First Fourth as Expats

The weekend our shipment of belongings was supposed to arrive was the weekend of the Fourth of July.  We thought we would be busy unpacking, but as things went, we were completely free (no pun intended!).  So, thanks to our new friends The Mitchells we were happy to attend a somewhat impromptu gathering of fellow American families at Kangaroo Point to celebrate our freedom.

Kangaroo Point

Melisa (the organizer) and baby Daisy, me and Kathleen

We all brought a favorite dish and shared a pot-luck style BBQ.  We had macaroni salad and potato salad, hot dogs, guacamole, and apple pie.  The kids played on these funky striped worm like things and kicked the soccer ball around. 

Later we brought out the sparklers, which made it feel a little more like the holiday we all know and love.  We missed the big fireworks, but didn't miss the week-long late night Black Cat sessions you can always hear after the 4th or New Years. 

Marin Sparkling

Kathleen (please forgive me for posting this!)

Hallie & Daddy enjoying the fun.

The crew.

I have to say it felt funny being away from "home" on such a monumental holiday.  I was straining to see some combination of red white and blue at the grocery store while shopping for hot dog supplies and I missed the buzz of a long weekend in the hot Texas summer.  But most of all, I better understand what the men and women of our Armed Forces are protecting in this crazy world.  It is a land, that, while it has its own faults and broken systems, is a land of amazing opportunity to be and do what you choose.  And, as poor of a reputation as America has in the world these days, I can say beyond the shadow of a doubt that I'm proud to be one!