Happy Birthday AMERICA

I think the Fourth of July will always be one of my favorite holidays. It definitely was my mom’s.

She was such a proud American, and you could see it everywhere in her home in Clear Lake. You couldn’t go far without seeing something decorated with the American flag or in red, white, and blue. Although she passed away three years ago, I inherited her entire Fourth of July wardrobe—shirts, pants, sweaters, scarves, and so much more. Every July, I pull those pieces out and wear them throughout the month. It’s like having a little piece of her with me, and it makes celebrating Independence Day even more meaningful.

As most of you know, Mason City’s fireworks are held on July 3rd so they don’t compete with Clear Lake’s celebration on the 4th. I don’t know exactly when that tradition began, but it’s been that way for as long as I can remember, and I think it’s such a thoughtful and neighborly way for both communities to shine.

We’re fortunate enough to be able to walk from our house to the football stadium where the fireworks are launched. If you’ve never watched them from inside the stadium, I highly recommend it. Many people sit outside the gates, but there are parts of the show, and the experience, that you can only truly appreciate and see from inside.

Before the fireworks begin, we’re treated to a performance by the Mason City Municipal Band. It’s made up of incredibly talented North Iowa musicians who generously share their gifts with our community. If you’ve never heard them perform, be sure to check out one of their concerts throughout the year.

As we walked to the stadium, I got that feeling I experience so often living here – a deep sense of gratitude for calling North Iowa home. We ran into friends and neighbors along the way, stopping for conversations and catching up. Sitting in those stadium stands, I couldn’t help but think back to my own high school days playing there in the band. Then I smiled knowing that all three of my children sat in those same stands as members of the band as well. Across the field, I looked toward where my husband coached football and where my son later played. So many memories are wrapped up in that one place.

Then the speakers played 76 Trombones, and everyone around us started clapping. I’ll admit, I got a little emotional. I don’t know of another town that plays 76 Trombones during its fireworks display, but for Mason City, it couldn’t be more perfect.

On the 4th of July, we continued the celebration in Clear Lake with friends. My sons put on a fireworks display from the end of their dock, and afterward we sat at the water’s edge watching the city’s fireworks reflect across the lake. If you’ve never experienced the Clear Lake fireworks, I highly recommend adding them to your summer bucket list. The reflections dancing across the water create one of the most beautiful scenes you’ll ever see. I took so many photos that I honestly can’t decide which ones to keep because I love them all.

Afterward, we stopped by the carnival, and everywhere we turned we ran into someone we knew. We shared smiles, hugs, and conversations that reminded me once again how connected our community really is.

If this isn’t the first blog you’ve read from me, you probably already know how much I love North Iowa. Year after year, week after week, and day after day I’m reminded how blessed I am to live in a place filled with wonderful people, meaningful traditions, and memories that span generations.

And I have something very special to share tomorrow… so stay tuned!