“There are times that try men’s souls.”-Thomas Pain, The Crisis December 1776

When the British were boarding their ships to head for the “colony’s”, it wasn’t as romantic as we might think in our modern heads. They had hardships to bear, even getting on board. The food that was to be available, in many cases, was going rancid before they even entered the open sea. Women were also there to take care of the soldier, or to accompany her officer husband.

So, of course, she had to bring some of her “things”. That added to the weight of the ship and later, unloading it onto our shores could be cumbersome. When the British troops arrived in the America, they were amazed at the wealth of the colonist. They had a different picture formed in their heads. Not only in furnishings but in orchards and fields of crops.

After being on the ship for so long and being denied good eating fare, they would lavish in the abundant of fruit and variety of foods put before them. The first night at bay brought 100 ships to anchor.

Our men, the colonists, sent riders to spread the news of the arrival. Martha Washington said her goodbyes and hurried off by carriage to a safer location. The British ships were loaded with large guns exceeding anything the Americans had in place onshore. It was frightening.

General George Washington had an army also in disarray. His troops were more disciplined and knowledgeable than the officers. The higher the rank the lazier they seemed to be, he thought. So, he organized duties and drills to bring them all in-line. He knew how imminent the revolution may be starting.

He and other leaders of that time believed this Revolution was the most “complete, unexpected and remarkable of any in the history of nations.” He felt “called” for this time and place. And we know that to be so true.

Our forefathers were gifted by God to accomplish what no other nation in the history of mankind had done. Our Constitution itself is a “living, breathing” form. Oh, how we need to realize what we have, protect it and be grateful for it!

Our nation has known perilous times. Now, we hope that our people can keep it “together”, reach inside, and climb to the highest standard of living and moral life.

As our “fathers” said, “it is our duty, our sacred honor”.

God bless our troops. God bless our men that work in any form of the government that work to keep our shores safe and other lands free. It is free because of these brave. They may be separated from their families and not be home to see the first steps of their new babies or to say that special”goodbye” to a loved one departing. We don’t know. We justknow that we are thankful for them and all who went before them.

God Bless our flag. God bless “Ol’ Glory”.

Blessed Quilting! Karen.