The Fourth that could have been.

I wish I could say that on the Fourth of July, my family sported these:

Or that I decorated my house like this:

Or that I made a festive treat like this:

Or that I saw some of this:

{photo by my big brother, Jason Leonard}

But I truly cannot. I cannot say these things because I was a party pooper on this most wonderful holiday. This was the first year, in years, that we have not been in Utah for the 4th, and believe you me, we felt it. We felt it in the heat. We felt it in the lack of flags adorning our neighborhood. We felt it in the absence of the Provo Freedom Festival--oh, the parades! It's just not the same.

I will say that we made sure to do this:

For what is this day without a waving flag?

And, well, don't expect any photos of my darling children.

Because, well, that's what a dud I was on this day.

I will say we enjoyed swimming, playing, laughing, and eating good summerific food with some of our family and of that I am thankful. I am thankful that this holiday represents my freedom to do that. To be, and to laugh, and to pray, and to be with family.

As for next year, I will dream of making these:

--and will most certainly be rolling in red, white and blue, and basking in the breeze of Utah's patriotic spirit.

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**Yes, I know how to bloom where I'm planted. I realize I can be just as patriotic here as anywhere. Alas, I'm all about the down-home, small-town celebrations. Nuthin' quite like it.