Fourth of July

I love the fourth of July! Every year, I eat hot dogs, wear ridiculous clothes, and spend much needed time with friends, reciting the preamble.
But not this year. Instead, I woke up and enjoyed a lovely breakfast. I then went to church, ate a nice lunch, and bsaically did everything that I always do here. As a matter of a fact, I remembered at strange times throughout the day that today was the 4th. It made me miss home a little.
I played in a soccer tournament today. It was excellent, but I could not help thinking about all of the fun that my fellow countrymen must be having. Tonight however, a close friend had planned a small get together. We ate Cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies. We played constitution bingo, until I was red, white and blue in the face. Was that funny? Either way, it isn't true. I don't know what constitution bingo is, and it probably isn't fun.
Today, I did spend a few minutes at the mall. Whilst there, my group of gringos was approached by an Ecuadorian woman who quizzed us over and over about a note that she had, that was written in English! I can not begin to understand why someone gave her a message in English. But after translating it for her, and answering all of her questions we finally came to the last challenge. She asked us to repeat and write down for her how to say something very specific. We listened many times before we came to a group conclusion of what she wanted to say. It was a sight to see! Five Americans and one Ecuadorian woman saying over and over again, "I am fine, in the train". If you are confused now, you should be. But do not worry, the lady is fine...and apparently in a train. Perhaps it is a metaphor? The train could signify, the stages of life. Although we may walk from boxcar to boxcar as we age, the great locomotive continues on its path. But sometimes, I feel like I am nearing the caboose.
I am thankful to live in a country that values freedom! I am grateful for the liberty that we have. I am thankful for peanut butter that does not cost $8! I hope that you all enjoyed your fireworks or whatever independence day tradition that you hold. Dream tonight of patriotism, waving American flags, and Uncle Sam. Doesn't he know its rude to point?