HAPPY 6th of JULY

Have you ever wondered what are the telltale signs that a blogger has been out celebrating with a little too much enthusiasm?

Perhaps one of the signs is when their Fourth of July post doesn’t get posted until the 6th!

I originally planned to share a few of my favorite summer paintings by bloggers who paint. (By Erin Houghton of The Painted Garden)

And a book by Diane C. Arkins
Diane was one of my writers when I edited Country Collectibles magazine. Her latest book perfectly captures the essence of this patriotic holiday in prose, poetry, decorating, party ideas, games and menus. The Glorious Fourth of July may be ordered by calling 800-843-1724.

But then I got sidetracked.
(By Erin Houghton of The Painted Garden)

Fast forward to July 3rd when my July 4th celebrations kicked off a day early with a bbq with all the trimmings (including a Good Humor truck) and fireworks at a friend's Country Club.
On the 4th, I was lucky enough to view the “official” Washington DC fireworks from the ballroom of the Sheraton National where I celebrated the wedding of Kristen and Rob.
The reception ballroom had a spectacular view of the Pentagon and The national Mall.

Kristen and I first met when she started coming to Jazzercise class with her mom. She was in high school at the time.

Although her mom and I are closer in age, the three of us have had a blast together choosing a wedding cake, giggling during the wedding rehearsal, and sorting out dozens of details to guarantee their special would be truly special.

The ceremony was at historic Fort Myer, which traces its origin as a military post to the Civil War. It overlooks Arlington National Cemetery.
The Old Post Chapel where the ceremony took place is located on land confiscated from Robert E. Lee's estate.

Nearly every American President and many other persons of influence from around the world have attended services at Fort Myer's Old Post Chapel.
Fast forward to July 6th: By noon today, I had completely recovered from the festivities and was out of bed and dressed when a UPS truck rolled down my driveway.

I was so relieved when he said there were stacks of boxes for me from Gibbs Smith on the truck that I could have kissed the driver.
After I autographed each copy, the entire household helped by lovingly wrapping the books, placing them in padded envelopes and driving them to the post office.

Yes you can get writers cramp from signing too many copies in an afternoon! So, I still have more to send out tomorrow.

CONGRATULATIONS to Gale of She Shoots Sheep Shots.
You are the lucky winner of a free copy of Waterside Cottages.

*** BLOG DU JOUR ***

Belgium chose today's blog. It's The Katillac Shack. His photo wasn't posted yet the last time he checked, but Kelee promised him it would be there real soon.