Wanted to drop by to wish everyone a very  Happy Independence Day! 
  

It's an unusually rainy day here in the Valley of the Sun ... just the sort of welcome excuse to stay in my pj's with a good book and a bowl of cereal.        


Just maybe, I should feel a little bad for those who were looking forward to poolside BBQ's or the city's annual celebration at Tempe Towne Lake.    Then again, those activities may still occur.   


While I dream of someday watching a fabulous fireworks display in 3D -- INSIDE an air-conditioned IMAX theater -- I love that the young (and young-at-heart) aren't afraid to run out and grasp LIFE with both hands.


It's all a state of mind.   And heart.   
May I share a favorite family anecdote?  


Ever the patriot, my dad was big on flying the flag on Special occasions.   
Now, ours being a government town, I think it was a bit unusual (that) more folks weren't acquainted with the "do's" and "don'ts" of flag etiquette.   Instead, they'd look to the Willer's front porch:  If our flag was displayed, they'd hurry to put theirs out before leaving for work.   


Finally one afternoon, a neighbor approached my father.   Somewhat embarrassed, he asked, "What exactly are we commemorating today, Ad?"    To which my father replied, "It's Lum's birthday."
   
Remember, I said Special occasions?  To his way of thinking, each of our birthdays was reason to fly the U.S. Flag.    I'm not sure what the VFW would have to say about that, but I still chuckle imagining our neighbors inadvertently helping to commemorate my mother's birthday.


Wishing you ALL a special day of remembrance and celebration -- just the sort that makes your heart sing!