It was a happy 4th of July

A son's love

**by Samantha Richter ** Tiny hands, tiny feet. I've waited so long for us to meet. Who could've known a love so true. Innocent and perfect, you're safe within my arms. I'll watch over and protect you, I'll keep you safe from harm with mischief in your smile and wonder in your eyes. Watching you as you sleep, feeling every sigh, I could look at you for hours, and always be content. you became my living angel; when you were heaven sent. just the thought of you, makes my world seem full... you are my life, my love, my son: my precious Lucas

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

It was a happy 4th of July

Andrew and I decided to hike the Y to see the fireworks. It was beautiful! Wilo and Aly went with us. It was a great hike, lots of sun... lots of water! When we got up there it was a bit crowded but luckily, Aly found the perfect spot for us. The fireworks look so small from up there! It looked like the BYU Stadium was catching on fire :) I was glad I wasn't there because after the fireworks were over, you could clearly see a BIG ASH CLOUD descending down to the people. yikes!
The hike down was harder and it was fun to go down with huge crowds.

The day after, we went to the Music and Spoken Word especial program for the 4th of July. You know, MSW is mostly hymns sang by the Mormon Tab choir and special guests. The songs they sang were all about 4th of July. Their beautiful singing made my heart feel at peace and I was amazed how Americans show their love to their country and that made me respect them more.

In addition, this country gave me tons of opportunities and I am grateful for them. It gave me almost 8 years of education, it gave me friends from all over the world! and most importantly, it helped me meet my husband whom I love dearly.
Americans gave me a great example of how patriotic one must be towards their country. I am Peruvian, and I am so proud to be Peruvian; someday though, I will find the United States part of me (in a patriotic way) since I have been living here almost 10 years and my children will be born here. Andrew's paternal family came from Costa Rica and Andrew's maternal family came from Italy and Ireland. This country is a mix of great people from all over the world as we contribute culturally and with our great ideas in science, math, new discoveries in health and MANY MORE other things-- that's one of the reasons why this country is great.