We at DiggersList wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July!  The syndicated blog below reminded me of what this day is really about: to celebrate our liberties and pride in our country, as well as our ancestors who sacrificed so we could enjoy them.  Additionally, this piece called upon my childhood, remembering when I was a kid and how my mom and aunts decorated their houses and front yards with flags and everything red, white, and blue.  Often times, the decorations were hand-made and quite clever as are the patriotic decorating ideas below.  Enjoy and have a happy Independence Day!

Posted 06/26/2009 by FrugalMom.net

Quick, Easy and Low Cost Fourth of July Decorating

By Kathy Wilson

There was a day in our history when people actually spent time on Fourth of July decorations. They were homemade but sincere, and represented deep patriotism. I think that patriotism still exists today, and we can celebrate with Fourth of July decorations that are easy to put together and low cost. Here are some excellent ideas to get you started.

• Pick up some red, white and blue bandannas and wrap them around your existing throw pillows, then knot in the back. You can use this indoors, or on the porch or deck.
• Use red, white and blue ribbon from the dollar shop to tie up your napkins, wrap around your door wreath or create streamers of ribbon from the back of each chair.
• Print out American flags from the internet, and use them to cover the inside of a window. Be sure to face the flags to the outside, and fit them up edge to edge. The result is a patchwork of American flags shown from your front windows which is quite eye catching. One place to print out free flags online is http://www.printourflag.com/
• Buy red, white and blue craft foam from the craft store. Cut them into star shapes of three different sizes. Layer the different sized shapes onto each other and glue together. Tie the stars from porch overhangs, trees and mailboxes to let your Fourth of July decorations spread patriotic cheer! The kids will love to help with this!
• String white holiday lights through trees to create fireworks appeal! Drape them from porch rafters as well, or wrap around deck railing.
• Cover coffee cans, boxes or other containers with patriotic paper, and use to hold utensils, napkins, or condiment bottles.

Use your imagination, and make your Fourth of July decorating the most memorable yet!