11 FABULOUS WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE 4TH OF JULY

Boomers and Seniors Get Healthy and Wealthy on the 4^th

“it will be celebrated with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other”

John Adams, 2^nd President of the United States

We’ve had many years to celebrate the 4^th of July, officially known as Independence Day. This year, I want to show you how to get healthy and wealthy over this great weekend.

Since we are no longer in a true lock-down, the 4^th will be celebrated like none before.  It will be bigger and better than ever as families and friends reconnect, along with food, festivities and fireworks.

While traditions change with the times, some things remain the same, namely celebrating with people you love and admire.   How refreshing that is.  

“In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed, it must be achieved.”

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Here are several tips for Boomers and seniors how to celebrate this coming weekend by keeping a little cash in your pocket and watching your diet to maintain that vigor of heath so important to all of us at this age.

• The Travel Agenda. My BoomerGuy and I are not traveling this weekend, like we have so many years before.  The reason:  automobile and airline travel is crazy tunes.  Staycation is the watchword for us, and can be for you, as well.  You don’t need to hunker down, but you can enjoy the weekend with neighbors, friends and family without doing much more than a day trip.  Keep that money in your pocket and enjoy your surroundings.
• Find a Fireworks Show.  There are so many displays to choose from here in southern California.  The ultimate question is always “which one.”  Unless you’re into the up close and personal party scene, these shows are normally free for the viewing.  Again, keeping hold of your nickels and dimes.

• Backyard Cookouts.  Cooking outside and having a wonderful BBQ during this time is pure Americana.  Of course you can splurge with all the steaks, hot dogs and juicy hamburgers, but you can also enjoy grilled veggies, corn on the cob, mushrooms, seafood and our latest trendy favorite, meatless burgers.  If you haven’t tried them they are fantastic.  Finish all this off with a juicy slice of watermelon or grilled pineapple.    This is how you watch the diet and cholesterol intake.  Stay healthy gang.
• Parades.  If you enjoy crowds and fanfare, this is right up your alley, especially if you have grandchildren.  So many of our cities regardless of size have parades recognizing and remembering the people who built America.  They feature great performances, marching bands, vintage automobiles and firetrucks all loaded with American flags.  Some communities even have golf cart parades with prizes awarded for the best Independence Day design.  These are free so very wallet friendly.

• Salute to the Union.  This salute is a revered military tradition only conducted on the 4^thof July.  Any base capable of doing so will fire off a salute to the country, starting at noon.  One shot is fired for each state.  This event was established in 1890 to distinguish this special tribute from the national salute which is used for a variety of honors.  This is a wonderful way to acknowledge all those who have served in our military and as first responders giving us the FREEDOMS we all cherish.
• Flying Old Glory.  Flying the country’s flag has always been one of the top ways residents express their patriotism and appreciation for America.  Be sure to follow the flag code to ensure that you treat this symbol with the reverence it is owed.  You can also go to the Dollar Store and pick up a few smaller flags on sticks that go great in your garden or outdoor plants—let them blow in the breeze.   
• Fireworks in Your Backyard.  To some there is no better way to celebrate the birth our country than to set off a few of your own fireworks and sparklers.  Be sure to check with your local and county ordinances for guidelines and safety tips.  
• Festivities and Events.  Many organizations and groups put on events for the 4^th. Some “historical re-enactment societies” use the time to help preserve the memory of the American Revolution by offering demonstrations from that period.  It’s also a great time for music and picnics. 
• Sports, Games and Hikes.  Get outdoors over this 3-day weekend.  Americans love to enjoy the beauty of mother nature with a hike, walk or bike ride.  Others may prefer something more competitive like a game of bocce ball, tennis, golf, pickle ball or good ol’ fashioned game of softball (although we don’t run the bases like we used to).
• 4^th of July Sales.  OK, alright, this one might cost you a few bucks.  It’s a chance to score a great deal and for many, it’s simply a lot of fun.  Get out and brave the crowds at your local brick and mortar stores—they can use your support.
• Where to Watch the 4^th of July 2021.  You may not want to venture out on the roads or you can’t.  Here’s a gallery to look for and watch the events on television or streaming.  The 45^th Annual Macy’s Day Parade, the United States Army Field Band and Soldier’s Chorus, Reba McEntire, Cold Play and many more on Sunday Night NBC.  Of course, there’s the Boston Pops July 4^th concert spectacular along with Bloomberg TV’s celebration in New York City.  Sit back and enjoy these shows with a loved one.  

“The essence of America, that which really unites us, is not ethnicity or nationality or religion.  It is an idea, and what an idea it is—that you can come from humble circumstances and do great things.”

Condoleezza Rice

Whatever you do this weekend, express your holiday spirit while honoring the land of the free and the home of the brave.  Enjoy your friends, family and neighbors like you’ve done before—this includes the odd ones. 

Happy 4^th of July from your Number One BoomerGal, Connie.