Independence.

America's birthday. In America's birthplace. WITH a sister.

Perfect, yes?

Two years ago we spent July 4th together in Boston. We kicked the day off by hearing a reading of the Declaration of Independence downtown.

Boston 2009 / DC 2011 

So this year...we did it again! This time at the National Archives.

Then we hit up the parade down Constitution Ave, consisting of all things American.

It was pretty great. It was no Delta parade though -- nobody threw any candy?

 Boston 2009 / DC 2011

Burgers on the 4th, definitely a must.

Last time, by the Charles River. This year, at the Chevy Chase chapel.

We walked around the International Folk Festival on the Mall for a while,

then staked out a spot for the fireworks show at the base of the Washington Monument.

Jo Dee Messina even sang to us while we played cards and waited for fireworks.

We thought we didn't know any of her songs. But then we knew them all.

Thank you, CMT.

Ali told me not to just smile for this picture. 

Then we both automatically assumed this Washington-Monumental position and facial expression with no vocal communication.

I love having a sister.

DC 2009 / DC 2011

Sure do miss the rest of our family! It's been too long since I've had a Utah summer.

I'd be ok with a burger from Delta next year, I think.

The fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. I'm really grateful I spent this one in the nation's capital and experienced the patriotism that's overflowing here.

Proud to be an American.