4th of July

We started our 4th of July at Church. Some parents of young soldiers (18-22yrs old) shared stories about their sons, there wasn't a dry eye in the church. I can't imagine the amount of sadness these parents feel not knowing where their sons are or if they died today or when they will be together again. It's important to me for my kids to know that there is something we can do to show that we are grateful for their service to our country. Through the years we've done different projects of sending things to soldiers but today we signed up for Military Hope Care Packages (organized by these parents). The girls will shop for the supplies to send to these boys and to other soldiers that do not receive anything from home. They will also include postcards and letters.

After hearing today's message at church, "the real price of freedom was paid by Jesus," (Amen to that!), we spent the rest of the day at a beautiful beach. The girls played in the sand and I read my book while my husband took a nap in the warm sun.

Later we grabbed some dinner and headed into Lahaina to watch the fireworks show. Front Street was closed and filled with people coming together to share in this traditional celebration. The show did not disappoint.

"While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer. "

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.