In watching the pomp and pageantry of the Inauguration of President Joe Biden & Vice President Kamala Harris yesterday, I was overcome with such a patriotic feeling. It was so nice to see our Marines there in dress uniform and at attention to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. I've been thinking about the time honored tradition of the 'Changing of the Guard' at Buckingham Palace. There is the literal meaning, of course, which is the ceremony during which the palace guards are replaced by a new shift. Figuratively, however, it can extend to any situation in which an individual or group that have been charged with a task or responsibilities in an organization is replaced by another individual or group. This is certainly the case in America today. It is a tall order to bring hope and unity to our people these days. With a message of great hope, we stride ever forward along this journey we call Democracy!

If you are feeling patriotic and would like to make your own British soldier, you can find the pattern in our book, It's a Small World. Or, perhaps you would like to make some U.S. soldiers. We have some historic ones from 1805 in our book, Lewis & Clark Kid Projects & Crafts. We've also got patterns for Uncle Sam and Betsy Ross in our book, Things Kids Can Make. They are all great fun as we celebrate our American heritage. If making your own dolls isn't your thing, Nancy can custom make a limited number of British soldiers also.