As we all get ready to celebrate America’s birthday this weekend, let’s remember how lucky we are to live in such a wonderful country. I know it’s getting divided, and things are tough right now, but let’s not forget the people who fought hard for this country.

Let your patriotism show this weekend! Whether it be a festive red, white, and blue dessert, a patriotic shirt, waving an American flag at your BBQ, or displaying fireworks — let freedom ring, baby!

We all need to stand up for this country, and many of us need to realize how doggone blessed we are to live here. This country has always been an amazing place to live, but you know what? God needs to be put back in charge. He needs to be in schools, the government, and our lives. I sit here wishing that people would know just how much better not only this country could be with him, but your life. God does some pretty incredible things if you let him. He could turn this country right around, but for some reason, they said, “Let’s take God out of everything. We don’t need God.” Now, look how this country is run. I am scared for people this winter. Not only have food costs risen, but fuel is getting ridiculous. People will struggle not just to keep fuel in their cars but also to keep their homes warm for their families this winter. Something has to change! Now, I am not going to get into politics here. God is bigger than any politician anyways. I am here to say we all need to pray and fight for this country.

Guys, we are the people! If we stand together, we can continue to make this the greatest country to live in.

When those fireworks fly high this weekend, and I am watching the reflection of them off the river while wearing one of many of my patriotic shirts, I am going to remember those who fought for this country. As my daughter Kenzy is waving around sparklers while eating a s’more, I am going to thank God for my freedom. When “God Bless the USA” comes on the radio, I will think of my gram, Lois Liddick, standing proudly waving her American flag. A woman who has so much love for God and America.

Be thankful for a roof over your heads that isn’t made of mud and sticks.

Be thankful for running water.

Be thankful you can freely go to church and read the bible.

Be thankful you have a job.

Be thankful for the education our kids can get.

Be thankful for healthcare.

Be thankful you have at least one thing you can smile about today.

Some things may not be perfect, but just think how worse off we could be. I always do that. When I’m having a bad day, I try to think, “Well, this could have happened, is my day really that bad?” Always think of your glass as half full. There is always something to be grateful for, and this weekend, I am going to be grateful for this country and spending time with the ones I love.

Do you know what I am also going to be grateful for? This amazing dessert I am sharing with you all! I work for honestly the most wonderful people I could ask for. Each and every family I work for has such a special place in my heart. Diane Eck is one of those special people, and the one day, I brought a protein bar to eat as my midday snack. Little did I know she made a special dessert that day and offered me a piece. I couldn’t resist, so the protein bar sat on the sidelines.

This dessert was, oh my goodness, to die for! I asked her for the recipe, and she happily gave it to me. But she said how this recipe wasn’t the same as the one written down — that this recipe was simply sugar cookie dough, Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake with a fruit topping!

It was killer and oh so simple to make. I included both recipes for you, and you pick which one you have time for. Adding raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and bananas makes this the perfect 4th of July celebration dessert. You could easily make it an American flag too!

I hope this weekend you all enjoy your BBQs with your family. I also hope that you can find the time to pray for this country and thank God for where you live. If we allow God to be more of a part of our lives, we would see an incredible difference in the world.

God bless the RED, WHITE, and BLUE!

Fruit Pizza
Ingredients:
• Pillsbury sugar cookie dough OR
Crust:
• 1 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 cup 10 X sugar
• 3 cup flour

Beat together until well mixed. Spread on cookie sheet. Bake at 325’ for 30 minutes.
Philadelphia No Bake Cheesecake Filling OR
Crust Topping:
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup 10 X sugar
• 1 tsp. Vanilla
• 1 tsp. Lemon juice

Beat together and spread on the cooled crust.

Lay fruit on top.
Glaze:
• 1 cup pineapple juice (or other fruit juice)
2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 3/4 cup sugar

Cook until thick and bubbly. Continue to cook for one minute. COOL!

Then, pour over the fruit.
Fruit options:
• Pineapple
• Bananas
• Peaches
• Mandarin Oranges
• Kiwi
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Seedless Grapes
• Cherries