This past weekend we celebrated Independence Day here in America. It is a unique holiday for me because I am a foreigner who has lived here for about 15 years and this where my home is. I can sing a lot of the patriotic songs thanks to the years of playing in the patriotic celebrations at churches around here. It is a wonderful day because we do truly celebrate freedom and remember the cost that it comes with. I also love that I get to celebrate with my friends. I am really blessed to have friends like these here.
Something new this year was that we cancelled church this being that the 4th was on a Sunday; and instead of having a regular gathering, we had a block party with an inflatable for the kids and food for everyone. It was a cold and dreary morning but it was fun to see people bring friends and family and it was especially cool to see people from our community come out to join us.
Our food table getting set up
People starting to show up and mingling
One highlight of my morning was getting to hang and actually watch Janelle for a little while. Aik and Alexis came as well but had to take off for a bit so I was tasked with being Uncle Jireh and playing with Janelle. She loved the slides at the playground and I enjoyed being with her.
Later on that evening, I went over to my friend Lindsey’s place to celebrate with some friends. Lindsey lives close to a place called Gas Works Park in Seattle, where they have an annual fireworks display at night for the 4th. Lindsey last organized a party like this in 2008 and it was a blast so she decided to host it again.
Here’s what Gas Works Parks looks like in the day (take a week ago):
The park has a great view of the city and its skyline.
The weather was not very cooperative throughout the day on Sunday; in fact in rained in Seattle all afternoon and it was cold. We were a little concerned that the fireworks show was not going to be any good because the skies were so clouded. But thank God it stopped raining in time and conditions got better just before the show.
Some sparklers to start the festivities. Paul brought some of his own fire works to light up in the neighborhood.
Paul, Corey and Jarron getting ready for the big show
Zoe, Tina and I waiting for the show to start
Zoe posing for the camera.
Zoe and me
and finally…The Big Show
We were definitely not let down by the fireworks display, it was quite spectacular. A perfect ending to a long dreary day.
Throughout the day and evening, I was reminded of the privilege I have to live in this country and more importantly the relationships I have here. I would not feel at home here if not for my friends here in Seattle. I am grateful. I was also reminded how much I love kids; one of my friend even commented on how well kids and I interact. I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with Janelle and Zoe.
I thank God for freedom, especially the freedom that comes from knowing Him. Happy Birthday America!
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