Happy Independence Day

In all the years I have lived in the Washington DC area I have never gone to the National Mall to see the spectacular 4th of July fireworks, but this year I came close.

Here is the view from my dorm window, complete with the reflection of the TV screen. I was playing the PBS broadcast of the concert on the Capitol lawn as theme music for the fireworks, just as if I had been braving the crowds, soggy grass, steaming humidity, bugs and smoke.

I felt a little guilty that I did not actually go down to the Mall -- until I saw the crowds and traffic streaming away when the fireworks were over. I have to admit, I was feeling a little smug as I sipped my milkshake and watched them struggle, but wouldn't it have been mean of me not to appreciate my good fortune?

I hope you had as much fun as I did.