Independence, Victories & Wounds

Yesterday was America's Independence day, Happy Belated 4th of July America! This day, I too found a bit of independence.

I became no longer dependent on land for a few hours as I roamed a gorgeous lake in a nice boat for a few hours. Not only was the water clean & blue but the sky seemed to be vying for attention in competition with the lake. A few harmless, charming, fluffy white clouds added a decorative touch here & there. A fighter jet did a fly-by in a celebratory salute "Hello". Pristine mountains showed off their beauty with snow covered tops-somehow seeming closer from our watery perch-taunting us with their cool serenity as the sun beat down upon us.

It was a day of victories & of pride in many forums. Some people strutted like peacocks with full plumage, strongly showing off sculpted bodies, tattoos & tans (they need a scar!) Others maintained a more coy demeanor as they almost shyly flaunted their bikinis, tans & fashion sense. Some felt this included wearing pants with the waistline nearly below their entire bottom so as to show off the inner layer of bagginess, be it swim trunks or boxers! Backwards hats, sideways hats, sunglasses on eyes, top of head or backwards altogether. Then there were those prideful of their possessions . So much to take in! It made the beauty of the natural surroundings & excapability all that much more inviting! So off we went!

My oldest son excelled at wake boarding in his first efforts, another natural talent for him I suppose. His friend also had fun even while less successful. Then there were the dual inflatables, what a riot that was. My 3 yr old would have braved this adventure on his own but I insisted his oldest brother go along. Many family memories made & Sadly my camera batteries died, rendering me unable to capture any of it. Any that is except 1 lone picture of my niece's fiance holding the "skier down" flag. Next time, I would like to try wake-boarding, even if it kills this old worn out body I'm trapped inside. We tired quickly in the heat, calling it a day by mid afternoon. While my oldest son sported his sunburn (despite us all using amply sunblock) like a purple heart awarded for returning semi-victorious from battle with the elements, mine was more of a "friendly-fire" wound.

After a short break our festivities continued with BBQ-ing & later fireworks. This independence day I am reminded that any battle can be won with enough determination. I hope I can incorporate this fighting spirit of determination into my own life & my own little struggles, no matter how insurmountable they may seem to me. Wish me luck expanding my independence as I do you with yours. Be Blessed Dear Readers!