Curt Fadness spent several years training circus animals.
Let’s begin with a little history lesson.
Americans have been celebrating The 4th of July since 1776, the year we declared independence from Great Britain. But, if John Adams were alive today, he’d be telling us we’ve been celebrating on the wrong day this entire time!
According to The History Channel, Adams believed July 2 to be the official day of independence because it marked the date continental congress passed it.
He wrote to his wife Abigail Adamns that July 2, “will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival” and that the celebration should include “Pomp and Parade…Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other.”
While we may not have gotten the date correct (in Adams’ eyes at least; The Declaration of Independence was officially signed on July 4), we have gotten the “Pomp and Parade” right ever since, as fireworks and parades have become standard tradition in most American communities.
From watermelon seed spitting contests to ear-splitting firecrackers, we all likely have many great memories of 4th of July celebrations from your past. No matter how you celebrate, play it safe, try some longevity-boosting treats and have fun. Here are some tips!
Playing It Safe
It may seem obvious to keep children and small pets away from fireworks, but everyone should stay out of the way of even the smallest firecrackers. If lighting fireworks is a part of your tradition, be aware of your surroundings and make sure that every time you light a fuse that everyone is out of harm’s way.
Other ageless celebration safety advice:
- Find a spot in the shade if it’s hot out
- Wear your sunscreen
- Stay hydrated
Longevity-Boosting Treats
While hot dogs and S’Mores are traditional summer treats that should be enjoyed, try incorporating some healthy treats, too.
And, remember, nobody said being healthy has to be boring! If you’re watching your weight or practicing heart- and brain-healthy eating, these longevity-boosting treats will ensure you won’t feel like you’re missing out on the indulgent food this 4th.
Dark Chocolate Berry Bark by Brain Health Kitchen
This brain-boosting dessert includes powerful flavonoids from dark chocolate and blueberries. We think the addition of some fresh strawberries or raspberries would really bring out the red, white and blue!
Grilled Vegetables by Love and Lemons
Handheld foods are great for the deck or the beach. Try something a little healthier than a hot dog this year and go for grilled vegetable kebabs like the recipe we found on Love and Lemons, a popular cooking blog.
Cheeseburger Tomatoes by Delish
Inspired by Delish’s Taco Tomatoes recipe, we suggest this burger alternative low-carb lovers. Packed with savory burger meat, cheese, and all the fixins’, who needs a bun?
Have fun
You might be past the age where a Slip ‘N’ Slide sounds even remotely fun or safe on the joints, but that doesn’t mean you need to be sidelined from the action.
Many of the activities we enjoy daily on our Eventide patios and courtyards are great for family outings and 4th of July celebrations. Here are some mobility-friendly activities that’ll keep everyone safe and entertained all the way until the evening fireworks
Cornhole
Horseshoe
Tie-dying
Watermelon seed contest
Grilling
Backyard movies
Inside
Lip sync contests
Board games
Independence Day-themed scavenger hunt
Patriotic puzzles
Enjoy!
We hope you create a fewnew traditions from these tips for a healthier, safer 4th of July this year. Stay safe, be well and God Bless America !
This is a lot to me.
