the 6th of July

Well, it's that time of year again... time to wear our colors strong and shout out to the world, "I'm PROUD to be an American!" I love 4th of July back home. It's honestly one of my favorite holidays simply because of the feeling you get when you're at a 4th of July party. It's so much fun! All the red, white, and blue, the delicious food, the fireworks... what's not to love?! So, it can be a little tough living in a different country and trying to bring that same feeling to your party. This year we decided to throw a big bash and not discriminate! We had Americans, New Zealanders, British, and Koreans here to celebrate. Due to the fact that it is not a recognized holiday here (it would be pretty weird if it was), we had to move our festivities to Saturday, but believe me there was still just as much patriotism present. There was a threat of rain but thankfully the rain held off and we were able to have a smashingly successful picnic up on our rooftop. 

There was an insane amount of food! Everyone pitched in and brought lots of deliciousness and goodness to share. We had hotdogs, grilled meat, pasta salad, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, chips and homemade salsa, Jjapchae, vegetarian burgers, bean salad, and fruit salad. For dessert we had brownies, banana bread, banana pudding, red velvet cake, and Baskin Robbins ice cream cake. 

Though it was an extremely hot day, we had a fantastic time together! After awhile some of us took refuge in the cooler temperatures of the apartment and played a few rounds of Phrase Party. I think I may have even won one of the rounds, but who was keeping track? :) 

I decided not to let a good holiday go to waste! Bring on the nail polish. With my very large belly, the toes did pose a bit of a struggle but I prevailed and was happy with the result. It probably was my last attempt at any toe nail art until after the baby :) 

It was such a fun day spent with friends and even though we didn't have fireworks or sing the national anthem, it was a great time with the people we love who are all here experiencing life in a different culture away from their family and friends. 

Happy 6th of July America! :)