1. What does freedom mean to you?
Wow! When I hear this question it evokes so many emotions. Across the country, conversations about freedom are emotionally charged—whether it’s the right to vote, bodily autonomy, what books kids can read, or how history is taught. These aren’t abstract debates; they shape people’s lives and futures.
America is a place where “freedom” has meant radically different things to different people. That contradiction—between the ideal and the reality—can be frustrating or heartbreaking. And when the word is used as a shield or a weapon by those with opposing views, it can feel like something sacred is being pulled apart.
Reflecting on the theme of freedom brought back a vivid memory from my years teaching 5th grade. Each year, my students participated in a writing contest inspired by Norman Rockwell’s Four Freedom Paintings, which brought core human rights to life through powerful imagery based on President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1941 speech that echoed the principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. (Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Want, Freedom from Fear). It was always a powerful way to connect young minds with the deeper meaning behind those iconic ideals.
I think Americans in general truly take for granted the freedoms we enjoy everyday!
2. How will you celebrate Independence Day this year? If you live outside the USA answer this question as it relates to your own country’s patriotic holiday, wherever that may land on the calendar.
As I mentioned, my in-laws throw a big party every other year. That morning, we’ll head over to join the fun—watching the kids (and the grown-up kids) take turns cooling off on the water slide. We’ll dig into hamburgers, hot dogs, snow cones, and some homemade ice cream. Once night falls, they’ll light up the sky with fireworks before we head back home.
3. This or that…red, white, or blue? Stars or stripes? Watermelon, homemade ice cream, or blueberry pie? How do you feel about fireworks?
I love red, white, and blue together—it’s the perfect combo for this holiday. That said, we don’t really do red much around here since so many of Auburn’s rivals wear some shade of red!
I’m all in on stars and stripes for the Fourth, though I could take or leave them the rest of the year.
Watermelon and homemade ice cream? Yes, please! Blueberry pie? Pretty sure I’ve never tried it and honestly, I’m perfectly fine keeping it that way.
As for fireworks… they’re fine. I could easily skip them, but some of our family is really into them. I mostly get nervous when it’s our crew lighting them. It just makes me a little uneasy and by that time I’m ready to get home.
4. What have you purchased recently that made you excited? No big purchases yet, but there’s one coming that I’m very excited about.
5. I’m thankful to live in America (or fill in whatever country you call home) because____________.
We enjoy freedoms like speech and religion, access to education and healthcare, and the chance to pursue personal dreams. While not perfect, these opportunities and protections are rare in many parts of the world and they come with the responsibility to protect and use them wisely. Loving my country and being thankful to be an American isn’t about loving its politics. It’s about loving its people, its promise, and the possibility of building something better together.
6. Insert your own random thought here.
I can’t talk about freedom and the blessings of this country without expressing deep gratitude to our military. We owe so much to those who serve and to their families who sacrifice alongside them—to protect the freedoms we often take for granted in this beautiful nation.
Last week’s Hodgepodge here>>>6.25.2025
I hope you have the most incredible 4th weekend!
I just love everything you wrote about freedom, loving America and the military! Happy 4th!
I appreciated your well thought out answers to these questions. I’m enjoying seeing all the different ‘takes’ on the question. Love those Norman Rockwell paintings. Happy Independence day to you and yours.
I completely agree with you about loving people and not necessarily the politics. Unfortunately, many people cannot seem to make this distinction – especially after the most recent election. This just breaks my heart.
Have a wonderful weekend!
So funny the Auburn readers here both said they don’t wear red lol. We’re Tennessee fans but live in Clemson country, two slightly different shades of orange but everyone knows the difference. I liked what you said about freedom and the military. I so agree about all we take for granted. Your 4th sounds like fun and I hope you enjoy the party and family being together!
We are Auburn folks, too! I love houndstooth . . .but can’t wear it or use it. I do still love red. It has always been one of my favorites, but I try not to combine it with white haha!!