Independence Day

                      

    Independence Day is celebrated on July 4 because that is the day when the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence. From July 8, 1776, until the next month, the document was read publicly and people celebrated whenever they heard it. The next year, in Philadelphia, bells rang and ships fired guns, candles and firecrackers were lighted. But the War of Independence dragged on until 1783, and in that year, Independence Day was made an official holiday. 1941 Congress declared 4th of July a federal holiday.

John Adams, a lawyer, the first Vice President and the Second President of the United States, was one of the members of the Second Continental Congress who signed the Declaration of Independence. He wrote to his wife, "I believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival... it ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other..."

           

                      

   And so it is.  Fireworks, picnics, sports.....but are people remembering why?   I think so.  I am.  The journals I have read this morning show that.  Let Freedom Ring!

                                     

          

   Yesterday we went for a small bike ride and we are going on a longer one today.  I am sooooo sore from lifting weights.  That is what happens if you don't go at least 3 times a week, you get out of shape fast!  I felt like doing my water aerobics this morning but the gym is closed so maybe tomorrow.  It is time to see if my lungs will handle it.  I am also down 1.5 pounds today.  We will see what happens Thursday on weigh in day.  Hope everyone has a happy and safe 4th.  I am hoping to take some firework pictures tonight.  Any tips on how to do it with my camera would be welcome.