Ramblings: Happy Fourth of July!

Why do we celebrate July 4th? On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence declared the 13 American colonies to be an independent nation. All rule and the monarchy were severed. Revolution! It took two wars to actually complete the task. The first anniversary of that day was in 1777 was celebrated with fireworks, parades and public readings of the Declaration of Independence. July 4th was first recognized as a federal holiday in 1870. Today, July 4th is still celebrated with fireworks and parades. I don't think anyone reads the Declaration of Independence as part of the celebration now. Fireworks are still an important part of the celebration.

Last night my slumber was postponed as a neighbor started their July celebration early. The sound of small firecrackers was accompanied by loud booms for over an hour. I did not see the sky lit up in flashes of color, so they had no rockets. July 4th is several days away as I write this. Maybe they are saving the rockets for later. I expect more of this before the actual holiday.

My father loved those big pyrotechnical displays. He made sure we attended several every year. The last time I saw him we attended a fireworks display. I remember the smile on his face lit up in the reflection of those exploding rockets. He passed away two weeks later. So still cherish that night.

What July 4th traditions do you have? I still like to attend firework shows. I often go with my sisters. It would be nice to share the experience.

Another tradition I like to observe is to have a ripe tomato hanging on the vine by July 4th. In the past, when I had space for a real garden, I often accomplished my goal. This year is a wash out, literally. We have had so much rain all of the things I am trying to grow are drowning. The basil seeds I planted in late April rotted. Planted a variety of herbs and vegetable seeds ate ready to bloom. No tomatoes yet. Growing everything in containers is not easy.

Another tradition in my family celebrates in July is berry picking. In the sweet back raspberries, they're almost gone. Blackberries are plentiful on the Ridge. Before we bought that property in the 1990s it was logged. The blackberry vines came in and flourished in the open spaces. They help hold the soil in place after logging and provide food and shelter for wildlife. A patch of briars is the devil to walk through, but they give a glorious bonus of sweet berries in mid-summer. Blackberries are a useful source of vitamins C, E and K. They also contain calcium and manganese, and they are not high in sugar content. If you go berry picking this week, be aware of the heat. Go early in the morning. You will avoid the heat and beat the birds to the berries. 'Til next time, Annie.