I am a yankee doodle dandy

July 4th

On the 4th of July we were traveling east across South Dakota, passing sign after sign warning that the fire hazard was severe -- understood to mean don't expect to see any fireworks.  So we decided to stop at Wall Drugstore (think South of the Border kitsch) and had a bison burger and apple pie to celebrate.  What's more American than apple pie, right?


Being in the patriotic mood, we decided to make a side trip to see Mount Rushmore.  It looks just like the pictures!  The entire area surrounding the monument is a certified tourist mecca -- Black Hills gold!  Bear country! Food!  Horse riding!  Both Charlie and I found it hard to imagine spending vacation in the shadow of Mount Rushmore, but apparently there are many who do and love it.  C'est la vie!

 A quick drive-through of Sturgis, site of the annual motorcycle meet, also seemed like an all-American tour stop.

We arrived at a KOA, immediately took a nap, and later watched the NY fireworks on TV.  I did miss seeing the July 4th programming from DC though.  I do love my country, despite all the political self-interest bull.

(Photos:  July 4th dinner; Mount Rushmore; Strugis sign and bars)