deliriouslove1970. The life & times of Gary and Denise Flanders. (Free and worth every penny. If you would like to compliment the editor, send to garytheflan@deliriouslove1970.com. If you would like to complain, call your mother.)

In honor of World Vexillology Day, 2024

VEXILLOLOGY: The scientific study of the history, symbolism, and usage of flags or, by extension, any interest in flags in general. — Whitney Smith, Flags Through the Ages and Across the World, 1975

I have met with and talked to ‘Flag People’ from all over the world. I greatly enjoy learning from all types of folks who love flags. Years ago I gave a presentation to the American Mensa Society. I was impressed that this group of people came from all walks of life. They were not just scholars and college professors, they were anyone with a certain IQ and who were intellectually curious. NAVA in the USA and The Flag Institute in the UK are similar, if you love those pieces of cloth (not all flags are now, or have historically been, cloth), that represent someone or something, then you too can be a Vexillologist.

1. Keep It Simple.  The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.
2. Use Meaningful Symbolism.  The flag’s images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
3. Use 2 or 3 Basic Colors.  Limit the number of colors on the flag to three which contrast well and come from the standard color set.
4. No Lettering or Seals.  Never use writing of any kind or an organization’s seal.
5. Be Distinctive or Be Related.  Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections.

A flag that NAVA members have ranked as the 16th best flag of the 72 state, provinces and territories in North America: Colorado.

And, why mention Colorado you may ask…because our wonderful little granddaughter, Haley, turns 25 today.