Canada Day.
What a celebration we had at the 108 Historic Site on July 1.
We tip our beaver caps to the organizers and all of the volunteers who made last Friday the special day it was always intended to be.
Even the weatherman got into the spirit because just as the official opening ceremonies were about to start, he parted the rain clouds and let the sun shine through.
There were all kinds of entertainment for people to sit back and enjoy throughout the event.
And without a doubt, there was something fun to do for every member of the family.
This was especially true for the young folks, as there was face-painting; children's stories; local librarian Roxy Barnes was there to do storytelling with her hand puppets; the Lone Butte 4-H Club had its petting zoo; and there was an air ride castle for the little ones to bounce around in.
And, of course, there was a lot for the young at heart to entertain themselves with, too.
The volunteers really made this event.
Everyone loves to see our local politicians working hard over an open, smoking grill and offering hamburgers and hotdogs with a smile.
It's sure to win a few votes this fall.
The great thing about this celebration was the fact everyone was smiling - and we were smiling to complete strangers.
There was laughter all around and everyone had time to talk to everyone else, and nobody parted without looking straight into the other person's eyes with openness and gladness.
It really was quite remarkable.
People often say we aren't patriotic or proud of our country, but that wasn't apparent last Friday.
We were wearing the red-and-white and Canada logos on our coats and sweaters and shirts and hats - clearly displaying that we were proud to be Canadian.
Perhaps we need to have a Canada Day once a month because the good feeling the celebration provides seems to be contagious.
And that special feeling in our hearts is something we want to share with out friends and neighbours.
