For the past year I've been submitting spit tests and tracing my previously unknown family tree. What I have learned in the past year has been nothing short of amazing, including, my maternal grandfathers line is Colonial American. So, this 4th of July feels a little closer to home to me, than it has in the past.

I've lost count of the ancestors that participated during the Revolutionary War, there were many.

And, a recently realized to me, husband of a 1st cousin 8x removed (his second wife) was not only a signer of the Declaration of Independence, he was a law teacher and mentor to Thomas Jefferson, part of the 2nd Continental Congress, opponent of slavery, among many many other accomplishments. So I offer a very special, belated, thank you to cousin George Wythe this 4th of July.

(too bad my 8th great grand uncle didn't share George's beliefs)

Hope everyone has a wonderful and safe 4th!