Chicago celebrates the Fourth of July a day early. I’m sure those of you who do not reside in the United States of America know that the Fourth of July is an important holiday for us. We celebrate the founding of our country on that day.
But…something odd has happened. Over the past 35 years or so, it seems that it has become politically correct to celebrate near that date. When the Fourth falls on Saturday, Sunday or Monday, we have a three day weekend, with Monday off. I’m not sure what the government does when it falls on one of the other days. Perhaps government workers get the Fourth off, as well as a three day weekend.
I suspect that Chicago changed its celebration to the Third as a matter of convenience and economics. It allows people to come into the city for the fireworks and picnics, and still participate in their home town’s celebration.
Still, I wish we focused on the Fourth, and what it means. More than anything, I regret that our convenience days mute the reason for the holiday. I worry that in some areas, it’s not cool to be patriotic. Sunday, I’ll be thinking about all those who have lost their lives to keep us safe, and I’ll celebrate the country that gives us amazing freedom.
Join me, won’t you?

Is there anything as vicious as a summer cold? I suppose, when I have a better perspective, I could come up with a few …….war….famine….pestilence…..drought…….
But right now…..the summer cold tops my list.
We had a lovely weekend. DH sailed and I went to a bridal shower. We both attended a wedding reception. The weather was lovely, and it seemed as though the pall which had hung over us for the month was finally lifting.
Monday, DH went to work, and by the time he came home, his voice was in the basement, with that nasty, croupy sound. I ignored his surliness because he is so rarely rude. I knew it was a sign of just how bad he felt.
Well….now I know how he felt, first hand. Yesterday afternoon, my throat became scratchy. My sinuses started to drain. My voice dropped almost as low as DH’s. I’m sick. I feel rotten and life needs to go on. I just want to stay in bed.

Everyone who has ever traveled and stayed overnight in a hotel or motel knows that they put a basket of sample soaps and shampoos out for the traveler’s convenience. If you’ve forgotten your shampoo, you’re likely to find a sample that will hold you until you can purchase your favorite brand.
Usually, there is a little stand or tray, or sometimes a basket to hold the items, and the more you pay for the room, the greater the number of samples, and the more amenities.

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