I appreciate the things you said. Lilo, I know you have the European perspective necessary to understand what it might be like for modern Ukrainians; thank you for seeing their pride. Blueheron, good for you for reading Bloodlands -- I'm impressed by your commitment to understanding history. Don, that's a great aphorism! "The Ukraine" no longer -- Ukraine, now a sovereign country, has dropped the article that referenced it as a province or possession of another country. I wanted to share this quote from a Ukrainian music website. The commentator at this site always has interesting things to say, and there is also a certain intriguing space between his Ukrainian and English language abilities that prompts thoughtful imagination on the part of the English reader. "This summer, the modern Ukraine turns 21 years old - so, anyway, it has finally come of age. In other words - it is time to be accountable for one's actions without hiding behind reputable backs of older friends. Just because everyone in this world is living his/her own life - and it is far not those who offer advice that live and act according to this advice. Thus - it is not them who learn the hard way...But us. As a result, we learn from our own mistakes - well, that's how it is. The main thing is to learn. Not for the sake of the world with which we need to catch up - but for the sake of the world that we need to discover. In ourselves - and around. But there is another option as well: it turns out very simple - to step into the same river twice. One just needs to block the flow... The choice is ours. Because each of us is living his/her own life. Even if he/she chooses not to choose."

Well said, my patriotic friend! No matter the political climate we still live in the best country in the world. This is one weekend that is celebrated with much pride and reflection in my house every year. Celebrate safely! Rhonda

I'm too lazy to get out the camera & do anything at the moment, but Happy 4th to all! Lovely pictures, ladies. This has been the perfect day so far. Up early, had coffee, went deadheading while the ladies were in the shade. Played tennis for a couple of hours in the extreme heat. Came home and now I'm enjoying a lovely drink on the deck. It's called Swamp Tea, and I got the recipe from a restaurant where we had dinner in the French Quarter last month while on vacation. Equal parts pineapple juice, Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea Vodka, and Red Bull with just a touch of Creme de Menthe. LOTS OF ICE. Drink with caution. Going to enjoy some fireworks later with the kiddos and enjoy the breeze off the lake. I love days like this and wish my neighbors would come outside & enjoy the heat and the pretty flowers.

Nice group, Brad! Your ST reminds me of my Autumn Minaret, you have to have long arms to get a photo, soooo tall! Sherry