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The Patriot Act

Tradition Transition
by Just Add Kids Founder, Paula Herrmann

Patriot (def): A person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies or detractors.

I can identify with that definition.  And boy oh boy, along with many members of my family, community, and country, do we ramp up our patriotism with displaying the red, white, and blue (in our clothing, accessories, etc.) and that of Old Glory...today especially, Independence Day. While I say I can identify with being a patriot, I can also say there are many more who put their money where their mouth is and are fighting and/or have fought the good fight. To those, I applaud you for your service and I am pleased to be personally celebrating side by side with a few of these good men today.

Today, unlike many many (this is the 19th celebration of such) years of parade going, Herrmann family party and fireworks, marks the first year of noticeable difference.

I didn't go to the parade. Say what? Read More...Yup, I know. The weather is absolutely perfect. And it's tradition, after all. I have work to do. Yikes! And it's a holiday for goodness sakes. My oldest daughter is working, too. And tomorrow, I've got another bash to prepare for...said daughter's graduation party. In addition to my eldest's absence is the absence of my niece...the producer of years of Herrmann family 4th of July productions. Work has sucked her up today, as well. In year's past, the kids, and some star adult actors and actresses, have brought to life renditions of The Sound of Music, The Phantom of the Opera, and (speaking of "tradition")The Fiddler on the Roof. Today, it was spontaneous adlibbed singing, jokes at the mic, and a roast for my wonderful mother-in-law. Still all good, yet, it's a break away from tradition. Attendees were much lighter this year in comparison to past years. Not all of the relatives made the trek from Arizona and Texas to Racine, though we are excited that seven of our Florida peeps are here. For those that are missing, wouldn't you know, we'd have this perfect weather day!

kilties
My vantage point of today's parade.
(In front of my TV making a dessert for today's festivities.)

July 4 2011 Picnic & Show 037
(Herrmann Family Productions presents "The Fiddler on the Roof" 2011)

As I wrap up today's entry. My plan is to head down to the fireworks at the lakefront, heavily burdened with the thought of all of the party prep work in store for me tomorrow. I guess I'll be setting a precedent as I've got three more to graduate after number one. This, may very well become our graduation celebration tradition. Tying it in with our 4th festivities and taking advantage of the family members who come to town.

Cheers! Happy Birthday America! Congrats Grad!
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