My neighbor Cathie has us spoiled. Every holiday or major social event brings with it a change of costume for our mascot bear in the clubhouse. And each new costume, it seems, is more detailed than the last. Here is her latest masterpiece, celebrating Independence Day 2014.

costume by Cathie

Check out these closeups of some of the details.

fireworks

apple pie-scented candle

a band of brother bears

Truth!

I can’t end this post without mentioning that Cathie’s patriotism runs deep. Retired now, she devoted her career to serving in the U.S. Air Force.

And finally, if you see Cathie today, wish her a happy homeowner anniversary. She closed on her Portico one year ago today.