Carmela Dutra's Blog - Posts Tagged "4th-of-july"

The Fourth of July has several meanings to different people. For some, it is just another day off of work; a government holiday. Some people think it is a time to celebrate family and come together for BBQ dinners and lemonade refreshments. Others celebrate the America that we know today with all the freedoms that were declared back in 1776.

The 4th of July is iconic Americana. Red, white and blue, the colors that scream I’m proud to be an American! Not much compares to this holiday to bring the whole family together for some summer fun. It’s what kicks off summer to get the grills going, and water balloons throwing. But once it’s over, then what?

After visiting family in the middle of June, having family stay with us during the end of June and then seeing other family the Friday before the 4th of July, it hit me; why is it mostly holidays, or special events that bring us together? Summer was officially here on the 21st of June, why do most wait until the 4th?



Yes the holidays are the perfect time for everyone to come together as a family clan, the reasons vary but for most it’s because we are all (usually all) off from work, kids are out of school (mostly all), and it’s the perfect outdoor weather. Why confine ourselves to the 4th of July, and then Labor Day. If we follow that patter the next time we see our loved ones will be November, if we’re lucky! Don’t get me wrong, I love the time off from work, spending time relaxing in the backyard with family as much as the next person, and who doesn’t enjoy watching fireworks? It’s literally fire in the sky!

We’ve just always been the type to put more emphasis on family time away from the holidays, than to try and combine both together. Maybe more so now due to the fact that my husband and I are expecting our first child in January. Or perhaps it’s due to the fact that I haven’t been able to see my close family as much as I would like to lately. Or it’s a combination of both!

All I know is I am more determined than ever to make sure that family is priority! Not waiting for holidays, or special occasions to visit and catch up. Especially if we are within close proximity to each other. Cousins are our first friends, they are always there when we need them, and when we don’t want them. But we love them even more for it and will never change that for anything!



So this is my summertime goal, what about you?