"We are in the very midst of a revolution," wrote John Adams, "the most complete, unexpected, and remarkable of any in the history of nations." --quote from David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize winning title, "1776"
I read this book when it was first published, in 2005. I found it stirring, intense, and powerful. An avid reader and "armchair historian" I have long been a student of our country's history and have been fascinated by our origin events.
Today, we honor and celebrate the very start of our nation with pomp and circumstance including parades, fireworks, and family gatherings. John Adams predicted as much. I am not a fan of "July 4th Sales" and other attempts to put a commercial spin on the day - but that is probably for another blog.
I am Abraham Hatfield and the roots of my family history go back to the Revolutionary War - one family member fought valiantly and bravely and was awarded a tract of farmland in Ohio as payment for his years of service. Other members of my family tree fought in the Blue uniform during the Civil War - some did not come home, one languished in Libby Prison and came home at 60 pounds.
Please take a moment today, during your celebrations, to remember those who have paid the price for the freedom we enjoy today. And, give thanks for those that continue to serve and protect us. Yes, we have Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor those that serve but let us not forget that our roots began with a dream of our founders who put their lives on the line and fought with bravery for a vision of a nation we call home today.
Like Mary Etta Morse, I am new to this writing game but find myself intrigued and enthusiastic by the invitation of the editor of the OutWest Scout, OutWest's own Miss Bobbi Jean, to share my thoughts and such. Part II my July 4th column continues tomorrow, July 5th. Hope you will join me.
AUGUST 9 is a day for all those who love to read! National Book Lovers Day encourages you to find your favorite reading place, a good book, a favorite beverage, and read the day away. Looking for suggestions for your next read? Enjoy conversations between authors and readers? Want to know the book's backstory or author's writing process? Here at OutWest Shop, we enjoy writer/reader podcasts, do you? Who do you listen to?? Here are four of our favorites. Click each image for broadcast information. HAPPY LISTENING! HAPPY READING!
AUGUST 8 is Global Sleep Under the Stars Night and is a night to spend outdoors enjoying the sensational night sky. With summer coming to an end, take advantage of all the night has to offer by gazing upwards and see the wonder of stars across the sky. Whether it’s in the backcountry or your own backyard, one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the outdoors is to spend a night under the stars. Gazing up at the night sky gives us a sense of peace and, at the same time, an overwhelming sense of awe.
As the host of the weekly radio show, OUTWEST HOUR, I'm blessed to receive new music on a weekly basis. Some are in CD form and some are MP3 singles. This week's playlist, RIDE ALONG WITH ME, features recently received music and poetry I hand picked. This is a fun show I know you'll enjoy!
I'm Bobbi Jean Bell, an International Western Music Association (IWMA) award-winning DJ playing Western, Western Swing, Cowboy Country, Poetry and whatever "strikes my fancy." Since 2009 I've been promoting Western music and poetry on the radio and am honored to know, personally, many of the musicians and poets I play. I consider myself a storyteller using curated music and poetry tracks bring the story to life..
I invite you to ride along with me live every Saturday at 4pm (MT) streaming on www.KUPR.org OR follow OutWest Hour on Mixcloudand enjoy every broadcast on demand.