Potluck Picnic

Where are your fireworks this year? In a nearby town? By a lake? Out in the backyard? Or in your heart?

Since this is our first 4th of July in Iowa, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to join with other members of the family for the traditional picnic at the home of My Love's brother, Don. While in Texas, we heard each year about the wonderful and enjoyable time everyone had, tasting all the great food dishes on the potluck table and swapping lies.

We will be taking with us My Love's parents who have been annual participants for many years. When they lived in Texas with us, it was always understood that they would embark on their trek north to Iowa in time to be present for this Jefferson, SD, gathering. So, they will be functioning as "guides" to show us newcomers the ropes.

What a beautiful way to spend a day: giving thanks for our freedoms and our families. We will also be praying for those who are protecting our freedom in far away places, and sacrificing their own family time while they do it.

Finally, we will be praying for our nation, that we can return to the faith and family values upon which we were founded. May God bless us all. We need it.