What Does 4th of July Mean to You?

Happy 4th of July, friends!  I thought today we'd do something a little different and reflect on what the 4th of July means to us.  It's different for everyone but I believe we can all agree that it's a holiday that reminds us of how blessed we are to live in the U.S.  Take some time today to reflect on what this day means to you and your family...

This is what it means to me in a few brief words and photos:

Freedom - It's an amazingly rare thing in this world that we get to experience everyday as Americans.  May we always value it for what it's truly worth.

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Sacrifice - Today we remember our military heroes past, present, and future.  The sacrifices they made and continue to make allow us to live the way we do.  May we each attempt to model this selflessness in our own lives.  Please keep our military and their families in your prayers today and everyday.

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The American Dream - We can do anything and be anything, as long as we're willing to put effort into it.  We are not entitled to anything but we are free to pursue our own happiness with so few limitations.

Family & Friends - They mean the world to us and help make us who we are.  We can't imagine life without them and count them our most treasured blessings this side of Heaven.

(our little princess last 4th of July!)

Fireworks & Festivities - As Americans, we love our celebrations.  Relaxing, watching fireworks, and sharing a picnic are just a few ways we love to celebrate Independence Day.

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America the Beautiful - We're reminded of how beautiful a land we live and play in.  For the 4th, we're at my family's ranch out in Florissant, Colorado doing some four-wheeling, fishing, kayaking, BBQing, and more!  Does it get any better than that???

What about you, what does the 4th of July mean to you?  How do you celebrate with your family and friends?  We'd love to hear what you're doing on the day that commemorates the birth of the best nation in the world.  God bless the USA!