This is a very quick post, because I'm about to head out on a week-long adventure of exploring New England with Rachel. But I wanted to note that this has been one of the best years of celebrating American Independence Day that I've ever had. Here are just a couple of summarized points (I hope there will be more later, but who knows).
* On Sunday I hosted an International American Independence Day Commemoration. We had an interactive, educational program to explain American Independence Day for my friends from many other countries. Afterward we had a typical American summer dinner (so, 4th of Julyish). It went really well and helped make it a special time to celebrate
* Yesterday (4 July) we (Ra, roommate Aline, and I) went out to the Charles River for "America's Premier Ind. Day Celebration". We opted not to join the ward group (though we did stop to say hello), but instead wandered amongst the crowds for awhile (so fun to watch!), then stopped on Harvard Bridge and entertained ourselves, held an impromptu FHE (which ended up making the whole evening even more special) and then had the most amazing view of an incredible fireworks show over the Charles River with Boston in the background. The echo of the fireworks and the reflections of it on the buildings made for an extra fun show. We had some wonderful conversations about the gospel and about America--land that we love.
* While I was trying to keep my impatient self entertained, I told R&A what I'd done for the 4th of July for the past 12 years. It includes quite a variety of places, peoples and events. One of the things I realized is that I have never initiated or really thought much about celebrating Independence Day; I've been blessed to be included in many others' excellent plans, but that's it. I think the act of planning and purposefully celebrating is part of why it was such a special day for me this time!
And now I'm off to some Maine beaches...
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