Here in America

I remember visiting with Rich Mullins years ago as a teen. His advice, written on a note I've kept tucked away somewhere, was simply,

"Be God's."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCUfIT5Lm3g

I love this.

My Country 'Tis of Thee

Beyond any political persuasion, I am a patriot. The Star Spangled Banner never fails to tug at my heartstrings. Fireworks, barbeque, parades, red white and blue, Old Glory, family and friends, freedom, lemonade and apple pie, corn on the cob, laughter... These I love as a part of my 4th of July celebrations.

Sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.

Some time ago I read a book by Cokie Roberts. I think you might enjoy it... Founding Mothers: The Women Who Raised Our Nation is a testament to the heroines who helped clear the American path. It is astounding, their efforts. (And to think I complain about the heat!) I offer a prayer of gratitude for the blessings I so richly enjoy today.

May you have a healthy, happy, and safe Independence Day.

Remember When

I am in love...and I want you to see why. Today my sister and I took a drive downtown.

We spent the day with the kids at "The Castle" (and to a three year-old, it truly is).

We are so blessed to be surrounded by such beauty and history, and to be able to share these with the young people we adore.

It was nice to journey back to a time when the weapons of war were a bit less frightening,

and to visit with old friends at the mercantile.

Mr. Samuel Langhorn Clemens even sat for a picture. His friends know him as Mark Twain.

We took a respite in the House Lounge. Thomas Hart Benton's murals are breathtaking. A plaque outside the entrance states, "He painted the Missouri that was familiar to him, convinced that therein lay the reality of the average Missourian."

I suppose that's why we felt so at home.

We then dropped by to visit with another old friend in the office of the Speaker of the House. Beautiful...the office and the friendly faces.

Wishing you many hometown blessings as you prepare to celebrate in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Angel Mother

“A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.” ~Washington Irving

Happy Birthday, Mom.

I love you.