Happy Birthday America

The local VFW in Chiang Mai (est. 2007), in conjunction with the US consulate and a local restaurant, threw a big 4th of July bash today. We had bought our tickets a few weeks ago, so after laying in bed all morning, I headed over to the bash, being held on the grounds of the Chiang Mai municipal stadium. Hopped in line for some food, waited for quite a while in the hot sun, but after about an hour, finally reached the front of the line. The local western restaurant had catered the event, and had such offerings as pasta salad, chicken, baked beans, ribs, hot dogs, sausage, fruit, onion rings, burgers and corn on the cob. Loaded up a plate with all of the above, and a second one, for my friends who were much farther back in line. Finished eating, walked around till they got their food, and we all grabbed a table. Sat and hung out, played some cards and waited around until the fireworks.

It was really a pretty great day. I ate until I feel semi nauseous, in true American fashion. (As Julia said, we were 'comfortably uncomfortable.') And not only that, but gorged on some good old fashioned American comfort food. (Also washed that down with a lemonade, and followed it up with some watermelon and double scoop waffle cone of ice cream.) Got to play cards with friends, first time in a while I have played cards. Saw one of my students, this adorable mixed race girl named Tiger. Got to hear the national anthem, and it was awesome. And got to see fireworks. Which despite them being about 2 min long and having no finale whatsoever, I couldn't help but love. I really do love fireworks. Great day, great job by the VFW, and happy birthday America.

TPWWLT - Jim Gaffigan - 'Holidays' ('I normally don't have a burger, a brat and a steak, but it is 4th of July. Annd I need the energy if I'm going to start blowing crap up...Its what the founding fathers would want.)