Fireworks and Freedom: A Small-Town Fourth of July

There’s nothing quite like the Fourth of July in a small Southern town especially when that town happens to be the second oldest in America. While the rest of the country may be busy with big-city parades and elaborate fireworks shows, here, things move at a different pace. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

As the sun rises over our quiet streets, there’s a stillness that speaks volumes. Flags flutter from front porches, kids ride by on bikes wrapped in red, white, and blue streamers, and neighbors wave with that familiar warmth you just don’t find everywhere. You can hear the soft hum of a radio playing "God Bless the USA" and smell someone already starting up the grill. It’s nostalgic. It’s peaceful. It’s home.

One of my favorite moments today? Seeing my niece in her sparkly patriotic sunglasses and a big red bow, marching down the street like she owned it. Right beside her was her big brother, proud as ever in his red, white, and blue. The two of them stole the show, waving at everyone with giant smiles and soaking up all the attention. Candy and kisses were being thrown from floats, and those two caught it all like it was their job. The joy on their faces was everything.

Because the Fourth isn’t just about hot dogs and sparklers (though I’ll be enjoying both, don’t worry 😉). It’s about pausing to feel grateful truly, deeply grateful for the freedom we have, for the people who protect it, and for the generations before us who helped shape this beautiful, complicated, strong-willed country we love.

It’s also about the people standing right next to us, our neighbors, our elders, our local veterans, and our friends who feel more like family. In a world that can feel so disconnected, this kind of community is rare. People here show up for each other. We sit on porches and talk about real life. We bring casseroles when someone’s hurting. We wave even if we don’t know your name, just because that’s what you do in a place like this.

I’ve been blessed to be involved in our community in so many meaningful ways, from supporting local events that bring people together to participating in church events. I believe in the power of community-led change.

And while my life may be little and slow-paced by some standards, it’s rich in the ways that matter most. It's full of meaning. Of shared stories, handwritten notes, church bells on Sunday, and hugs that last a little longer because folks here really mean it. There's beauty in the simple things. Things like hometown pride, community cookouts, and quiet moments of faith and reflection.

God has blessed this town. He’s blessed me with a life that may not be flashy or fast-moving, but it’s fulfilling. It’s full of purpose. And when I look around on days like today, I feel that blessing in every corner of this place from the waving flags to the sticky popsicle smiles and barefoot backyard adventures.

So today, as fireworks light up the sky and patriotic songs echo into the night, I’m reminded of just how lucky I am to live where I do and love the life I lead. I’ll be soaking up the joy, holding my people close, and thanking God not only for America but for this little piece of it that I get to call home.

Happy Fourth of July, from the heart of the second oldest town in America. May your day be full of love, laughter, and liberty.

❤️🤍💙

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