Freedom, Friends, Family & Fireworks!

The 4th of July is a festive time - people celebrating this great country we live in. So many people gathering with friends and family, enjoying their freedom, and, of course, the fireworks!

I've been blessed in my life to live in a few different places across this great nation - New Hampshire, Kansas, and California - as well as another place across the globe - the Phillippines. I've been to Australia, Japan, Mexico, and Canada as well. And within the US, I've been all over the place! Maine, Georgia, Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Louisiana, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, Virginia, Michigan, Alaska, and probably other places I'm forgetting right now, or was too young to remember!

I bring this up not to brag, but to share with you all some things I've learned along the way. I've learned that no matter where we live, how we talk or how we dress, we're all people, and we all deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. I lived in a third world country for 3 years, and while I still had many of the same amenities we're used to in the US, many in the country did not. I got to see people living in shacks with no electricity or running water, and still many of these people were happy and had beautiful spirits and souls.

And because of my experience of living in a third world country, I'm more appreciative of all that I do have here in the states. Still, like many others, I do have moments when I forget to be grateful for the little things. I have food on my plate, a roof over my head, and a great abundance of many other things. But it's not money or cars or clothes or furniture that bring me the greatest joy. The abundance I most appreciate are the smiles on my children's faces, their contagious laughter, their precious hugs, and their sweet kisses. And I can also appreciate the tantrums and fussiness - at least at times. =)

Not to lose sight of my husband, because I appreciate him as well. He brings to our home passion and purpose, love, strength, integrity, and a bit of silliness, too. Married 10 years now, our love and our relationship continues to grow and strengthen with each passing day. (Sean, I love you!)

My wish for all of you today is freedom. Freedom to feel what you feel, to do what you want, and to enjoy every aspect of your day and your life...for each day that has passed has brought you to where you are, and you can choose where to go from here. I choose to smile and keep on moving forward! I hope you'll join me!