Happy Independence Day!

While attending the 4th of July parade in Manzanita, Oregon I was struck by the spirit of celebration that was on display. I was nearly moved to tears as the Veterans passed us, thankful for their sacrifice for the freedom we regularly take for granted. The fire trucks and police were next, followed by various "local" entries, of every imaginable theme. There was the pirate ship that had guns shooting flour and candy (candy is BIG in this parade). There was the multi-colored PEACE truck, launching white foam doves in support of its cause.

There were candidates for office and local officials, riding in classic cars. Everyone was throwing candy, keeping all the young kids busy. There was the "Wasting Away in Manzanitaville" float, its occupants whipping up margaritas in a gas-powered blender (wish I'd gotten a shot of that).

There was a queen of something, riding a beautiful horse, waving her best parade wave. There were kids on go-karts, bikes, in wagons, on quads, in cars, on floats, and walking, all experiencing and living, whether they knew it or not, freedom.