To all the readers of Malvern Patch,

This site launched just over six months ago, and the time has flown by. Thanks to everyone who has followed along and helped it grow in myriad ways. I wish you all a safe and happy Fourth of July.

The photograph above is of Paoli Battlefield in winter—a reminder of the incredible historical connection this area has to the Revolution. And the attached video is one of my personal favorite songs, "Simple Gifts," by Joseph Brackett, as performed by Yo-Yo Ma and Alison Krauss. Whether it was intended as a patriotic anthem, I cannot say, but it captures the American themes of thankfulness, humility and the unceasing quest for self-improvement.

(Besides, it was either that video or this scene from the movie "Independence Day." I think "Simple Gifts" was the better option.)

Happy Independence Day!