Five Favorites - July 4th!

  You're not even a little bit surprised are you? What else would we talk about today? It is a weekend to celebrate our nation's freedoms. Yeah!!

A number of years ago my dh and I were in the CWE on the 4th. A reporter came up to me as we were getting out of the car, stuck a microphone in my face and asked, "Why do we celebrate July 4th!"

Of course, I knew the answer. I am an elementary school teacher! However, in that split second out of my mouth came, "The anniversary of the signing of the Constitution." Aaaagh! I tried to suck it back in, but it was too late. LOL I begged her not to show it on the evening news, but to my chagrin I received a few giggles from friends at church the following morning who had caught my "brilliance" while simply trying to catch up on the day's events.

I am now ready at a moments notice to announce to everyone and anyone - the 4th of July is the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence! I am so thankful to live in this nation! What a huge blessing! Let's "count our blessings," and list some of the things we love about this annual celebration . . .

5. The Food - Yum! I love picnic food! Even though I don't eat meat anymore, I still love potato salad, watermelon, strawberries and blueberries, corn on the cob, cheese sticks, deviled eggs. Uh-oh I'm getting hungry!!

4. Patriotic Music - I always enjoy the Boston Pops special on TV. Marches are great for getting our feet tapping and bodies moving. There have been some great compositions in recent years written to honor the U.S.A. What are your favorites?

3. Flags Flying - Our neighborhood explodes with red, white, and blue! I so enjoy seeing flags go up and individuals sporting their patriotism through fashion and decor. It's fun, and reminds us of the pride we have in the freedom for which this nation stands.

2. Picnics/Parties - There are so many gatherings over this weekend. It is great to get together with family and friends to enjoy yummy food, swap stories, and just enjoy being together.

1. Fireworks - Yup! It is probably my favorite thing about the weekend. I love to go to public displays, and we are so blessed in StL to have one of the best shows in the country down at the Arch grounds. Not to mention the many local shows that go on all over the city.

Whatever your favorite things are about Independence Day here's the place to share them. I can't wait to hear what you are doing to celebrate!

God bless America!!

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Galatians 5:1a