4th of July Celebration & Family

Happy 4th of July everyone.

Larry Jr & Sr - Abidjan 1986

Gerry, Larry Jr. and I lived overseas for a number of years and weren't always able to celebrate the 4th of July in the USA.  That doesn't mean we didn't celebrate the birth of our nation, it just meant we celebrated it somewhere else.  Usually the Americans in the Embassy would have the celebration at a large hotel, or on the grounds of the Ambassador's home.  It was always a holiday to look forward to and think about how we are a free people.  

You don't really understand what freedom is until you spend time in countries where freedom isn't on the menu.  We can voice our opinions about our political leaders and that is accepted.  In many countries that will land you in jail or worse.  I could go on and on, but will just cut this short and say that I thank God that I am an American.   Also a special thanks to those who have fought and died for our freedom since 1776.  A number of my ancestors fought in the Revolutionary War and I am proud of that heritage.

We will be joining Cassie, Jack and the girls for an old fashioned picnic dinner at their house.  In the past we always ate outdoors and played catch, volley ball, badminton, croquet or other games.  We may forego that this year due to the heat and just relax in the house and cook hamburgers and hotdogs outside on the grill.  Gerry prepared her famous potato salad and Cassie is preparing the baked beans.  I am sure nobody will go hungry or thirsty today.