Not A Hipster Mom

One of the most amusing and amazing things about watching my four-year-old daughter grow is witnessing her become better and better at making excuses. And when it comes to making excuses, bedtime is her specialty. If tonight is like most other nights in my mom-life, bedtime will be a struggle. Here’s 50 reasons why my child won’t go to sleep tonight: 1. It’s too hot. 2. It’s too cold. 3. She needs water. 4. She needs more water. 5. It’s too dark in her room. 6. The nightlight is too bright. 7. The door is closed too much. 8. The tv is too loud because I opened the door a little more. 9. She doesn’t have enough blankets. 10. She has too many blankets. 11. Her blanket is facing the wrong way and she can’t see Rainbow Dash. 12. She wants to read another book. 13. She needs a snack. 14. She thinks she forgot to eat her vitamin. 15. Her tummy hurts. 16. Her foot hurts. 17. Her ear hurts. 18. She needs to tell me something. 19. She needs me. 20. She doesn’t have anyone

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve always had a special relationship with the Fourth of July. My parents tried to make the holiday fun for me and my siblings -- they always made a special effort. And now as an adult, while other people might stress about what they’re going to do on New Year’s, I care more about where I’m going to barbecue on the Fourth, and how I’m going to make it the perfect day. This year, I will be celebrating by enjoying a barbecue with my boyfriend’s family and each of our daughters, so I know I’ll have a great time. But lately I’ve found myself thinking about the holiday in a way that goes beyond barbecues and fireworks. Perhaps because my plans are set, or because my daughter is getting older, or maybe because of everything that is happening in our country right now, I’m thinking about what it means to celebrate the fact that we are Americans, and what I wish for my daughter’s future here. I have always had a strong personal connection to this country in a