Today is the first day of a three-day weekend for most Americans.

On Monday, July 4th we celebrate Independence Day.

The day will begin with a neighborhood parade. It is sweet in the way that hometown parades often are. There are no flashy floats or celebrities, just local groups. You always see someone you know.

I walked in it one year along with members from my church. It was fun. The parade route was not very long but long enough that my feet started to hurt, thanks to my fashionable shoes. Ah vanity!

At the end of the parade, folks gather with kids in tow for ice cream, music, face painting, and best of all, a pie eating contest!

In the evening, we gather at the park for a concert and a laser light show.

But today is Saturday.

Chores and my little dog Riley are calling.

She needs a walk.

My house needs dusting, my garden needs watering and weeding.

I need to cook some vegetables and a pot of black-eyed peas.

I will sign off now and get busy so that I will have time to enjoy my weekend.

Thank you for reading.

Be well,

Lori