American Views

by Sue Pais How appropriate it is that in July— during the heart of summer, we celebrate AMERICANViews

our love for this nation. Patriotism emerges with renewed energy, and we embrace all that is beautiful of summer nature, warm temperatures, children’s

laughter, and memories-in-the-making Celebrating America is about to carry within. remembrance. It’s about celebrating our traditions and history. It’s profound pride in being American. It’s our freedom to meander channels by canoe and backroads with the windows down. We’re free to jump from the pontoon deck or swing into the water for a splash. It’s a privilege to sow our area’s rich soil, yielding bountiful crops. It is the pleasure of plentiful grills wafting barbecue scents along lakeshores and within neighborhoods throughout our county.

We have our freedom.

It is in the warm months of summer when it’s easiest for many to appreciate life’s simplicities—from knee-high emerald cornfields, the hard-working farmer atop a restored tractor of yesteryear, drippy ice cream on the dock, and juicy watermelon in the backyard. It’s a time when footwear is optional, and sunscreen is mandatory.

It's all part of the allure of LAKElife Country.

We celebrate America’s birthday and honor the brave souls to whom we owe our freedom. We are energized with pride and inspired by remembrance.

From America’s favorite pastime of baseball, we relive the glory days of the greats and our own memories in the little leagues. Summertime baseball fields are alive with chattering young players, who are developing far more than a strong swing and camaraderie with teammates.

It’s in reverence to our military that we hold sacred American rituals. Devoted farmers, baseball, early morning kayak glides, the taste of a grilled hot dog, and the sweet goodness of an all-American apple pie—these all encapsulate just some of life’s goodness in July.

It is the beauty with which we’re gifted in this great land of the USA. It is especially grand within LAKElife Country. And we are, indeed, blessed to live an All-American Good Life.

photos: shutterstock.com