Though the Fourth of July is a beloved date for Americans, some people claim that it's not the real date of our independence.The first motion for independence in the Continental Congress was made on June 8. After lengthy debates, the Congress voted secretly for independence on July 2, 1776. The Congress reworked the Declaration of Independence until a little after 11 p.m. … [Read more...] about Why Independence Day is celebrated on July 4
Three tests for liberty
In the age of social media, it seems as though everyone sees a tyrant seated at the head of the other table.But is there any test for tyranny? On July 4, consider the test of Thomas Jefferson:"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty … [Read more...] about Three tests for liberty
One if by land, Two if by sea: the famous ride of Paul Revere
American Independence Day is officially celebrated on July 4, the day that the Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It was a momentous act of rebellion against George III, but open warfare had already begun more than a year before, ushered in when Paul Revere and two friends swiftly acted to warn their fellow Sons of Liberty and rebels … [Read more...] about One if by land, Two if by sea: the famous ride of Paul Revere
See American goldfinches by your own window
If you long to see a bright yellow and black goldfinch, getting one or more to visit your backyard feeder is not that difficult. All you need is a bag of thistle seed. The males are yellow with black trim and the females are an olive-toned yellow. Watch for them.The adult birds put on a show as they gather seed from thistle and zinnias, cosmos, bee balm, liatris and … [Read more...] about See American goldfinches by your own window
No time, no problem: Stir-together five bean salad
Crisp, cold, sweet and sour, this easy five bean salad is a quick side dish that feeds a huge crowd and can mostly be assembled with pantry ingredients. It's vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free, which makes it a good choice for diners with varying or unknown dietary needs. The dressing is easy to alter to your preferences -- go heavy on the vinegar for a … [Read more...] about No time, no problem: Stir-together five bean salad