What does the American Flag means to me?...

Good Question... And every year we ask all students to enter the National Flag Day Foundation Essay contest to answer this question. Keeping the traditions alive of Bernard Cigrand, teaching in a one room schoolhouse in Waubeka, WI where Flag Day was Born in 1885 . It is inspiring to read these essays that give hope for the future. The winning essays are published on our website-- you may enjoy reading the thoughtful patriotic expressions of our winners...

It occurred to me, that as an adult deeply committed to the Flag Day Foundation, I haven't really answered "the" question.... So here it goes:

What does the American Flag Mean to Me--- Yes, the Red, White & Blue, is filled with symbolism, honor and history... The Flag has been around the world during battle, loss, & victory! It flies to acknowledge key celebrations, events, fallen heroes, & prominent deaths... However, to me it is represents an overwhelming feeling-- Blessed to be an American! I grew up during a time and in a house where everyday a homemade family dinner was served at 6 p.m. with 100 percent family participation. Lively open discussions and debates where welcome and considered; covering daily events, world viewpoints, financial situations, friends, boyfriends, projects, pets... the workings that make up life and a family.. We were blessed to have what we needed, faith & love. It was considered a priviledge to be an American and have the freedom to strive to create our own American Dream. I was personally blessed to have a Dad that filled my head with lofty goals, desire, and the belief that I could accomplish it all! I thank him in heaven everyday for giving me an open heart and the foundation for success. And because of that--every time I see the Flag that he loved waving against an American sky..I am filled by the beauty and power of the Stars & Stripes.

All things Flag Day…

“ A party without cake is just a meeting” Julia Child.

It’s such great time of year… Summer weather, gardens, vacations, festivals, ball games!! Everyone is busy, busy—- our Flag Day Family days are filled with most of our energy spent organizing our 78th Annual Flag Day Celebration in Waubeka! Meetings, securing vendors, menus, marketing, volunteers… (writing blogs). In my search for Flag Day themed foods to fit in with our daily focus and summer get- togethers.. I found this fun, unique and easy flying flag angel food cake—- made with purchased Angel Food— for the easy part! Of course the Food Network folks went all out piping on the frosting.. but, this is your edible canvas.. add strawberry stripes & blueberry stars… try red, white & blue sprinkles.. It all works… Post your Flying Flag Cake picture if you give it a try.. Happy Baking & Happy Flag Day. Courtesy of the Food Network. Here’s the recipe.. Have a Red, White & Blue Week! https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/waving-flag-cake-4614193

"Made in America" ... made in Wisconsin!

TOBY KEITH...Somehow the music and personna of one of country music's biggest shining stars, was not on my radar.. Maybe because it was a time when Bob Seger, and Creedance Clearwater Revival played on my radio.. However, after he passed this year on February 5th following a 2 year battle with cancer... I felt compelled to go to Apple Music and download his hits and listen to "his story". I was amazed how song after song resonated to my very soul..

The more I listened, the more I wanted to know about the man and his poetry. What I found was a man who was deeply passionate and unapologetic about his patriotism and love for his country. He supported the US Military doing 18 USO Tours, and invited military fans backstage at his concerts.

One of my favorite finds was that he picked our little part of the world as the perfect place to portray the "American Ideal". His "Made in America" video is filmed all around US! The live concert portions are of Toby Keith performing the song at Summerfest in Milwaukee; The perfect heartland farm is in West Bend; and the scenes from 4th of July Parade in Cedarburg overflow with flag waving Patriotism...

SO... next time you see a Jeep Wrangler rolling by with a wire-haired terrier riding shotgun .. and think you hear someone singing along loud enough for Toby to hear in heaven...please know we are counting our blessings.. Made in America, Born in Wisconsin!