French Gifts of Friendship

Tomorrow is an important day and not just for fireworks and eating hot dogs. The crown on the Statue Of Liberty will be reopened for visitors after being closed following 911. The importance of this (and please keep in mind, this is just my point of view) is in showing the world that we are not afraid as a country. We were designed to endure just as she was. To sway during trouble winds, but always to remain standing upright and proud.

Lady Liberty is the ultimate symbol to the world that democracy can and does work. While we may not see eye to eye on how things should be done within our government, she is the testament that we can agree to disagree and not be afraid of consequences.

She was given to us by the people of France, who incidentally raised the money to design, build and ship her for our centennial celebration. Bartholdi, her designer, named her "Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World". How fitting because I truly believe that is what America stands for. I strongly urge everyone to go to www.nps.gov to read the history of her. I was just amazed at how little I knew. I guess it's just one of those things we just assume we learned in school all there was to know, but believe me, there is so much more to this Lady than a torch.

That leads me to more gifts from France. (Don't you just love the way I just segued right into that?) Shelley at Sweet Pea is hosting a "I'd Rather Be In Paris Swap" and asked if I would like to participate. (Would I? Big ears, big ears, big ears!) I've never done a swap, but I'm always up to something new and it really sounded like a fun thing (PLUS, I was just so flattered she asked!). Imagine my delight when Shelley said that my partner was going to be the one and only Sue of Bella Shabby. I was just over the moon, but the pressure was on! Sue is so talented and I.... well let's just say I am creatively challenged and leave it at that, whaddaya say?

Kiddies, I may not be the sharpest pencil in the box, but I have quickly learned presentation is everything! She even went so far as to stamp the tissue paper and the outside of the box with little French nothings! The above photo is of a gorgeous tablecloth she sent. You can almost smell the roses...or at least I thought I was until I realized she had included the most divine smelling French soap as well. Let me tell y'all, as hot as it is here in Texas, sweet smelling soap is a must! Sue, Cat Daddy says thank you!!!

I am crazy nuts over these French flash cards. I have no idea what they mean, but who cares....even ordures sounds better when said with a French accent!

Oh and my favorite thing? A wonderful 1927 book titled "Intermediate French"! Can you say mais oui? Now practice saying it with a Texas accent!!!

The most charming clip art...now if only I could do art! People, I can't even color within the lines.

Sue was one of the first persons that I "met" when I started blogging and I don't think I would have continued without hers (and a few others...you know who you are!) continual support. We've never met, but I consider her one of my dearest friends and a blessing straight from God.

You can see that I made out like a bandit and I didn't even have to wear a mask! Sue, you are just too generous, clever and kind. I loved everything mainly because I know you selected it all with me in mind. That makes it precious! You may not know it, but you had already given me the greatest gift ever...that of your friendship. Merci!!!

So I'll close now before I get all sentimental on y'all. I would like to say adieu and everyone.....Have a wonderful 4th and take a minute to remember the cost! God Bless America!!!