Independence Day Traditions

I wish I had better traditions for the fourth of July.  We celebrate it with a flag --put up by our scouts-- barbecue something on the grill, watch a movie downstairs in the theater and light fireworks in the street in front of our house.  (And since our temperature is most likely in the 100's, inside activities are my favorite ones!)

I love watching the movie "Independence Day" with Will Smith.  The scene where the president gets up in the back of a pick up truck and inspires the rag tag group of pilots, makes me want to stand up and declare my independance.  (I know it is cheesy, but I like it.  And Will Smith is funny.)

However, with my niece marrying Andrew, a man who is currently stationed in Iraq, it seems really insufficient this year.  I want to infuse in my kids a respect for our nation, and admiration for our men and women serving in the military and help them understand that there is a cost for our freedom in our everyday life--but especially on July 4th. 

Do any of you have traditions or activities that you enjoy on the fourth?  Do you have recommendations for patriotic activities to do with your family?

Goodbye Oreo

Today we said goodbye to Oreo.  Whose fur used to be black with a thin strip of white down the middle.

When Oreo went blind we figured that because he lived in the same house his whole life that it wasn't so difficult for him to get around.  However, when Tiffany went to EFY this week and Shawn and I discovered that she has been doing a lot for Oreo.  She has been carrying Oreo out to the bathroom a couple times a day, bringing him water, and feeding him by hand.  Her sweetness towards him, melts my heart.  Tiffany's efforts have prolonged his life here with us.  


We have found Oreo this week in many sad situations.  Whimpering in a corner (because he is scared and can't find his way around), he takes shallow breaths and he is having trouble eating.  After consulting with a doctor, it is evident that it is time to allow him to move on to the next life.


We adopted Oreo from the animal shelter about ten years ago.  Originally he was meant for Shawn's mom, who said she wanted a new puppy.  But after a day of caring for him, she determined that it wouldn't work for her to keep him so Oreo came to live with us.  


Midnight loved having a good friend to bark and play with.  And Oreo's ability to sniff out food where ever it was, do tricks, and open doors in our house were useful skills for the two partners in crime.  Since Midnight passed away about two years ago, Oreo's health has declined significantly.  It is amazing what a big deal it is to have a friend to share this life with. 

I imagine their reunion in heaven is a joyous and wonderful occasion--that I am sure includes Katie, Ringo and Uncle Murray who spent many occasions together as dog cousins.  He has been such a great dog for us, we will miss him.

(Link to Post about our other dog Midnight who passed away two years ago.  Our Puppy Midnight)