As I am sitting here, waiting for my brother to arrive so that we can take in the 4th of July Parade, I was listening to my girls babble in their car seats.  The babbling got slower, with long pauses in between, until Carrie slipped off into sleep.  Ellie is still awake, quietly sitting in her seat, staring off into space, waiting for a nap to come.

It is the perfect kind of peaceful quiet on a hot July morning.

My heart is full.

Thanks to all of the men and women who have fought, and continue to fight, for our independence.  I know that these moments are possible thanks to you.