On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on July 4th, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event.
"As daylight drains from the summer sky, a cool breeze rustles through a hay-scented New England meadow. Relaxing in the long grass, even the keenest observer might miss the miniature army that’s now awakening from its daytime slumber. One by one, tiny male fireflies are creeping upward along grass highways. They pause at each apex, ready to lift off like silent Black Hawks. But as they prepare for their nightly search missions, these firefly males aren’t motivated by military conquest. Their quest? Genetic immortality. They’re hell-bent on procreation, driven by an urgent need to propel their genes into the next firefly generation. These resolute males are destined to spend every night of their short adult lives valiantly broadcasting their luminous signals. Unfortunately, the odds are stacked against them as they head off into the night looking for love."
"The summer solstice arrives late Tuesday, or early Wednesday depending on where you live, making both days essentially the "longest" days of the year in the Northern Hemisphere."
This photo slideshow, narrated by myself, discusses some of the places I've explored over the years during the first week of summer.
