2013: Happy Independence Day

Today I spent my 4th of July with Joe reminiscing the joys of being an American citizen. As many of you may or may not know, my boyfriend served in the United Armed Forces (US military) for several years. In fact, when I first met Joe he was working in the Army National Guard. At that time, I was only 17 years old. He was 19 going on 20. 

He and all talked about the memories of meeting in 1998 and what he went through while serving in the United States military from 1998 until 2002. I am extremely fascinated by his stories. A lot of what he has shared is incredibly intense and I am deeply reminded of his bravery. 

When I look at history, the United States has been through a lot yet still remains standing as the greatest country in the world. History speaks for itself and I am honored to be a citizen of the United States. Currently, I am in the steel city of Pittsburgh where I went to college and of course I am here with Joe. 

The day was filled with great food (veggie burgers, veggie dogs, potato salad, root beer floats, etc.), great conversation (liberty is one thing I love to exercise on a daily basis) and a celebration of fireworks (in downtown Pittsburgh) and real, tried and true happiness. 

When I hear songs like "God Bless The USA" and "Stars and Stripes Forever" I am happy. And when I look at fireworks, I am reminded of how lucky I am to live in the home of the free and the land of the brave. 

What more can I say? Happy Birthday America! Happy Independence Day!