This was a happy sad week to say the least. The three days of rain in the middle of summer were a delight and blessing. Unfortunately, it caused the postponement of our 4th of July celebrations. Russ was changing out some lights in the basement when Bro. Barry came by to say it looked as if things would have to be put off for a week. The girls and I met Ginger, Shirley Benton and Stormie up at the fire station to help decorate the fire truck. I wish I could interest them in housekeeping as much as they were interested in making that truck look pretty! They pitched in with all their creative juices and girl power. I have to say it looked really good. So it will have to sit for a week before it can come out of hiding for the entire world to see. It was dull to say the least without all our festivities. I’m not sure how I shall feel about celebrating the 4th on the 10th, but I will be e there with bells on! So hang on to your patriotic duds and turn out next week. It will be a full day of fun for everyone. Since the event has been rescheduled, just bring your horses and kids into town, and attend the play day at the arena, while you dance around town. Better yet, do both and get twice as much fun!

I’m told there will be some strangers around town shortly. It seems the homeland security folks want to see how prepared each of us is for an emergency. They will be going around door knocking and asking questions about our preparedness. They will ask no personal questions, only whether or not we know what to do in case of a major emergency. If it’s weather related, I’m headed for my closet. All other matters are open for suggestions. I didn’t see the list of questions they were going to ask, so I may not have any good answers for them. I understand some of the home visitors will be dressed in fatigues. Whatever the dress; just be aware there will be people coming by to question you about your emergency awareness. Please note, they should not ask you any personal questions.

It was good to see Cubby back in church this morning. He says all is well with him. Gladys Powell is getting around better every day, as is Ginger. They do amazing things with knee replacements these days. Billie Behrens has all her staples out, and the shoulder seems to be working just as good as new. Shawn Rogers is recovering well from his surgery, but the last I heard Mr. Isbell was having a little more trouble with his recovery process. We had a great service this morning remembering our country’s birthday. The congregation sang several patriotic songs acapella. It’s nice to take the time to honor our country, our forefathers and our wonderful spirit of liberty.

Monday those interested in helping Velita with the decorations for VBS will be working in the basement of the church from about 10:00 am until Velita is satisfied it is finished. She has some wonderful ideas for the halls and classrooms. I can’t wait to see the completed package!

Russ has lost 32 pounds on this anti-fungal diet. I have only lost 4. I am beginning to get a little frustrated. Mind you, I do tend to cheat from time to time. Russ, on the other hand has followed it to the letter. Could be why he is losing, and I am not! "Whatever," my teens would say. I’m going to try to be really good this week and see how I do. I still miss my piece of toast for breakfast. Sounds just a little bit whiny doesn’t it.

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July. I sincerely hope you remembered all the soldiers past, present and future who have made our precious freedom possible. Please remember them in prayer as often as possible. Please pray for our country, our government, our President and members of congress. Praise God for the rain, and praise God for our wonderful country. God bless America. See you at the festivities next week.