My mom’s mom was born on July 3^rd the same year as Shirley Temple and Mickey Mouse.  Because of her birthday, the 4^th of July holiday is among my favorite family holidays, too.  As long as I can remember, she invites relatives over to her house on Elizabeth Street for a cookout to celebrate.  Some aunts and uncles just walk up the street to her front yard, while the rest of us drive in from different corners of the state or country.  The configuration of people varies from year to year, but you can usually count on breakfast at Wimbledon, Lay’s potato chips, Uncle George at the charcoal grill and a coconut cake (Grandma’s favorite).  I am thankful for both the verbal and silent support that comes from my family and for the sustained comfort that my grandma has instilled in all of us.  These are the days when the familiar beats the new and fancy.