The word 'Merica has become a staple in the vocabulary of Americans everywhere, and, inspired by the quickly-approaching Fourth of July, I was compelled to ask some hard-hitting questions to better understand this newfangled lingo. For example, what is this 'Merica? How does one properly 'Merica? Well, thankfully, a simple Google search was all it took for me to understand the true meaning of 'Merica. According to my research, 'Merica is another way of saying America and is extreme patriotism. Still confused? Well, in an effort to break this conundrum down and help others better understand it, here are some things that simply scream 'Merica.

1. This very real picture of George Washington.

2. Wearing the our nation's colors with pride.

Nothing says freedom quite like red, white and blue.

3. Heart attacks that you can literally ingest.

This bad boy can be purchased at Turner Field, home of the Atlanta Braves, so you can enjoy it while you enjoy America's favorite past time- baseball. To put the cherry on top for you, guess what the Braves' colors are. Yep, that's right- red, white and blue, baby.

4. The ability to crack a cold can of America.

Budweiser unveiled this genius advertising scheme for the summer.

5. Social Media Politicians

This, folks, is freedom of speech at its finest.

6. Refusing to conform to international standards.

If it's not American, it's not right, simple as that. Kilometers? Pfft.

7. Having one's priorities in order.

8. Realizing that everything is relative.

If you're lucky enough to be an American, you're lucky enough. No exceptions.

9. Old Navy Flag T-Shirts

'Merican moms dress their kids in 'Merican tshirts. Plus, with a name like Old Navy, how much more 'Merican could a company be?

10. Golden Retrievers dressed in red, white, and blue.

The world's best dog in the world's best colors.

11. Patriotic Facial Hair

12. Proving your love for your country in the form of tattoos

If that doesn't look realistic, I don't know what does.

In all seriousness, I'm thankful for this country and the freedoms that we have as a nation. Freedom isn't free, and the price has been paid by the men and women in uniform who defend this country. Sure, we have our fair share of problems, but I can tell you this: there is no where else I would rather live.

Though I'm a week ahead, Happy Fourth of July!