Thursday, July 1, 2010

Welcome July



~ Welcome July ~

In early July, our thoughts in America turn to that most patriotic of American holidays ~ Independence Day  (aka:  The Fourth of July). 



As we wait for the fireworks to begin, I've been enjoying this little book.  The authors took on the challenge of listing 1001 things they love about America.



Their ideas ranged from somewhat obvious to ...


Somewhat nostalgic.
(is there a baby boomer around who doesn't remember good old HoJo?)


This one cracked me up.
Do any of you remember watching Oprah a few years ago when she and her best friend, Gayle, took a road trip across the country??
I do believe they made a stop at these Wigwam Motels and it was quite funny as I recall.
Do any of you have personal stories about the Wigwam Motels?  If so, I'd love to hear them.



 
I thought of Karen when I saw this one :).


There were also many reminders of some of the things that truly make this a great country to live in and may we always remember them.



So, as we make our preparations to celebrate the 4th of July . . .



As we plan our picnics, parties and celebrations . . .



As we plan our menus and prepare our food . . .


When we pick our vegetables from the garden or visit our local farmer's market . . .

Let us always remember that ...



Wishing my Canadian readers a Happy Canada Day today, my American readers a Happy 4th of July weekend, and all of my readers from other countries a happy weekend.  (If you have an upcoming holiday that I'm not familiar with, please take this chance to inform me of it).

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16 comments:

  1. Beautiful post. Oh, yeah, I remember HoJo. Happy 4th to you!

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  2. A HAPPY 4TH of JULY to you too! That sounds like a very interesting book too. Your decorations are so pretty...have a good weekend...come say hi :D

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  3. So, so cute, Kim!! I just love your table. You did a great job with your checkered cloths to the cute dishes. I have a couple of those bowls, too.
    Happy 4th to you!

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  4. I used to love to stay at Howard Johnson's when we traveled. Your picture really brings back lots of memories. Happy 4th to you and your family! Love & blessings from NC!

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  5. I love your table...the chips are a "genius" idea! I must "steal" I mean "borrow" that one!

    I totally remember Ho Jo's and the vintage hankies the waitresses would wear on their uniform!

    Thanks for the memories...

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  6. Hi Kim,
    I have been away from blogland for a bit and couldn't wait to visit you again...and it was as USUAL the best and most beautiful of my day!! You make something so simple so warm and beautiful and precious to the eyes. I went wayyyyyyyy back in days to get caught up with you and EVERY day was a blessing to read about. Love the 4th of July table! :) and the book!!! Now a belated get well for your back. OUCH and do take it easy! Any minor back problems I've had caused me enough stress so I can't imagine the pain you were/are enduring. TAKE CARE! I'm glad you can be back at computer land...Your neck of the woods is so stunning...We have the heat/humidity as well but your gardens don't show it!! Happy 4th and thanks for making this late eve so enjoyable!!

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  7. Your table setting is just perfect for the 4th of July!


    Pamela
    NE Ohio

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  8. Happy 4th of July to you too Kim!! What a lovely post! That book sounds wonderful!

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  9. This is truly one of the prettiest and most meaningful patriotic posts. Your tablescape is SO CLEVER! The chips in the glass container are perfect! The red and white checkered tablecloths look so good with the dishes. Yes, I have lots of HoJo memories in my heart. You really could have been an accomplished magazine editor. You know how to create beauty with pictures and words.
    Wishing you and your family a Happy July 4th! Thank you for sharing this beautiful blog on America...the country I love.

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  10. Lovely post, Kim.

    Hope you have a Happy 4th!!

    Hugs,
    Donna

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  11. Hi Kim, Your table looks so pretty and cheerful, and the perfect 4th of July table.

    Thanks for the memories...

    Blessings to you and your family on this 4th of July weekend.
    Hugs,

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  12. Great pictures, Kim...I remember Howard Johnson's!

    Happy 4th :)

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  13. What a wonderful post, Kim. This has made me feel proud. Sometimes, these days, I am disheartened more than proud. Lovely table settings! So festive and Americana. Thanks again for the lovely reminders.

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  14. Happy 4th to you too. Thanks for the mention. I do love that car.:-)
    We are enjoying ourvacation at the lake. We go back home Sunday.

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  15. I remember Oprah's road trip LOL! I just love your festive table! So cute!

    Happy 4th!

    Manuela

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  16. Happy 4th sweeet friend! Beautiful photos!

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