Happy Birthday, America!

~ July 4th ~ 

American Independence Day!

Americans all across this beautiful country

are out celebrating today.

Neighborhood parades are a tradition in US communities

large and small, and as with every year, 
I started my day as a spectator at the annual Tarrytown Parade.
I never miss the neighborhood 4th of July Parade!

It's heart warming to see the hundreds of neighbors,

young and old, who come out on the 4th of July to 

participate in these little community parades.   
Many walk while others ride along in 
decorated cars, trucks, golf carts, jeeps,
wagons, bikes, or scooters as other neighbors along
the parade route cheer the group in the spirit of the day.
For many, the remainder of the day will be
spent enjoying outdoor meals with family and friends,
swimming in pools or boating at area lakes.
Tonight the Austin Symphony Orchestra will present a
concert along the grassy banks of Lady Bird Lake,
culminating with a spectacular fireworks display 
above the beautiful Austin skyline.  

Here at Hyacinths for the Soul
there are no big plans for a cookout or picnic.
For us it's a quiet evening at home, dinner for two,
ending with a slice of our patriotic cake.

I set a table for just the two of us to enjoy

an early dinner out on the terrace.

These two little patriotic chickadees

flew in to join us.

I happened upon these little guys

when I stopped by Hobby Lobby a few weeks ago.

It was hard to resist their jaunty personalities

and the charm of their patriotic costumes.

A mini hydrangea was just right

for a touch of white, and .   .   .

These patriotic Kalanchoes were

the perfect companion.

Both small pots being just right for

my favorite ceramic cachepots in red and blue.

I added some cushions of

red, white, and blue.

Then set the table with a mix of dishes that 

bring to mind the patriotic spirit.

All are set atop my favorite Ralph Lauren 
paisley textile in patriotic colors.

A friend in Dallas sent me these cute little anchor

salad plates that she found at Walgreens.

I reciprocated with the blue plaid dinner plates

that I found at a local grocery here.

All are melamine and perfect for summer alfresco dining.

I also used my MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check chargers 

and flatware purchased at Pottery Barn several years ago.

Though it may look cool and refreshing,
to be honest, it is steaming hot in Austin today.

We may take flight and move inside where

the AC is thankfully cranking out much cooler air.

Just us two and these cute

little chickadees!

HAPPY  BIRTHDAY

AMERICA!

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