Happy 4th of July!

These simple images from my Canvas Collection - capture the essence of what the 4th of July is all about to me...

As a kid, I remember the old New England houses around me would get adorned with American flags every 4th... It was the height of summer... Pies would be baking in the ovens, chicken would be grilled, lemon-aid would be made and it was a time to reflect on the good, simple things about American life... It also usually meant a parade down the streets of the village and the all-important fireworks celebration that night... All good...

The essence of all that is captured in the introduction to my book NO PLACE LIKE HOME  It is all part of the backbone or foundation of what my design work is all about today - environments that allow us to enjoy the good, simple things in life:  our homes and time with our family and friends... All part of what the 4th of July is all about to me...

As a kid, I remember lying on the blanket looking up at the fireworks and thinking anything was possible in life...Now as I grown up I take my own kids to the fireworks and I imagine they are thinking the same thing!

In honor of those memories - I've hung the flag on my own porch and there is a blueberry pie in the oven as I write this... Traditions continue...

Enjoy!