Independence Day, the fourth of July, a day when we, the United States of America, celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) making us independent from Great Britain. Enough of the history lesson… Who the heck is that cutie in the picture??? About eleven years ago, I moved into my neighborhood with my hubbie, three daughters, a dog, and two rabbits. Some early memories: * Two greyhounds lived next door while our rabbits lived in an outdoor hutch separated by a chainlink fence and the hutch enclosure - yes, they were rescued race dogs...the rabbits eventually died of old age several years after moving in, the greyhounds never figured out there were rabbits right across the fence. * There was a plumbing problem on the first day of moving in, the plumber accidentally broke the old pipe in the upstairs bathroom and stuck his finger in it to plug the water. I was sent to turn off the main water valve, only...I didn't know where it was! Finally found it, the plumber released his swollen finger from the pipe and yes, water was EVERYWHERE!!!. My awesome new neighbors rushed in to help! * My most precious memory - The doorbell rings, we open the door to a tiny elderly woman standing there with a plate of cookies. Of course we invite her in. It's Bernice, our neighbor, welcoming us to the neighborhood. The oatmeal cookies were amazing and Bernice was awesome! Bernice is the cutie in the picture! My next door neighbors, Kevin and Shelley (sp?) host a 4th of July block party every year. We've been doing this for several years now. It's amazing how the neighbors all come together for this...and right in my yard! What fun! Along with food, drinks, a bounce house for the kids, and dancing in the streets, there is a parade followed by fireworks. Yes!!! People make floats all decorated for the occasion and parade up and down in front of my house. The year 2010 was very special because Bernice lead the way, all dressed in her patriotic finery. With herself and chair all decorated, her daughter, Regina, made sure she was a shining star :) Bernice experienced over 90 Independence Days. Not long after this picture was taken, the Good Lord took her home. My hope is that Americans continue to celebrate Independence Days for a very long time. Long after I am gone. AND that we never...ever...take for granted the sacrifices made by our fellow Americans to keep our independence. God Bless you Bernice, thanks for the memories.
1 Comment
Jean Duhon
7/4/2012 03:58:30 am
Happy 4th Karen. Beautiful tribute to a fellow American. Thank you for sharing it. I plan TRY to pass this special story along. God† bless you and yours, today and throughout the coming years.
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Karen HendersonWife, Mother, Grandmother, Teacher, Lover of Animals, Woodworker, Jewelry Designer, Owner of Hendywood. Archives
June 2016
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