Fourth of July
As Independence Day approaches, my mind wanders back to fond childhood memories of celebrating with my family. This day holds a special place in my heart as I remember my father, who served in the Navy and passed away when I was only twelve years old.
Growing up, our household was filled with happiness on this holiday. My mother would cook up her own versions of classic dishes like potato salad and macaroni salad while my father manned the charcoal grill and organized games of horseshoes. Back then, “diet” and “carb overload” were foreign words to us. We indulged in burgers and hot dogs that actually tasted like real burgers and hot dogs.
In our house today, we believe in respecting traditions, both big and small. In fact, I just finished painting a replica of the iconic Rosie the Riveter poster, which will soon hang on our screened-in porch. And this morning, while grocery shopping with Tom, he proudly presented me with a package of Nathan’s hot dogs. “Just to test them out and see if they taste the same as they used to,” he rationalized.
My dad would have approved.
While Independence Day was a time of joy when I was a child, Memorial Day was spent paying respects at cemeteries – something that felt solemn and uncomfortable at the time. But now, I find myself drawn to these visual representations of history whenever I’m out hiking or driving along unfamiliar roads.
In fact, cemeteries have become like museums to me – filled with life stories told through reverent inscriptions and stunning stonemasonry.
In my soon-to-be-released novel “The Weave Of The Universe”, it’s an abandoned Vermont mill plays a central role in the plot. However, it also seems natural that cemeteries and quarries will play significant parts in my future writing. As I begin outlining my next novel, it’s safe to say that cemetery secrets will be an important theme. It’s a not-so-subtle nod to the importance of our stone quarries and the diverse heritage of the stone workers in Vermont’s landscape. There are also many veterans and American warriors embedded in my tales, just like they are stitched into communities everywhere. Our blue-collar workers and soldiers are the very roots of our great country, standing tall, strong, and proud.
It is because of their courage and dedication that we are able to live, celebrate, and dream – truly a cornerstone of the American way. So, I send a special thank you to my late father for his service and the lessons in respect that I have carried with me throughout the years. The significance of both Memorial Day and Independence Day rituals remains with me.
Life, liberty, and the freedom to pursue happiness, with respect to others, one and all.
Happy Independence Day USA!
