Sweet Land of Liberty

The memories of the 4th of July have always been so sweet for me.  They are filled with youthful images past of growing up in the quaint, Great South Bay bordering village of Bellport, Long Island. It is an idyllic existence, magnificent homes all white with green shutters and charming white picket fences lining Bellport Lane, the main street that leads down to “the dock” at the water’s edge.  It is along this picturesque street of Bellport Lane that artists set up their masterpieces for onlookers from near and far to admire and hopefully purchase during Artist on the Lane held every 4th of July since I can remember. 

It was our family tradition to begin our the annual 4th of July celebration with a walk down “the lane” in the morning followed by a stay at the beach then onto neighborhood barbeque hoping until we concluded with fireworks at the dock.  And while the only artwork I could afford at Artist on the Lane were miniature seascapes by local artist Hans Gabali (my collection numbers nearly 30), I cherished this July 4th morning tradition far more than the all the swimming, hot dogs and fireworks of every summer put together. 

Just a sampling of my Hans Gabali collection

While I am not sure if we will be enjoying Artist on the Lane this year, we are headed for “home” to Long Island.  During our stay with Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop, we will be sure to spend plenty of time at the beach with the next generation of summer revelers who will hopefully one day regard our 4th of July family traditions with sweet reminisce.  And for all these memories, all these freedoms, I praise God and the courage of those who came before us - here’s to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness!  Have a Beautiful 4th of July!