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Do you enjoy writing or reading poetry?  Most of the posts on Big Sky Buckeye are filled with poetry, but I also share short stories, photography, and a few surprises along the way.  You are invited to sit a spell and find something you like.  I enjoy sharing my curiosity through my writing.  You are welcome to like, comment, follow, share, or reblog a post.

The tabs at the top of this page offer quick access to my most recent posts and quotes. Additional tabs allow you to check out older posts dealing with the themes of Christian and general poetry, short stories, and other posts.

Big Sky Buckeye has been in motion since October, 2018. After retiring from teaching after 40 years, I was looking for a place to land. It has been a welcome blessing to meet other writers and readers.

My wife is also a gifted writer in her own right. She published her first book in July, 2025. With a theme of Christian family, BITS ‘N’ PIECES OF MY HEART, offers an outlet for her love of Jesus. The book is filled with short stories, poetry, and devotions for more mature readers. For younger children she shares energizing activities and fun songs. Her book is available on most online bookstore sites.

America’s “Flag Day”

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June 14 commemorates Flag Day as the date when the United States approves the design of its first national flag.

On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress approves the first American flag. Created by General George Washington’s instructions, Betsy Ross sews her nation’s inaugural flag with 13 stripes, alternating in red and white, with a blue field behind a constellation of 13 stars.

In 1795, the states of Vermont and Kentucky enter the American Union. The “Star-Bangled” Banner flag contains 15 stars as well as 15 stripes.

The U.S. Congress enacts its final Flag Resolution with the number of stripes finalized at 13. At this time there are 20 stars for the 20 states.

In 1885, Wisconsin schoolteacher, Bernard J. Cigrand, encourages his students to observe June 14 as “Flag Birthday.” He later writes an essay, which is published in a Chicago newspaper, urging Americans to celebrate the flag on June 14.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signs a proclamation designating June 14 as the official date for Flag Day. By now, the flag contains 48 stars for the nation’s 48 states.

In 1948, the U.S. Congress permanently establishes June 14 as Flag Day. President Harry S. Truman signs the legislation. The flag continues to feature 48 stars.

In 1959, with the admission of Alaska and later Hawaii, the updated flag features 50 stars for its 50 states.

From My Journal (6/13)

agriculture countryside daylight farm
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From Big Sky Buckeye

As Americans, may we continue to see our precious flag as a testament to the collective goodness which has created and preserved this nation.

Do you write a daily journal?  This inspiring thought comes from my journal, and much of what is written in my journal comes from reading and commenting on other bloggers’ posts.  Thanks to many of you for adding so much to my journal.

(Updated June 13)

American Flag Quotes

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Henry Ward Beecher (1813-1887) American pastor and social reformer

Our flag means all that our fathers meant in the revolutionary War. It means all that the Declaration of Independence meant. It means justice. It means liberty. It means happiness Every color means liberty. Every thread means liberty. Every star and stripe means liberty.

John Philip Sousa (1854-1932) American composer and conductor

A flag appears ‘mid thunderous cheers, The banner of the Western land. The emblem of the brave and true.

Adrian Cronauer (1938-2018) American radio personality and USAF Sergeant

Our flag is not just one of many political points of view. Rather, the flag is a symbol of our national unity.

George M. Cohen (1878-1942) American playwright, composer, actor, singer

“You’re a Grand Old Flag”

You’re a grand old flag,
You’re a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You’re the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev’ry heart beats true
‘neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there’s never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

Connections (Elfchen Series #299)

Foretaste

Prayer’s

Thoughtful meditation

Overpowering temptation’s steps

Energized with God’s Word

Anticipation

Providence

Prayer’s

Daily obedience breathes

Foresee battles to come

Unwavering journey

Faithfulness

Devotion

Prayer’s

Confidence matures

Embracing heavenly light

Patience descends from God

Answers

From My Journal (6/12)

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From Big Sky Buckeye

The depth discovered in one’s prayer journey opens a dialog full of interactions with our heavenly Father.

Do you write a daily journal?  This inspiring thought comes from my journal, and much of what is written in my journal comes from reading and commenting on other bloggers’ posts.  Thanks to many of you for adding so much to my journal.

(Updated June 12)

John Lancaster Spalding Quote

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Worry, whatever its source, weakens, takes away courage, and shortens life.

From 1 Peter 5:6-7: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.”

John Lancaster Spaulding was an American author and poet. He was a prolific writer about Christian themes and education.

Journey’s Outcome

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One more experiment
Searching for master key
Exhausting, sleepless night
Forever lost at sea

Mankind’s boundless journey
Seeking answers today
Unlocking wisdom’s gate
Outlook no longer gray

Hope fills lifetime’s errand
Harvesting one more thought
Meeting darkness head on
Tomorrow ties each knot

Nugget of knowledge found
Opening one more door
Sharing unfiltered light
Fresh discovery pours

Breath of perseverance
Building each cornerstone
Shaping journey’s outcome
Ripened beyond what’s known
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From My Journal (6/11)

agriculture countryside daylight farm
Photo by Kerry on Pexels.com

From Big Sky Buckeye

History chronicles our journey, but the future sometimes arrives brighter than promised.

Do you write a daily journal?  This inspiring thought comes from my journal, and much of what is written in my journal comes from reading and commenting on other bloggers’ posts.  Thanks to many of you for adding so much to my journal.

(Updated June 11)

Eleanor Roosevelt Quotes

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In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.

For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others.

Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) was a former first lady of the United States during her husband’s tenure as President (1933-1945).  Her life was filled with many accomplishments and pursuits outside of her political involvement with her husband:  diplomat (United Nations) and activist (human rights).