I have noticed that people have been putting up these decorations, usually on their porch, not in patriotic colors.

You see all kinds of people who claim to be patriotic, but are actually being disrespectful of how they treat the American flag, ie: flag-decorated guitars, garments, vehicles (not flown, but painted on) and other big "no-no's" like signing the flag. According to http://www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html some etiquette rules are: The flag should not be used as a drapery, or for covering a speakers desk, draping a platform, or for any decoration in general. The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose. It should not be embroidered, printed or otherwise impressed on such articles as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, boxes, or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use. The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, except that a flag patch may be used on the uniform of military personnel, fireman, policeman and members of patriotic organizations. The flag should never have placed on it, or attached to it, any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure, or drawing of any kind.

People have stars on their houses and I was wondering if anyone knows what they are for? They are usually blue, red, or gold. Is it just a New England thing? For decoration? A patriotic thing? What is going on? I used to see them not so much, and now it seems tons and tons of houses have them!!

Okay i have ordered a banner that says welcome home michael. i got like 6 or 7 patriotic baloons flags patriotic decorations to go around the house flags ... i am also making a flag out of cheesecake with strawberries and blue berries. I am also making a scrapbook on why he is my hero. I dont know if ill get that done in time i dont have all of my pictures. The first night we are staying homethe second night is baby siter and lingerie. I have gotten down to a size 3 .. thats a surprise and i did my hair. Does anybody have any more ideas to make this more special... I want to go all out he isnt in iraq this time so he isnt going to need alone time like last yr.