Being in Palmetto Bluff this morning and getting to experience their iconic Fourth of July small-town parade truly makes my heart swell. It’s the perfect blend of big-city energy and small-town USA charm. The whole community seems to come out, spending days decorating golf carts in the most patriotic ways imaginable — most of them decked out in festive red, white, and blue, though a few creative souls go all out with themes from Jurassic Park to the Wizard of Oz — and I love every bit of it. These parades are always especially beautiful, happening beneath the magnificent canopy of moss-draped live oaks that lend a touch of Southern enchantment to it all. The parade itself is absolutely adorable, with children marching by waving American flags and sweet little dogs trotting along behind them, wearing star-spangled bandanas around their necks. Moments like this feel even more precious when the world seems so divided and fragile. Seeing a community come together in celebration of what makes our country special is deeply heartwarming. Wishing everyone a very happy, safe, and peaceful July 4th, spent with those you love — and praying for a country where kindness and community will always shine through.🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙 #July4 #SmallTownParade #SouthernLiving #PalmettoBluff