Independence Day

Last weekend we decided to take a little road trip to Philadelphia and Washington DC. Andrew's brother, Bill, lives in Philadelphia with his family and was kind enough to take us on a "food tour" of the city. I say "food tour" because in addition to seeing the Liberty Bell and visiting Independence Hall, Bill also showed us the best food that Philadelphia has to offer. We ate philly cheese steaks at 3 different locations (by the way, they're called "cheese steaks" and Geno's was our favorite... whiz with), authentic Italian pizza from Lorenzo's on South Street, gelato from Rita's and chicken carciofi from VinnyT's. We were surprised by the strict "ordering rules" that most of these places have. If you have ever seen the "soup nazi" episode of Seinfeld, you will understand what I'm talking about. You tell them what you want and don't ask any questions. If you make a mistake or hesitate, you might end up at the end of the line...if you're lucky.

Next, we ventured to Washington DC where my two old roommates, Jane and Lindi, now live down the street from each other. I have never been to Washington DC and realize now that I was missing out. There are so many museums and parks to see...and all free! We spent most of our time in the National Gallery of Art which Andrew found comparable to the art museums he visited in Italy. We also saw Andrew's old mission companion, Justin, whose wife Lia is a few months, and many pounds, behind me in pregnancy.



Everyone has been asking us about the fireworks show in our Nation's capital. The first couple fireworks were amazing. The rest of the experience can best be described with the following video:



Imagine a hill covered with thousands of people - some of whom have been waiting for hours in the rain to have a perfect scenic view of the fireworks - and this is what they got. Everyone was laughing hysterically and making jokes (as you can hear in the background, one man apparently liked the "black one"). Needless to say it was probably the most memorable fireworks show we have ever seen.

I have to say that our favorite part of the trip, besides seeing friends and family, was being able to reflect on the great blessing it is to live in America. Andrew and I have both lived in other countries and obviously love and appreciate what they have to offer too. However, we are grateful for the brave people who came before us and paid a heavy price so that we can enjoy the freedoms and prosperity that we have today. As we visited the place where the Constitution was written, it seemed obvious to us that those men were inspired and guided in that undertaking. What they were able to accomplish has not only affected Americans, but has had a strong influence in other countries that have sought democracy and freedom. Occasionally we're tempted to focus on the negative things about our country and democracy. Nothing is more humbling than to walk through Lincoln's memorial, the war memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, etc., and remember that we are spoiled beyond belief and should do more to be deserving of what has been given to us.

The Liberty Bell

Waiting for the fireworks to begin with Ryan, London, Lindi, Brooklyn, Chris, Jane and Hallie.

The WWII memorial. At the bottom right corner of the picture, you'll see one of seven "Kilroys" that are rumored to be engraved throughout the memorial. Search wikipedia for "Kilroy was here" and you'll find out what it has to do with WWII.

The Washington Monument featuring the American flag and the Ohio state flag.

The Lincoln Memorial might have been our favorite.

By the way, it was Andrew's birthday on July 8th. Happy 26th!!