What is freedom? Civil liberties and individual rights? A vague philosophical concept? The ability to live one’s life with undue restraint no matter the consequence? Whatever your definition of freedom, one thing’s for sure: we Americans love to flaunt it the first week of July. Celebratory fireworks, BBQs, parades, family reunions and, of course, flying “Old Glory” tall and proud are all ways of reminding us that freedom is something that shant be neglected or taken for granted. And exercising one’s right to be free is what it’s all about. (But please, just lay off the pyrotechnic expressions this year.) So here’s a look at just a few ways in which folks are enjoying their freedom this holiday week.
 

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  Doris Toner, of Phoenix, catches freedom on a string at Andrew’s Lake.

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  Sometimes the freedom of the open road ain’t cheap.

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  Silverton residents Dave and Susan Hale take advantage of the free pleasures afforded by the great outdoors

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  The quintessential RV mural that says it all.

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  Freedom to relax on a week day.