July 4, 2016 MICHIGAN Richland - America's 240th Birthday

I'm not always proud to be an American, but I am glad to be an American. Even though people dwell on the bad, there is a lot of good stuff going on here. I'm not going to get all philosophical on you today. It is a day to celebrate and enjoy. To be with family and friends if you can or at least have them in your thoughts. I did wear my peace symbol earrings today though. Just a tiny and silent bit of commentary.

I attended the Richland, Michigan Fourth of July Parade today. There is a small, all-American home town vibe going on here. My lil brother's business (Kiss Financial) is right on the parade route, so he usually invites family, friends, and clients over to watch. We get a front row seat and a fabulous spread of munchies after. Thanks, bro!

This year there were a lot of golden oldie cars, work vehicles, one-wheel motorized unicycle thingy ... well, every kind of vehicle. Two great marching bands (Gull Lake Schools and Michigan Home Schooled Association). Robot battle-bots. Many "characters"-- ghost-busters, pirates, fairies, a man captured by a gorilla. There were dogs, horses, goats, and donkeys. There was red, white, and blue everywhere. Kids on decorated bikes and in strollers. Smiles galore. And much more. Here are a few photos.

From our balcony we have a 180 degree view of the horizon. Every little community and a lot of private parties are shooting off fire works for hours. Other brother Bob and wife Lo came by to watch the show. Here are a few shots.