The Fourth of July

For the Fourth of July, Austin, Mary, Laura (Mary's precious roommie) and I went to Paducah, Kentucky! We stayed with my grandparents and just chilled, hung out with Uncle Patrick and Aunt Sherry and saw Uncle Richard. We gave Laura the grand tour of Paducah in the afternoon before the multitudes of people arrived for the fireworks display that night. Austin and I also visited the Chick-fil-A where I used to work. It was good to see some of my friends there!  It was so fun to reminisce, spend time with awesome family (and friend!) and spend time in a place that is so dear to my heart.

In 2010, Paducah won an award for the "Most Beautiful Main Street in America" which it deserves. Paducah dates back to before the Civil War and was a key place to occupy, as it is where the Tennessee and Ohio rivers converge. The historic charm, beautiful landscape and friendly people make you feel as though you are in the America portrayed in Norman Rockwell paintings- an idealistic reality of goodness and patriotism. However, although the America of the 21st Century is far from Norman Rockwell's world, some of those moments do still exist. Paducah on Independence Day embodied that simple life most people yearn for.

Broadway Street, lined with American flags and draperies in red, white and blue, came to life as eager children, with their parents toting chairs and blankets, found the perfect spot on the riverfront to watch the fireworks. The smell of popcorn and hot dogs hung in the air. A young man had his guitar on the street corner and sang a popular country song. The old-fashioned ice-cream parlor's line went out the door onto the street. Passing by the vivid murals on the flood wall depicting various aspects of the city's history added to the festivities. The city's jazz band played Big Band-era music on the stage near the river. A couple got up and danced, and a little girl watched, twirling herself around to the music. An elderly couple in lawn chairs held hands. Groups of teenagers walked by, laughing and trying to "act cool". Everyone waited in anticipation as the sun began to set, drawing a welcome coolness, for the fireworks to begin.

The Paducah Parks Director stepped to the microphone and warmly welcomed the crowd. He asked the veterans to stand, thanking them for their service, reminding everyone that they are the reason we can celebrate our freedom. Thunderous applause and cheers followed. Everyone then stood and put their hand over their heart as the band played the national anthem. More cheers. As John Philip Sousa filled the air, a tugboat started its engine and began pulling the barge containing the fireworks out into the center of the river. After awhile, the band ceased playing and hurriedly packed up their instruments and turned out the stage lights.

Then, the fireworks began. Children "oohed" and "awwwed". Some babies cried. Fireworks lit up the sky and were reflected in the water below. The audience was captivated. I felt so blessed to be there with my husband, dear family and sweet friend. Despite it's imperfection, I am proud to be an American.