Travel, remembering and honoring.

This isn't a current flag, it's hoisted and proudly flown at Fort McHenry in Maryland. I took this photo a few years ago, while hubby and I were touring. Look at the size of this flag. I wanted to share it with you today, July 4th as we celebrate our Nations Birthday. It's a day to be proud, a day to remember how we got here, who's sacrificed for us.

Sadly, many of those who did serve and protect us, who fought for our freedoms probably aren't celebrating today, not with a family picnic and fireworks. Why? Because they are homeless! They live hand to mouth, out in the elements, in unsafe conditions, wondering in some cases if they'll make it through the night. Wondering if they'll ever be dry and warm again. Yes, it's summer across the country and they currently are going to freeze at night; but the warmer months pass all too quickly. Soon, they'll be huddled against the wind, the rain, the snow and sleet.

Accordingly to The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans 1/3 of all adult homeless people are Veterans. Half those homeless Veterans served during the difficult Vietnam Years. While the bulk of homeless Veterans are male, about 5% are female, and that number is rising with more females in the service of our country. Most homeless Veterans are single, and live in an urban area. Many have health issues, be they mental illnesses, alcoholism and or drugs; or a combination thereof.

As you celebrate with a good meal and fun times with your loved ones today, make a commitment. A commitment to make something for the homeless. Making one thing can be HUGE. Knit or crochet and make a difference. Make a hat, a scarf, a pair of slippers, a pair of mittens, a cotton washcloth, or a square. They've given so much, let's say Thank You and serve others through our yarn.

**This is repost from my charity blog, Bridge and Beyond. Please let me know if you can help. Doing so, is one way to show your patriotism**

All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated, and all donations keep someone warm. We help, one stitch at a time. YOU truly DO make a difference. THANK YOU!

Adding this for your enjoyment

Low Mileage Travels

(pretty pink lillies in my backyard, notice the rain drops on the 2nd photo)

Gas isn't cheap, time can be tight, so can money. That doesn't mean you can't travel. It's summer, pack the kids up and head out for a day. Pack a picnic lunch, play in the park, see a lighthouse, visit a museum (always good to get in our of the rain or hot sun), go swimming on the shore, visit the zoo, visit and learn from one of the many historic areas, take a walk, go for a hike, sit by a water fall. All of that exists locally! Right here in Ohio.

Here are 28 adventures with Flat Stanley, something for everyone. Use his guidelines when you visit similar areas in your area. Kids can learn all summer long....so can you!

Check out adventure in the little town where I was born, Urbana, less than an hour from the center of the state.

Dance, watch a sunset, have a picnic, enjoy life music, visit historic parks or landmarks in the parks in the Capital of Columbus

Visit the state's first Capital, Chillicothe, see Log Cabins, fish, go swimming, smell the flowers, go hike, climb the hills, visit and or lunch in haunted areas.

The skies the limit. Ohio is the Mother of all Presidents, there are monuments.

Click on Ohio in the cloud there are 41 posts to give you lots of ideas of places to go, things to see. Enjoy!