in the 1940s required penny-pinching. Little money was left over for non-essentials. Yet early every 4th of July morning, our family climbed in our old car and began a fun day–fortified with popcorn shaken over our wood stove in a wire popper, and red and blue huckleberries from our yard.

A few hard-earned coins from washing windows and cupboards jingled in my brothers’ and my pockets.  Our hearts pounded in anticipation while we drove 30 miles to Arlington to see the annual parade, then another 20 miles to Everett for their much larger parade.

We stared in awe at the beautiful floats. Men stood with bared heads as we put hands over our hearts while singing, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” We cheered when rows of uniformed defenders of our country marched by.

Sometimes Darrington didn’t have a movie theater and we seldom could afford to eat out, but Everett offered many restaurants and the Everett, Roxy, Balboa and Granada theaters.

Sometimes there was a carnival where we parted with our precious coins for rides or chances to win prizes. One year we went on to Seattle’s Playland Amusement Park. The day ended with fireworks that left us gaping.

Dad, Mom, and my two brothers are gone now. I thank God for the gift of wonderful memories. Every year just before Independence Day, I think back to families, flags, and the 4th of July.

I close my eyes and smell popcorn, cotton candy, and hot dogs sizzling on a carnival grill. I hear the whirr of a Ferris wheel, the   calliope-like music of a merry-go-round. I remember scenes from movies we saw so long ago, and how we enjoyed reliving them long after our trips ended. I smile at how thrilled I was to actually eat in a restaurant.

Then I whisper a prayer for all those who valiantly served their country, many of whom gave their lives to ensure freedom. Tears fall as I gratefully quote Lee Greenwood’s inspirational signature song, “Proud to be an American” song.

“And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free. And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.  ‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land. God bless the U.S.A.”

I hope you will take time on this upcoming Independence Day to give thanks for families, flags, and the 4th of July.

Blessings,
Colleen