Fourth 'O July: Aussie-style

We started the weekend off with a grand-ole camping adventure in the back yard. Then enjoyed some serious festivities at the U.S. Embassy for an Independence Day done right. It was a treat!

 We ended up joining two bunks and zipping our sleeping bags together for one giant cozy bed - body heat being essential. In fact, Dare and I both had sick days this week from sleeping outside in the cold, heavy winds, and rain (thrice.)

But games, phones, flashlights, candy and cocoa... the kids were in heaven (as long as one of us was braving it out there with them.) They brought out toothbrushes and school clothes for the mornings - while I couldn't even endure one night in its entirety!

Oh, to be a kid again...

 We had a nice history review and rousing reading of Paul Revere's Ride followed by sparklers and <sort of pathetic attempts at> patriotic treats on the actual night, then were hosted by the Embassy the next day for the big shebang.

The U.S. Govt knows how to party right when celebrating Independence Day overseas, I'll tell you what.

Bouncy castles, dress-ups, raffle prizes (think leather jacket, chocolate bar the size of a card table, an honest-to-goodness golden Oscar, etc.), catered goodies, full brass band, vintage memorabilia, batting/pitching cages, parting gifts, and more.

I unabashedly admit to having, count 'em, FOUR cotton candys myself, so... you could say we enjoyed ourselves.

 Never had to suit up in parkas to watch fireworks before, but it didn't make a difference.

I felt a momentary surge of homesickness being so far away from my homeland during its biggest holiday. Surprisingly reminiscent of my (late) Dad's boundless patriotism, I felt a stirring in my soul and wept as the Anthem was sung.

I am truly proud to be an American. What an honored privileged to enjoy the rich history of hard-won freedom so many have sacrificed to afford us. Happy 4th of July to the good 'ole USofA!