A Tuesday Hodgepodge

4TH OF JULY MEMORIES

Fifteen years ago, on a 4th of July weekend, my family and I were nestled in the serene Trinity Mountains, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. In the dead of night, a sudden, thunderous crash shattered our sleep; Initially mistaking it for an earthquake, we soon realized that it was the sound of a good-sized tree crashing to the ground narrowly avoiding our tent. 

Talk about miracles!

1. It's a big week in the US of A as we celebrate Independence Day. Do you have any special plans? 

My husband and I plan to escape the hot weather by driving up to Lassen Volcanic National Park and spending the day near an alpine lake with our dog. When we return home, we'll take a nap and then relax by reading or watching a movie or documentary in the evening. Our main concern is to keep our dog calm and monitor the fire watch alerts on my phone. Although it would be nice to get away, we don't feel entirely comfortable due to the fire season.

BBQ?  No, too hot

pool-lake-beach time?  No, too hot and too crowded

fireworks?  No! How many times can one "ooh" and "ahh" over fireworks? Our town does a huge firework display over the Sacramento River. We can hear it from our house. But there are always people who do the illegal fireworks, which turns me into a "Karen."

homemade ice cream?  Sounds good but No. 

My two sons are employed at medical facilities during the day. While Navy will be at work, Sara is arranging an open-house party from noon to 10:30 p.m. specifically for her hospital co-workers as they finish their shifts. Navy plans to join the gathering once he completes his work. We have received an invitation, and we'll play it by ear. 

If you're not an American you can tell us what's happening in your corner of the world on Thursday. 

2. What's your favorite 'All-American' dessert? 

I don't have a big sweet tooth, but on occasion, I do enjoy indulging in a variety of desserts. Whether it's a scoop of rich, creamy ice cream, a slice of warm apple pie, a serving of fresh and juicy strawberry shortcake, a decadent slice of cheesecake, or a refreshing and simple fruit salad, so I do enjoy the occasional sweet treat. I don't know if these desserts are considered quintessentially All-American except maybe Apple pie. 

3. Does that patriotic feeling come easily to you, or are you having to work for it more these days? 

As an individual, my sense of patriotism is deeply ingrained in me. I can empathize with those who struggle to connect with feelings of patriotism in today's world. I try and reflect on the sacrifices made by our Founding Fathers who established our Republic. It is then that I'm filled with a profound sense of gratitude and respect. Rather than  anger, I find myself mourning the things that we have relinquished along the way. It's disheartening to acknowledge that we may never return to the ideals we once embodied. Our country is burdened by a multitude of internal challenges and voices that threaten the very fabric of our Republic. And yes, that makes me sad. 

What's something that makes you proud to be a citizen of your country?  

I am incredibly grateful for the bravery and sacrifices of my family, spanning generations from their involvement in the Revolutionary War to more recent service such as the Iraq War, and their contribution to the ongoing "American Experiment."

Without these remarkable men and women in our all of our families, their unwavering spirit, sacrifices, and contributions, our nation would not exist as it does today.

It's the American People. 

4. Your favorite 'patriotic' movie?  

There are too many to list. I always enjoy true historical dramas or Time-period dramas. Of course, always remember that it is a movie, and they usually take a lot of creative license. 

Any recommendations???

Favorite patriotic song? 

My Country Tis of thee and God Bless America. 

5. One simple pleasure on your July 'bucket list'? 

I live a simple life already, and I don't keep bucket lists, so I will continue living my version of the good life and embrace whatever comes up. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I'm writing this on Tuesday morning. The temperature is expected to reach a sweltering 110 degrees this afternoon. The homes on the outskirts of town, which rely on PG&E for electricity, have received notifications that due to the extreme fire danger and heat, their power will be shut off. Fortunately, we live right on the border, just one block away from where we receive electricity from our town. In the 16 years that we've lived here, they've never turned off our electricity. However, for those reliant on PG&E, power outages are a common occurrence. Tomorrow is projected to be even hotter at 115 degrees, and the thought of these people having to endure such intense heat without air conditioning or refrigeration while risking spoiled food is unimaginable. It's especially concerning for many of the elderly residents living in this area. 

There will be cooling stations around town - but to have to leave your home is not desirable for many especially if they have animals and children. 

Prayers definitely that no one dies due to the heat. 

I repeat - we are not affected. 

We'll be good. 

That's it for me on this early Tuesday Hodgepodge. I hope I haven't thrown you all off. 

Take Care and Stay cool. 

Debby