Fourth of July party at the US Embassy

The party for the fourth at the US Embassy was a crowded fun typical 4th party. We had an invitation from the ambassador for the pre- party reception. It was interesting to see how many people, especially the Cambodians, were quite dressed up considering that the invitation specifically said it was a very casual outdoor affair. There was a band playing, acrobats and jugglers performing and waiters circulating with snacks before the ceremony. As the ceremony began there was a posting of the colors and a choir that sang both national anthems. We had not heard the Cambodian anthem sung live before and it was beautiful. The US national anthem really made me homesick, they sang it so beautifully.  Then the ambassador spoke followed by the minister of foreign affairs.  Then they drank a toast to the King and his mother. There was lots of food for which we had been given coupons ahead of time. Typical summer food like you would see in the US for a summer party.  We enjoyed being there and feeling just a little like being home. It was hot and sweaty just like it's supposed to be on the 4th.