Celebrations Soon and Later

Internet illustration

America is celebrating a birthday this year, a "big one," as we like to say, 250 years. Today's post begins with a reference to this birthday. The questions are provided by Joyce from her Hodgepodge blog. 

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
(internet photo)

1. America celebrates turning 250 years old this year. Primary cities set to lead the celebrations on July 4th are Boston, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington D.C. Other significant locations for celebrating will be Charleston SC and the 'historic triangle' which includes Jamestown-Williamsburg-Yorktown Virginia. 

Internet photo

Of the cities listed how many have you seen in person? Of the cities listed which would you most like to visit this year? Any plans to do so? What's one place in America you think everyone should see? 

as a 6-year old I climbed to her crown 
with my family and we looked out at the city and harbor

I have been to 5 of the cities listed (Boston, New York, Washington DC, Charleston SC and Williamsburg) and lived in 2 of the cities listed. 

from our trip in 2023

an example of Charleston, SC charm
from our trip May 2023

Let me amend that. I have lived in New York City and just outside of Washington DC in a Virginia suburb. My husband commuted into DC in a carpool.

George Washington's home, Mount Vernon
(internet photo)

I would like to make a return visit to Boston and much of New England but I have no plans to travel that far any time soon. Visiting the sights of Florida keeps me busy enough!

Old Ironsides in Boston Harbor

Everyone should see Washington DC. The Smithsonian Museums and surrounding historical sites are wonderful.

2. Three sounds you love to hear? 

1) I love the sound of my husband's voice because at least 25 percent of the time, whatever he is saying makes me laugh!

2) Christian hymns played on the piano and sung in a cappella harmony.

3) hard rain on the roof while I'm sleeping

3. Three sounds you hate to hear? 

1) gunshots out in the distance

2) the chirp of a smoke alarm when the battery needs to be changed

3) profanity

4. February 24th is/was National Tortilla Chip Day. Are you a fan? With salsa, guacamole, queso, or just plain please? Do you like nachos? With what on top? Is there anything (besides nachos) you make that calls for tortilla chips? 

Yes, I'm a fan of tortilla chips in any form with any of the dips listed. Yes, I like nachos. Melted cheese is enough, but if chili is added, that's even better. I like a taco casserole that calls for tortilla chips. Here is what I made for lunch today:

In a shallow pasta bowl for each serving, spread Fritos or tortillas, etc. 

Brown 1/2 pound ground beef. Set aside and keep warm.

Combine in a saucepan over medium heat 1 can of Campbell's Cheddar Cheese soup with 1/4 cup milk. Heat until it simmers. 

Top the Fritos with the hot cheese sauce, ground beef, and chopped tomato. Sooo good (and quick and easy!).

5. We March into March with next week's Hodgepodge...what's one thing on your March calendar that makes you smile? 

My husband has made some REALLY NICE PLANS to celebrate my birthday and I'm definitely smiling about that!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

For the first 2 years of my widowhood, a family member took care of my bookkeeping. Then the duties became mine alone. Embarking on that big responsibility was an unknown "wilderness" to me. 

Dealing with finances, accounts, usernames, passwords, and all that goes with it was scary terrifying. In retrospect over 3 years later, I have learned A LOT and am able to navigate through that "wilderness" with surprising capability, even a fair amount of confidence.

A little song I learned as a teenager in youth choir has been a wonderful encouragement to me when despair tried to overtake me...

"My Lord knows the way through the Wilderness, 

All I have to do is follow.

Strength for today is mine alway

And all that I need for tomorrow

My Lord knows the way through the Wilderness

All I have to do is follow."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9w-n6D_im0

How thankful I am for the Lord's help in the worst of times! May we all take advantage of the abundant grace and help the Lord has for us when confronted with frightening challenges. He is there for us.

Until next time, grace and peace.

Barbara

If you would like to link up with this week's Hodgepodge, click here.

 http://www.fromthissideofthepond.com/2026/02/hodgepodge-questions-volume-642.html