Happy 4th July to my American friends!

These photos aren't new but I'm posting them today because it's a special date in the US. The top one is a view of Yosemite, taken three years ago on our first visit to California. Like everyone who goes there we were overwhelmed by the beauty of the place and looking at this photo brings back so many wonderful memories.

The second picture was taken the following year when our California friends came over to see us. It was taken on a trip to Edinburgh in July, when it was as rainy, cold and windy as November (or indeed this July!) They never let the bad weather get them down and were as great guests as they were hosts. Here they are, huddled under umbrellas, looking up at the Edinburgh scenery.

I can't wait to see them again. We all miss them so much. I hope they, and my other American friends have a wonderful 4th July.