Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July to all! Today, Bobby and I have to work so everyone be safe and smart today! I don't want to pick up any fingers or go on an accident because bad decisions were made.

So here is a quick history lesson (from the history major in me): April 19, 1775, the day after Paul Revere's ride, alerting Lexington that "the British are coming!" war between the colonies began against Great Britain. After years of taxation without representation the colonists were tired of being ruled by someone that didn't understand their circumstances and didn't want to listen.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, drafted by five of its members, including Thomas Jefferson. Boys, and men, were quick to sign up to fight against Britain throughout the colonies. Many signed up for the excitement of the fight, some for the thought of travel and seeing other parts of the country and some because they believed in the cries of freedom.

My 7th-great-grandfather, Zaccheus Salyer, was one of the many boys that decided to join in the fight. He and many others mustered in New York to aid the other Americans against Great Britain. He survived the war and later married Elizabeth Doan(Doane) and they had 13 children.

I am very proud to know that I am a descendant of someone that fought for our independence. I know that many men were not as lucky as Zaccheus and gave their lives for the cause of freedom. America is a great country and we are very fortunate to live in a place like this. As we celebrate today with food and fireworks, we should all take a minute to remember those that have given everything to obtain and protect our liberties. God Bless America!