4th of July

* By signing the Declaration of Independence, the fifty-six Americans pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor It was no idle pledge…..Nine signers died of wounds during the Revolutionary War, five were captured or imprisoned. Wives and children were killed, jailed, mistreated or left penniless. Twelve signers’ houses were burned to the ground. Seventeen lost everything they owned.

* It is thought that Great Britain’s flag, also known as the Union Jack of England, inspired the American Flag’s colors. But even with this inspiration, the individual colors of the American Flag each have their own meaning and significance.

Red stands for hardiness and valor. It represents courage and sacrifice. Some also claim that it’s related to the bloodshed of the heroes who fought to protect the freedom of America.

White on the flag means purity and innocence. America is described as pure because they are independent of other countries and stay true to their beliefs and ideals.

Blue means vigilance and perseverance. It is used to remind citizens to stay watchful and strong.

* The flag features 13 stripes to represent the 13 original colonies and the stars represent the 50 states of the Union.

* The SECRET STRENGTH of a nation is found in the FAITH that abides in the hearts and homes of the country.—Billy Graham

* Easy dip for your Fourth of July party….. In a glass pie dish smooth out a softened package of cream cheese. Then pour one can of chili (with or without beans) over the cream cheese. Now sprinkle on a sixteen-ounce bag of shredded cheddar cheese. Add jalapeños and finely chopped onions on the top if you like it spicy. Now microwave for five minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it cools a bit, scoop it up with tortilla chips or, if you are on Keto, use pork rinds and enjoy!

Happy Fourth of July and God Bless America!