We Americans living in Cameroon did celebrate our nation’s 235th birthday — but there were no fireworks or “bombs bursting in air.”  We were invited to our US Embassy for a good ol’ American backyard barbeque.  Hot dogs, burgers, chips, beans and dessert at the pool with live music to entertain us.  Sorry we have no pictures — cameras not allowed on the grounds of the embassy.  But it was lovely and there were plenty of red, white and blue balloons!

On the actual 4th of July, a Monday, we missionaries had a get together — not exclusively for Americans.  Our international friends helped us celebrate with a potluck bring-your-own-meat-to-grill picnic.  However, just when we were almost done eating the rain cancelled any thoughts of games or casual visits on the picnic blankets.  We all scurried off in various directions – Ron and I took up an invitation to hang out with our British friends, Wycliffe missionaries whom we’ve known for many years.  It was good to know they hold no grudges for our ancestors’ rebellious past!