Independence Day 2013

Independence Day in the U.S. has always been for me a summery mix of parades, cookouts, and fireworks. We spent the holiday enjoying the warm and sunny weather with friends on Whidbey Island, where I did this sketch, overlooking a garden, with peaceful Mutiny Bay beyond.

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That evening, after dusk, that same beach exploded with fireworks.

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Earlier in the day, we had attended the 4th of July parade in the small community of Maxwelton.

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Despite all of these rituals, without family and friends, Independence Day would not be special at all.

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