Thank you Liz for your best wishes. Happy Fourth from this United Statesian to my fellow United Statesians! If you celebrate the Fourth with a fifth please be careful.

Other thoughts: My brother-in-law is a Mexican citizen currently living in these United (Untied?) States. He makes no bones about calling me an American and himself a Mexican. He is proud of his country and his heritage. He and my sister have worked hard to make sure my niece is aware of both sides of her own heritage.

Some memories of past celebrations:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 - Spent the time schooner caroling for the fleet achored in North Haven thoroughfare.

1976 - Fired the first salute to this country's 200th birthday. Witnessed by then Congressman Bill Cohen. Beat the official salute by a matter of seconds.

1969 - Spent the day fighting a small forest fire set off by our own version of fireworks (blasting caps in black powder). OOPS! Only about an acre or two damaged due to quick action on the part of family and neighbors.

Any other takers on this bit of thread creep? What are your memories of this holiday?