Fourth of July Sailebration!

July 4th is one of my favorite celebrations for many reasons. Besides the fireworks, family and friends, there's the realization that we are blessed to live in the greatest country in the world. We not only celebrate this nation's independence but more importantly we honor the sacrifices of many who given so much to pass on to us this independence and resulting freedoms. It's remarkable really when you pause to consider the freedoms we enjoy and all too often take for granted.

Our family's day of "sailebration" was wonderful. We invited our good friends the Jones' for a day of sailing, barbecue, and fireworks display in Long Beach Harbor. Here's a few pictures of our fun.

David...making sure the side-stay stayed

David holding the mast in place.

"Ok, watch what happens when I let go!"

"Run to the back of the boat, David just let go of the mast!"

We found two "stow-aways" on board...here's one

...and here's the other one!

Good eats!

After some fun sailing and good food we settled in waiting for the sun to set in anticipation of a great fireworks display. Of course, no matter how specular the fireworks would be a beautiful sunset is a reminder that God's creations are greater still. There's something special about the sunsetting in a marina and this one did not disappoint.

Soon, this beautiful sunset disappeared and replaced with the dark canvas backdrop of night...perfect for fireworks! Armed with a new camera with a "Fireworks" mode we took several pictures of both the onlookers and the works themselves!

We learned some things about this new camera and the Fireworks setting. For one, while people can be very smart they are not as bright as fireworks. As a result the Fireworks setting is probably not the best choice.

Second, the Fireworks setting is great only if used with a tripod. Who needs a tripod. "Look ma, no tripod!" As you can see we were having just a small problem holding the camera still. So, instead of great shots of fireworks we have the beginning of a modern art exhibit!

We had a great time celebrating the 4th of July with the Jones family and our two stowaways. What a great country and heritage we have been blessed with. Truly God has blessed America.