July 3rd???

The Singapore American Association here always hosts a "July 4th" celebration. It's way up in the North and the fireworks don't start until 8:00--therefore, we've never gone. But, this year it sounded more exciting than sitting around the house. We took three different trains and a shuttle to get there. At 6:00 the party was already in full swing. Because it was raining everyone was crammed under the tents. It would have been fine if it wasn't raining, but because all the tables were taken we had to stand up and eat. First, we had the best burger I've had in a long time from the American club. Then Ana enjoyed her first corn dog and we shared a pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw from the Terror Club (navy club). The food was great and really at reasonable prices.

After eating we went to visit the tents. Ana got her face painted to match her shirt. We went into the Vote Republican tent and Matt bought Fred a cool shirt which wasn't really for sale. The guy made him wear it or he wouldn't sell it! Ana got a free Tigger to put in her Crocs, a couple of glow in the dark bracelets (which kept her busy on the way home), and a balloon. We listened to some bands play, looked at some Harleys, and then...

watched the fireworks. I'm so glad they could still set them off even though it was still raining. I have to admit I teared up when they played the National Anthem. We so rarely hear it anymore! The fireworks were great--it's so nice of the association to do this here!

Ana loved the fireworks, but thought they were too LOUD! Luckily she wasn't in the States where the programs are much longer! Although we didn't get home until 9:30 and the train ride was NOT FUN--we plan to go back next year if we're here! Happy Fourth!!