Happy 4th of July From Soldotna, Alaska

July 4, 2009

On July 3, 1776, the day after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams (our second President) wrote in a letter to his wife, Abigail:

"The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfire and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."

Although July 4 has been designated as the day to celebrate this momentous event, Mr. Adams's prescience was amazing -- especially when he referred to "this Continent." And, here we are in Alaska some 233 years later, not only celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but also the fact that Alaska became the 49th state some 50 years ago as of this year.

Today, we joined the City of Kenai in its celebration of both events. It was not much different than how Cambria celebrates the 4th each year -- except that Kenai had a parade. See picture of kid eating a hot dog.

There are no firework displays tonight here in Alaska as it doesn't get dark enough. We hear that they have their firework displays in January.

Hope you had a great celebration, too.

Jerry and Mary