Summer smells like barbecue, chlorine, and citronella candles. It sounds like the constant buzz of air conditioning mixed with children's laughter, the splash of the pool, and calls for "Dinner!" Summer reminds us of the things that are meant to be shared: potato salad, watermelon, and sunscreen. The relentless heat reminds us that we live in a desert, where every time you walk outside, you deserve a popsicle.

On Independence Day, patriotic flags remind military families of a lot of things too: thankfulness to live in America, the ache of deployment, the exuberant pride in our military, and confidence in our Marines and Sailors who wear the uniform to defend the flag.  For this and for them, we pause and remember. Whether it is in a stopped car watching the evening colors or at a 4^th of July Day parade with children lining the streets, we remember.

This month, Marine Corps Family Team Building remembers with you and celebrates our service members and their families. Our Hearts Apart deployment support groups for adults and children continue to meet weekly as a way to recognize the challenges and victories of deployment. We are in this together! Call 269-6544 for more information. Also, check out our class schedule below, which features this month's kickoff of the new Friday Fit Club and Self Defense series.

As we celebrate independence this July, thank you for supporting and enabling the fight for freedom. Marine Corps Family Team Building is constantly impressed with your resilience and strength amidst the unpredictability of the military life. As always, we are here to help you BLOOM in shades of red, white and blue.