Today is July 1st. The real beginning of summer. The fireworks began a little early in my neighborhood with a little test run for the 4th of July. I’m certain it will continue through the weekend. Most family vacations occur in July, but a lot of events took place on this day in history too. The battle of Gettysburg began on this day in 1863. We all know how that turned out. In 1867 Canada became a dominion. In 1961, a beautiful baby girl was born who was destined to become the “People’s Princess.” Lady Di would reign as one of the most photographed celebrities of all time. In 2005, the last Thunderbird came off the assembly line. What a loss for those who remember what it was like to drive one. Later in the week we’ll be talking about the many patriotic events that shaped America. Today it is the sixth month that my husband entered heaven. Another one of those “firsts” that brings many memories of this special man.

I remember one vacation our family took when our children were old enough to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation without looking at it on their phones. We were bound for one of the most interesting demonstrations of what hell must look like – Yellowstone National Park. It isn’t all hellish. In fact, there are some exceptionally beautiful areas in this land of many views. Before arriving at our final destination, we stopped to camp near Devil’s Tower. It was the fourth of July, so imagine the fireworks with that backdrop. The most memorable part of the time there was that a group of Native Americans were grouped at the base of the tower for a pow wow. I’m quite sure they weren’t celebrating the 4th in the same way we do. It was interesting to see them dance around a campfire, singing the song of their people. To add to the picture, there was a movie playing outdoors on the campground. It was “Close Encounters.” Talk about an exciting way to spend the 4th of July.

If Paul had painted this scene, I’m sure it would bring a lot of interesting comments as to the content. The formation of a new country in a place that resembled a wilderness setting with fireworks filling the sky behind it – with a movie about aliens entering our world in a spaceship. We will never forget that fourth of July.

Each day is a new beginning. We should treasure each one of them, because we have no clue which one will be the last breath we take. Enjoy life even when it seems like things are caving in all around you. When you feel lonely, sad, depressed, angry – get in the car and go somewhere away from all of it. It doesn’t have to be a faraway place. A little drive to a county park or nature center will lift your spirits immensely. I’m eternally grateful for those spontaneous drives that Paul and I took during the last year of his life. I think I may have to have my live-in grandson take me on a little road trip.