Alabama Accent

From Montgomery, AL to Mrs. Montgomery

“Nestled in a Safe Place”

As my husband and I were planning our 4^th of July activities, we reflected on this time last year. Seth ventured out the the fireworks stand, enjoying the great fellowship. I was at home, laying on the couch, with all my energy depleted. Despite his many phone calls encouraging me to join the fun, I had no desire to move, much less leave the couch. I felt like a crane was needed to transfer me.

This year was much more exciting! We love our country and love to celebrate her. We understand what it is to live in one nation created under God. Excited about another birthday, we began our day with plans to go to the fireworks stand. We visited about what fireworks we had to have, those that were a tradition to us and ones we wanted to have for extra fun. As expected, the fireworks stand was busy with activity. We absorbed time with friends that have become family. We gathered our explosives and headed home to wait for dark.

Too anxious for dark to arrive, we joined with neighbors and set off those traditional favorites that did not require complete darkness. Having cabin fever, Seth rejoined our friends at the fireworks stand while Charlie and I waited for the sun to go down. Finally, darkness fell upon us. Tonight, he was our friend. As my family and I reveled in the magic of Charlie's first fireworks, we noticed God showing off His own. The night sky was filled with fireworks in every direction we turned. The airwaves buzzed with excitement, announcing another explosion. We were all like children, filled with anticipation at every boom.

We rejoined our friends at the fireworks stand to end our night. We love being with those we love. We gathered around and watched in amazement as each firework exploded. As an adult, I yelled with excitement at their great display. I also became very nervous when the storm rolled in. We made it home just in time for the heavens to open and spill its rain upon us. The night sky that we filled with colorful splendor rewarded us with much needed rain.

I had a great 4^th of July. I was surrounded by friends and family. My son experienced the magic of this day. I held sparklers and was reminded of when I was a child. My husband was our hero, setting off every firework for us. We celebrated our nation in a safe place, nestled in the great town of Vega.