Independence day

Is it me or Americans who need an excuse to celebrate and shop on July 4. The American Independence Day just went by and the whole nation was in a sort of frenzy. Los Angeles saw the day with over eager enthusiam as well. The thing to look out for , besides red, white and blue - the American flag, are the fireworks in the sky.

After a weekend of shopping, we were all geared up with our picnic chairs and blankets and heading out to a lush green park where fireworks were scheduled. After we found a good spot and stelled down to lounge with our blankets, I looked up and Oh my God, I think I forgot to breathe for a minute or so, when the spectacle filled the clear blue summer skies. All colours, shapes and sizes were there on that huge chalkboard - drawn up one after the other.It was breathtaking.

The US government sure knows how to keep the seed of patriotism alive in its people. No wonder most Americans love America. July 4th is all about sandwiches and green parks and fireworks and barbeques and it also includes one activity Americans love the most - shopping.

Being an Indian, I came from the mentality of need- to- buy basis but the last year here has toatlly converted me. I shop like crazy, my overflowing closet makes me sick but I can't help it - they keep coming up with one big sale after another. The first it was Valentines' Day in Feb, followed by Mother's Day in May, Memorial Day weekend in May again, Father's Day, Labour Day, 4th of July, the list goes on and on. It's exhausting but my big boned structure makes me quite like an average American, so voila...moct clothes fit me perfect!

Anyway, coming back to patriotism, our very own Indeopendence Day is also round the corner. Lets see what the Indian community whip out this year. Last year, Mallika Sherwat was a cheif guest at the local function and it was indeed nice to catch a glimpse of her! Can't wait for 15th August as I miss my India the most that day plus the facebook status messages get me all pumped up!