The Fourth of July hits a little differently when you’re older, wiser, and still fabulous. Gone are the days of chasing sparklers barefoot and eating suspicious potato salad at someone’s uncle’s cookout (we’ve all been there). Now? I’m lighting up the grill and the group chat, preferably while wearing something with stars, glitter, and a stretchy waistband.

But beneath the red, white, and barbecue sauce, there’s something deeper that always tugs at my heart on this day. Patriotism, for me, is more than fireworks and flag-themed cupcakes (though let’s be real, I’ll happily take both). It’s about loving this country enough to hope for more — more kindness, more unity, more showing up for each other.

I love America in the same way I love a complicated family member: with loyalty, laughter, a little side-eye, and a big ol’ heart. I’m proud of our grit, our resilience, and the everyday people who make this place feel like home — even when things get messy.

So this 4th, I’ll be outside with a drink in one hand, a sparkler in the other, and probably yelling “Oooooh!” at the sky like it’s my first fireworks show. Because even after all these years, I still get goosebumps when the colors explode and the sky claps back.

Happy Independence Day, friends. Let freedom ring — and let the snacks be plenty. 💥🧨🍉

xo,

Natalie🩷

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