Headed for the deck early this morning in order to experience the balmy, breezy start to a day that’s projected to include strong winds and tropical downpours. Should probably think about stacking the chairs and covering the grill, but there’s still time for that.

Strangely enough, I’m thinking about the ivy. Ivy is seemingly indestructible. It’s certainly tenacious. Climbing up tree trunks and deck posts and spreading in every corner of the yard.

Buffeted by winds and soaking rain, it holds on. A tree might be felled in a storm, but I guarantee that the ivy that covers it would  live to climb another day.

Seems appropriate on this Independence Day to think about those strong, independent people holding on with tenacious grasp to their new country. Like the ivy, reaching ever upward and onward in spite of any obstacle in their path.