Thirty years ago today I was lucky enough to be in Boston for the 4th of July celebrations. It was a day I will never forget. Americans sure are proud of their country and know how to celebrate it. Every street was lined with Stars and Stripes bunting, every public building adorned with flags, every person walking around with a great big smile on their face, parades and festivities all day long. I was with my husband, brother, sister-in-law and nephew and we made the most of the day, from following the Independence Day parade to eating gigantic hot dogs in the park.
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| Reading of the Declaration of Independence |
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| The Salute to the Dead Ceremony |
It was a privilege to attend the Salute to the Dead Ceremony at the Civil War Cemetery and to hear the Declaration of Independence read from the exact same balcony it was read from 240 years ago. Americans around us had tears in their eyes at the glorious bass rendition of 'America' sung from the same balcony. Then, formalities over, it was party time as Bostonians thronged the streets, strolled happily, sang, danced and picnicked in the park while tourists, like us, lapped it all up.
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| Yep, that's me, Faneuil Market, Boston July 4th 1986 |
Much to my husband's embarrassment I bought a statue of liberty headband and wore it all day. Well, you have to get in the spirit of these things, don't you?
I think my husband was surprised when a newspaper photographer asked to take my photo and by the several offers from strangers to buy the headband off me, at vastly inflated prices I might add! I kept it, money didn't tempt me, and I still have it today as a souvenir of a truly wonderful memorable day spent with family. Sadly my brother and husband are no longer here but these memories of a great day with them will always remain.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA AND SPECIAL GOOD WISHES FOR MY AMERICAN FRIENDS!
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