A Day of Independence

Day 203:

An easy breezy day at the Buckinghams today, Boy'O.  An early rise to your smiling face, a hot cup of coffee, a warm bottle for you, and a quiet palatial estate not 10 miles from the heart of Philadelphia - Home of the Declaration of Independence and where the document was ratified on July 4th, 1776.

Our 236 year old country, the United States of America, is, as countries go, one of the youngest in the World.  It's also arguably the most powerful in every way.  And the U.S.A. also happens to be a beacon to those who would look to escape the darkness of oppression in search of freedom and democracy.  Our country, YOUR country, is the light, Son...

This day is to be spent celebrating with friends and family, cooking out, enjoying cold beer, splashing in a pool (when available), and remembering who we are.  And the group of people we're enjoying this day with this year, Boy'O, doesn't get any better.  I've had the opportunity to spend the morning with you, the early afternoon at the Country Club of Philadelphia playing golf, and the evening having a lobster bake poolside with a cold beer sweating in my hand.

However, as far as 4th's go this is the best one of my life, and it's all because of you, Son.  It's because you're here with me and Mommy and I'm able to appreciate just a little more what our wonderful country provides, Boy'O.  Because you've been born in to freedom.  You were born into democracy.  And I know that you'll both love it and protect it at all costs as has been the case for the last 236 years.

I love you, Conor... And Happy 4th of July, Son.
-Dad