Moms Talk Q&A: Independence Day

July Fourth for me is a symbolic passage through the middle of summer--right before it gets its hottest. I am not sure if that would apply this year since we have seen an unprecedented heatwave since the beginning of June. 

Whether you call it July Fourth or Independence Day, the holiday has been a constant in the lives of so many of us from infancy including cookouts, fireworks and the presence of loved ones. So when planning a trip to the market, filling up your gas tank or gathering swim gear consider--what does this weekend mean to you and your family?

Q: Is it reminiscent of your childhood, your love of country and pride as a citizen or is it just a good time when everyone just happens to be off at the same time? 

A: I love the fireworks (AKA "cracker fires") but my kids do not. They think the display is beautiful but I feel the meaning is lost on them. Luckily that can be remedied if I can just stop making ribs, potato salad and authentic baked beans. Perhaps I can do both. This might be a great year to teach them how to peel potatoes! 

Many from our neighborhood will gather together to watch the fireworks show at the Cumming Fairgrounds. We will all be together with friends and family to watch as the sun sets "the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there..."

A: For my children, Fourth of July Weekend is more about family and close friends than anything else. We do remember why we have the holiday, but the kids enjoy the fireworks, parades and cookouts, naturally.

My husband and I plan to spend the weekend outside, with family and friends. Nothing complicated, but lots of battery recharging--which is important to us as the second half of summer has begun.

Back-to-school comes faster than you think, and I intend to be ready!