Happy Friday, RISERS! I hope this week has been good to you. As we approach the upcoming holiday weekend, let’s be sure to remember the founding of our country. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence and severed our ties to England. To celebrate this holiday, most Americans enjoy family gatherings, eating hot dogs, and shooting fireworks. If your weekend will include the latter, please be safe and remember that some people—especially combat veterans and people with sensory issues—are fearful of excessive fireworks. Pets and other animals also get afraid and might run away from their homes. Please celebrate responsibly and have fun!
Quote of the week: “Observe good faith and justice toward all nations, cultivate peace and harmony with all.” –George Washington
Movie of the week: I want to mention the National Treasure movies, starring Nicholas Cage. I can’t decide which one I like better, but I do know that my favorite character is Riley Poole. His quirky comic relief is mixed with occasional disbelief that things would work out. If you feel like a bit of treasure hunting this weekend, check out these good movies.
Joke of the week: What’s the difference between a duck and George Washington? One has a bill on his face, and the other has his face on a bill.
Nugget of Wisdom for the week: You will have to forgive me this week, as I have COVID brain fog and cannot come up with a Nugget of Wisdom to leave with you. But I do want to give a special shout out to all of the folks out there who are lifeguards, either at a pool or on a beach. I never learned to swim, so water is not my favorite thing to be involved with. Our neighborhood has a pool, so my children want to go frequently, and I’m deeply grateful for the vigilance of trained lifeguards. They do a great job of keeping those water-crazy people of all ages safe as they have fun every day.
Have a great week. Remember, you are most awesome, and YOU ROCK!
Marion Rhines is a foster-turned-adoptive parent. She lives in Knoxville, Tenn., with her husband and five children. She has written and published two children’s books as well as two foster-care-themed novels. She has a Facebook blog, Tips from the FLIP Side, and enjoys working with children of all ages.
