And the rockets' red glare

Today we celebrated our 239th year of independence from Great Britain.

We enjoyed the day with our friends in the usual way: swimming and a BBQ. Of course, the day had to end with fireworks.

When we couldn't find our usual firework show at Downey High, we headed for South Gate, the next town over. I couldn't believe the displays we saw. In addition to the official show at South Gate Park, there were fireworks everywhere, lighting up the sky and creating such loud pops and whistles that car alarms were set off all around. We got to watch all this from the rooftop of Grace Bible Church. It was a great viewpoint.

In 1776, Thomas Jefferson wrote his wife a letter talking about how we should celebrate this day (although, he clearly thought we should be celebrating on July 2nd.)

"The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more."