Paraskevidekatriaphobia and the Patriotic Barn

Today is Friday, the 13th. If just the sound of that day and date together has you shaking, you suffer from paraskevidedatriaphobia. The concept is cultural, as in some areas of the world (Spain Latin America, Romania, and Greece) Tuesday the 13th is to be feared. In general, 13 is a number often avoided in the USA; however, if you notice, our flag has 13 stripes, representing our 13 original colonies, an instance of a positive association with the number. Did you know that there are 13 letters in "E Pluribus Unum?  On the dollar bill, there are 13 stars above the eagle, 13 levels of the truncated pyramid, 13 leaves on the olive branch, 13 arrows held by the eagle, and 13 bars on the shield? So, in a way, 13 is a patriotic number!

This patriotic barn is an example of the little surprises awaiting at many turns in the road throughout rural North Carolina. Located in the incorporated part of Summerfield, Guilford County, this barn predates the population explosion in North Carolina at the end of the 20th century. This once mighty structure is one wind storm away from ruin; however, while standing, it reflects the patriotism of the owner and is eye candy to photographers. This is one of our "you know you're a local if" shots. You know you're a local if you've driven past this structure!

Between natural disasters, tumbing economics, and political issues, the world has been swishing with change. We suspect that Americans aren't the only ones feeling patriotic. If you are flying your flag today, wherever you are in the world, please provide us with a link! We're sharing this photo with Skywatch Friday where we all display that patch of blue above our head with pride. HAPPY Friday, the 13th! Happy weekend!

Comments

[Steffe]

Blogspot has been down all day, but I think that started yesterday but maybe it is something to to with today.

I can't say that I have ever seen a similar patriotic bar in Sweden.

[Halcyon]

I think we have a beautiful flag. :)

It's funny b/c in Europe Friday the 13th is lucky. Alot of people will play the lottery especially on that day. In fact, I need to go out and buy one!