We traveled up to the Blue Mountains outside of Sydney for the 4th of July, as Chris was invited by the Blue Mountain/Flagstaff, AZ Sister City committee to speak at a flag-raising ceremony. So, early Sunday morning, we bundled up little Maya, picked up some fellow Consulate friends en route, and did the 2 hour drive up to Katoomba, in the heart of the Blue Mountains. The ceremony took place at Echo Point, a stunning lookout over the Jamison Valley and the famous "3 Sisters" rock formation. It was a gorgeous winter day---a bit crisp initially, but the sun was shining brightly to warm things up. Together with a small group of local citizens, the Mayor, a US Air Force officer, a community choir, and some confused looking Japanese tourists, we celebrated a less-than-traditional 4th of July. Songs were sung, speeches were made, tea and donuts were served, and Old Glory was raised as we sang an off-key Star Spangled Banner and lip synched the words to Australia's anthem, "Advance Australia Fair". It was a lovely morning, followed by some bush walking on the local hiking trails with our friends. Happy Birthday, America!
We traveled up to the Blue Mountains outside of Sydney for the 4th of July, as Chris was invited by the Blue Mountain/Flagstaff, AZ Sister City committee to speak at a flag-raising ceremony. So, early Sunday morning, we bundled up little Maya, picked up some fellow Consulate friends en route, and did the 2 hour drive up to Katoomba, in the heart of the Blue Mountains. The ceremony took place at Echo Point, a stunning lookout over the Jamison Valley and the famous "3 Sisters" rock formation. It was a gorgeous winter day---a bit crisp initially, but the sun was shining brightly to warm things up. Together with a small group of local citizens, the Mayor, a US Air Force officer, a community choir, and some confused looking Japanese tourists, we celebrated a less-than-traditional 4th of July. Songs were sung, speeches were made, tea and donuts were served, and Old Glory was raised as we sang an off-key Star Spangled Banner and lip synched the words to Australia's anthem, "Advance Australia Fair". It was a lovely morning, followed by some bush walking on the local hiking trails with our friends. Happy Birthday, America!
No comments:
Post a Comment