Yesterday's 4th of July celebration at the US Embassy in Angola went off without a hitch.  Decy and I, two of approx 500 guests, were allowed in without all the normal security and ID checks.  I found that rather odd (all we had to do was show the invitation) but ok given that we were surrounded by marines and other security folks .... but ... one never knows.

As for the celebration event, it was basically a giant outdoor cocktail hour (3 hrs to be exact) .... we were greeted by the US Ambassador and other dignitaries.  As for speeches, the US Ambassador used her best Portuguese to give a 10 minute speech.  I give her an A for effort and C for quality.

I found it interesting that Decy and I knew (between the two of us) about 40 of the folks attending.  Didn't realize we has so many friends "in high places". 

Went home after the event, and enjoyed the early evening with my Decy, Thasya, and Chely.