Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, on the first day of July, there is a list of some special and wacky days. One special day is Canada Day/Dominion Day, plus National Postal Worker Day.

Then, how about a creative Ice Cream Flavor Day. Now that summer is in full swing, we might need something to help us cool off a bit, so how about some creative Ice Cream flavors for today. A friend asked if we were old enough to remember just how many flavors of ice cream there were, and could we name all 28 flavors? She thought that she recalled a place called Howard Johnson’s restaurants who knew how to make all of them — and probably more. How about that?

Then comes the Fourth, an important day which we call Independence Day (U.S.) The Fourth of July is the birthday of our nation, crafted and approved on July 4, 1776. We get to celebrate and enjoy the freedom that comes with the event that makes this day so special. We all know that this day is not complete without parades and fireworks, which is enjoyed by almost everyone.

Many cottage owners on lakes will set out flares along the shore creating a “Ring of Fire”. Add to this an abundance of fireworks, and you have quite a display. On this day, we enjoy the benefits of the freedom which the framers signed and ultimately fought for. For us, it is a time for baseball, hot dogs and family picnics. Summer is in full swing and life is good. Then an item of interest: The Declaration of Independence was not signed by all representatives until August, 1776. To make it official, John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress signed it. Now, can anyone guess where the saying “put your John Hancock on it” came from!?!

Thank You, Lord God for 1 Peter 2:17: “Fear God and honor the government … .”

Love, Mara