I think I'm seeing things. http://johntographer.posterous.com Words from a man of pictures. posterous.com Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:52:10 -0700 The Celebration of Celebrations http://johntographer.posterous.com/the-celebration-of-celebrations http://johntographer.posterous.com/the-celebration-of-celebrations
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As our country turns 234 years old this weekend, I'll be partaking in what is probably my most favorite event ever: The Nelson/Hagen/Versteeg Family 4th of July.
 
It takes place at my Grandma Nelson's farm near Monroe, S.D., and it's attended by representatives of every branch of my father's family tree (and neighboring trees),
 
This year, we'll also be honoring Grandma Nelson's 85th birthday in conjunction with the usual summertime activities. She's an amazing person, and she deserves the amazing celebration. There's going to be horse riding, boating, backyard sports, camping, grilling, four-wheeling, clay shooting and bonfires. My cousins and second cousins will provide the quinessential 8-hour display of fireworks - probably one of the largest causes of global warming - in my Grandmother's driveway with the barn looming in the background.
 
When I think of summer time in South Dakota, this is where my mind wanders.
 
As my aunts, uncles and cousins venture to rural South Dakota from places like Sioux Falls, Dallas, Seattle, Minneapolis, Nashville and Yuma, I'll be making a very anticipated trip back home to reunite with them all.
 
I'm excited for the weekend. Perhaps more than ever. 
 
Happy 4th of July!
 
 
Photo: The Nelson/Hagen/Versteeg 4th of July Celebration at the Lowell Nelson Farm near Monroe, S.D. (C)John Nelson 2008

 

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