Freedom, Fireworks, and Farmers Markets

Today is Independence Day. It's a day to think about our freedom. A day to consider the acts of the American Revolutionaries and their fight to break away from the taxation and rule of the kingdom across the pond. It's a day off (for most). 

The 4th of July is a full celebration of summer. It's pool parties, time with family, and a time to enjoy fresh summer fruit and veg. It's a legal day to blow up tiny little, colorful, projectiles. It's a reminder to get out and enjoy summer. 

All of the farmers markets are in full swing by this point of the year with all of the great, fresh produce, breads, jams, and plants. Even in a season of erratic warm and cold snaps, even in a heat wave, the farmers are bound to have something to sell. If you were wise, you would have visited the markets this past weekend to stock up for today. Sweet, juicy, watermelon is always a favorite. When it's this hot, the juice running down your arm after a taking off more than a mouthful matters not. Big ripe strawberries are my favorite for today. Sour or sweet Michigan cherries are perfect if you can find them. The fresh peas are a great side for grilled salmon.

The 4th of July is a time for community celebration. It's a celebration for America, with no religious conflict, dietary requirements, or financial requirements to get in the way. No presents required. No slaving over a giant meal in a hot kitchen needed. Simple, fun, and fresh.