The sign above says it all!

We love our Lakeside home!

But for us, there’s no greater time to be here than on the fourth of July!

There really is something very magical that comes together within this small lake town community in Northwestern Pennsylvania throughout the entire year; however, the fourth of July is extra-special and we are so grateful to be a part of it!

My friend at Two Trails One Road sums it up beautifully in one of her more recent posts, Small Town Americana.

“…we watched our town fireworks with fabulous friends. Then on the morning of the 4th of July, we headed to the lake to watch the fun festivities… Bike and trike parades, swim races, the watermelon toss, a tug of war, a water balloon fight, and sack races. Our Lakeside Community came together and created a remarkable time for all ages! Lots of memories for many were made! We had small-town Americana at its best.“

Nancy, Two Trails One Road

*Be sure to read her post in it’s entirety to see first hand all that she explained and more!!

Once again our family took part in the Bike Parade festivities and boy oh boy, did we have fun!!

Last year was our inaugural entry into the “Group” category of the Bike Parade! As a consequence, we were super-surprised to be awarded a 3rd place trophy for our efforts!

2022 Theme: Fireworks for Sale!

Imagine our shock when this year we brought back a First Prize instead!

2023 Theme: Ants At a (Fourth of July) Picnic!

It’s worth noting the nation was founded upon the idea that God created human beings to be free. The Declaration of Independence states that people “are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

But what is “liberty,” exactly? Is freedom based upon the country where you live, or can it have a deeper meaning? And must you live by a lake to achieve it?

Giggles.

Billy Graham powerfully gives an answer to some of these questions in his famous message “Truth and Freedom,” during his 1969 New York City Crusade. A wonderful synopsis of that message can be found in the article 4 things the Bible Says About Freedom.

From cover to cover, God’s Word points to freedom in Christ. And God doesn’t leave us wondering how to grab hold of the freedom He offers. It starts with acknowledging our brokenness—and admitting we are slaves to sin. And it ends with choosing Jesus and following Him daily. Only He can break the bonds of slavery and lead us to true freedom, now and forever.

Billy Graham

No matter which Parade we march in or attend may we always be mindful of the Truth, which shall set us all free!

Hopefully, amidst joyous giggles to boot!

hugs n’ blessings to all those willing to discover what true freedom feels like.