.happy 4th.

Every 4th of July when I was a little kid my mom packed my sisters up into the car and we headed to Valleyfair, the only amusement park in MN. My first ride every year was to ride the ride the Merry Go Round, even when I was older I would head there out of tradition sake. We spent the blistering hot day riding rides, eating in the parking lot, splashing in the water park, and waiting for the fireworks. 

During the fireworks (and laser display) my favorite song was "Proud To Be An American" by Lee Greenwood. I would sing along and cheer when they mention the lakes of Minnesota, like any good little Minnesotan would do. Back then 4th of July was all about family, fun, and eating delicious cotton candy, fries, and funnel cake. Now as I have gotten older, I am able to appreciate and understand this wonderful holiday. I still watch fireworks and hang out with friends, but I now make sure I take time to think about all the people who have fought and laid their lives down for this country. How without their dedication, love, and pride in this country we could not be where we are today. 

.Enjoy the fireworks.  .Be Safe.  .Hydrate.

.Remember Our History. 

Sydney Opera House

In 1955 a design competition was announced for a venue that could hold large theatrical productions. The entries had to have a large hall to seat 3,000 and a small hall for 1,200 people, each hall had to be designed for different uses; including holding large meetings to full-scale operas. 233 people from 32 countries entered the competition, but it was one Dane who took the prize, Jorn Utzon. Construction began in 1959 and was completed in 1973, 10 years after the original completion date. The completion date isn't the only thing that went over the original estimate, the total cost of the building was $102 million, $95 million over the original budget! This was Jorn Utzon's first design that had been built and will go down as one of the most iconic and famous in the world.

this is my town

These photos represent my hometown, well two towns that I consider my hometown. I grew up in the country equally between two small towns, Winnebago and Huntley. The 'larger' of the two has a population of 1,000 and the other town has around probably 350 give or take a few. I love coming from a smaller town, even though my family moved from there in the 5th grade, I still consider it home. I love old, small towns they have a history that speaks from each building and road. When visiting this summer the towns were more isolated then before, buildings were in worse shape, you could feel the pain of the economy, you could see first hand what is happening in America. It breaks your heart but at the same time you look at the residents of these towns and they are surviving. They are strong, hopeful, committed, they do what they need to get by and to support their families...they are who America is built on and who we all need to thank.