Last night was our 17-month-old’s first fireworks experience. It was like magic to him. As the fireworks were filling his field of vision, I tried to teach him the National Anthem. I made it two words in and choked up. Tried God Bless America. Same thing.

I love this country. Awkward, contentious as a teenager, but bright, alive, hopeful as a college graduate. I love this place.

If you look at America right now, in this election season, you may wonder how we’re still standing. But this, right now, is only a fraction of us. America, to me, is the business I love and run, the park my son plays in, the crumbling house our neighbors bought and renovated, the innovative company my husband works for. We are free to love, free to work, free to play, free to celebrate.

Both my grandfathers left home to fight for the life I live today and no matter what the TV is saying, no matter what politicians are trying to get us hyped up about, this is my home and I am grateful.

God bless you, America. You are beautiful.