Today is the 4th of July and I have more than one reason to celebrate. First, it is American Independence Day. I love this country. It is not perfect and I don't think being a patriot is about ignoring imperfections. I think being a patriot is seeing the beauty in one's country and believing that the best is still ahead not in some falsely nostalgia-ized past. So here's to you, USA. Happy birthday!And speaking of birthdays, my beautiful grandmother is turning 90 today -- yes, 90! She is an amazing lady and I am blessed to be her granddaughter. Happy birthday, Nanau. I love you!